24 Thanksgiving Hairstyles for Women: Easy, Elegant Looks

Hi — I’m Lena, a professional hairstylist with over 10 years of salon experience. In this post I’m sharing 24 Thanksgiving hairstyle ideas with step-by-step inspiration and 24 images so you can choose the perfect look for your celebration. I created these styles to suit every hair type and occasion: quick, casual looks for home gatherings; polished updos for a formal dinner; and low-maintenance styles for busy hosts. Whether your hair is long, short, thick, fine, curly or straight, you’ll find flattering options and practical tips here. I’ll point out which styles work best for each face shape, how to prep your hair for longer hold, and which products and tools will save you time on the big day. Expect braid-based accents, soft waves, chic buns, and easy half-up styles that look salon-fresh even if you’re styling at home.

Textured Romantic Side Braid with Loose Tendrils and Floral Accents

A soft, textured side braid with loose face-framing tendrils and seasonal floral accents. Best suited for medium to thick hair and naturally wavy or curly textures — fine hair can achieve the look with added texturizing and light backcombing. Start by applying heat protectant and a volumizing mousse to damp hair, then rough-dry with a diffuser to enhance wave. Use a 1–1.25 inch curling wand to add loose bends to straight hair. Create a deep side part, gather hair low to one side and begin a loose three-strand braid, pulling sections slightly outward (pancaking) as you go for soft volume. Secure with a small elastic and hide the band with hair or a decorative pin; tuck and pin a floral or leafy accessory with U-pins. Tools: blow dryer with diffuser, curling wand, tail comb, elastics, bobby pins, sectioning clips. Products: heat protectant, sea-salt or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, dry shampoo for grip and a smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: intermediate (25–40 minutes). Maintenance: sleep on silk, refresh with dry shampoo or a spritz of water and texturizer, and re-pin accessories as needed.

Vintage Braided Updo with Soft Finger Waves and Floral Accent

This polished vintage-inspired updo suits medium to long hair and works best on medium-to-thick or textured hair (natural waves or loose curls hold shape well). Start by prepping with a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse or setting lotion on damp hair; blow-dry or diffuse to create body. Create soft finger waves at the front with a small-to-medium curling iron or flat iron and shape them with a wide-tooth comb. Add one or two crown braids or two-strand twists, gently pull the braid to widen for a soft, romantic look. Gather the remaining hair into a low pinned bun, securing with bobby pins and hairpins; tuck curls and braid ends into the bun for a textured finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, curling iron/flat iron, bobby pins, hairpins, small elastics. Products: heat protectant, setting lotion or mousse, texturizing spray, strong-hold hairspray, and a light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate (30–60 minutes). Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillow or wrap in a scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and spot-spray hairspray, re-pin loose pieces as needed, and avoid over-brushing to preserve the style.

Braided Halo Updo — Crown Braid with Low Bun and Floral Accent

This romantic braided halo updo suits medium to long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair benefits from light backcombing or clip-in extensions for volume. Technique: create two Dutch/French braids from the hairline toward the nape, pancake the braids slightly for width, then wrap and pin them into a low braided bun at the back or side. For added fullness, weave a third braid or use a braided padding insert. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins (assorted sizes), rat-tail comb or teasing brush, and an optional curling iron to add texture. Products required: pre-styling texturizing spray or mousse, dry shampoo for grip, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible to strong-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 30–60 minutes depending on hair length and practice. Maintenance tips: secure decorative pieces to a comb or wired clip, refresh with dry shampoo and re-pin loose strands between events, sleep on a silk pillowcase to protect shape, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve hold.

