The holiday season is almost here again—a season brimming with family gatherings, festive parties, and endless opportunities to showcase your style.
For black women, our hair has always been a crown, a celebration of our culture, creativity, and individuality. But let’s be real: between last-minute gift shopping, cooking, and coordinating outfits, finding the time for an elaborate hairstyle can feel like an impossible mission.
That’s why we’ve curated a list of holiday hairstyles that are not just chic but also easy to DIY. Whether you prefer natural curls, braided updos, locs, or sleek ponytails and a TWA (Tiny Weeny Afro), Say goodbye to salon appointments and hello to stunning holiday hair that you can create in the comfort of your own home.
Sleek Low Puff
The sleek low puff is your go-to if you’re looking for an easy but elegant DIY holiday hairstyle. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, smooth it down with your favorite edge control, and secure it with a band. Use a scrunchie or clip to give it a holiday flair.
Photo: instagram/mshair_uk The sleek puff accentuates your facial features, making it perfect for showing off bold holiday makeup or statement earrings.
Bantu Knots with Gold Accessories
Bantu knots are a timeless nod to African heritage, and they’re ideal for a bold, festive look. Section your hair into small parts, twist each section, and wrap it into a knot. Secure with a bobby pin or elastic.
Photo: instagram/_harrisjanae_ Adorn the knots with gold cuffs or thread for a regal finish. Spritz your hair with a sheen spray for an added glow that catches the holiday lights.
Braided Crown
Who doesn’t want to feel like royalty during the holidays? A braided crown is both a stunning and practical DIY holiday hairstyle. Create two large cornrows on either side of your head, wrapping them around to meet at the back or front. Secure with pins and add jeweled clips or pearls.
Photo: instagram/naturalhairloving This protective style protects your hair while making a powerful statement. Plus, it pairs beautifully with an off-shoulder holiday dress.
Faux Locs Half-Up, Half-Down
Faux locs are versatile and undeniably stylish. For a fun holiday twist, try a half-up, half-down look. Gather the top section of your locs into a high ponytail or bun, leaving the rest to cascade over your shoulders. Add metallic or glittery loc jewelry to up the festive vibe.
Photo: instagram/thequeenofthegarden Don’t have faux locs installed? Use Marley hair or pre-made locs to achieve this look in under an hour.
Twisted Topknot
A twisted topknot is a classic DIY holiday go-to, especially when you’re pressed for time. Use Marley’s hair to create a voluminous bun that sits high on your crown. Wrap the twists around each other, secure them with pins, and finish with a glittery headband or scarf.
Photo: instagram/tiamowry This hairstyle is perfect for formal holiday events or when you want a sophisticated look with minimal effort.
Cornrows
Cornrows are a beauty staple, but they can be jazzed up for the holidays with colorful beads, threads, or charms. Opt for straight-back cornrows or experiment with geometric patterns. Beads in shades of gold, red, or green add a festive pop.
Photo: instagram/tyla This low-maintenance style is ideal for long holiday trips or back-to-back events.
Big Fluffy Twist-Out
Nothing says DIY holiday glam like a big, fluffy twist-out. Start with freshly washed hair, apply a rich styling cream, and twist your hair in sections. Let it dry overnight, then unravel and fluff to your heart’s content. For added sparkle, use a touch of glitter gel at your roots.
Photo: instagram/jay_anoka You can pair it with a bold red lip or glittery eye makeup for maximum impact.
Afro Puffs
Afro puffs are a playful DIY hairstyle, making them perfect for festive occasions. Part your hair into two sections and secure each with an elastic band. Decorate the puffs with front braids and adorn them with small rhinestone clips or hair gems.
Photo: instagram/celestialjojo This style is quick, fun, and works for all hair lengths.
Braided Ponytail with Embellishments
Take your ponytail to the next level by incorporating braids and embellishments. Create a few small braids at the back of your head, after you must have gathered all your hair into a low bun. Use metallic cuffs or floral pins to decorate the hair.
Photo: instagram/asmara__ This DIY holiday hairstyle is perfect for holiday dinners and church services where you want to look extra classy.
Pineapple Updo with a Scarf
The pineapple updo is a favorite for curly girls. Gather your curls at the very top of your head and let them spill forward. Wrap a festive scarf around the base to secure the style.
Photo: instagram/olovesuuu It’s quick, showcases your natural texture, and can be done in under five minutes.
Crochet Curls
Crochet hairstyles are a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Opt for big, bouncy curls and add a few colored strands—like burgundy or gold—for a festive twist. The best part? This style lasts for weeks with minimal upkeep.
Photo: instagram/msnaturallymary_ Use mousse to keep the curls defined and frizz-free.
Loc Petals
For women who wear locs, petals are a creative and eye-catching hairstyle.
Photo: instagram/womenslocstyles Bend your locs into petal-like loops and secure them with small rubber bands. Arrange the petals in a halo or bun shape for a unique holiday look. Incorporate metallic thread or glitter spray.
Bubble hairstyle
The bubble hairstyle is a playful DIY holiday option. Section your hair into parts, then use small, colorful elastics to create “bubbles” down the length of each section. Fluff out each section for volume.
Photo: instagram/wen_kitokosan This hairstyle is perfect for both fun and formal holiday events.
Finger Coils
Finger coils are a great way to define your curls while keeping things low-maintenance. This style is perfect for short to medium-length hair.
Photo: instagram/nautica1k After washing and conditioning your hair, section it and coil each piece around your finger. You can choose to finish with a shimmer spray for a holiday glow.
Classic Blowout
Sometimes, simple can be classy. A classic blowout with a deep center part is perfect for black women who want a sleek look. Add a statement clip or barrette on one side.
Photo: instagram/christinaabeauty It’s a versatile DIY holiday hairstyle, and it looks perfectly with any outfit — from cozy sweaters to glamorous gowns.
Tips for Maintaining Your DIY Holiday Hairstyles
Hydrate your hair
The festive season often comes with dry weather. Keep your hair moisturized with leave-in conditioners or oils.
Protect your hair at night
Use a satin or silk scarf to maintain your style overnight.
Don’t overuse the product
Less is more when it comes to styling products. Too much can weigh your hair down and cause buildup.
Schedule time for self-care
Between all the parties and shopping, carve out time to pamper your hair and scalp.
Photo: Instagram/blackcocoagirls
