30 Adorable Christmas Hairstyles for Kids: Easy & Festive Ideas 

Creating magical Christmas Hairstyles for Kids is one of my favorite traditions during the holiday season because it adds an extra layer of excitement to an already wonderful time of year. For us parents and guardians, styling our little ones’ hair is more than just grooming; it is a way to create lasting memories and get them involved in the festive spirit. Whether we are preparing for a school holiday concert, a family photo session, or just Christmas morning, the right hairstyle can make our children feel like the star of the show. I find that kids absolutely love the novelty of themed hair, especially when we incorporate fun elements like red and green ribbons, sparkly glitter, or even tiny ornaments. It transforms their look into a piece of holiday art. By focusing on styles that are both adorable and durable, we ensure that their hair stays neat through hours of playing, unwrapping gifts, and eating Christmas cookies.

We also appreciate the sheer variety available when it comes to holiday hair, ranging from simple accessories to intricate braiding masterpieces. Finding the perfect Christmas Hairstyles for Kids allows us to cater to our child’s hair type and patience level. For active toddlers, quick styles with secure elastics are a lifesaver, while older children might enjoy sitting for a detailed Christmas tree braid or a whimsical Cindy Lou Who updo. I believe that the best styles are the ones that prioritize comfort—no tight pulling—while still delivering that “wow” factor. We can turn a basic ponytail into a reindeer or use green ribbon to mimic a wreath, showing that creativity is key.

Christmas Hairstyles for Kids

These styles not only look fantastic in photos but also help build anticipation for the big day, making the season feel just a little bit more magical for everyone involved.

1. The Reindeer Bun

I think the Reindeer Bun is arguably the cutest and most crowd-pleasing option for the holidays. To create this look, we start by gathering the hair into a high, smooth bun using a doughnut bun maker to ensure it is perfectly round and full. This bun serves as the reindeer’s face. The magic happens with the accessories: we slide two brown pipe cleaners into the top of the bun to shape the antlers and glue a small red pom-pom onto a bobby pin to place in the center for the nose. I love adding googly eyes (glued to hair clips) just above the nose to bring the character to life. It is a playful, whimsical style that always gets a smile and works perfectly for Christmas Hairstyles for Kids because it keeps hair securely out of the face.

For the best results, I recommend using a strong-hold gel to smooth down any flyaways at the nape of the neck and hairline before securing the bun. This ensures the focus remains on the cute reindeer face rather than messy strands. If our child has finer hair, we can use a brown sock or bun form to add the necessary volume. I find this style is particularly great for school parties because it is sturdy enough to withstand recess. By involving our kids in choosing the size of the eyes or the shape of the antlers, we make the styling process a fun craft activity that gets them excited to wear their new look.

2. Christmas Tree Pull-Through Braid

The Christmas Tree Pull-Through Braid is a showstopper that looks much more complicated than it actually is. We create this by making a series of small ponytails down the back of the head, splitting each one and pulling the next ponytail through it to create a triangular “tree” shape that gets wider as it goes down. I love using bright green elastic bands for the ponytails to set the base color. To truly turn this into a tree, we can weave a green ribbon through the loops or decorate the “branches” with tiny hair clips that look like ornaments. It creates a stunning visual that mimics a festive pine tree right on the back of their head.

When we are looking for impressive Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this one tops the list because it creates a large, voluminous canvas for decoration. I suggest topping the braid with a star-shaped clip at the crown of the head to represent the tree topper. This style works best on medium to long hair and holds up incredibly well throughout the day because of the multiple elastics securing it. We can gently tug on the edges of the “pull-through” sections to fluff them out, making the tree look fuller and more robust. It is a creative masterpiece that is guaranteed to be the talk of the holiday dinner.

For stress-free styling during the holidays, Low-Maintenance Haircut Ideas for Fine Hair highlights easy styles that save time while still looking adorable.

