24 Adorable Christmas Elf Hairstyles to Try at Home

The charm of elf hairstyles makes Christmas styling fun, simple, and easy to pull together at home. These looks use braids, ribbons, soft waves, and quirky details that work for all ages. If you’re getting ready for a party, school event, or a cozy family night, these ideas help you create something cute without spending much. Each one works with basic tools, quick steps, and budget-friendly add-ons you already have.

1. Braided Elf Crown

A braided crown gives that sweet elf-like charm with little effort. Start by parting your hair down the middle and creating two long braids. Wrap them over the top of your head and pin them down. Keep the braids loose for a softer feel. Add thin red ribbons through the plaits if you want a festive twist. You don’t need expensive accessories. A small packet of ribbon from any craft shop works. For flyaways, use a bit of lightweight gel or water wax. This style stays put during parties, photos, or dinner gatherings. Kids and adults can both try it. If your hair is shorter, use small extension braids—they’re cheap and easy to clip in. Pin small pieces of faux greenery near the ears for an extra elf touch. The whole look takes about ten minutes once you get the hang of the wrapping. It’s a comfortable style, so you won’t be adjusting it all night.

2. Elf Ears Bun Wrap

This playful bun wrap copies the shape of elf ears without props. Start with a low bun. Divide a long ribbon into two loops and shape them like pointed ears. Wrap them gently around the sides of the bun and secure with small bobby pins. Green ribbon works best for that festive hint. This style is great for quick prep before a gathering because it doesn’t require styling tools. If your hair is fine, tease the base lightly for grip. You can also use a mesh donut to help the bun look fuller. Small glitter clips placed around the bun add holiday sparkle without spending much. If you want it extra secure for kids, use a few hidden elastics to hold the ribbon in place. The look feels light and fun, perfect for school parties or casual celebrations.

3. Twisted Ribbon Pigtails

Twisted pigtails bring that playful elf feel without needing complicated braiding. Tie two high pigtails. Wrap thin ribbons down each section. Twist the hair and ribbon together until the pattern shows clearly. You can add a small bell at the ends for a jingle effect. Lightweight bells cost very little from any craft store. Keep the hair slightly messy for a soft finish. This works well for kids with shorter hair too—just keep the twists tighter. Spray a small amount of water before twisting to reduce flyaways on fine hair. If you prefer a fuller look, tease the pigtails gently. This style photographs well and holds up during fun activities.

4. Curly Elf Pony

A curly ponytail adds a cute elf vibe without much styling. Gather your hair high on the crown. Tie it tightly so the pony stays lifted. Use a curling wand if you want defined curls, or scrunch damp hair with mousse for a natural look. Wrap a velvet ribbon around the base to hide the hair tie. Velvet makes it feel more Christmas-ready while staying inexpensive. If your curls fall quickly, add a few pins under the pony for support. You can also clip in a small hairpiece for more volume. Finish with a little shimmer spray. It’s quick, fun, and great for holiday photos.

5. Elf Braided Bangs

Braiding the front pieces gives a quirky elf touch without changing your whole hairstyle. Section your bangs or front strands and braid them into two tiny plaits. Keep them loose for softness or tight for a clean look. Add tiny beads or ribbon tips for more detail. This works on both straight and wavy hair. If your bangs are shorter, braid only halfway and secure with clear elastics. Pair this with an updo or leave your hair down. Craft beads cost very little, so you can match them with your outfit. This style stays out of your face and adds personality to your holiday photos.

6. Frosted Elf Curls

This look uses shimmer to give curls that frosted, magical effect. Curl your hair loosely. Once set, mist lightly with silver shimmer spray. Use a soft hand so it catches light without coating the hair. This affordable spray is found in most beauty aisles during the holidays. Pair it with a simple half-up style or keep the curls down. Add a thin ribbon headband for softness. If your curls drop easily, use a lightweight mousse first. The frosted effect shows beautifully in photos and feels subtle in real life.

7. Mini Elf Buns

Mini buns mimic that cute elf look with almost no effort. Part the top of your hair into two small sections. Twist each into tiny buns and secure with elastics. Add small red ribbon bows for a festive touch. These buns work even on shorter hair. If your hair slips easily, add dry shampoo before twisting. Use mini claw clips if you want quicker styling. This look is comfortable and perfect for long events. Kids love it because it stays out of the way while still looking fun.

8. Elf Half-Up Twist

A simple half-up twist creates a soft, fairy-like elf style. Take two front strands and twist them toward the back. Secure with a small clip or ribbon. Leave the rest of the hair down in waves or straight. This style works for all hair lengths past the chin. Add a little shine serum to smooth the strands. Use a satin ribbon if you want a gentle glow. You can make the twist tight or loose depending on your mood. It’s perfect for last-minute styling before guests arrive.

9. Elf Rope Braids

Rope braids bring that soft elfin charm with minimal steps. Split your hair into two sections. Twist each section in the same direction, then wrap them around each other. Tie with small elastics. Wrap a thin green thread along the braid to add detail. This thread is cheap and easy to find. Keep the braids tight for long wear. If your hair is thick, divide it into more sections. This style holds up well for long evenings and pairs well with hats or festive headbands.

10. Elf Pony Wrap

A ponytail wrap gives instant Christmas spirit. Start with a low ponytail. Wrap red and white ribbon down the length in a spiraled pattern. Tie a bow at the end. Keep the pony smooth using a little gel or water wax. If your hair is thin, wrap loosely so it looks fuller. You can also use soft yarn instead of ribbon for a textured look. It’s inexpensive and adds extra charm. This style is quick and perfect for family photos.

