As winter settles in, we know how much you enjoy styles that radiate comfort and warmth. That’s exactly what this Cute Hairstyle Looks Winter 2025–2026 guide has to offer! Adorable, easy to attain, simple winter hairstyles for all hair types such as short, mid-length, long, and anything in between. Combine soft, pretty styles such as loose curls and effortless beanie looks, and you are ready for the outdoors. If you are wearing beanies, you probably are in need of winter hairstyles for your black, curly, or thin hair.
Soft Curly Lob With Lived-In Volume
I’m starting with a shoulder-grazing curly lob that keeps natural texture front and center. The lob hits the collar bone and is layered lightly, so the curls don’t form a triangle. The hairline is a bit soft and messy and the ends are just below the brows and the cheeks. It is a cute winter hairstyle for medium hair. It is also perfect for effortless styling on busy mornings.
Once the temperatures drop, I take care to add moisture. I rub some Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream on the scalp, and on the ends, I apply a bit of the Kérastase Elixir Ultime, and I diffuse hot hair with a bowl diffuser. Blasting the cuticles open is not a goal. If the scarf rubs against the hair, a bit of water and leave-in conditioner, combined with a drop or two of Eco Style Olive Oil Gel gets rid of frizz.
What catches my attention is that this knit is warm while still feeling polished, just like the lob of a well-tailored garment. Fashion person Vernon François taught me that the best way for curls to achieve maximum ‘wow’ factors is to clip the roots while diffusing for lift, which is a game changer. Those clips are a must if you want to get rid of hat hair.
While going out at night, I just added a soft side part and the ends are sleeked with ColorWow Pop & Lock. When the light hits the hair, it glows with shine, looking festive. The face framing keeps it more playful and not overly done. This is true ‘winter magic’ unlocked.
Messy Curly Updo With Wispy Tendrils
Here, I just grab a bunch of curls, usually to make a relaxed, high updo and have loser tendrils fall around the face – a little undone and very ‘I spent five minutes, in a rush before brunch’ chic. This is the perfect addition to your collection of cute, winter hairstyles. It works with Short hair and even if you are in the ‘having fun’ zone with Medium hair curls. With crown pieces, I like to keep them soft and expand them, while also letting them skim the temples for side warmth.
For hold, I lightly mist mm Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray at the roots, use a satin scrunchie to secure the bun, then slide in a few criss-cross U-pins so the shape holds under scarves and coats. Flyaways are smoothed with a touch of Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine on fingertips; shiny but not stiff, which is important in dry winter air.
This is my go to when I’m toggling between coffee dates and late meetings; it makes me feel polished and put together without eliminating the fun curl pattern. A trick I learned from the stylists of Tracee Ellis Ross – put a finger in the coil and with a few front tendrils while slightly damp, so they dry in perfect spirals. It looks polished, even when the rest is purposefully messy.
If you want to formally dress it, make sure to place a thin velvet ribbon around the base, or a micro claw at the crown. This detail looks chic with wool coats and catches the light in the coziest, most candle-like glow on curls.
Romantic Low Updo With Faceframe Waves
Just enough effort was put into this style to call it soft and romantic while all at once showcasing artistic elements due to S-waves cascading over the face. It brings the simple knitwear style to the next level. The nape of the neck is still attacker and the top is still relaxed enough to feel comfortable and not suffocating. For those with thin to medium hair, the gentle crown padding and wave texture adds the appearance of a fuller hairstyle, which is appreciated on a dried and cold day.
Starting by wrapping the hair with a robe belt to create ‘heatless bends’ for 20-30 minutes while getting ready. It helps to use mousse, like Living Proof Full Thickening, for the volume. The-lightweight Elnett hairspray allows for a gentle hold while still giving the option to restyle. Winter hair flexibility is also a huge plus.
Me personally, in the winter, tend to pair this hairstyle with a cozy, winter knit while also adding a simple secondary earring. The set also adds a tint of shrill gluttony, as from this style. Since winter washes out a lot of faces, step is sufficient. It seems to breathe life with copper instead of adding a highlighter, escorting forth the soft, bronze glow instead. A beauty tip I find most useful, is the face framing tendrils of hair, which should leave out to create a sealed look, in my opinion, should be lighter.