3. Candy Cane Twisted Pigtails

For a sweet and classic look, Candy Cane Twisted Pigtails are an absolute must-try. This style involves parting the hair down the middle and creating two high pigtails. The secret ingredient is using white and red ribbon; we secure the ribbon at the base of the ponytail and then twist it along with the two strands of hair to create a rope braid effect. The contrast of the red and white ribbon swirling through the hair looks exactly like a delicious peppermint stick. I find this to be one of the most cheerful Christmas Hairstyles for Kids because it frames the face beautifully and bounces when they walk.

To ensure the ribbon stays in place, I recommend using a textured ribbon rather than a silky satin one, as it grips the hair better. We can finish the ends with cute bows in matching colors. This style is incredibly versatile; if we don’t have time for a full rope twist, simply braiding the ribbon into a standard three-strand braid works just as well. It is a fantastic option for toddlers and young girls who might not sit still for long periods, as it is quick to execute but delivers a high visual impact. It captures the sugary sweetness of the season perfectly.

4. The Holiday Wreath Crown

If we want a style that looks elegant and ethereal, the Holiday Wreath Crown is a beautiful choice. This style utilizes a halo braid technique, where we Dutch braid the hair around the circumference of the head. To transform this everyday braid into a festive wreath, I love tucking small sprigs of artificial holly, baby’s breath, or pine into the plaits. We can also weave a thin green ribbon through the braid as we go. It creates a gorgeous, natural-looking crown that is perfect for church services or formal family gatherings. It is a sophisticated take on holiday hair that still feels age-appropriate for children.  

I find that Christmas Hairstyles for Kids like the wreath crown are excellent for active children because the style is extremely secure. Once the braid is pinned in place, it isn’t going anywhere. For shorter hair, we can achieve a similar look by creating two French braids on the sides and pinning them up at the back, then adding the greenery. I suggest using u-shaped pins to secure the decorations safely so they don’t poke the scalp. This style looks enchanting in photos and makes our little ones look like festive angels ready to celebrate the season.

5. Snowman Bubble Ponytail

The Snowman Bubble Ponytail is a fun and quirky style that plays with the popular “bubble braid” trend. We start by gathering the hair into a high ponytail (or multiple ponytails for a mohawk look) using white hair elastics. Then, we place additional white elastics down the length of the ponytail every two to three inches. By gently pulling on the hair between the elastics to fluff it out, we create round “snowballs” stacked on top of each other. I love adding a tiny top hat clip to the base of the ponytail and gluing small black buttons onto bobby pins to place on the bubbles for eyes and buttons.

This is one of those Christmas Hairstyles for Kids that encourages creativity and playfulness. We can even wrap a tiny piece of red fabric between the first and second bubble to act as the snowman’s scarf. It works best on long hair, as you need enough length to create at least three “bubbles” for the snowman’s body. It is a low-tension style that is comfortable to wear all day. Kids love this look because it transforms their hair into a character, and we love it because it keeps long hair contained and tangle-free during winter activities.

6. Glitter Roots with Space Buns

When we want to add some sparkle to the festivities, nothing beats Glitter Roots paired with Space Buns. This trendy style involves parting the hair down the middle and creating two high, messy buns on either side of the head—often called “double buns.” The festive magic comes from mixing chunky hair glitter with a clear styling gel and painting it along the part line and the base of the buns. We can use red, green, gold, or silver glitter to match their holiday outfit. It is a fun, party-ready look that is perfect for New Year’s Eve or a lively Christmas Eve bash.

I find that Christmas Hairstyles for Kids should be about fun, and kids go absolutely wild for glitter. The space buns themselves can be decorated with green scrunchies or wrapped with tinsel for extra shine. To remove the glitter later, I recommend using an oil-based conditioner or coconut oil to loosen the particles before shampooing. This style is sassy, energetic, and photographs incredibly well. It’s a great way to let our kids express their bubbly personalities while embracing the shimmer and shine that defines the holiday season.

7. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Ponytail

For a simple yet effective character style, the Rudolph Ponytail is a genius idea for busy mornings. We slick the hair back into a sleek, mid-height ponytail or a low bun. The “Rudolph” element comes from the accessories we add to the base. I love using a brown ribbon to tie around the elastic, and then clipping brown felt antlers into the hair just above the ponytail base. The finishing touch is a bright red nose hair tie or a red pom-pom clip placed right at the center. It instantly turns the back of their head into everyone’s favorite reindeer.

