29 Cute and Easy Hairstyles for Cold Weather: Natural Braids, Curly Styles, and Winter-Ready Looks

As the temperature drops, we face more than just switching out our wardrobes for heavier coats and cozy scarves. Cold weather brings unique challenges for our hair, from battling static to keeping our locks moisturized. The right hairstyle can not only protect your hair from the harsh winter elements but also keep you looking cute and polished, no matter the occasion. This article explores versatile and practical hairstyles that are perfect for winter. Whether you have curly or straight hair, these styles will keep your locks in check and add some flair to your cold-weather look.

The Classic High Bun

The high bun is a winter favorite that keeps your hair off your neck while giving a polished, elegant look. It’s especially practical when you’re layering with thick scarves or turtlenecks. The classic high bun suits all face shapes, as it elongates the neck and draws attention to the upper face, making it an excellent option for both casual and formal settings. For a cute and effortless style, a slightly undone high bun with a few loose strands framing the face softens the look. This hairstyle is also perfect for those with curly hair, as the texture adds volume and depth, creating a full, chic bun. It pairs beautifully with winter events, like cozy coffee dates or holiday dinners, and works well with any eye color, drawing attention to the eyes by keeping the hair pulled back.

To create this look, you’ll need a hair tie, bobby pins, and a smoothing serum to tame flyaways. Begin by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, then twist the hair around the base and secure it with pins. A light mist of hairspray will help keep everything in place. If you have naturally frizzy or textured hair, a product like SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie will keep your bun sleek and moisturized.

Side-Swept Braided Crown

Braided crowns aren’t just for festivals—they’re a perfect easy winter style that offers both protection and elegance. This hairstyle combines practicality with a romantic touch, keeping your hair in place while ensuring it looks polished. Ideal for both casual outings and more formal settings, the side-swept braided crown adds a natural, soft look that works well with round or oval face shapes. For those with curly hair, the added texture elevates the look, creating a more voluminous braid. It’s also a fantastic style for winter walks or holiday markets, where you’ll want your hair out of the way but still want to maintain a cute appearance.

To achieve this look, start by parting your hair to one side. Take a section of hair from the heavier side and braid it along the hairline, working your way around to the opposite side of the head. Secure the braid with bobby pins, and gently pull on the braid to create a fuller, more textured look. A dry shampoo like Batiste can add volume and grip, making the braiding process easier and ensuring it stays in place throughout the day.

Low Chignon with Scarf Accent

The low chignon is a timeless hairstyle that pairs perfectly with winter accessories like scarves or hats. This sophisticated updo works well for both professional settings and holiday parties. A chignon at the nape of the neck provides a polished, sleek look that can be dressed up with a decorative scarf or ribbon for added flair. This style is especially flattering on those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it draws attention to the cheekbones and eyes. Additionally, it’s a great option for women with natural waves or slight texture, as the bun can be styled with a bit of looseness for a more relaxed feel.

To create this easy hairstyle, pull your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck. Secure the bun with bobby pins and add a light-hold hairspray to keep it intact. Wrap a decorative scarf around the base of the chignon for a cute, festive touch. To maintain this style, use a leave-in conditioner like the Ouai Leave-In Conditioner to keep hair soft and hydrated, especially in the dry winter air.

The Messy Ponytail

For an easy and effortless winter look, the messy ponytail is a go-to. It’s ideal for cold, windy days when you want your hair out of your face but still looking stylish. The key to this look is its deliberately tousled texture, which adds a playful, cute edge to your overall appearance. The messy ponytail works best with wavy or curly hair, as the texture naturally gives it volume and bounce. It’s perfect for casual outings or weekend errands when you want something quick yet fashionable. Oval and long face shapes will find this hairstyle particularly flattering, as it balances out facial proportions.

To create the messy ponytail, gather your hair loosely at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. Pull a few strands out around your face for a soft, undone look. For added texture, use a texturizing spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. This not only adds volume but also helps your hair resist winter static, keeping the style fresh all day long.

Half-Up Twisted Braids

For those looking for a balance between wearing their hair down and keeping it styled, the half-up twisted braids are the perfect solution. This cute winter hairstyle is especially practical for outdoor activities, as it keeps the hair off your face while still showcasing your locks. Ideal for medium to long hair, this style works for all face shapes and is particularly stunning on those with natural texture or soft waves. The added braid details make it perfect for festive winter events, from Christmas markets to ice skating dates. Plus, the twists add a fun, youthful element, making it great for all ages.