The very last thing I do is put a small pearl-sized amount of Davines OI Oil on my ends and pinch the crown for an extra breath of volume. It’s as soft as date-night and as comfortable as library day – plus, it’s totally commute-proof.
Holiday Velvet Headband Bun
I love that the party season is here! There’s nothing more exciting than a velvet headband bun. The headband velvet is my favorite because it has such a luxurious texture, and the bun accenting it is just perfection. I make the bun the most important element of the look, keeping the rest of the hair super clean and the bun very low. I wear it to be a simple and cute winter hairstyles when I have at most, 10 minutes to get ready. It’s also nice when I want minimal effort and a lot of happiness.
For that extra gloss and make the hair really slick, I blow the hair toward my nape and apply a pea-sized amount of heat-activated ColorWow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray. I tie the hair into a bun and secure it with spin pins, then rinse. The last step is to spray the surface with Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Hairspray and the style will be sleek, no matter what the coat, scarf, and winter hugs do.I love how a statement headband saves me on rushed evenings. Celebrity Stylists say accessories are so important – I take that very seriously in winter where static can ruin a blowout. The headband hides the crown, the bun secures the ends, and I’m out the door.
If you want more shine, slide two crystal pins just above the bun or wear a jewel-tone band that matches your lipstick. It’s festive without going full glitter – a wink, not a shout.
Half-Up High Pony with Long Waves
On days I wear a longer hairstyle, a half-up high pony with soft waves feels a little more fun. I keep the hair above the pony high at the crown and let the lengths fall loose ribbons. The front pieces frame the face nicely and softly part which is super cute. It’s a go-to example of cute winter hairstyles for long hair and works for Long hair lovers who want something Easy and face-lifting.
My new hairstyle opens up the face, which adds some architecture to the cheeks. This compliments the winter makeup, which is soft taupe eyes and luscious lip balm. To make the hairstyle tide, I anchor the top snipes first and then blend the rest for the hair to stay all day.
In the winter to maintain the hair soft, I use a bias tape scrunchie and pink satin lining. These two maintain soft, touchable hair and avoid static. Also, if I stay outs for a long time, it keeps me warm.
She blows the hair back mid to hold the fingertips. I then pin it in back, and she has the bottom and top separated. A snazzy way to do hats formed on a wintery week and is great for a commute.
Waves with Pearl Headband
S-curved hairstyles paired with a pearl headband are simultaneously classy and trendy for any occasion. I like to achieve this look by using a 1.25 inch curling iron and curling the ends lightly so I achieve a more modern look rather than a pageant-like hairstyle. This hairstyle also works with long and thin hair because it creates added volume. This is also a fun hairstyle for winter and is perfect for going out with friends. This is one of the many cute winter hairstyles for long hair and cute winter hairstyles easy for nights out.
My other tip is for Texas or other dry winter locations. In dry air, under a winter coat, the hair can get very dry and lose its shine. The most efficient way is to use a lightweight serum with a heat protector. I like the Color Wow Dream Coat and it works really well. Style it by applying a very light mist of Oribe Shine Light Reflecting Spray. Super light flexible-hold hairspray also works well to keep the hair and the sweater actually movable. Not stiff or crunchy, which is actually a very important thing to remember.
I love how much a headband instantly adds a feeling of dressiness, even with a knit – it’s a micro-elevation that also feels winter-luxe. Celebrity stylist, Chris Appleton, often talks about the glassy shine as the not-so-secret ingredient for waves on the red carpet. So, I’ll run a quick pass of the iron at the very end to seal the cuticle. Two minutes, big payoff.
If you’re desperate, you can also do jumbo Velcro rollers instead of the iron while you’re doing your makeup. Just pull them out, slide on the pearls, and you’re out the door. Simple magic that is easy and very much so wearable on a Tuesday.
Low Ponytail with Texture and Face-Framing Pieces
This low ponytail with textured, face framing pieces, sits at the nape with an airy movement through the lengths. The soft center-part fringe also adds charm. It’s very pretty from the side, and very elegant from the back. I relax the crown to keep is sleek, and tie with a thin elastic, then wrap a small strand to conceal it. It’s one of those cute winter hairstyles for medium hair and long hair alike. Perfect for when you have a coat and scarf, as it doesn’t get crushed.
