34 Winter Hairstyles for Long Hair 2024-2025 with Braids and Curls for Formal Occasions and Work
As winter approaches, it’s time to explore new hairstyle trends that not only complement the cozy vibes of the season but also keep your long hair looking chic and stylish. Whether you’re dressing for work, a formal occasion, or in your favorite cozy sweaters, these winter hairstyles for long hair will inspire you to switch things up in 2024 and 2025. From easy everyday styles to more intricate looks, these ideas are perfect for keeping your long locks fabulous through the colder months.
Braided Crown with Beanie
The braided crown is a classic winter look that adds an elegant touch to any casual or formal occasion. By weaving sections of your hair into a halo-like braid, you create a romantic and timeless hairstyle that works beautifully with a beanie. This style frames the face, making it especially flattering for those with oval and heart-shaped faces. Perfect for those chilly days when you want to protect your ears while looking effortlessly cute, this hairstyle complements brown hair shades, but it also shines on blonde and black hair.
To create this style, section your hair in two and begin French braiding each side, securing them at the crown with bobby pins. Once done, top it off with a beanie for a cozy yet chic look. To maintain the braid’s structure throughout the day, use a texturizing spray like the Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray. For longevity, be sure to moisturize your scalp with lightweight oils, as the winter air can be drying.
Casual Half-Up, Half-Down with Bangs
This easy, casual style is perfect for those days when you want your hair down but also out of your face. The half-up, half-down look combined with soft bangs adds a touch of whimsy and softness to your look. Ideal for school or a work day, this hairstyle looks especially stunning on long, straight hair, particularly for women with round faces as it adds vertical length. The soft bangs frame the eyes, making it a great choice for those with lighter eye colors like blue or hazel.
To achieve this style, section off the top half of your hair and pull it into a loose bun or ponytail, leaving the rest to cascade down your back. If your hair is naturally straight, run a flat iron through it for a sleek finish. Maintaining this style is simple—use a volumizing mousse at the roots for lift and a lightweight serum to control any frizz. Living Proof’s Full Thickening Mousse is a great option for added texture and volume.
Elegant Low Bun with Braids
When it comes to a wedding or formal occasion, an elegant low bun adorned with side braids is a go-to choice. This refined style is particularly well-suited for women with long, thick hair, as it gives the bun a fuller, more voluminous appearance. The intricate braiding detail adds a layer of sophistication, making this hairstyle ideal for formal events or holiday parties. Oval and square face shapes benefit the most from this look, as the low bun accentuates the jawline and cheekbones.
To achieve this hairstyle, start by braiding small sections of hair from each temple. Gather the rest into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins. Wrap the braids around the bun for added dimension. For an extra polished look, finish with a shine spray like Kenra Professional Shine Spray to keep your bun sleek and flyaway-free.
Soft Beach Waves
Soft, flowing beach waves aren’t just for summer—they work beautifully for winter as well, especially when paired with chunky cozy sweaters. This relaxed, cute hairstyle is perfect for everyday wear or even a casual school day. Long, blonde or brown hair works particularly well with this style, and it’s ideal for those with heart-shaped faces, as the waves soften the jawline.
To achieve the waves, wrap sections of your hair around a large-barrel curling iron, alternating directions for a more natural wave pattern. After curling, use a wide-tooth comb to loosen the curls into soft waves. A lightweight sea salt spray, such as Bumble and bumble Surf Spray, will help maintain texture and keep the waves looking fresh all day.
Voluminous Curls for Formal Occasions
For those with naturally curly hair, voluminous curls are the perfect choice for any formal occasion or even a cozy night out. This style is ideal for women with round or oval faces, as the curls add height and balance out soft facial features. Brown and black hair tones look especially striking when styled into big, bouncy curls, giving off a glamorous, yet relaxed vibe.
To enhance your natural curls, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to dry your hair without creating frizz. Scrunch in a curl-enhancing mousse, like DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam, to keep your curls looking bouncy and defined all day. For maintenance, a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner are essential to retain moisture and prevent dryness during the winter months.
Side Swept Curls with Beanie
Perfect for casual outings or school, side-swept curls paired with a beanie add a playful yet chic touch to your winter look. This hairstyle works particularly well on blonde or brown hair, especially for those with longer face shapes, as the side-swept curls help to add width and balance. It’s a great option for days when you want to feel stylish but keep your head warm in colder weather.
To achieve this look, curl your hair with a medium-barrel curling iron and sweep it all to one side. Finish with a texturizing spray for added volume and dimension. A beanie can be slipped on afterward without flattening the curls, ensuring your hair stays voluminous throughout the day. For added hold, use Tresemmé TRES Two Extra Hold Hairspray.
Sleek Straight Hair with Middle Part
Sleek, straight hair parted down the middle is a sophisticated look that exudes confidence, perfect for a formal occasion or a work meeting. This minimalist hairstyle pairs beautifully with sharp, structured outfits and works well on black or brown hair. It’s a stunning choice for women with oval or long face shapes, as it draws attention to the symmetry of your features. For those with green or hazel eyes, this sleek look will make them pop.
