Winter is the season for warm cozy cuts and easy to elegant hairstyles that will enhance your look. This guide to Winter Hairstyles 2025–2026 Trends & Ideas will offer inspiration for every occasion and every vibe — think braids, waves inspired by aespa, curls, and stylish looks with beanies. Falls hairstyles for winter offer a variety of choices for every length of hair. If you’re looking for hairstyles for winter for black women, or hairstyles that are cute and modern for medium and short hair cuts, this guide will give you the warm and effortless style for the winter season.
Milkmaid Crown Braid with Soft Winter Waves
I really like how relaxed a crown braid is, capping just above the ears, then blending with some soft lined waves at the shoulders. It seems a little romantic, but not over the top, and is a fun match to the makeup/collared shits worn beneath winter jackets. The braid offers just the right amount of definition so the rest of the hair can stay light and fluffy (and soft), which creates a lot of movement, showcasing the beautiful soft blond color. If you are collecting winter hairstyles ideas with braids, this is one of them. It looks especially lovely with medium hair, or medium-length cuts. A little bend goes a long way in adding to the quiet, but Aesthetic, Cuteness of the style.
In terms of static control, something light and flexible. A small amount of the Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream is rubbed into damp hair, then a light mist of Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray falls above the braid to keep it from buckling under multiple layers of winter clothes, coats, and scarves. If needed, a small amount of clear gloss can be applied every 6–8 weeks to keep the blond layers from appearing too dull in the winter light. It is a quick and satisfying way to achieve shine and reflection.
A little personal note: I wear this on travel days because it handles hats well. If you are into headwear, you may want to leave the braid a little looser at the crown so it sits flatter underneath a beanie. That way you can still tag it under winter hairstyles with beanies without the helmet hair effect. Tiny trick, huge payoff.
Pro tip for the finish: Chris Appleton often reminds all of us to humidity-proof when we want that glossy control. I swipe Color Wow Dream Coat on the mid-lengths first, then I wave it. It makes the whole look last through the misty mornings and the late dinners, quietly luxe.
Retro Luxe Blowout – Big Brunette Volume
That plush, face-lifting blowout is back with softer edges. Less pageant, more grown-up glam. I round-brush for lift at the front, keep ends rounded, and aim for that swoop that feels cinematic. On rich brunette, the volume reads expensive and easily wearable for day to night. This sits squarely in winter hairstyles medium territory and flatters oval, heart, and round faces with equal enthusiasm, so long as you like your hair to do the talking.
I start with a heat shield and Velcro rollers at the crown (Kérastase Genesis Défense Thermique) while the makeup is being done. Rollers are the lazy girl’s elevator – zero arm fatigue, maximum lift. It’s simple. To touch up the hair and make it more flexible, spray with R+Co BLEU Featherlight Hairspray to ensure it can still move and has touchable hair at the end of a day is usually dry and in a heated room.
To achieve the “magazine bounce” effect without it feeling stiff, follow the well-known saying by Jen Atkin, “once you are done smoothing, add the texture back in.” A micro whip of OUAI Matte Pomade on fingertips, taped into the front pieces the very front keeps the swoop from splitting under a scarf. A micro swoop back of hair adds to the overall effect.
For those in the process of growing out a shorter cut should curve the face framing layers to the cheekbone and let the rest rest just below the shoulder – the sweet spot for Medium silhouettes. It is quiet and very Aesthetic. Perfect for Inspo for dinner plans.
Clean Ballerina Bun – The Turtleneck Lift
Each winter, I tend to unlock outfits that are certainly more chic and sophisticated than the fact that it’s gnawing cold outside. The polished high bun is the perfect solution – it thickens under layers, clears the neck for thick sweaters, and gives instant cheekbone definition. Easy and quick, I construct the bun by separating the hair and smoothing it into a tiny bun for a satin finish. If your hair is finer in texture, shaggy, or shorter, faux bun donuts are a game changer.
