33 Modern Christmas Hairstyles for Curly Hair Full of Bounce and Charm

Curly hair possesses a natural magic that becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season, offering endless possibilities for creating stunning holiday looks that celebrate your gorgeous texture.

If you have curls, coils, or waves, you already know that your hair has personality, volume, and movement that straight hair simply cannot replicate, making it the perfect canvas for festive hairstyles that truly stand out.

The holiday season calls for hairstyles that are not only beautiful but also embrace and enhance your natural curl pattern rather than fighting against it, allowing you to feel confident and authentic while looking absolutely spectacular.

This comprehensive guide to 33 Modern Christmas Hairstyles for Curly Hair Full of Bounce and Charm will take you through an incredible collection of styles ranging from elegant updos and romantic half-up looks to bold afro styles and glamorous vintage waves that work specifically for textured hair.

Whether you’re attending formal Christmas galas, cozy family gatherings, office holiday parties, or romantic winter dates, you’ll discover hairstyles that complement your curl type while incorporating festive elements like sparkly accessories, rich seasonal colors, and creative techniques that make your hair the star of your holiday ensemble.

Each style in this collection has been carefully selected to work with the unique properties of curly hair, including its volume, texture, and movement, ensuring that your curls look moisturized, defined, and absolutely stunning throughout long holiday celebrations.

Get ready to fall in love with your curls all over again as you explore these modern, achievable Christmas hairstyles that prove curly hair is not just beautiful but truly magical during the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Defined Wash-and-Go with Gold Hair Jewelry

The defined wash-and-go is the ultimate celebration of your natural curl pattern, enhanced with elegant gold hair jewelry for Christmas festivities.

This style showcases your curls in their most authentic form while adding just the right amount of festive glamour.

• Start with freshly washed hair and apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner to soaking wet curls.
• Use the praying hands method or rake a curl-defining gel through your hair to ensure even product distribution.
• Scrunch your curls upward gently to encourage curl formation and remove excess water.
• Allow hair to air dry completely or use a diffuser on low heat with minimal disturbance to prevent frizz.
• Once fully dry, scrunch out any gel cast with a small amount of oil for soft, touchable curls.
• Weave delicate gold hair rings, cuffs, or chains through random curl sections for festive sparkle.
• This style works beautifully for all curl types from loose waves to tight coils and requires minimal manipulation.

2. High Curly Ponytail with Wrapped Base

The high curly ponytail creates dramatic height and showcases your curl texture beautifully while keeping hair away from your face.

The wrapped base adds a polished finishing touch perfect for Christmas elegance.

• Brush or finger-comb your curls upward to the crown of your head, gathering them into a high ponytail.
• Secure with a strong elastic that can hold the weight of your curls without slipping.
• Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic base to conceal it.
• Pin the wrapped section underneath the ponytail with bobby pins that match your hair color.
• Fluff the ponytail curls by separating them gently with your fingers for maximum volume.
• Apply a light oil or curl refresher spray to enhance shine and define individual curls.
• Add decorative pins, a velvet ribbon, or festive scrunchie around the base for extra Christmas charm.

3. Romantic Curly Half-Up Half-Down

The half-up half-down style combines the elegance of an updo with the romance of loose flowing curls, creating a versatile look for any Christmas occasion.

This classic style flatters every face shape and curl pattern.

• Section off the top half of your hair from temple to temple, leaving the bottom curls loose.
• Gather the top section and secure it at the crown with an elastic or decorative clip.
• You can twist the top section before securing it for added texture and visual interest.
• Pull gently on the sides of the top section to create subtle volume and a softer frame around your face.
• Allow the bottom curls to cascade freely down your back and shoulders for maximum impact.
• Refresh any flat or undefined curls with a curl-reactivating spray and gentle scrunching.
• This style works beautifully with statement earrings and showcases both your curls and facial features.

4. Braided Crown with Curly Ends

A braided crown frames your face beautifully while allowing your curls to shine through at the ends, creating a regal look perfect for Christmas celebrations.

This style combines structure with natural texture for stunning results.