This is arguably one of the easiest Christmas Hairstyles for Kids to execute, taking less than five minutes. It is perfect for younger children who won’t sit for braiding. We can curl the ends of the ponytail to add a bit of volume and “fluff” to the reindeer’s tail. I find that this style is a hit at school spirit weeks or ugly sweater parties. It’s subtle enough not to be distracting but festive enough to show holiday cheer. By keeping the hair pulled back, we also ensure that their face stays clear while they are crafting or playing games.

8. Star-Studded Side Braid

If we are aiming for a look that captures the silent, starry nights of Christmas, a Star-Studded Side Braid is a lovely option. We sweep all the hair to one side and create a simple three-strand braid, a fishtail braid, or a Dutch braid. The festive element is the addition of gold or silver star clips scattered down the length of the braid. I think this celestial theme offers a nice break from the traditional red and green palette while still feeling very holiday-appropriate. It evokes the imagery of the Nativity star or the magic of winter skies.

To make the braid look fuller, especially for kids with fine hair, I recommend “pancaking” or gently pulling the loops of the braid outward. This makes the braid look wider and provides a better canvas for the clips. Among the various Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this one is elegant and understated. We can also weave a thin metallic cord through the braid for added shimmer. It pairs beautifully with velvet dresses or sparkly holiday tops. It is a dreamy, pretty style that makes any little girl feel like a holiday princess.

9. Ribbon Corset Braids

Ribbon Corset Braids are for when we want to take our braiding skills to the next level. This style typically involves two Dutch braids (where the braid sits on top of the hair) running down the back of the head. We then take a long piece of red or green satin ribbon and use a plastic needle or a bobby pin to “lace” the ribbon back and forth between the two braids, mimicking the lacing of a corset or a shoe. I love tying the ribbon into a big bow at the nape of the neck to finish the look. It looks incredibly intricate and festive, resembling a wrapped gift.

I find that this style is one of the most durable Christmas Hairstyles for Kids; it can easily last for a couple of days if the braids are tight enough. The ribbon adds a pop of color that is visible from every angle. It keeps the hair very secure, making it ideal for active days sledding or running around with cousins. We can alternate red and green ribbons for a candy-stripe effect. While it takes a bit more time to thread the ribbon, the final result is a structured, neat, and highly decorative style that always garners compliments.

10. Cindy Lou Who High Pony

Inspired by the classic Dr. Seuss character, the Cindy Lou Who High Pony is the ultimate whimsical holiday look. To achieve this gravity-defying style, we need to create height. I start by sectioning off a circle of hair at the crown and teasing it gently, or placing a small hair donut or even a plastic cup (for extreme height!) underneath to create a tall base. We then smooth the hair over the form and secure it with an elastic. The rest of the hair can hang down or be curled up at the ends. I love adding a massive red bow and some braiding on the sides to complete the Whoville aesthetic.

This style is pure fun and is fantastic for holiday themed days at school or Grinch viewing parties. While it looks elaborate, it is essentially just a high ponytail with a volume boost. We often turn to this when we want Christmas Hairstyles for Kids that are humorous and memorable. To keep the height in place, a good dose of hairspray is necessary. We can also curl the ends of the ponytail upward to mimic the cartoonish curl of the character. It’s a bold, playful style that allows our kids to embrace the silly side of the holidays.

11. Elastic Christmas Tree Design

I find that the Elastic Christmas Tree design is one of the most creative ways to utilize simple hair elastics to create a masterpiece directly on the scalp. To achieve this look, we start at the top of the head with a single small ponytail using a green elastic. We then split that tail in two and connect it to two new sections of hair below, creating a triangular grid pattern that expands as we move down the back of the head. This geometric “tree” shape rests flat against the hair, making it incredibly secure and perfect for active kids who want to run and play without their hair coming undone. I love decorating the “branches” of the elastic tree with tiny hair clips or sticking small gems onto the elastics themselves to mimic ornaments.