Care is minimal – I mist a leave-in conditioner like K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair to battle winter dryness. I then add a puff of texturizing spray through the ponytail so it looks plush, not limp. A swipe of hand cream over the elastic smooths flyaways around the ponytail holder.
On busy mornings, I love how this looks effortless yet polished. Hairstylists in New York keep saying the face-framing tendrils soften strong collars and high necklines, which is why I think they are so flattering on camera and in real life. I’m fully on board.
On outdoor days, you can tuck the pony inside your coat collar, or pull it through a scarf, and you’ll still arrive to dinner with movement. It’s cute winter hairstyles easy simple at its best – Easy that looks thought-out.
Braided Crown Low Bun
The combination of a side braid with a low bun gives off a pretty style that most people would love. Just imagine wearing a dress as you would for a holiday party but with a more casual flair. Instead of spending hours on perfection, I prefer a gentle loose braid, wherever possible on the head, as the sleek finish. I also tend to the low bun with 2 Wifi tendrils that hang delicately but firmly on either side of the face to keep the look balanced. This style works best for people with a medium-length hair who want to have a structural style that still somewhat free on cold, damp, wintery days.
Winter Care- For best results, aim for the second-day hair and braid it for grip. Alternatively, you can try the rubite me dry pomade and bumble and bumble Pret-APowder braid with gentle capsules of form to finish the bun.
As much as I love the style, the braid really keeps the base of the hair tucked away and off the clothes, avoiding all the fluff and mess that would get caught in woolen jumpers. Attention hair stylists would probably restart on the loose highlights around control of the face as you put hair in a braid that usually makes it easier to set all that hair in the pithy rays of winter sunlight. Almost effortless, but the glow of the snow makes it magical.
If you would rather have a high collared coat, the style works just as well with a tucked chignon. Similar, but different. No lowering the mood, the mood is still there.
Whisper Piece Romantic Milkmaid Updo
The braid is soft, delicate, and pleasant for a night out, this is a braid that clasps and then folds in on itself which secure the updo. It is a rounded, secure updo which is the reason for the cozy. It is also perfect for the winter. If you love braids, this one is made for you and should be added to your collection of cute winter hairstyles for medium hair that you can use for the day and night as well.
For the front, I use a volumetric the Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse to help lift the hair and resist the humidity as well as the snow flurries, which in this case, is posed as the hair as if snow is falling. A boar-bristle brush then smooths out the hair, not taking out the texture which in this case is slight but makes a large difference.
When I am wearing a flannel or patterned dress then I usually wear this hairstyle. It is perfect for the dinner. I also has a look that allows you to go for intention instead of formal. If your hair is fine hair, braid the section slowly and then pancake the sections for width. It is a perfect hairstyle that adds value for thin hair without the use of a teasing brush.
If you need a satin ribbon that is small, the ends of the updo should be able to give you that festive look Exposed is something that is not problematic, in fact, it is the complete opposite.
Half-Up Halo Braid with Soft Ribbon Waves
Half-up styles keep the ends free while the braid serves as a built-in headband. Posh with sweaters, posh with slip skirts. I curl mid-lengths, braid from temple to temple, and pin behind the crown. It is friendly to Curly hair textures too, and squarely sits in cute winter hairstyles for long hair and cute winter hairstyles easy when a tad nicer than everyday waves is desired.
To care for hairstyles, use a heat protecting spray, and add shine serum to the ends to avoid slippage. It’s easy to lose the volume so the hair can slip out. If you happen to have a dry scalp in winter, use a pre-shampoo scalp serum once a week to balance out the weight from the roots.
I wear this on brunch days when the goal is “effort, but not too much”. Hairstylist Jen Atkin often suggests easy accessories as well as ‘half-up’ shapes to create the desired illusion of volume where we want it. I agree the braid lifts the crown and slims the sides which is an instant win.Replace the braid with a knitted cap on snow days – the half-up ponytail keeps everything in place under the hat, which earns this style a place on the list of clever winter hairstyles with beanies. Cute and cozy. That is the aim for winter.