In terms of maintenance, I moisturize the hair, and the mist evenly smooths my edges. Once that is accomplished, the final touch is the little clouds that I can now call flyaways that I glided a spritz of Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine, suspending the lacquer finish. Beanie lovers, rejoice: just place the hat on and tug at a few portions at the front to give your style a soft finish – it’s the perfect lazy hat hairstyle.
On days when I do not wish to wash my hair I reach for this with a sharp wing because no hair dos and statement liner feels very winter 2026. If you’re a fan of a I’m Aespa this sharp and clean lifted energy gives you K-Pop polish with no extensions and no 2 hour snooze at the mirror — quick and chic.
My very last addition is my favorite: a single face-framing tendril curled gently around the temple. This soft curl near the face is flattering to the face and gives hair an easy undone look.
Dutch Snow Braids for a Winter Day
Two thick Dutch plaits low across the head. A little snug but perfectly balanced and not pulled too tight. Slightly frisbee shaped but not too stiff. A bit of volume at the top but not helicopter. Invisible elastic and soft. Summer hairstyles with Dutch braids above splayed fingers. For winter hairstyles for long hair this is unbeatable for the gym, winter style errands, and ski weekends. It’s secure, it’s cute, and it won’t tangle under a padded coat hood.
There is a braid hair care tip for winter. The air is dry. I put a braid on a light layer of leave-in (Vernon François Leave-In Conditioner) as an anti-frizz tactic. If your hair is wavy or curly, finish with a pea of Ceremonia Aceite de Moska on the ends for a protective seal and shine- very gentle and effective in cold snaps.
I also learned to finish each braid with small elastics, then wrap a small piece around the elastic and pin it. It adds a chic touch instead of a school-girl look. Vernon François, with a note of humor, often reminds curly clients: “braid on moisture, not on dryness.” Sounds convincing- everything looks smoother and lasts longer when you start hydrated.
If you are a hat lover, put on a relaxed ribbed beanie. It looks chic with the added bonus of flattening the braids at the crown. The winter hat braids live underneath bun beanie and stay tidy after wearing it indoors.
Soft Topknot with Copper Face-Frame
Let’s start with the loose, textured topknot, and soft face-framing tendrils with ribbons in warm cinnamon-gold. Doesn’t this feel like the Winter upgrade we all secretly desire? Not only does the color compliment winter skin tones, but the light (or airy) knot also balances bulky knits. It is also easy to manage and very kind to all the layers of the hair. Out of all Winter hairstyles, this is the easiest walk-the-dog, mid-length hair, tousled-up vibe, and serves the most effortless hair inspo.
As for the upkeep, the warm tones are protected with weekly K18 Molecular Repair Mask and Redken Acidic Color Gloss Shampoo. Heat tools and indoor heating can dull the copper quickly. For extra grip, I also like to mist a little Kristin Ess Working Texture Spray, to the roots before twisting, then I don’t have to feel like I have a ton of grit. The soft anchor to the top of the knot also helps for maintenance.
Somehow, to me, this reads relaxed but also intentional. Like, “I have 3 minutes and I have good taste.” For Tracey Cunningham, she used to emphasize the importance of seasonal glossing to refresh warmth. She helps me with a quick demi-permanent glaze every 6 weeks to keep the face-frame from being brassy. It makes the updo’s even more glamorous during romantic candle-lit dinners.
At the end, I take a one inch curling iron and curl just the front tendrils , then hold it with a touch of Hair by Sam McKnight. The way it separates around the cheekbones is always flattering – so easy, yet so effective.
Soft Braid with Loose Curls on the Side
“I am a huge fan of the side braid hairstyle. The loose flyaways make the braid seem effortless and as if it’s not pulling the hair too much. This hairstyle uses the pull through braid technique which in my opinion looks soft and perfect for other winter hairstyles. I like to leave two strands of hair out and curl them to give a more relaxed look which compliments the winter sunlight.