The grand finale for this style is, of course, the tree topper. I always recommend placing a sparkly star clip or a yellow ribbon at the very top ponytail to complete the Christmas tree effect. When searching for unique Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this specific style stands out because it keeps the hair completely off the face and neck, acting almost like a festive hair net. It works best on damp hair with a little bit of gel to ensure the partings between the elastics are crisp and clean. The result is a neat, organized, and highly decorative look that turns the back of their head into a literal canvas for holiday cheer.

12. Jingle Bell Pigtails

For a hairstyle that sounds as festive as it looks, Jingle Bell Pigtails are an absolute favorite in our household. The concept is simple but effective: we attach small, real jingle bells to the ends of ribbons or pipe cleaners and secure them around the base of high pigtails. Every time our little one turns their head or skips down the hall, they create a soft, magical jingling sound that mimics Santa’s sleigh. I think this interactive element brings so much joy to children, making them feel like active participants in the holiday magic. We can pair this with red and green bows to anchor the bells and hide the hair ties.

To make this practical, I suggest threading the bells onto a sturdy cord or ribbon first, rather than trying to pin them directly to the hair, which could snag. When we consider the most engaging Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this one wins for sensory fun. It is perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings where a little extra noise is welcome. We can curl the ends of the pigtails into ringlets to add bounce that complements the movement of the bells. Just be sure to remove them before nap time! It is a cheerful, audible way to celebrate that ensures your child lights up the room—both visually and acoustically—wherever they go.

13. The Natural Hair Bow

I adore the “Lady Gaga” inspired hair bow because it turns the hair itself into the main accessory, eliminating the need for clips that might fall out. To create this, we gather the hair into a high ponytail but don’t pull the ends all the way through the elastic on the last loop, creating a bun. We then split the loop in half and pull the remaining “tail” of the ponytail over the center to form the knot of the bow, securing it with bobby pins. This creates a literal bow made of hair sitting proudly on top of the head. I love this for holiday photos because it looks incredibly chic and surprisingly intricate, resembling a Minnie Mouse style that kids find irresistible.

This style is surprisingly durable and can be dressed up for the season by tucking a sprig of holly or a mistletoe clip into the center of the bow. I find that this is one of the most versatile Christmas Hairstyles for Kids because it works with any outfit, from casual pajamas to formal velvet dresses. For children with fine hair, we can use a little texture spray or tease the loops gently to give the bow more volume and shape. It’s a sophisticated yet playful look that keeps the hair tidy and high, elongating the neck and keeping their little faces clear for cookie decorating.

14. Frozen-Inspired Elsa Braid

Let’s be honest, for many children, the holidays are synonymous with “Frozen,” so a big, voluminous Elsa Braid is always a hit. This style involves creating a loose, thick French braid or Dutch braid that starts at the crown and travels down to the side. To give it that winter wonderland feel, I love weaving a shimmering silver ribbon through the plait or spraying the final look with a white glitter spray to mimic frost. We can also add snowflake-shaped hair pins scattered down the length of the braid. It captures the icy magic of winter perfectly and makes any child feel like a powerful snow queen.

To achieve that signature voluminous look on finer children’s hair, I recommend “pancaking” the braid—gently tugging on the outer loops to widen them. This makes the braid appear thick and luxurious. Among all the Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this one is perfect for winter-themed parties or outdoor skating events. It keeps the hair contained but looks soft and romantic. If the hair is too short for a single side braid, we can do two French braids and pin them up, adding the same snowflake accessories. It is a timeless, magical look that celebrates the beauty of the winter season.

15. Ornament Cluster Bun

If we want to turn a simple bun into a centerpiece, the Ornament Cluster Bun is the way to go. We start by creating a secure ballet bun at the crown or nape of the neck using a doughnut form for stability. The fun part is the decoration: we take mini, shatterproof Christmas baubles (the kind used for mini trees) and use bobby pins to secure them all around the bun. I like to arrange them so they look like ornaments hanging on a round tree. We can mix and match colors like gold, red, and green, or stick to a monochromatic theme like icy blue and silver.