To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and take small sections from each side. Twist each section and secure them at the back of your head with a hair clip or bobby pins. For extra hold, use a bit of mousse like the TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse, which helps define the twists while preventing frizz in the cold air.

The Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a sophisticated winter hairstyle that keeps your hair contained while adding a touch of elegance to your look. This intricate braid works well for all hair types, but it’s particularly striking on curly or wavy hair, as the texture enhances the visual appeal of the braid. This style suits any face shape and can be worn for both casual and formal winter occasions. Whether you’re heading to a holiday dinner or bundling up for a winter walk, the fishtail braid offers both beauty and practicality.

To create the fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other side. Continue alternating sides until you reach the end of your hair and secure the braid with a clear elastic. A styling cream like Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream will help keep the braid smooth and defined, even in cold, dry weather.

Loose Waves with a Beanie

For a relaxed and natural winter look, loose waves paired with a beanie offer the perfect combination of style and comfort. This hairstyle is ideal for casual winter outings, adding a touch of effortless beauty to your look while keeping your head warm. Loose waves frame the face beautifully, making this style perfect for round and oval face shapes. Plus, it works for all hair textures, though it’s especially flattering on those with curly or wavy hair. Adding a cute beanie not only protects your hair from winter elements but also complements the relaxed vibe of this look.

To achieve loose waves, use a curling wand to create soft, undone curls. After curling, run your fingers through your hair to loosen the waves. A finishing spray like Bumble and bumble’s Surf Spray adds texture and volume, giving your waves that perfect windswept look. Top it off with your favorite beanie for a cozy, winter-ready style.

Low Braided Ponytail

The low braided ponytail is a sleek yet functional hairstyle that keeps your hair neatly in place during winter while adding a chic touch. Perfect for those with long or medium-length hair, this style suits any face shape, especially round or square, as the length of the ponytail elongates the face. The braid adds a sense of sophistication, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings. Whether you’re heading to a holiday party or just braving the winter chill, this hairstyle keeps your hair from tangling in the wind while still looking polished. Pair it with a cozy scarf or hat for a complete winter-ready look.

To create this style, brush your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band. Braid the ponytail all the way down and secure the end with another elastic. For a sleeker finish, apply a smoothing serum like Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to tame flyaways. The braid will hold your hair in place throughout the day while giving off an effortlessly elegant vibe.

French Twist with a Hair Clip

The French twist is an elegant winter hairstyle that keeps your hair tucked away from harsh elements while offering a sophisticated, timeless look. This style works best for medium to long hair and flatters all face shapes, especially heart-shaped faces, as it emphasizes the jawline and cheekbones. It’s a cute option for professional events or winter weddings, allowing you to wear your hair up without it feeling too formal. The addition of a decorative hair clip adds a touch of glamour, making it a great choice for festive occasions.

To create the French twist, gather your hair as if you’re making a low ponytail, then twist it upwards along the back of your head. Secure the twist with bobby pins, and finish with a decorative clip to add a stylish touch. Use a hairspray like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold to ensure the style stays in place throughout the day, even in the winter breeze.

Bubble Braid

For a cute and playful take on winter hairstyles, the bubble braid offers a unique and youthful look. This style is perfect for long hair and adds volume and texture, making it ideal for outdoor activities like ice skating or winter walks. The bubble braid works well for all face shapes, especially oval and heart-shaped faces, as it adds balance to facial proportions. It’s a fun, easy hairstyle that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, it keeps your hair neatly contained, preventing any wind-induced tangles.

To create a bubble braid, start by pulling your hair into a low or high ponytail. Then, section the ponytail with small elastics spaced a few inches apart. Gently pull each section to create the “bubble” effect. A lightweight styling gel like Ouai Matte Pomade will help keep the bubbles in place while adding a sleek finish.

Crown Braid

The crown braid is a regal, natural hairstyle that’s perfect for winter events, whether formal or casual. It’s ideal for keeping your hair off your face while adding a touch of elegance to your overall look. The crown braid flatters all face shapes and is particularly stunning on those with curly or textured hair, as the added volume gives the braid a fuller, more dramatic appearance. This hairstyle works well for holiday gatherings, winter weddings, or even just a day out shopping in the cold.