The mid part of my hair is braided and I keep it in place with the help of a very small amount of hair cream which keeps the frizz away and looks neat. The Oribe cream keeps the hair moisturized and makes it easy not to let the hair get too “heavy”. Smooshed hair is not ideal during the winter season. If you are braiding loose flyaway curls and using heat, make sure you use a light heat protectant. Hot weather and using heat on your fine strands is a disaster.
In my opinion, it gives off a storybook vibe without being too extra. Stylist Vernon Francoise reminds his clients to braid the hair when it’s moisturized. Leaving the hair this way makes the “fuzz” disappear and controls the hair during the day in a classy way.”
If you want controllable flyaways, touch a bit of pomade, and gently place it over the surfaces of the hair where the sun shines.“ In five seconds, you get a big boost of 2025 energy.”
Mini Crown Braids with Loose Waves
Two braids on the hairline lift and frame the soft waves. This look is effortless, yet provides intentionality. It is a beautiful winter hair alternative to headbands for medium and longer hair, where you want something with detail, but want to avoid bulk. The waves are touchable, and lean a little towards curly hair. This provides great texture, with minimal commitment, while the overall style remains cute and polished.
Based on the style, I prepare with a light mousse at the roots (My favorite is Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse), rough-dry, braid and then it’s time to warm it up. I use a 1-inch iron on the mid-lengths to give that airy bend and brush out to soften. In winter, I switch from crunchy hairspray to a flexible one, instead of a pattern, to make the touchable finish to the look.On “third day hair”, I tend to reach for this one because the front is neat due to the braids while the lengths do their own free styling. Friendly advice I got from Jen Atkin – when braiding, the tension should be even, not tight, then, for the sake of photos, pancake the edges a bit. Small tweak, big difference when it is a gloomy morning.
If you wear collars or scarves, push the waves forward over the shoulders so that they do not “mark”. Before you leave, a few drops of hair oil on the ends makes the whole style read luxe, not overdone. Everyday inspo, anyone?
Done-Undone Textured Braid with Lived-In Layers
I call this my slow, coffee run braid – perfectly imperfect with soft layers escaping to create movement. It’s great on Mid or Long length cuts, so it falls under winter hairstyles with braids for Medium hair and below as well. The trick is to braid lower than you think so the crown still stays relaxed and the silhouette is modern.
I start with a texture spray like Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun for grip, particularly in dry indoor heat where the hair may become a bit slippery. If your ends are lightened, add a dime-size K18 Molecular Repair Mask on wash days to keep the braid ends healthy instead of scraggly.
I feel that this is the best style where the “I wore a knit and felt chic” statement can apply. Chris Appleton often discusses the contrast of sleek roots versus expanded lengths and I apply that here: smooth the part with a boar-bristle brush, then pull apart the braid to the body so it pops.
Then to style finish, it can be a black elastic or ribbon if you are feeling a bit festive. Minimal effort, maximum payoff and literally so Easy for weekday 2025 styling.
Styled Updo With Loose Face Framing Pieces
The high structured chignon is like an upswept… a little black dress for winter hair; sleek at the crown, soft at the front. For balance, I retain a couple of tendrils so it doesn’t feel too formal. This is a power move for dinners, concerts, or anytime you want polish that withstands scarves and coats. It is a quiet hero of winter hairstyles for long hair.
While still cold, for shine I prep Color Wow Dream Coat which is a static tamer for winter and a humidity shield for the summer. Instead of bobby pins, use U-pins to secure the bun; this way the structure remains flexible and comfortable under outerwear.
The balance of this style immediately draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones, which I also love. The classic rotates around the center part, and keeps it more modern with a tiny side part. If you are growing out layers, wrap the shorter bits around the base and secure with pins so the shape remains tidy.
If your hair is thin, tuck in a silk scrunchie within the bun as a cushion; it adds volume without teasing. Easy trick, chic result, just as suitable in 2025 office glow as it is in candlelight.
Cozy Space Buns with Soft Front Pieces
Double buns are fun without crossing the line into costume, especially when the soft front pieces remain. This is one of the cutest styles as it leaves a clear neck for scarves. Also, it is a K-beauty stage inspired hairdo (Aespa on their off-duty days) which is a win for Mid-length and Medium-texture hair.