This style is a fantastic conversation starter and looks incredibly artistic. To ensure safety, I always verify that the ornament hooks are removed and replaced with safe bobby pins or U-pins. I consider this a top-tier choice for Christmas Hairstyles for Kids for events where they want to stand out, like a holiday pageant. We can wrap a green ribbon around the base of the bun to represent the tree skirt. It is a bold, three-dimensional style that transforms hair into a festive sculpture, bringing the decoration of the living room tree directly to their look.

If you want playful yet stylish cuts, Shaggy Bob Hairstyles for Fine Hair and Round Faces provides soft, fun looks that work well for festive occasions.

16. Yarn Braids with Holiday Colors

Yarn braids are a fantastic way to add color and protection without using chemical dyes or heavy extensions. We simply cut lengths of red, green, and white yarn and braid them into the child’s natural hair, either as cornrows or individual plaits. I love this method because the yarn is soft, lightweight, and warm, which feels cozy during the colder months. It allows us to create a vibrant, candy-colored look that is temporary and safe. We can braid the yarn all the way to the ends and tie them off, leaving colorful tassels that look festive and fun.

This style is particularly great for protective styling during the winter break, as it keeps the natural hair moisturized and tucked away. When exploring durable Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, yarn braids are a winner because they can last for a week or more. We can style the braided hair into buns, pigtails, or a ponytail, offering versatility throughout the holiday week. It gives the effect of having bright, festive highlights without any commitment. Kids love picking out their yarn colors, making the process a collaborative and exciting holiday activity.

17. Tinsel “Fairy” Strands

For a subtle yet magical shimmer, tying tinsel strands, often known as “fairy hair,” is a beautiful option. We take individual strands of holographic tinsel and tie them to small sections of hair near the root using a slip knot method. The result is hair that sparkles every time it catches the light, looking like it has been dusted with magic. I think this is perfect for kids who might be sensitive to heavy clips or tight braids, as the tinsel is virtually weightless. We can add just a few strands for a peek-a-boo effect or go all out for a full shimmering mane.

This look works on all hair types, from straight to curly, and looks especially enchanting when the hair is moving. I find that using heat-safe tinsel allows us to curl the hair along with the sparkles, integrating them seamlessly. As a choice for Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, it offers a long-lasting sparkle that can stay in for weeks, often lasting through New Year’s. It’s a delicate, ethereal way to dress up everyday hair, making your child feel like a holiday fairy princess without any complex styling required each morning.

18. Ribbon Weaved Pigtails

Elevating standard pigtails is easy when we incorporate a ribbon weave. We start by parting the hair down the middle and securing two pigtails. Then, using a red or green ribbon, we braid it into the hair, or simpler yet, we wrap the ribbon in a criss-cross pattern around the length of the pigtails, tying it off at the bottom. This creates a “barber pole” or candy cane effect that is visually striking. I love using velvet ribbons for this as the texture feels very wintery and luxurious, and it grips the hair better than satin.

This style is incredibly practical for keeping hair tidy during active play. The ribbon wrapping helps to protect the ends of the hair and prevents tangles. I often suggest this as one of the best Christmas Hairstyles for Kids for school days because it is neat, stays put, and looks festive without being distracting. We can add puffy bows at the top and bottom of the pigtails to frame the face. It’s a classic, preppy holiday look that reminds me of vintage Christmas cards, bringing a touch of old-school charm to modern styling.

19. Peppermint Swirl Buns

Peppermint Swirl Buns are a whimsical take on the classic space buns, designed to look like round peppermint candies. We create two buns on either side of the head, but instead of a messy bun, we twist the hair into a tight rope and coil it flat against the head like a cinnamon roll. To get the “peppermint” effect, we pin a red and white ribbon at the center and twist it along with the hair coil, so the colors spiral outward. I love how this creates a hypnotic, candy-like pattern that sits securely on the head.