• Create a deep side part and section your hair from the front to behind your ears on both sides.
• Begin Dutch braiding from the part on one side, braiding along your hairline toward the back.
• Repeat the same braiding technique on the opposite side, ensuring both braids are symmetrical.
• Bring both braids together at the back of your head and secure them with bobby pins.
• Leave the remaining curls loose and flowing, or gather them into a low ponytail if desired.
• Gently pull on the outer edges of the braids to create a fuller, more romantic crown effect.
• Tuck small flowers, pearl pins, or festive accessories throughout the braided crown for holiday elegance.

5. Voluminous Afro with Metallic Headband

The voluminous afro is a powerful celebration of natural texture, and adding a metallic headband brings festive sophistication.

This iconic style makes a bold statement while honoring the beauty of coily and kinky hair textures.

• Work with freshly moisturized hair that has been stretched or picked out to its full volume.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or afro pick to lift your hair at the roots, creating maximum height and roundness.
• Shape your afro into your desired silhouette, whether that’s a perfect round shape or a more natural organic form.
• Apply a light oil or shine spray to enhance your hair’s natural luster without weighing it down.
• Position a metallic headband in gold, silver, or rose gold about an inch back from your hairline.
• The headband adds a focal point and festive element while keeping hair away from your face.
• This style celebrates the natural volume and beauty of type 4 hair and requires no heat or manipulation.

6. Low Curly Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils

The low curly bun exudes timeless elegance and sophistication, perfect for formal Christmas events and weddings.

The face-framing tendrils add a romantic softness that prevents the style from appearing too severe.

• Leave out two small sections at the front of your hairline to frame your face before gathering the rest.
• Smooth or gently gather your curls to the nape of your neck, being careful not to disturb your curl pattern too much.
• Twist the gathered hair and wrap it around itself to form a low bun, allowing some curls to remain visible.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins placed in different directions for maximum hold throughout the evening.
• Curl or define the face-framing pieces with a small amount of curl cream for soft, romantic tendrils.
• Pull a few curls loose from the bun to create a softer, more textured appearance rather than a tight, controlled look.
• Add a decorative hair pin, vintage brooch, or small flowers to one side of the bun for Christmas elegance.

7. Side-Swept Curly Glamour

Side-swept curls create old Hollywood glamour that’s perfect for Christmas parties where you want to make a memorable entrance.

This dramatic style showcases your curl definition while creating asymmetrical elegance.

• Create a deep side part, positioning it about an inch from your natural part for maximum drama.
• Apply curl-enhancing products to refresh and define your curls if they’ve lost their shape.
• Sweep all your hair to one side, bringing it over your shoulder on that side.
• Pin the hair on the opposite side flat against your head using bobby pins placed discreetly.
• The pinned side should be sleek and smooth, creating beautiful contrast with the voluminous curly side.
• Arrange the curls on your shoulder to cascade forward, creating a waterfall effect.
• Add decorative pins along the sleek side or incorporate glitter spray into the curls for festive sparkle.

8. Twisted Halo Updo

The twisted halo updo creates an ethereal, romantic look that’s perfect for Christmas celebrations with a fairy-tale atmosphere.

This style works beautifully for medium to long curly hair and keeps curls elegantly contained.

• Section your hair horizontally from ear to ear, separating the front from the back sections.
• Begin with one side of the front section, twisting it backward toward the crown of your head.
• Continue twisting and pinning the twist along the top of your head, creating a halo effect.
• Repeat with the opposite side, ensuring both twists meet at the back crown area.
• Gather the remaining back curls and tuck them up into the twisted halo, pinning them securely.
• Allow some curls to peek out from the updo for texture and visual interest rather than complete control.
• This style beautifully frames the face and works wonderfully with delicate jewelry and formal attire.

9. Pineapple Updo with Festive Scarf

The pineapple updo is a curly hair classic that gathers curls at the crown, and adding a festive silk scarf transforms it into a chic Christmas style.

This protective style maintains curl definition while looking effortlessly stylish.