For maintenance, I spray a bit of the lightweight dry shampoo and the roots first so the buns have a bit of structure then twist and pin. In the case of static, smooth a bit of Ouai Matte Pomade and it keeps the flyaways in check without giving too much shine.”
In my opinion, this look is the best when it comes to wearing hats. Instead of your typical beanie, try a loose knit and place it toward the back of the buns for a winter hairstyle with beanies. It’s cute, simple, and a perfect time saver when you’re rushed.
Want to look more polished? Slip a thin ribbon around the base of each bun, or for more complexity, braid the ponytails before wrapping the buns. These little changes add a significant winter feel, totally 2025.
Simple Low Chignon from Work to Dinner
I love how effortless a sleek low chignon looks right now. No flyaways. Perfect tuck. Center part. It also enhances winter fittings and refines the jaw. It works beautifully with mid-length cuts too. Think of it as 9 to 7 – boardroom and dinner. Same hair, equally glorious. If you’re measuring ideas winter neck-length hair, this polished avatar is a winning silhouette.
I also apply a few drops of Kérastase Elixir Ultime through the mid-lengths for shine, and then, using a soft-bristle brush for gentle control, brush back for a polished look. A lighter moist layer of Color Wow Dream Coat during the softens the hair and blocks humidity from the snow to the heater. U-Pins secure the bun while a spool of unscented hairspray works on the fine details of the hairline, keeping the rather loose hold.
Personal note – to achieve the K-beauty polish that Aespa fans adore, I flat-iron the top layer first so that the part looks ultraclean. This is such a small step but makes the chignon appear couture, without any effort, rather quietly powerful.
If your hair is finer, you can wear a mesh bun donut that matches your density. It gives structure so that the bun looks full under coats and scarves, and it holds everything together, even on long, busy days – simple and Easy.
Undone Side Braid with Soft Face-Frame
This side braid sits much lower, and almost touches the shoulder, with looser ribbons framing the face. It is softer, and more romantic without crossing into sacharrine. For the busy winter months, it works so well for long hair where you want movement but no tangles. I prefer a slightly fuller braid, so it looks more dimensional. Just pull, pinch, and breathe.
I braid over a leave in conditioner like Redken One United, then mist the braid with a touch of Kristin Ess Working Texture. The ends are sealed with a drop of Verb Ghost Oil to prevent fraying in dry air. The side placement works seamlessly with knit hats, making it a perfect option for winter hairstyles with beanies that are Cute even when you’re not outdoors.
I learned how to wrap a thin piece of hair around the elastic, and then micro-pin it, for a more polished look and it really changes the vibe. Stylist Vernon François often recommends ‘braiding on moisture’ during the winter, and he is correct—everything seems to look sleeker and lasts a whole lot longer. Cozy and practical, truly Aesthetic.
On wash day, loosen the full braid and use a large barrel to refresh the wave pattern for that lived-in bend. It’s low effort Inspo that works perfectly with oversized sweaters and soft makeup.
Silky Low Pony with Subtle Bubble Texture
I call this the low pony that’s not boring—a sleek base, slight twist at the nape, and the faintest hint of a bubble through the tail for dimension. The style flatters medium to long lengths and keeps hair tidy under wool coats. I leave two soft tendrils out to frame the cheekbones and soften the look.
In January, the shape survives scarves and elevator-static, which is key. Prep is everything: with a Dyson Airwrap round brush, I blow out with a heat protectant like ghd Bodyguard, and then smooth a pea of Olaplex No.6. For the bubble effect, micro elastics are added every few inches which are then gently pancaked.
This is my No. 1 style when I’m in a hurry. Easy for when you want to look sleek, but also fun. For those with wavy or curly hair, simply brush-blow the roots while allowing the tail to keep its curly form. Mixed textures look modern.