To make the buns really stand out, I recommend using plenty of bobby pins to keep them flat and circular. We can spray them with a high-shine hairspray to make them look like hard candy. This is a fantastic option when looking for themed Christmas Hairstyles for Kids for a “Candy Land” party or a nutcracker ballet visit. It keeps the hair completely up and out of the way, which is great for wearing with scarves and winter coats. The distinctive spiral shape is fun and graphic, making for adorable holiday photos.

20. Waterfall Braid with Red Ribbon

The waterfall braid is already a stunning style, but threading a bright red ribbon through it transforms it into a holiday masterpiece. As we drop strands to create the “waterfall” effect, we can carry a ribbon along the braid line, creating a pop of color that emphasizes the intricate weaving. I think this looks particularly beautiful on long, wavy hair, as the ribbon and hair cascade down together. It’s a softer, more angelic look compared to tight buns or ponies.

For this style, I suggest using a thin ribbon so it doesn’t overpower the braid. We can tie the end of the braid with a small bow and let the rest of the hair flow loose. It is one of the most romantic Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, perfect for a church service or a fancy family dinner. The ribbon acts as a highlighter for the braid, making the pattern visible even from a distance. It’s a delicate, graceful style that allows your child to wear their hair down while still keeping the front sections pulled back and decorated.

21. The Grinch Heart Twist

For a style that pays homage to a holiday classic, the Grinch Heart Twist is a quirky and adorable option that kids find hilarious. We start by creating a high, messy bun or a top knot using a bright green scrunchie or ribbon to represent the Grinch’s color. The focal point, however, is the accessory: we attach a large red heart clip (or a red heart cut out of felt and pinned) to the side of the bun, symbolizing the heart that grew three sizes. I love this style because it is a little bit mischievous but still very sweet. It’s perfect for “Grinch Day” at school or just for watching the movie at home with hot cocoa.

To really sell the look, we can use a temporary green hair color spray on the bun itself, which washes out easily in the bath. This adds a level of commitment to the character that kids get a kick out of. Among the many creative Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, this one stands out for its storytelling ability. It requires very little technical skill—just a bun and some strategic accessorizing. We can pull out a few wisps of hair around the face and curl them to mimic the Grinch’s wispy look. It’s a fun, low-stress style that celebrates the humor of the season while keeping hair neatly tucked away.

22. Zig-Zag Part with Glitter Gel

Sometimes, all we need to make a standard hairstyle feel special is a unique parting technique. A sharp zig-zag part running down the center of the head transforms basic pigtails or braids into something energetic and fun. I love tracing the zig-zag line with a glitter gel or a metallic eyeliner (safe for skin) to make the part pop even more. This simple addition elevates the look instantly, turning everyday hair into one of the most festive Christmas Hairstyles for Kids. It works beautifully on short or long hair, adding visual interest to the top of the head where it is most visible.

I find that using a fine-tooth rattail comb is essential for getting those crisp, clean angles in the part. Once the part is defined and glittered, we can secure the hair into two low buns or plaits using holiday-themed elastics. This style is fantastic for active kids because the zig-zag pattern actually helps hold the hair sections more securely than a straight part. It’s a nostalgic nod to 90s fashion but updated with holiday sparkle. The glitter catches the light beautifully, making your child look festive from every angle without the need for heavy accessories that might get uncomfortable.

23. Stacked Gift Box Buns

If we want to get really architectural with our styling, Stacked Gift Box Buns are a hilarious and impressive choice. This involves creating two or three vertical buns in a row (like a mohawk) or simply one very tall, structured bun. We wrap each bun with a thick satin ribbon, crossing it over the top to look like a wrapped present. I love topping the highest bun with a giant stick-on bow to complete the illusion. It’s a bold, vertical style that looks exactly like a stack of Christmas gifts waiting to be opened.

This style definitely requires a good amount of bobby pins and perhaps a hair donut to give the buns the necessary square-ish shape of a box. When we are looking for unique Christmas Hairstyles for Kids that will win a “crazy hair day” contest, this is the one. It’s incredibly photogenic and fun. We can use different colored ribbons for each bun to create a colorful, towering stack. While it might not be the best for wearing hats, it is absolutely perfect for indoor holiday parties where your child wants to be the center of attention and show off their festive spirit.