• Flip your head forward and gather all your curls at the very top of your head, the highest point possible.
• Secure with a loose scrunchie or soft elastic that won’t create dents or damage your curl pattern.
• The curls should fountain down from the top of your head like a pineapple, hence the name.
• Wrap a silk or satin scarf in festive prints or colors around the base of the pineapple.
• Tie the scarf in a bow, letting the ends hang for additional decorative detail, or wrap it completely around.
• This style protects curl integrity while creating height and drama perfect for casual Christmas gatherings.
• Adjust individual curls around your face to frame your features softly and attractively.

10. Defined Ringlets with Vintage Waves

Defined ringlets styled with vintage wave patterns create a sophisticated retro look perfect for Christmas celebrations.

This style combines modern curl care with classic Hollywood glamour for timeless elegance.

• Work with freshly washed and conditioned hair, applying curl-defining products section by section.
• Use the finger-coiling method on smaller sections to create tight, uniform ringlets throughout your hair.
• Once all sections are coiled, allow hair to air dry completely or use a hooded dryer to set the curls.
• After drying, very gently brush through the ringlets with a soft bristle brush to create vintage wave patterns.
• Pin waves strategically along your hairline and temples to create S-shaped curves characteristic of vintage styling.
• Set the waved sections with bobby pins until you’re ready to remove them before your event.
• Finish with light hairspray and add vintage-inspired hair accessories like jeweled clips or feathers.

11. Curly Top Knot with Loose Tendrils

The curly top knot combines casual ease with elegant sophistication, creating a versatile look for various Christmas occasions.

This style showcases your natural texture while keeping hair beautifully contained.

• Gather your curls at the crown of your head, leaving out a few random tendrils for a softer look.
• Twist the gathered curls loosely and wrap them around the base to create a textured top knot.
• Secure with bobby pins, ensuring the knot feels stable but doesn’t pull uncomfortably on your scalp.
• Allow the natural texture and volume of your curls to show in the knot rather than smoothing everything down.
• The loose tendrils should frame your face naturally, positioned near your temples and along your hairline.
• This effortless style works beautifully for both dressed-up and casual Christmas events.
• Add a decorative hair stick or jeweled pins through the knot for extra festive detail.

12. Bantu Knot-Out Curls

Bantu knot-out curls create stunning definition and uniform curl patterns throughout your hair, resulting in a voluminous, textured Christmas look.

This technique works exceptionally well for natural hair textures and creates long-lasting curls.

• Start with damp, moisturized hair that’s been detangled thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb or fingers.
• Section your hair into medium-sized squares or triangles all over your head, securing sections you’re not working on.
• Take each section, apply curl cream, and twist it tightly while wrapping it around itself to form a small knot.
• Secure each Bantu knot with a bobby pin or small elastic, ensuring it’s tight enough to set but not painful.
• Allow your hair to dry completely overnight or under a hooded dryer for several hours.
• Carefully unravel each knot, separating the curls gently with your fingers or a pick for volume.
• The result is bouncy, defined curls with beautiful uniformity perfect for Christmas celebrations.

13. Curly Faux Hawk

The curly faux hawk brings edgy sophistication to Christmas styling, perfect for those who love making bold fashion statements.

This dramatic style celebrates natural volume while creating striking visual impact.

• Section your hair down the center from forehead to nape, creating a strip approximately three inches wide.
• Smooth or slick down the sides completely using gel, edge control, or styling cream for maximum contrast.
• Pin or secure the sides flat against your head, ensuring they’re completely smooth and sleek.
• The center section should be styled with maximum volume, teasing or picking the roots for height.
• Arrange the curls in the center strip to stand upward and slightly forward, creating the mohawk shape.
• Use bobby pins strategically to hold the elevated shape in place throughout your event.
• This bold style pairs excellently with statement makeup and confident, fashion-forward Christmas outfits.

14. Floral Crown with Natural Curls

A floral crown nestled into natural curls creates an enchanting, bohemian Christmas look perfect for outdoor winter celebrations or whimsical holiday events.

This romantic style celebrates both nature and your gorgeous curl texture.