To add polish to an otherwise dull look, finish with a fine mist of Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine sprayed into the air and then gently passed through. The glow is there yet no heaviness, fresh and elegant.
Soft French Twist with Curls Hair Style
This is a lovely relaxed French twist with a soft lifted crown, airy yet elegant. The softly curled face framing tendrils makes the whole look soft and approachable. I love it for meetings or weddings in winter. It’s ideal for indoors or outdoors—great winter hairstyle inspiration!
For grip, I apply a light mousse, like Oribe Grandiose, then back comb just at the crown. After that, I twist and secure it with French pins for a vertical bun. Finally, I apply a soft hold hairspray like L’Oréal R Elnett to keep the look flexible, making sure the curled pieces don’t become crunchy. It’s office appropriate with a party vibe; super winter 2025 energy!When my roots need a bit more height, I set the crown in the large Velcro rollers while I do my makeup. That trick is a classic, and it still works! This is where Jen Atkin’s tip about adding texture back after smoothing comes in: a fingertip of OUAI Matte Pomade tapped into the face frame keeps it pretty while maintaining separation.
If you’re thinking about color, a nuanced mocha or chestnut gloss would certainly add dimension that helps the twist folds pop and be visible from all angles. It’s an example of quiet luxury that gives a big payoff.
Textured Low Updo in Cinnamon Brown
Captured in a portrait, these sepia tones reveal the story behind each soft twist and tucked loop in the cozy, romantic low updo while light dances on the cinnamon-brown highlights. This is perfect for that chilly evening when you want the nape of your neck free. The structure of this piece is perfect for medium hair with layers. It gives polished ideas for the party season that don’t feel fussy.
I curl one inch sections and set them with R+Co Bleu Vicious. I reiterate, a pea size of K18 Mask is applied weekly in order to maintain the heaters and hot tools without sacrificing the color. The last tonal care is through the Redken Shell every 6 to 8 weeks. The shades are softened to just the right level of warmth, avoiding any unwanted brass.
As a personal preference, I reserve a wisp in front of each ear to add a touch of softness and balance. Tracey Cunningham has often said the perfect seasonal gloss to bring back warm light is a must – I agree. The blend of soft strands and rich shimmering brown is simply elegant, especially in candlelight.
Thicker hair will require larger bobby pins . Criss cross pinning will add to the hold. The elegant shape will hold through a long dinner, coat changes, and a late night walk – perfect for long hair, and unmistakably cute.
Glossy Half-Up Waves with Soft Face Frame
The perfect hairstyle for Winter 2025 is a half-up that allows silky S-waves to drape over the shoulders while a soft face frame highlights the cheekbones. The S-waves are perfectly styled to mid length, perfect for medium length hair. The hairstyle Winter 2025 is Softly Curly but not overly styled. I prefer a center part with a basic black V-neck knit. The outfit is simple, but the hair pulls it together.
To maintain the curls, I curl each section with an iron that is 1.25 inches and then set each piece to cool. I use a tiny amount of the Kérastase Elixir Ultime the ends to give the curls a nice shine that is not greasy. The hair is warm, yet polished.
On the days I want a little more volume, I micro-backcomb the crown before pinning the half-up ponytail. Chris Appleton, a celebrity stylist, often says the smooth roots and airy lengths of the hair when placed into waves is a very modern look. This is 100% accurate when going from the office to dinner. For a more party look, flip one side of the hair and tuck it behind the ear, then add a small crystal pin. Super effortless, but it changes the vibe completely.
Halo Crown Braid With A Cozy Sweater
A beautifully done milkmaid crown braid does wonders in the winter,for it clears the neck area to put on oversized sweaters. It’s a classic entry in winter hairstyles braids that reads elegant when paired with a grey ribbed jumper and neutral makeup. A casual chilled look that compliments a scarf and wont get destroyed.
I apply a working hairspray first for grip, then Dutch-braid from ear to ear and pin with U-pins. To avoid the crunch, hairline with a pomade smooth, kink free, a fingertip of Ouai Matte Pomade on the parting works s. For the braid to look realistic: full and not thirsty, apply a leave-in conditioner like Oribe Supershine if you suffer from dryness.