Half-Up Waves with Simple Rectangle Clip
One of my favorite styles is the half-up, half-down look that appears to be elegant without seeming overly complicated. It is soft, with mid-length layered waves, a chunkier styled woven centre part, and even a half-up which is clipped to the back without any dents or breakage. The ends are even a light caramel which is brightened by the soft winter sunshine that pours onto any styled knitwear. The position of the half-up also serves to add light contouring to the face which helps to lift the face, and so is immensely flattering to any round neck that the wearer may be, or most likely will be, wearing. It is, also, incredibly easy to style, which is why I tend to pull it as one of many winter hairstyles with medium length hair. It is also good, because on days which are dry and colder, it is useful for faking the appearance of thicker hair.
The rectangle clip more resembles a polished barrette, although the difference is that the clip has a greater hold. It also serves to style the hair and to hold the scarf without it falling. I prepare the style by first of all placing the top half in a head mist and pulling it apart with Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray, while the lower curled part is placed with light glossing spray, which helps with static underneath any outerwear.
In my case, I usually position the clip slightly higher than the occipital bone. Any lower than that, and the clip collapses when I tug on a turtleneck. A bend that is more silky and soft face framing, can be done with a 1” iron, which keeps the look soft and serene. The hair can be compared to warm cocoa with the soft and exquisite texture.
For nighttime, I replace the neutral clip with a tortoiseshell or pearl finish. Just that small accessory shift is enough to take the whole look from doing errands to dinner, with no changes to the base styling. Adorable winter practicality is on display.
Pearled Topknot With Soft Face Pieces
Instant glam that still works with chunky sweaters is achieved through the use of a relaxed clockwise swirl. The topknot is secured with pearly pins, while the soft tendrils are left to skim the cheeks. This pompadour is high, so it elongates the face while the ends are protected from friction, which is a way to be smart in brittle months. This is gold for winter parties, and for cute, easy winter hairstyles that flatter medium to long hair, it does not take a lot of time to prepare.
To achieve the cushiony texture, I lightly back comb the ponytail, twist it loosely, and pin it in sections, so the bun looks fuller than it actually is. I use a small amount of Kérastase Elixir Ultime to smooth flyaways and finish with L’Oréal Elnett for flexible hold – we don’t allow helmet hair here.
I personally love this for brunch to cocktail days. A trick I learned from red carpet stylists: curl the two front pieces away from the face and pin the bun, the ribbons will frame the eyes and the look is still romantic, even after the hat comes off.
If the air is painfully dry, A bit of leave in conditioner (Briogeo Farewell Frizz) on a toothbrush lightly and I sweep the hairline. The control is fantastic, the shine is gentle and the topknot remains delightful until last call.
Polished Half-Up Knot With Ribbon Waves
Using a curling iron, Olaplex No. 6, and a hairbrush, I’m going to show you a perfect hairstyle that is beyond cute and has a ribbon like flow. It will come with the head completely smooth and glossy while the low sections just drape down perfectly. It is the perfect balance with down hair and even simple cute earrings and a polished top. Half the hair is tied with a bow. If you are looking for cute winter hairstyles for long hair, get ready to be amazed.
I begin with ‘fighting’ the hair first. Paddle brush would be used in the blow dry phase to create the ‘bend’ look. ‘Bends’ are created with changing directions with a curling iron. This Apres Fer No. 6 has antigravity smooth to mist with flat. This sets the invisible micro elastic knot and allows control in the perfect way. There are perfect moves for arch, like whenever I tie with whoever, my hair is wild and looks like I just came out from the mystic caves.
I find most people do not wear glasses because they are not used to scouting out areas and bow sections from whole head regions. “I used to mask my awkwardness by ‘pretending’ to be nervous around people. I came to the conclusion ‘this’ was my beauty product in life, and wore it proudly. Blampire, the neck knot people most commonly attach. I’m was actually inspired by nail designs and changing with length from each index finger nail.
At night, I put on a tiny cuff or a barrette on the side of the bun. The candlelight catches it beautifully and without any added heat, my preferred daytime hairstyle has been turned into a date night look. Very effective and a winter solution.
Twisted Low Bun With Satin Bow
This low bun stays on the softer side, with twisted, and gently put together at the finish point, chignon, with the added wrap of a satin bow, adding a touch of sweetness without overdoing it. The gentle structure helps the scalp and ends from any friction which is perfect for the month of February. Definitely, one of my most liked cute winter hairstyles for Medium hair, and the twist adds a touch of subtle decoration without the commitment of full braids.