• Start with well-defined, moisturized curls that have been styled in your preferred wash-and-go method.
• Position a floral crown made of fresh or artificial flowers about an inch back from your hairline.
• Choose flowers in Christmas colors like deep red roses, white baby’s breath, burgundy dahlias, or evergreen sprigs.
• Secure the crown with bobby pins hidden throughout, ensuring it feels stable and won’t shift.
• Allow your curls to flow naturally around and through the floral crown for an organic, romantic appearance.
• You can incorporate actual evergreen branches, pinecones, or berries for authentic Christmas atmosphere.
• This style works beautifully for Christmas weddings, garden parties, or any celebration with natural elements.

15. Sleek Edges with Curly Volume

Sleek edges combined with voluminous curls creates beautiful contrast and polish, perfect for formal Christmas events.

This style showcases the versatility of textured hair while maintaining elegant sophistication.

• Apply edge control or strong-hold gel to your hairline, smoothing your baby hairs and edges completely flat.
• Use a small brush or toothbrush to create swooped, curved, or geometric edge designs along your hairline.
• Allow the edges to dry and set completely while you style the rest of your hair.
• The main body of your hair should be styled with maximum volume and defined curl definition.
• Use a diffuser or air-dry your curls, then pick them out at the roots for additional height.
• The contrast between the sleek, controlled edges and voluminous curls creates stunning visual impact.
• This style works excellently with elegant dresses and statement jewelry for Christmas galas.

16. Twisted Side Bun

The twisted side bun creates asymmetrical elegance perfect for Christmas celebrations where you want to showcase both style and your gorgeous curls.

This romantic look is both practical and beautiful.

• Create a deep side part and gather all your curls to one side of your head, behind your ear.
• Twist the gathered curls gently to maintain their definition while creating a rope-like texture.
• Wrap the twisted section around itself to form a low side bun, allowing curls to show their natural texture.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, placing them strategically to ensure the style stays in place.
• Pull a few curls loose around your face and from the bun to create a softer, more romantic appearance.
• The side placement draws attention and creates visual interest from every angle.
• Add decorative pins, small flowers, or a vintage brooch to the bun for extra Christmas elegance.

17. Curly Space Buns

Curly space buns bring playful, youthful energy to Christmas celebrations while showcasing your natural texture in a fun, contemporary way.

This trendy style works beautifully for casual holiday parties and creative gatherings.

• Part your hair down the center from front to back, creating two equal sections.
• Gather each section high on the sides of your head, positioning them above and slightly behind your ears.
• Twist each section of curls and wrap them around themselves to create two buns with visible curl texture.
• Secure each bun with elastics and bobby pins, ensuring they feel stable and won’t unravel.
• Allow some curls to escape the buns naturally for a softer, more relaxed appearance.
• Pull out face-framing pieces to soften the look and create a more flattering frame around your features.
• Add glitter spray, colorful scrunchies, or festive ribbons to enhance the playful Christmas spirit.

18. Gibson Tuck with Curly Texture

The Gibson tuck adapts beautifully for curly hair, creating vintage-inspired elegance perfect for formal Christmas events.

This classic updo showcases curl texture while maintaining sophisticated polish.

• Gather your curls at the nape of your neck into a low ponytail, securing with an elastic.
• Create a horizontal opening in the hair above the elastic by separating it with your fingers.
• Flip the ponytail up and through the opening, tucking it completely inside the space created.
• Pin the tucked hair securely from underneath, ensuring all curls are contained within the tuck.
• Gently pull on the sides to create volume and width, softening the overall shape.
• Allow some curl texture to peek through the tuck rather than smoothing everything completely flat.
• Add decorative hair combs, vintage pins, or small flowers along the tuck for Christmas sophistication.

19. Asymmetrical Curly Side Style

The asymmetrical curly side style creates dramatic visual interest by featuring all your volume on one side.

This contemporary look is perfect for fashion-forward Christmas celebrations.

• Create a dramatic side part positioned far to one side of your head.
• Gather all your curls to the fuller side, allowing them to cascade over one shoulder.
• The opposite side should be either pinned flat, braided tightly, or styled with minimal volume for contrast.
• Secure the minimal side with decorative bobby pins, jeweled clips, or sleek gel for a polished appearance.
• Arrange the voluminous side curls to flow forward beautifully, showcasing their definition and bounce.
• This asymmetrical approach draws the eye and creates dynamic movement from every angle.
• The style works exceptionally well with off-shoulder dresses or one-shoulder Christmas outfits.