To achieve this style, start by using a straightening iron to ensure your hair is pin-straight. Apply a heat protectant spray like GHD Heat Protect Spray to prevent damage. A shine-enhancing serum, such as Moroccanoil Treatment, can add a glossy finish, ensuring your straight hair stays smooth and sleek throughout the day.
Classic Straight Hair with Bangs
Classic straight hair with bangs offers a sleek, minimalist look that is both timeless and modern. This style is perfect for work or a more casual occasion, and it suits all face shapes, although it looks especially striking on those with angular jawlines. Black or brown hair colors lend themselves particularly well to this look, giving off a chic, polished vibe.
To get this hairstyle, blow-dry your bangs forward using a round brush, and then flat iron the rest of your hair for a sleek finish. Keep your strands frizz-free with CHI Silk Infusion for a smooth and shiny look that lasts all day. Regular trims are recommended to keep your bangs looking sharp and prevent split ends.
Long Braided Ponytail
A long braided ponytail is a simple yet stylish option for those who want to keep their hair out of their face while still showcasing their length. This hairstyle is ideal for work, school, or even a quick workout. It works particularly well for women with thick, long hair, and is especially flattering for those with heart-shaped or oval faces. This style also complements all hair colors, from blonde to black.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and braid it all the way down. Secure with an elastic at the bottom and wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail for a polished finish. For a sleek appearance, apply a shine serum like OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Humidity Blocking Hairspray.
Soft Curls with a Hat
Winter hats are a necessity in cold weather, but they don’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Soft curly hair paired with a stylish hat is a perfect way to keep warm while still looking polished. This easy hairstyle works well on blonde and brown hair, and it’s ideal for round or heart-shaped faces as the curls add volume and dimension.
To create this look, curl your hair with a 1.5-inch curling iron and let the curls cool before gently brushing them out for soft waves. Slip on a wide-brimmed hat or a beret for a fashion-forward twist. Use Drybar Triple Sec 3-in-1 Finishing Spray for volume and hold, ensuring your curls maintain their bounce throughout the day.
High Ponytail with Loose Waves
This cute and elevated take on the classic ponytail features loose waves cascading from a high ponytail, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. It works well with cozy sweaters for a relaxed look or with more formal attire for a polished vibe. This style is ideal for women with oval or round face shapes, as the high ponytail elongates the face. It suits all hair colors, including blonde, brown, and black.
To create this style, first curl your hair with a large-barrel curling iron. Gather it into a high ponytail, making sure the waves fall naturally. Secure it with an elastic band and wrap a small section of hair around the base for a finished look. Maintain the waves with a curl-defining mousse like Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse for long-lasting hold.
Classic French Twist
The French twist is a timeless hairstyle that exudes elegance, making it perfect for a formal occasion such as a wedding or work event. This sleek updo suits those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it highlights the cheekbones and jawline. Black, brown, or blonde hair colors all work well with this polished style.
To create a French twist, gather your hair at the nape of the neck, twist it upward, and tuck the ends into the twist. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a strong-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray. For extra volume at the crown, tease the roots before twisting.
Messy Bun with Face-Framing Bangs
A simple and stylish look for busy winter mornings, the messy bun with face-framing bangs is perfect for school or a casual day out. This effortless hairstyle works well for women with long straight or curly hair and adds softness to square or angular faces. The loose bangs draw attention to the eyes, making it ideal for those with brown or green eyes.
To achieve this look, loosely gather your hair into a bun and leave out a few strands in the front to frame your face. For added texture, spray your hair with a texturizing product like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. Keep the look effortless by letting the bangs fall naturally.
Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are a sporty yet feminine hairstyle that’s great for work, running errands, or even hitting the gym. This style works well for long hair and suits those with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it highlights the jawline and neck. The braids are practical, keeping hair secure and neat, making them a great option for winter weather.
To create double Dutch braids, divide your hair into two sections and begin braiding from the crown down to the nape of the neck, securing with elastic bands. For extra hold, use a styling cream like Aveda Control Paste to keep flyaways in check.
Low Ponytail with Braided Detail
This easy yet elegant low ponytail with a braided detail is perfect for a formal occasion or even an office party. It works well for long hair and is especially flattering for women with round or oval faces, as it creates vertical lines that elongate the face. This style looks beautiful on brown, blonde, or black hair.
To create the look, take a small section of hair from the front and braid it back. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and wrap the braid around the ponytail base, securing it with bobby pins. Finish with a shine serum like Biosilk Silk Therapy to keep the ponytail smooth and sleek.
Long Fishtail Braid
The long fishtail braid is a stylish and intricate look that’s perfect for casual outings or even a wedding. This style works well with blonde or brown hair, and it’s especially flattering for women with oval or square faces, as the braid adds structure. The fishtail braid offers a modern twist on traditional braids, making it ideal for the winter months.
To create this look, divide your hair into two sections and cross small strands from each side over one another to form the fishtail pattern. Secure with an elastic at the end, and use a texturizing spray like Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray to add volume and grip.