11. Braided Elf Loops

This look creates soft braided loops that sit behind the ears for a subtle elf shape. Braid two small side sections. Instead of letting them hang, loop the ends upward and pin them near the top of your ear. Keep the loops small to create the shape. Add ribbon or tiny clips for more detail. This style works on medium or long hair. Use a bit of hairspray if you’re going to be active. It’s a cute option for parties or themed events.

12. Sparkling Elf Headband Hair

A sparkly headband adds elf-like charm instantly. Brush your hair down or curl the ends for texture. Place a glittery or metallic headband on top. If you prefer DIY, wrap ribbon around a plain band. Add tiny bells or stars using hot glue. It costs very little and looks festive. This style works for all hair types. Use a bit of hairspray at the roots to keep the headband from slipping. It’s an easy go-to for Christmas gatherings.

13. Elf Twisted Bun

A twisted bun gives an elegant elf feel without being complicated. Gather your hair into a high pony and twist it into a tall bun. Secure with pins. Add small sprigs of faux greenery around the base. Use lightweight pieces so they stay in place. This style works on medium to long hair. If you want extra height, tease the pony before twisting. Add a small ornament clip for sparkle. Great for festive dinners or holiday photos.

14. Loose Elf Waves

Loose waves feel relaxed and elf-like without effort. Curl your hair with a large barrel wand or braid damp hair overnight for heatless waves. Add tiny ribbon pieces throughout by tying small knots onto random strands. It’s affordable and adds festive color. Use a little mousse for definition. If your hair is fine, add dry shampoo at the roots for lift. This style looks natural and works for any holiday event.

15. Elf Side Braid

A side braid gives a soft, whimsical touch. Sweep your hair to one side and braid loosely. Pull the braid apart gently for volume. Weave a thin silver thread through the braid. It shines beautifully under Christmas lights. This style is simple and suits all ages. If your hair slips, add a bit of dry shampoo first. Pair this with a cozy sweater or dressy outfit. It stays comfortable all night.

16. Elf High Bun With Ribbon Trails

A high bun with ribbon trails looks dramatic yet simple. Make a top bun and tie long ribbons underneath the bun, letting them hang down. Red or green ribbons work best. This style suits medium or long hair. To keep the bun stable, use a hair donut or tease the base. The trailing ribbons give that playful elf feeling and look great in motion. It’s a fun choice for parties or dance events.

17. Elf Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids bring structure with a festive edge. Braid from the front of your head down to the nape. Keep the braids tight for a clean look. Add tiny beads or ribbon laces as you braid. This style stays secure for hours, making it good for kids. If your hair is thick, divide into more sections for easier control. Dutch braids work well with hats or headbands too.

18. Soft Elf Side Swept Curls

Side-swept curls bring a gentle elf feel without much styling. Curl your hair loosely, then sweep everything to one side. Pin underneath so the curls fall naturally. Add a tiny bow or star clip for holiday charm. If your hair doesn’t hold a curl, use a flexible hairspray first. This look works with shoulder-length or long hair. It’s soft, romantic, and perfect for Christmas dinners or date nights.

19. Elf Waterfall Braid

A waterfall braid looks delicate and fits perfectly with the elf vibe. Start near the front and braid across the back, dropping sections as you go. Add thin red thread for color. Keep it loose for softness. This works best on medium or long hair. If you’re new to waterfall braids, practice on damp hair for better grip. You can pair it with curls or straight hair. It looks beautiful in holiday portraits.

20. Elf Twist Crown

A twist crown is easier than a braid and still gives that elf charm. Take two sections from each side and twist them back. Wrap them around your head like a halo. Pin securely. Add ribbon or glitter clips for detail. This works for all hair types. If your hair is slippery, add texture spray before twisting. It’s a great style for last-minute plans.

21. Elf Ribbon-Laced Buns

Laced buns look playful and decorative. Create two low buns. Thread ribbon through the buns in a crisscross pattern. Tie small bows at the ends. This style works for both kids and adults. If your hair is short, make mini buns instead. Use clear elastics for clean lines. Ribbon is inexpensive, so you can match it to your outfit easily. This look holds up well for busy events.

22. Elf Puff Pony

A puff pony gives a fun, structured elf look. Tie a ponytail, then add elastics down the length every few inches. Gently pull each section to make small rounded puffs. Use red, green, or gold elastics for the holiday theme. This works on straight or curly hair. It’s simple enough for beginners and stays secure. If your hair is fine, add texture spray first for grip. A puff pony is great for active events.

23. Soft Elf Fringe Pinback

Pinning back the fringe gives a subtle elf-inspired look. Take small front pieces and pin them back with festive clips. Use star, bell, or bow designs for holiday flair. This works on all hair lengths. If your front hair is short, use mini claw clips. Add a little water serum to smooth the strands. It’s a simple style that keeps hair out of your face while looking sweet.

24. Loose Braid With Elf Accessories

A loose braid decorated with small elf accessories makes a fun finishing touch for Christmas events. Braid your hair loosely from the nape downward. Tie tiny bells or ribbon knots throughout. Keep the braid soft for a relaxed feel. Bells are lightweight and cost very little. Add a bit of dry shampoo at the roots for volume. This style works on medium or long hair. It’s great for family photos and themed gatherings.

Conclusion

Elf-inspired hairstyles bring charm and personality to any Christmas celebration. They use simple steps, affordable supplies, and pieces you probably already have at home. Whether you want something playful, soft, or glittery, there’s a style here that fits your plans. Try a few, mix ideas, and enjoy creating something cute and festive for your holiday moments.