How to make the perfect hairstyle for the holidays: six main rules

The New Year's holiday season has officially begun, which means it's time to think about your festive look. It's no secret that one of the most important elements of your appearance is your hairstyle, especially when it comes to special events.

If anyone knows how to make a great hairstyle for a party, it's celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, writes British Vogue. The specialist is responsible for the glamor of the Kardashian family, singer Jennifer Lopez, actress Megan Fox, and model Alessandra Ambrosio. Meanwhile, Charlotte Mensah is behind the evening looks of models Jourdan Dunn and Adut Akech. The experts shared their proven secrets for creating party hairstyles.

Don't neglect thermal protection

The cold season often means more frequent hairstyle changes, but the more often we style our hair, the more damage it does. If you're transitioning from everyday styles that don't require the use of hot stylers, you don't have to worry, but if you're turning up the heat – say, going from a super sleek ponytail to long, loose waves and back again – then protecting your strands from heat damage is a must.

"Whenever you use heat to create a hairstyle, be sure to use a heat protectant," confirms Fitzsimons, "This will prevent your hair from drying out and damaging, which often leads to breakage.

Consider your hair color

Despite being somewhat old-fashioned, bobby pins are something you'll find in every stylist's kit, including Fitzsimons'. "When I'm doing a hairstyle, bobby pins are an important part of the look, and I always recommend having them on hand to easily pull hair up or fix any last-minute mishaps," he says.

However, according to the expert, it's not as simple as buying an old box of bobby pins: the right shade is essential for flawless styling – as is careful use. "My best tip for using bobby pins is to be mindful of how much hair you're fixing. If you open the bobby pin to curl more hair than it can handle, it won't work," says Andrew. He also offers a tip if you're good at putting bobby pins in place but are frustrated when they eventually slip out: "Apply hairspray before and after and your bobby pins will stay in place!"

Don't overdo it with your hairstyle

"A ponytail can enhance any look, and it's easy to do when you're short on time," says Charlotte Mensah, who works with the texture of African hair. A clever trick is to replace rubber bands with satin ones that won't twitch, or add a bow or crystal-encrusted ribbon for a festive finish.

"Naked ponytails", when the elastic is hidden under the hair, are also a fun and sophisticated evening look. After you have tied your hair up, take a section of the strands at the base of your head (still inside the ponytail) and wrap it around several times until you hide the elastic. To keep your hairstyle looking secure throughout the evening, you'll need a few bobby pins.

Use hair products

While dry shampoo is a lifesaver all year long, it really comes into its own during party season. "If you don't have time to wash your hair in between events, dry shampoo is your best friend," says Fitzsimons, "It helps absorb dirt, oil, and grease from your scalp without even washing it, so having it in your bag is really handy during the holiday season if you're on a tight schedule.

Aside from its cleansing capabilities, using dry shampoo as a styling spray is an insider trick that is worth its weight in gold this time of year. Not only will it refresh your strands between events, but it will also add subtle volume to your hairstyle and secure your accessories. It works well to add longevity to your Christmas look. "I recommend applying a little spray to the roots after you've washed and dried your hair to prolong the style, rather than on the second or third day of shampooing," adds Fitzsimons.

Don't forget the hairspray

A good hairspray with a flexible hold will help tame any frizz and keep it under control throughout the evening. In other words, if you're trying to get a sleek hairstyle, you shouldn't leave the house without hairspray. In order not to overdo it and risk making your hair look too stiff, take a more targeted approach. "Take the hairspray and apply a little to your brush, then comb through your hair to keep it in place. Use smaller brushes for small areas or to brush through unruly hair," advises Fitzsimons.

Enjoy the holiday

If you love hair accessories but have never felt brave enough to wear them, Christmas is the time to give in to the urge and do it. "For the holidays, I love to use fun accessories to make a classic look more upbeat and festive," says Fitzsimons. "You can do a simple up-do and add a sparkly headband to make any look more chic, or if you're transitioning from day to evening, a bow or barrette can really help add a little extra glam.

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