Hair Bow Hairstyles for the Holidays
Hair bow hairstyles for the holidays, from a low ponytail with an oversized satin bow to half-up styles and braided buns, with how to secure a bow so it stays put.
Bows are everywhere this season, and hair bow hairstyles are the easiest way to wear the trend. A bow turns a basic ponytail into something that looks styled for a party in seconds. It is also forgiving: second-day hair, slightly messy braids and quick buns all look intentional once you add a ribbon. Here are the hair bow hairstyles worth trying, the best bows for each, and how to keep them in place all evening.
Choosing your bow
Satin
Satin bows have a soft shine and drape beautifully. They look elegant on sleek styles and are gentle on hair. Black, cream and deep red satin are the most versatile.
Velvet
Velvet looks rich and wintery. It is perfect for the holidays, especially in burgundy, emerald, navy or black. Velvet bows hold shape well because the fabric is thicker.
Grosgrain and cotton
Crisp and a little preppy. Good for daytime, school runs and casual looks.
Sheer and organza
Light and romantic. Lovely for weddings and soft half-up styles.
Clip bows vs ribbon
Pre-made bows on a clip or barrette are quick and secure. Loose ribbon gives you more control over size and lets you tie long, trailing tails, which is the current trend. Try both.
10 hair bow hairstyles
1. Low ponytail with an oversized bow
This is the signature look. Brush hair back into a low ponytail at the nape, secure with an elastic, then tie or clip a large satin or velvet bow over the elastic. Let the ribbon tails hang down to the length of the ponytail. Sleek or with soft waves, it works with everything.
2. Half-up, half-down with a bow
Take the top section of hair from temple to temple, secure it at the back of the crown, and add a medium bow. Curl the lengths for a romantic finish. It is one of the most flattering hair bow hairstyles for longer hair.
3. Low bun with a bow
Twist hair into a low bun, pin it, then place a bow just above or below the bun. Elegant enough for weddings and formal dinners.
4. Braid with a bow at the end
A single braid, French or plain, finished with a small bow instead of an elastic cover. Lovely for kids and adults alike.
5. Double braids with bows
Two braids, each finished with a small ribbon. Playful and practical for days when you want hair out of your face.
6. High ponytail with a bow
A sleek high ponytail with a stiff black bow is polished and a little retro.
7. Bow on a messy bun
Twist hair into a loose, messy bun on top of your head and add a small velvet bow at the base. Effortless and cozy.
8. Ribbon woven into a braid
Tie a thin ribbon at the start of the braid and braid it in as one of the strands. Finish with a bow at the end. This looks especially lovely with velvet.
9. Side bow on short hair
Short hair can wear bows too. Pull one side behind your ear and secure it with a bow clip. Works on bobs and pixies.
10. Bow with a claw-clip twist
Twist hair up, secure with a claw clip, and tie a ribbon bow around the base of the clip for a softer look.
How to secure a hair bow so it stays put
Nothing is more annoying than a bow that slides down during the evening. Here is how to keep it in place.
- Start with a secure base. Use a strong elastic and pull it tight. A bow sits on top of the elastic; it does not hold the hair itself.
- Use bobby pins. Push two bobby pins in an X shape through the knot of the bow and into the elastic. This anchors it.
- Tie, then pin. If you are using loose ribbon, tie a tight knot around the elastic first, then make the bow.
- Add grip. On very silky hair, spritz a little dry shampoo or texture spray at the base before adding the bow.
- Choose the right size. Very large bows are heavier. Make sure the base can carry them.
How to tie a perfect ribbon bow
- Cut about 1 to 1.2 m of ribbon (longer for long tails).
- Wrap it around your elastic and tie one tight knot.
- Make a loop with each side, cross the right loop over the left, and pull through, just like tying a shoelace.
- Pull the loops gently until they are even.
- Trim the ends at an angle so they do not fray.
Practise a few times. It gets much easier, and a perfectly even bow looks expensive.
Holiday and party versions
For holiday parties, choose velvet in a jewel tone or shiny satin in red. Add soft curls or a sleek middle part. For New Year's Eve, black satin or a sparkly bow looks festive. For Christmas morning, a plaid bow on a loose braid is cozy and cute. If you want more party ideas, our guide to Christmas hairstyles has more looks that last all night.
Bow hairstyles for different hair types
- Fine hair: tease the base slightly before securing, and choose a smaller, lighter bow.
- Thick hair: use two elastics and a larger bow to keep proportions balanced.
- Curly hair: a puff or pineapple with a large satin bow is beautiful and gentle on curls.
- Short hair: side clips and half-up mini ponytails with small bows.
Caring for your bows
Store bows flat or hanging, not crushed in a drawer. Steam creased satin gently on a low setting. Velvet can be brushed lightly to restore the pile.
Bow fabrics
Velvet for winter, satin for evening, cotton for casual days.
Securing a bow
Clip the bow over an elastic, then add a bobby pin through the back for extra hold.
Key takeaways
- Bows instantly dress up ponytails, half-up styles, braids and buns.
- Choose velvet for winter, satin for evening and cotton for every day.
- Clip the bow over an elastic and pin through it so it stays straight.
- Size matters: oversized bows suit simple hair; small bows suit braids.
- A red or black velvet bow is the easiest festive accessory you can add.
One last tip
If a large bow feels like too much for daytime, try a slim ribbon tied in a small bow at the end of a braid. It reads as polished rather than costume, and you can switch to a bigger velvet bow for evening plans without restyling your hair.
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FAQ
Are hair bows still in style?
Yes. Bows have been one of the biggest hair accessory trends of the last few seasons and they continue to be popular, especially for the holidays.
What hairstyles look good with a bow?
Low ponytails, half-up styles, braids and low buns are the most popular.
How do I keep a bow from sliding?
Secure it with two crossed bobby pins through the knot into the elastic, and add a little texture spray at the base.
Hair bow hairstyles are quick, pretty and perfect for the season. Pick a ribbon you love, try a low ponytail first, and see how a simple bow changes your whole look.
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Some posts may contain affiliate links; see our disclosure. Photography: Eugenia Remark; Alexandre Canteiro; Rizky Sabriansyah; chrissannah mecanzie; FATMA AKGÜN; Alexander Mass via Pexels.