24. French Braid Faux Hawk with Lights

For the kid who wants to look cool and edgy while celebrating, the French Braid Faux Hawk is a winner. We create this by slicking the sides of the hair back tight and creating a voluminous French braid or Dutch braid running down the center of the head. To make it festive, I love weaving a short string of battery-operated fairy lights (ensuring the battery pack is small and easily hidden in the hair or collar) or simply using glow-in-the-dark ties. This creates a literal light-up hairstyle that is mesmerizing in the evening.

I find that this style works particularly well for evening caroling or night-time parades where the lights can really shine. Even without the actual lights, weaving bright neon green and red cords into the braid makes it one of the coolest Christmas Hairstyles for Kids. It keeps the hair completely off the neck and face, allowing for total freedom of movement. The “faux hawk” shape gives a spunky, modern vibe that appeals to older kids who might think traditional pigtails are too babyish. It’s a rockstar look with a holiday twist.

25. Holly Berry Half-Up

The Holly Berry Half-Up style is a classic, vintage-inspired look that is perfect for family portraits. We gather the top half of the hair and smooth it back, securing it with pins or a small elastic. The decoration is key: we use green felt leaves and small red pom-poms (or berry beads) pinned right at the gathering point. I love how simple and elegant this looks. It allows the rest of the hair to flow in loose curls or straight sheets, making it comfortable for the child while still looking “done.”

This style is timeless and pairs beautifully with traditional velvet or plaid holiday dresses. In the realm of Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, it is one of the most approachable because it doesn’t require complex braiding skills. We can curl the ends of the hair for a polished finish or leave them natural. It keeps the hair out of the eyes, which is essential for eating Christmas dinner. The holly accent acts as a natural crown, giving a nod to the season’s flora in a way that is sweet, understated, and universally flattering.

26. Gingerbread Man Pigtails

Gingerbread Man Pigtails are as sweet as the cookies themselves. We start by parting the hair and creating two braids or twists. I love using brown ribbon woven through the braids to represent the gingerbread color. At the base or ends of the pigtails, we clip on cute gingerbread man accessories or bows featuring the cookie characters. This theme is incredibly kid-friendly and evokes the cozy, baking-filled days of December. It’s a warm, inviting look that is perfect for a cookie decorating party or a visit to Santa.

To add texture, I sometimes crimp the ends of the pigtails to mimic the “crinkle” of a cookie edge. These themed Christmas Hairstyles for Kids are great because they can be customized; if your child loves candy canes, swap the gingerbread for peppermint clips. The brown ribbon contrasts beautifully with lighter hair colors and blends subtly with darker hair. It’s a playful, appetizing style that brings a bit of kitchen magic to your child’s look, celebrating the delicious treats of the season in a fashionable way.

27. The Nutcracker Ballet Bun

Inspired by the elegance of the Nutcracker ballet, this style is all about poise and grace. We create a high, immaculate ballet bun using a hair net to ensure no stray hairs escape. To give it that Nutcracker flair, we wrap a rigid gold or velvet braided trim around the base of the bun, mimicking the detailing on a soldier’s uniform. I also love adding a small, sparkly tiara comb in front of the bun for a Clara-inspired look. It is sleek, formal, and incredibly secure.

This style is ideal for holiday church services, theater visits, or formal parties. It keeps the child looking neat and tidy all day long. When we browse for formal Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, the ballet bun is a staple because it never goes out of style. We can use a strong-hold gel to smooth the sides for a glass-like finish. It emphasizes the child’s face and makes them feel like a prima ballerina ready to take the stage. It’s a disciplined yet magical look that captures the high culture of the holiday season. For parents looking for gentle, lightweight inspiration, Hairstyles for Thin Fine Hair offers simple ideas that can be adapted for kids’ delicate hair.