To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and create two braids on either side of your head. Wrap each braid over the top of your head like a crown and secure them with bobby pins. A texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray will add grip to the braids, helping them stay in place throughout the day.

Sleek Ponytail with a Winter Hat

The sleek ponytail is a cute and practical winter hairstyle, perfect for those chilly days when you want to wear a hat but still keep your hair looking polished. This style works well with all face shapes and hair types, as the sleekness of the ponytail keeps the hair close to the scalp, preventing frizz and static. It’s a great choice for casual outings or outdoor activities like skiing or snowshoeing, where you need a hairstyle that’s both functional and stylish.

To create the sleek ponytail, brush your hair back into a mid or high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Apply a smoothing serum like Kérastase Discipline Oleo-Relax Anti-Frizz Oil Serum to keep your ponytail sleek and free from flyaways. Finish the look by adding a stylish winter hat, like a beanie or a wool fedora, to complete your winter ensemble.

Loose Dutch Braids

For a natural, laid-back winter style, loose Dutch braids offer the perfect mix of comfort and chic. These inside-out braids are ideal for keeping your hair in place while still showcasing your length and texture. Whether you have curly or straight hair, this style works beautifully, especially for oval and long face shapes. It’s a fantastic option for winter hikes, ski trips, or even holiday shopping, where you need a hairstyle that’s easy to manage but still looks put-together.

To create loose Dutch braids, part your hair down the middle and braid each side, crossing the sections under rather than over to get the inside-out effect. Secure the ends with elastics, and gently pull on the braids to create a looser, more relaxed look. A sea salt spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray can add texture and hold to the braids, keeping them intact all day.

Textured Low Bun

The textured low bun is a versatile winter hairstyle that adds dimension to your look while keeping your hair protected from the elements. This style works for both casual and formal occasions and is especially flattering for those with natural waves or curly hair, as the texture adds interest to the bun. The low placement of the bun also makes it ideal for pairing with scarves or turtlenecks, keeping your neck warm without compromising style.

To create this easy hairstyle, gather your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins. Gently pull out a few strands around your face for a soft, relaxed look. A curl-defining cream like DevaCurl SuperCream can enhance your hair’s natural texture while preventing frizz in the cold winter air.

Braided Pigtails

Braided pigtails offer a fun and cute winter hairstyle that’s both youthful and practical. This style works particularly well for casual winter activities, like sledding or building a snowman, where you want your hair to stay in place while still looking stylish. Braided pigtails suit all face shapes and hair textures, though they’re particularly great for those with curly hair, as the braids help control the volume and keep the hair from tangling.

To create braided pigtails, part your hair down the middle and braid each side, securing the ends with elastics. For a more textured look, pull gently on each braid to loosen them. A light-hold hairspray like Paul Mitchell’s Soft Spray will keep the braids in place without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy.

Curly Pineapple Updo

The curly pineapple updo is a protective winter hairstyle that not only keeps your curls intact but also adds height and volume to your look. This updo works best for those with curly or coily hair, as it showcases your natural texture while keeping your curls safe from the harsh winter air. This style flatters oval and long face shapes and is perfect for casual outings or even as a nighttime protective style.

To achieve the pineapple updo, gather your hair into a loose, high ponytail at the top of your head and secure it with a scrunchie. Let your curls fall forward naturally, framing your face. A curl refresher spray like Cantu Comeback Curl Next Day Curl Revitalizer can keep your curls bouncy and hydrated throughout the day, preventing them from drying out in the cold.

Wrapped High Ponytail

For a polished, yet playful winter hairstyle, the wrapped high ponytail is a fantastic choice. This style adds a cute twist to the classic ponytail by wrapping a section of hair around the base, hiding the hair tie and giving the style a sleek, sophisticated finish. The high ponytail elongates the face, making it particularly flattering for round and square face shapes. It’s a great option for winter events where you want a simple yet stylish look that stays in place.

To create this hairstyle, gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to conceal the elastic, securing the end with a bobby pin. A shine spray like OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil can add a glossy finish, making your ponytail look sleek and polished.

Conclusion

Winter hairstyles are all about balancing practicality with style. Whether you’re keeping things easy with a sleek ponytail or embracing your curly texture, these hairstyles offer a range of options that suit different occasions and face shapes. Share your thoughts in the comments below—what’s your go-to winter hairstyle? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks for keeping your hair looking its best during the colder months.