My take is this is the braid I wear the rest of the day because it is secure yet soft. I do it gently so it reads Aesthetic instead of bulky. Would you wear it with hoops or a red lip for a little drama?
Statement Crown Braid Into Side Plait
My thick crown braid with a relaxed side plait is perfect for achieving impact without using heat tools. It beautifully frames the face while still landing in that effortless, yet polished, vibe. Great for winter hairstyles for long hair, or for anyone looking for a fancy outfit idea. Pair it with a black long-sleeve dress, soft eye makeup and you’re done!
Textured with Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun for adhesion, I then braid and secure with a flexible hairspray. Highlighted, K18 leave in after washing helps maintain hair health. High payoff, low effort, especially if it’s icy outside.
Personal note – I always leave out two micro-pieces at the temples for softness. I love how Vernon François talks about braiding on moisturized hair for sheen and longevity – his “ braiding on” technique works like a charm in dry indoor heat. A drop of oil on the braid’s surface right before you leave the house works wonders for a “Hello, winter glow” effect.
Glam Half Up with Liquid Waves and Crystal Vine
If holiday parties had a do, this would win hands down – melted, ribbon waves with a half-up knot and a crystal vine draping down the back. Sleek at the crown and lush at the ends, this one definitely crowns the winter hairstyles for long hair. With the off-shoulder black dress, the proportions feel a little Aespa-coded glam thanks to the winter lights. A touch of red carpet would never hurt.
I use a 1-inch iron and set each curl, pin it to cool, and then get brushed out with a paddle brush for the dreamy casscade. As a leave-in, I use Color Wow Dream Coat or Redken Acidic Perfecting Concentrate, and I touch the spray shine at the very end. The brightness becomes beautiful, soft, and not gross. So cute, so 2025.
For pro move – use 2 crossed bobby pins to anchor the hair accessory from underneath so it does not move as you dance or put on layers of scarves. If you find your hair flattens a lot. Mini crimp the underlayers at the crown for invisible volume. Your secret, my favorite trick.
Soft Barrette Half-Up on Wavy Lob
My favorite for winter hairstyles medium is a wavy lob with a jeweled barrette. It adds brightness to the complexion, draws the hair off the neck on a cream blouse, and still has enough bend that is appropriate for brunch or as a winter wedding guest. The wave reads, Curly hair-light, and the whole effect is so cute.
I put bends into hair with a flat iron and mist with a flexible spray to seal. Davines OI All In One Milk is my winter MVP. It shines and keeps slip to a minimum so there’s very little fighting with the clip. Simple and easy, but very polished.
Want to change things up quickly? Instead of a barrette, use a velvet ribbon, or take the top section and tuck it into a mini claw. These styles are very friendly to the hair underneath beanies. This makes it a sneaky win. Winter hairstyles for short hair, or Medium hair days, are a plenty. Options keep it fresh.
Side-Part Senegalese Twists With Clean Edges
Shapely and protective, long Senegalese twists with a deep side part are my favorite winter hairstyles for black women. These are very low maintenance, scarf friendly, and sit well underneath all winter hairstyles with braids, even though they are two strand twists. A black striped top and delicate pendant paired with the hair gives the overall vibe a sharp, modern, and confidently Easy touch.
Care – oil your scalp lightly a few times a week with a bit of jojoba and then wrap in a silk scarf at night to keep frizz at bay. I like Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum for comfort in dry heat, and a foam mousse smoothed over lengths to refresh. Soft, not crunchy, edges are best kept with a touch of edge control and a bristle brush.
From experience, most women I know say the side part looks better. I agree with the stylist I heard mention framing the brows as a perk because it’s a flattering, functional touch. A lot of professionals suggest washing with a diluted shampoo in a squeeze bottle every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the scalp comfy in the winter. Clipped the twists back for workouts or under a beanie and it’s all day inspo without the daily styling marathon.
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