Twisted Half-Updo
The twisted half-updo is a cute and romantic hairstyle that works well for both casual and formal occasions. This look is especially flattering for those with long, wavy hair and is ideal for heart-shaped faces. It’s perfect for events like a holiday party or work gathering. Blonde and brown hair shades will particularly stand out with this style.
To achieve the look, take small sections of hair from each side of your head, twist them back, and secure them at the crown with bobby pins. Leave the rest of your hair loose for a soft, flowing effect. A volumizing powder like Big Sexy Hair Powder Play will help create fullness at the crown.
Curly Hair with Side Part
A side part with soft curly hair is a simple yet glamorous look that’s perfect for winter events. This hairstyle works well with natural curly or wavy textures and is ideal for formal events like a wedding or holiday party. It’s flattering for those with round or heart-shaped faces, as the side part adds asymmetry and draws attention to the eyes.
To create this look, part your hair deeply to one side and use a curling iron to enhance the curls. Define your curls with a product like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie for added shine and definition.
Romantic Low Bun with Hair Accessories
This romantic low bun adorned with winter-inspired hair accessories, like pearls or crystal pins, is perfect for a formal occasion or even a wedding. The low bun complements oval or square face shapes, as it adds softness and elegance. This style looks beautiful on all hair colors, from black to blonde.
To create the bun, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it into a loose bun, and secure with bobby pins. Add decorative accessories to elevate the look. A flexible hold hairspray like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hair Spray Hold Level 2 will keep the bun in place without making it stiff.
Low Braided Bun with a Twist
A low braided bun with a twist adds sophistication and creativity to your winter hairstyle game. Perfect for formal occasions, this look is elegant yet playful. It works well for black and brown hair tones, and suits oval and heart-shaped faces, as the low placement elongates the neck and draws attention to the jawline. This style is ideal for winter weddings or formal dinners, providing a polished, romantic vibe.
To create the look, first divide your hair into two sections. Twist each section and braid them, then coil the braids into a bun at the nape of your neck. Secure the bun with bobby pins and finish with a medium-hold hairspray like Redken Triple Take 32 for all-day hold.
Curly High Ponytail with Bangs
For a more playful winter hairstyle, try a curly high ponytail paired with soft bangs. This cute and youthful style is perfect for school or casual weekend outings. It works particularly well for those with natural curls or wavy hair, and is great for round or oval face shapes, as the ponytail elongates the face while the bangs soften the overall look.
To style this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and leave your bangs loose. Use a curl-defining mousse like DevaCurl SuperCream to keep your curls bouncy. Maintain your bangs with regular trims and a smoothing cream to prevent frizz.
Wrapped Low Ponytail with Hair Scarf
The wrapped low ponytail with a hair scarf is a cozy yet stylish option for the winter months, making it ideal for pairing with cozy sweaters and winter coats. This style suits both casual and semi-formal events, giving off a laid-back vibe with a fashionable twist. Best suited for long, straight hair, it works beautifully for heart-shaped and oval faces.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a low ponytail and wrap a silk or wool scarf around the base for an added element of style. This look is easy to maintain—just secure the ponytail with an elastic band and lightly twist the scarf around it. Finish with Tresemmé Tres Two Ultra Fine Mist Hairspray for a soft hold.
Straight Hair with Sleek Center Part
The sleek, straight center-parted look is perfect for a formal occasion or even an important work meeting. This hairstyle offers a chic, modern aesthetic, especially when paired with bold outfits or statement jewelry. It’s ideal for women with blonde, black, or brown hair colors and oval face shapes, as it highlights symmetry and sharpens facial features.
To achieve this look, flat iron your hair and apply a shine serum like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to eliminate frizz. The key to maintaining this look is using a smoothing shampoo and conditioner, such as the OGX Smoothing + Liquid Pearl line, which enhances shine and controls flyaways.
Classic Hollywood Waves
Classic Hollywood waves are timeless, making them perfect for a glamorous formal occasion or wedding. This style is best for long, straight hair, and suits black, brown, and blonde hair tones. It’s especially flattering for women with oval and square face shapes, as the waves create soft volume around the face.
To achieve this look, use a large-barrel curling iron to create deep waves. After curling, gently brush through your hair to soften the waves and finish with a glossing spray like Bumble and bumble Bb. Glow Thermal Protection Mist for a shiny, smooth finish.
Long Hair with Curly Ends
A simple yet elegant winter hairstyle is long, straight hair with softly curled ends. This look is versatile, working well for work, school, or a formal occasion. It’s particularly flattering for blonde or brown hair, and suits oval and heart-shaped faces by adding a touch of volume at the ends.
To create this style, straighten your hair and use a curling iron to curl just the ends. Finish with a heat protectant spray like CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray to ensure your curls hold without frizz.
Winter hairstyles for long hair offer endless possibilities to keep you looking fabulous while staying cozy. Whether you’re opting for simple everyday looks or preparing for a formal occasion, these styles will ensure your hair is on point all season long. Feel free to share your favorite winter hairstyles in the comments below and let us know which ones you’ll be trying this year!