20. Braided Curly Ponytail

A braided curly ponytail combines structure with texture, creating a sophisticated yet playful Christmas look.

This style keeps curls contained while showcasing their beautiful movement and definition.

• Gather your curls into a ponytail at your desired height—high, mid, or low depending on preference.
• Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic that can support the weight of your curls.
• Divide the ponytail into three equal sections and create a loose braid down the length.
• The braid should be loose enough that your individual curls remain visible and maintain their definition.
• Secure the end with another elastic, then gently pull on the outer edges of the braid to create fullness.
• Pancaking the braid makes it appear fuller and more voluminous while maintaining its structure.
• Wrap a small section of hair around the base elastic or add a festive ribbon for Christmas detail.

21. Victory Rolls with Natural Curls

Victory rolls adapted for natural curls bring vintage glamour to Christmas celebrations while honoring your curl texture.

This iconic 1940s style proves that retro looks work beautifully with textured hair.

• Section the front portion of your hair from ear to ear, leaving the back loose or pinned.
• Take a section on one side, smooth it slightly, then roll it upward and backward toward your crown.
• Pin the roll securely with multiple bobby pins, ensuring it feels stable and holds its shape.
• Repeat on the opposite side, creating a symmetrical roll at the same height and size.
• The back curls should remain loose and flowing, providing beautiful contrast to the structured front.
• You can incorporate curl-defining products in the loose sections for maximum definition and bounce.
• This style pairs wonderfully with vintage-inspired Christmas dresses and classic red lipstick.

22. Curly Updo with Pearl Pins

A curly updo adorned with pearl pins creates timeless elegance perfect for the most formal Christmas celebrations.

This sophisticated style showcases curl texture while maintaining refined polish.

• Gather your curls at the crown or back of your head, depending on your preferred updo placement.
• Begin pinning small sections of curls upward and inward, allowing their natural texture to show.
• Rather than smoothing curls completely, arrange them in a textured, cloud-like formation.
• Continue pinning until all curls are secured in the updo, creating a soft, romantic shape.
• Strategically place pearl-headed pins throughout the updo, spacing them evenly for elegant detail.
• The pearls catch the light beautifully and add luxurious sophistication perfect for Christmas elegance.
• This style works wonderfully for weddings, galas, or any event where you want maximum sophistication.

23. Finger Coils with Gold Accents

Finger coils create uniform, defined curl patterns throughout your hair, and adding gold accents brings festive sparkle.

This technique celebrates natural texture while adding Christmas glamour.

• Work with freshly washed, very wet hair that’s loaded with leave-in conditioner and curl cream.
• Take small sections of hair and wrap them tightly around your finger, coiling from root to tip.
• Continue this process throughout your entire head, creating uniform coils that will dry into defined curls.
• Allow your hair to air dry completely or use a hooded dryer on low heat to set the coils.
• Once fully dry, separate the coils gently with your fingers if you want more volume and fullness.
• Thread gold beads, cuffs, or rings onto random coils throughout your hair for festive sparkle.
• The gold accents catch the light beautifully and transform everyday coils into Christmas glamour.

24. Low Curly Ponytail with Wrapped Scarf

The low curly ponytail with a wrapped silk scarf combines elegance with bohemian charm, perfect for various Christmas occasions.

This style is both protective and beautiful.

• Gather your curls at the nape of your neck into a low ponytail, securing with a fabric-covered elastic.
• Ensure the ponytail is positioned where it won’t cause tension or discomfort during long events.
• Take a long silk or satin scarf in festive colors or patterns and fold it lengthwise into a band.
• Wrap the scarf around the base of the ponytail multiple times, concealing the elastic completely.
• Tie the scarf in a bow, knot, or let the ends hang down with the ponytail for added detail.
• The scarf adds color, protects your hair from friction, and creates visual interest.
• This versatile style transitions easily from day to evening Christmas celebrations.

25. Flat Twist Side Style

Flat twists on one side create structured elegance while allowing curls to flow freely on the other, resulting in a balanced, sophisticated Christmas look.