On the care side, I lightly coat the roots with a gripping spray and twist each side, bun the two sides with two spin pins, which hold better than a dozen or more bobby pins. The neglected, sligthly wavy front hair helps balance the makeup for that winter season.
In the center and off to the side bows can be modern or “overly formal” when symmetrical. If your hair is thin, teasing the ponytail is perfect. It creates volume quickly and effortlessly. Then the ponytail can be used to fashion a bun.
Instead of satin, use velvet or grosgrain to match your coat. Shifts to the fabric itself can transform the ensemble to something more festive. It is a tiny detail with a large impact.
High Half-Up Pony With Voluminous Curls
Sometimes I want something more lifted and dramatic that doesn’t require a full updo. In that case, a quick half-up is perfect, then put some volume into the curls that wrap the lower section. The face framing pieces, along with the lifted crown is perfect for winter. It is one of the best long hair winter styles, and works wonderfully with naturally curly or styled hair. This style is flirty, warm, and great for the commute.
For this style, I use the ColorWow Dream Coat, and then I use a wide toothed comb to brush for volume. In addition, a tiny pony base with some Oribe Superfine hair spray creates volume and lift. The hair can then be placed underneath a beanie.In my opinion, this shape is a hidden self esteem booster. It lightens the face, goes well with turtlenecks, and shows off earrings. What I always goes with is a celebrity tip: for all-day height, anchor the pony with two crossed bobby pins underneath the elastic.
On colder days, I use a velvet scrunchie instead of the elastic to minimize friction and static. It creates a beautiful contrast with wool coats and the curls remain bouncy way past sundown. Cozy glam for the win, secured.
Cozy Twin Dutch Braids With Soft Tendrils
I’ll wear my hair for days without washing it, as long as it’s in braids and makes my head feel cozy and snug. First, I part my hair and then I Dutch braid it on either side, making sure the braids are low. When I finish the braids, I make sure the ends are sticking straight out and hovering right above my collar. This hairstyle goes well with my sweats, and it’s just the right amount of cozy. I always get compliments about how the hairstyle makes me look feminine. I personally love how this hairstyle allows me to braid my hair and rest my head at the same time. This hairstyle is definitely not low maintenance, it’s right in the middle of the fuss to look ratio.
I wear my ponytail with pride because I put in the effort to make the braids neat. For Winter, I use a bit of Bumble and Bumble on the ends of the braids. I lightly spritz the braids with Living Proof hair spray so the loose ends are kept in place. This style is the best for keeping me cozy on paper because it keeps me warm, but is so easy, and not time-consuming at all.
My favorite aspect of this piece is that it reads young without being juvenile—it’s gym to coffee to errands in one. A tip I learned from L.A. stylists: pancake the braid edges by tugging them outward so the plaits look fuller. Great for Thin Hair on gray mornings.
If being worn under earmuffs or a hood, the tails should be tucked forward and secured with clear elastics. When indoors, loosen and fluff. It’s practical-cute – that’s a winner.
Holiday Bow Bob With Airy Curl
This chin-to-shoulder bob is curled in loose C-waves with a deep side part, and then accessorized with a velvet bow just behind the ear. It’s playful yet polished, capturing the vibe of December in a bow. It’s a cinch to add to the collection of cute winter hairstyles for short hair. It also pleases the short hair lovers who desire something festive yet wearable with movement.
“I have found that the quickest way to get that wavy curl look is to first apply Color Wow’s Dream Coat to the hair to eliminate static and then curl the hair with a 1-inch curling iron while keeping the ends aiss softly curled so that the ends just clear the sweater. Add a very soft touch of Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to give the look that effortless volume and texture that can withstand the sweltering heat of the office and the bone-chilling cold of the sidewalks.
To lessen the burn of that post lunch 3pm slump, a hair accessory works wonders. New Yorkers say there is always room for 1 strong detail, and in this case, the detail is the bow. It is a very strong enough detail that it functions as an exclamation mark.
On colder and stormy days it can look very cute with a beanie and a knit headband and is the epitome of cute winter hairstyles with a beanie. Simple enough for dressy and casual look.