28. Snowflake Stamped Hair

For a temporary and artistic touch, Snowflake Stamped Hair is a unique trend we love trying. This involves styling the hair flat against the head (like in a sleek pony or slicked-back look) and using a snowflake stencil. We hold the stencil over the hair and spray a temporary white hair color or silver glitter spray over it. When we lift the stencil, a perfect snowflake shape remains on the hair. I find this works best on darker hair where the white contrasts sharply, but silver glitter shows up beautifully on lighter hair too.

This is one of the most creative Christmas Hairstyles for Kids because it treats hair like a canvas. We can place a single large snowflake on the side of the head or a blizzard of smaller ones down a ponytail. It’s a fantastic, low-commitment way to add a “wow” factor for a party. The spray washes out easily with shampoo. Kids are fascinated by the process and love seeing the shape appear. It’s a modern, cool way to decorate hair without the weight of clips or the tightness of braids.

29. Braided Headband with Tinsel

If we want the look of an accessory without the discomfort of a hard plastic headband, a braided headband is the perfect solution. We take a section of hair from behind one ear and braid it over the top of the head to the other ear, securing it with bobby pins. To make it festive, we braid a strand of shiny tinsel or a thin red ribbon into the plait. This creates a built-in sparkly headband that keeps hair out of the face and looks incredibly intricate. I love this style because it is comfortable for all-day wear; there’s nothing pressing behind the ears.

This style works on almost any hair length that is long enough to cross the head. It is a sophisticated option among Christmas Hairstyles for Kids, suitable for older children who want something pretty but not “babyish.” The tinsel catches the light subtly, giving a fairy-like glimmer. We can leave the rest of the hair down in curls or pull it back into a bun, making the braided headband the star of the show. It’s a versatile, practical, and beautiful way to manage hair during the busy holiday season.

30. Santa Hat Hair

We save the most iconic look for last: Santa Hat Hair. This is a clever style where we shape the hair itself to look like Santa’s hat. We brush the hair into a high ponytail and form it into a cone shape, possibly using a foam cone base hidden inside for stability. We spray the hair with temporary red color and wrap a band of white faux fur or white ribbon around the base. The finishing touch is a white pom-pom pinned to the very tip of the hair cone, which we can bend slightly to the side.

While this requires a bit of effort and product, the payoff is huge. It is hands-down one of the most memorable Christmas Hairstyles for Kids you can create. It is perfect for Crazy Hair Day at school or a fun family photoshoot. If using red spray is too messy, we can simply pin a mini Santa hat securely to a high bun. However, sculpting the hair itself is a fun challenge that kids adore. It transforms them into the jolly old elf himself, bringing laughter and joy to everyone who sees it.

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Pro Tips

• Prioritize Comfort: No matter how cute the style is, if it pulls too tight, the child will be miserable. I always use ouchless elastics and ask my child if it feels okay before finishing.
• Entertainment is Key: Styling can take time. We let our kids watch a favorite holiday movie or listen to Christmas audiobooks while we braid to keep them still and happy.
• Prep with Detangler: Winter air and hats cause static and knots. I recommend using a generous amount of leave-in conditioner or detangling spray before starting any style to prevent tears.
• Glitter Management: If using glitter, apply it with a gel base so it sticks to the hair and not the furniture. When removing it, use a paper towel to wipe off the bulk before washing.
• Secure Accessories: Kids run and play hard. I suggest gluing heavy accessories (like antlers or ornaments) to sturdy clips rather than relying on bobby pins alone, which can slip out.
• Hairspray on Hands: To smooth flyaways without making the hair crunchy, spray hairspray onto your palms first and then smooth them over the child’s head.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

Creating these Christmas Hairstyles for Kids is about more than just looking good for a photo; it’s about sharing a moment of connection and excitement during the busiest time of the year. Whether we choose the intricate Christmas Tree Braid or the simple joy of Jingle Bell Pigtails, the effort we put in helps our children feel seen and celebrated. These styles act as a wearable expression of the holiday spirit, spreading cheer to teachers, grandparents, and friends. So, let’s grab our combs, ribbons, and imagination, and turn our little ones into the most festive (and adorable) part of the holiday season.