This protective style combines art with natural beauty.

• Create a side part and section off the smaller side from front to back.
• Begin flat twisting at the front of this section, picking up small amounts of hair as you twist backward.
• Continue the flat twists along the side of your head toward the back, creating multiple parallel twists.
• The twists can end at the crown, allowing the rest of your curls to flow freely from that point.
• The fuller side should showcase your natural curl definition with maximum volume and bounce.
• This asymmetrical style creates beautiful contrast between structured and natural elements.
• Add small decorative pins along the twists or at their endpoints for festive Christmas detail.

26. Curly Bouffant

The curly bouffant brings dramatic 1960s glamour to Christmas celebrations, creating incredible height and volume at the crown.

This bold style makes a powerful statement while celebrating curl texture.

• Section off the crown area of your hair, separating it from the sides and back.
• Tease or pick the crown section at the roots to create a foundation of volume and height.
• Smooth the surface layer of curls over the teased section, maintaining the height underneath.
• Pin the bouffant in place at the crown, ensuring it feels secure and stable.
• Style the sides smoothly or with controlled volume, keeping focus on the dramatic crown height.
• Allow the back curls to flow naturally or pin them up for a complete updo effect.
• This vintage-inspired style pairs beautifully with statement jewelry and formal Christmas attire.

27. Twist-Out with Festive Clips

A twist-out creates beautiful definition and elongated curl patterns, and adding festive clips brings Christmas cheer.

This versatile style works for both casual and dressy holiday occasions.

• Start with damp, well-moisturized hair and divide it into medium-sized sections throughout your head.
• Apply curl cream to each section, then divide it into two strands and twist them around each other.
• Continue twisting all the way to the ends, ensuring each twist is tight enough to set your curl pattern.
• Allow the twists to dry completely overnight or under a hooded dryer before unraveling.
• Gently separate each twist with your fingers, fluffing at the roots for volume.
• The result is elongated, defined curls with beautiful uniformity and shine.
• Add festive hair clips in metallic finishes or holiday colors throughout for Christmas sparkle.

28. Curly Chignon

The curly chignon brings refined elegance to formal Christmas events while showcasing your natural texture.

This classic updo proves that curly hair can achieve sophisticated polish without sacrificing its character.

• Gather your curls at the nape of your neck, keeping them as moisturized and defined as possible.
• Twist the gathered curls loosely and fold them upward into a low bun formation.
• Pin the chignon securely from multiple angles, ensuring it feels stable throughout long events.
• Allow the natural texture and volume of your curls to show rather than smoothing everything flat.
• Pull a few curls loose around your face and from the chignon for a softer, romantic appearance.
• The low placement is elegant and timeless, working beautifully with formal gowns and elegant jewelry.
• Add a decorative hair comb, vintage brooch, or small flowers to one side for Christmas detail.

29. Mohawk Braid with Curly Sides

The mohawk braid creates edgy sophistication by featuring a central braid while allowing curls to flow freely on the sides.

This contemporary style combines structure with natural texture beautifully.

• Section your hair down the center from front to back, creating a strip approximately two inches wide.
• Begin Dutch or French braiding this center section from the front of your head backward.
• Continue braiding all the way to the nape, incorporating hair as you go to create a raised braid.
• Secure the end with a small elastic, tucking it under if desired for a cleaner finish.
• The sides should showcase your natural curls with maximum definition and volume.
• Pick or fluff the side curls to create contrast with the structured center braid.
• This style works excellently with undercuts or shaved sides for even more dramatic effect.

30. Pinned Side Curls

Pinned side curls create elegant sophistication by securing one side flat while allowing the other to showcase voluminous curls.

This asymmetrical style is perfect for formal Christmas celebrations.

• Create a side part positioned where you want the division between pinned and loose sides.
• On the smaller side, smooth your curls flat against your head using gel or styling cream.
• Pin this side securely with multiple bobby pins arranged in decorative patterns or hidden discreetly.
• The pinned side can feature jeweled clips, gold pins, or pearl accessories for festive detail.
• The fuller side should showcase your curls with maximum volume and definition.