Sleek High Pony With Polished Edges
Brush the hair so that its surface is smooth and tight to the head and then secure it with a very high gather. Later I wrap a thick strand of the hair around the sculpted bun to cover the base and make it more elegant. The straightened hair is glassy smooth and slick, so the entire length of the tail looks long and luxurious. This is a powerful winter hairstyle that looks amazing with a turtlenek. It is in the cute winter hairstyles for long hair category but also qualifies for cute winter hairstyles easy for when I want to look more awake.’
I used Kérastase discipline heat protecting primer and passed a flat iron once to seal in shine. I smooth edges with a small brush and Pattern Edge Control. It keeps everything tidy in wind and under a hood without flaking.
This is a style I call “I have to leave in two minutes.” It creates the illusion I have cheekbones. Many pros suggest finishing with a microfiber sheet or silk scarf to press down flyaways for 30 seconds. I do it while putting on my coat.
If you have fine hair, the pony can be anchored with two crossing bobby pins for easier hold under the elastic. It’s weekday armor – Simple and Clean.
Side Dutch Braid Into Cascading Lengths
This side has a chunky Dutch braid that starts near the temple, goes along the hairline, and feeds into a relaxed, soft plait. Romantic yet strong enough for snow globe weather. The face-framing curves are intended. It gives movement without losing structure. It’s perfect for cute winter hairstyles braids and a popular choice in cute hairstyles for winter long hair.
I add some texture with Davines This Is A Sea Salt Spray on damp hair, then diffuse for some grit before braiding. A pea-sized amount of OUAI Matte Pomade rubbed over palms helps keep the clean braid edges, especially around the ear where winter scarves rub.
I reach for this when I want a little sparkle moment with earrings – it frames the face and keeps strands off the collar. If your ends are dry, tap a drop of hair oil only on the last two inches and the contrast of matte braid and glossy ends is chef’s kiss.
If transitioning from day to party, loosen the lower braid and tuck it to one side with a rhinestone pin. Quick glow-up – still warm, still cute.
Pull-Through Braid With Velvet Ribbon Tail
The elegant pull-through braid which extends down the center of the back is beautifully finished with a festive bow made of a red velvet ribbon. The ribbon is bun like since the braid is done with bands. This results in a fuller braid since the bands take the place of intricate weaving. This is an ideal winter hairstyle for those who want to wear it with knitwear. Winter hairstyles for long hair can be done in a short amount of time; for those who still want some extra flair, this hairstyle will give you the best of both worlds.
I wear this hairstyle with a Swarzokopf OSiS+ Dust It volumizing powder at the roots. This is then followed down the hair with the clear bands, which get tied every two inches. Each of the loops is pulled to create a puff effect, and then brushed down to smooth the surface with a brush made of boar bristles. This whole hairstyle is then finished off with Kenra 25, which gives hold to the hair and protects it against coat friction.
In my opinion, this hairstyle is perfect for wearing in front of a warm fireplace while drinking cider. It is cozy and very versatile. Pull-throughs are very useful for those with thin hair because the width is much fuller with the teasing having to be done.
On days when you are traveling however, the ribbon can be traded for a scrunchie, and when wrapped in a scarf, the braid can still be worn. This hairstyle is simple, yet gives a big impact.
Soft Waves with Half-Up Rope Braid
I braid the edges with two thin rope braids and fasten them with a pin in the center of the head while letting the rest of the hair flow in soft wavy curls. It’s elegant and light which leaves room for a scarf. It’s also one of my preferred choices for cute winter hairstyles for long hair and cute winter hairstyles for medium hair.
In the freezer, I donut a low updo and add a hat. I prep my hair with Gisou Pro Polis Heat Protecting Spray and use a bit of the Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Air Dry Cream for static. I leave a bit of the hairs down as I also use the corset wedded technique to cool underneath. It hold the pieces nicely and eliminates the pinching feeling.
Many girls like to use this for the office place and for brunch since it is smart casual. Many hairdressers also like to point out that when the hair is taken off the temples the face it more visable and this is a more softer look.
If it is snowing, a beanie works great. cute winter hairstyles with beanie. Everything is kept in place, which is a beanie’s main function. It is also soft and warm which is perfect as a winter beanie.
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