It’s the most wonderful time of the year and with all the holiday parties in full swing, fabulous hair is a must. Unfortunately, fabulous holiday hair doesn’t just grow on trees. I love trying new hairstyles, but weekdays are just too hectic, and I often wear any kind of hat to hide my messy hair. Then on weekends when I go out with my husband and friends, I never have the time to really dress my hair up. It always looks the same–either curled or straight.
So this year I decided I would to try something different. I would look online and search for a new way to deck my hair for the holiday parties. I found a lot of gorgeous hairstyles and ideas. But there was only one problem…the hairstyles were all too complicated, too time consuming, and they never came out looking like the original pictures.
While I am no hairstylist, there are a few hairstyles I like to try on my daughters’ hair every day. My two favorites are side pony tails and braided top knots. So I decided it couldn’t be too hard to try these designs to create that perfect holiday hair for myself. The results turned out great.
The first look is the grown up version of the loose side ponytail.
Step 1: First I curl my hair with my secret weapon. The Wave Creator by Goody (keep it on a medium heat for more relaxed curls).
Step 2: I gather my hair to one side and make sure the pony tail is right below my ear. Then I wrap the elastic band around all my hair.
Step 3: To make the side ponytail loose, I grab the hair right above the elastic band and I gently pull a little to add volume right above the ponytail.
Step 4: Finally, add the perfect accessory (this is my favorite part!). This gold bow is from Anthropologie and was under $20.
My second look is the braided top knot.
Step 1: Make a very high ponytail. Don’t be afraid to go too high.
Step 2: Braid the ponytail and use an elastic band to fasten the end of the braid. Wrap the braid into a top knot and fasten with bobby pins.
Step 3: Add a gorgeous headband to make the look complete. (Headband by Academy J)
I love going to handmade markets to find unique hair accessories for me and my daughters. But, if you don’t have the time for markets, you can always find great items on Etsy or just do it yourself. Other stores I love for accessories are H&M, Forever 21, and Anthropologie.
( Gold bow – Anthropologie, Gold feather headband- Academy J)
Here are some more hair tips:
1. It’s perfectly okay not to wash your hair every day. In fact, my hair curls better on the day after I wash it.
2. Don’t stress if, after you do the top knot or side ponytail, it looks a little messy. Sometimes a little messy makes it look effortless.
3. Make it a girls day. Call a friend and help each other with braids, curls, or an easy up do for a night out on the town. It’s a lot more fun, and you can have an extra helping hand.
Whatever you do this holiday season don’t be afraid to try a new way to deck your hair.
What new hairstyles have you tried this season and loved?
Happy Holidays
Heather Lynne says
So pretty! Oh man, I just need someone to come & do my hair for me & tell me it looks good, cuz when I try smething new, I’m always second guessing myself!
Brooke says
Love love love that gold bow with a side pony!
Kristi says
Such great ideas – so pretty!
Mikey says
Great ideas! Thanks.
Alison says
Cute Hair! Thanks for the tips!!
Missy says
I have to try that side pony – so pretty and easy!
Libby says
I always see those hair accessories and never know how to use them in my hair. Thanks for the great tips. The pics are beautiful. Your hair looks so great.
Cristi Dame says
Love! I can’t wait to try it!
Rachel says
I love this article. I desperately need inspiration for my hair but don’t have the time to spend on it like I used to. (Seriously, in high school I used to spend hours!) I love both of the looks. And thanks for pointing me in the right direction for some awesome and unique accessories. Also, I love the reminder that a little messy is alright. When I have messy hair I’m afraid I look disheveled, but when I see it on others it totally looks effortless and natural. Thanks!
darling darleen says
I am going to a holiday party tonight and am going to try one of these hairstyles.
Briana says
Great ideas
Hotpants says
Love love your hair! It does not even look real….it is so beautiful. Love your ideas too. Your makeup looks so good. Can’t wait for more posts from you.
Sloan says
Love reading what Ashley has to tell us!!! She is an expert!!! Thank you!!!
Mahi Shahid says
The side pony tail was just so good!