Textured Crown Braid into Low Messy Bun — Romantic Braided Updo

This romantic crown braid pulled into a low messy bun suits medium to thick hair best, but can be adapted for fine or curly hair with the right prep. Technique: create a deep side part, French/Dutch braid along the hairline on both sides (or a single crown braid), gently pancake the braid for width, then gather at the nape and twist into a loose low bun, securing with pins. Pull out delicate face‑framing tendrils and soften with a curling iron if needed. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby/U‑pins, 1

Braided Crown Updo with Feather Accents — Boho Wedding/Bridal Hairstyle

This braided crown updo suits medium to long hair and works best on hair with natural texture or a bit of thickness; fine hair can be prepped with padding or tape-in extensions for volume. Technique: create a deep Dutch/French braid along the hairline, continue around the crown, pancake the braid for width, then gather remaining hair into a low twisted bun and secure. Insert decorative feathers into the braid’s side for a bohemian accent. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins and U-pins, teasing brush and optional padding or small donut. Products required: light mousse or salt spray for grip, texturizing spray to hold pancake effect, smoothing serum for flyaways, strong-hold hairspray for finish, and dry shampoo for refresh. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 30–60 minutes; recommend a stylist for bridal events. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or use a loose bonnet, re-pin any loose pieces, refresh texture with dry shampoo or texturizing spray, and avoid moisture to keep feathers intact.

Romantic Loose Crown Braid Updo with Floral Accents

This ethereal crown braid updo works best on medium to long hair with natural texture — fine hair benefits from volumizing mousse and teasing; thick or wavy hair creates instant fullness. Start on dry, slightly textured hair: apply heat protectant, then a medium barrel curl (1–1.5) to add grip and shape. Section the top into three working panels and create two Dutch (inside-out) or loose three-strand braids from each temple, pulling gently to pancake them for width. Wrap and pin the braids around the crown, anchoring with long bobby pins and discreet elastics; tuck and secure ends under the halo. Finish by pulling soft face-framing tendrils and misting with flexible-hold hairspray. Tools: paddle brush, wide-tooth comb, sectioning clips, curling iron, elastics, long bobby pins, tail comb. Products: volumizing mousse, texturizing spray, heat protectant, lightweight flexible-hold hairspray, small dab of shine serum. Difficulty: moderate — doable by an experienced stylist or confident DIYer with practice. Maintenance: carry extra pins and mini-spray for touch-ups, avoid heavy humidity, refresh roots with dry shampoo, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or convert to a loose pony to preserve the shape.

Textured Crown Braided Updo with Autumn Berry Accents

This romantic crown braided updo suits straight to wavy hair and works best on medium to long lengths; fine hair benefits from light texturizing while thicker hair gives fuller braids. Technique: create two Dutch/French braids from each temple, pulling slightly at the outer edges for softness and volume, then wrap and pin the braid tails into a low twisted bun at the nape. Pin small decorative accents (like berry sprigs) into braided gaps for a festival or bridal finish. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, plenty of bobby pins, and optional curling iron to add wave before braiding. Products required: light mousse or sea-salt spray for grip, smoothing cream for flyaways, medium-hold hairspray, and a tiny dab of shine serum on ends. Difficulty: intermediate — plan 30–45 minutes; allow extra time for embellishments. Maintenance tips: secure loose pieces with extra pins, refresh volume with dry shampoo at the roots, touch up hold with travel hairspray, and sleep with a silk scarf to prevent frizz. For special events, book a trial to adjust braid tension and accessory placement.

Boho Crown and Double Dutch Braids with Feather Accents

This boho crown with double Dutch braids suits medium to long hair and works well on straight, wavy or naturally textured hair. It’s ideal for medium to thick densities; fine hair benefits from light texturizing or clip-in extension pieces to add volume. Technique: create a deep center part, Dutch-braid along the hairline to form a crown, then continue each side into two Dutch braids down the nape, finish by pancaking the braid loops for fullness and secure with small elastics. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a fine crochet needle or needle-and-thread for attaching decorative feathers/beads. Products required: salt or texturizing spray for grip, light styling cream or pomade to smooth flyaways, medium-hold hairspray to set, and a lightweight shine serum for ends. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes in-salon; beginners may need practice. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf, refresh braids by re-tightening ends and misting roots with dry shampoo, avoid heavy conditioners that loosen grip, and remove decorative attachments before washing to prolong ornament life.

Crown Dutch Braid Updo with Soft Face‑Framing Bangs

This romantic crown Dutch braid updo with loose face‑framing tendrils and blunt bangs works best on medium to thick hair and on straight to wavy textures; fine hair can achieve the look with light teasing or extension pieces for added volume. Technique: start on dry, second‑day hair—add texturizing spray and a little root lift. Section bangs and frame pieces first. Create a Dutch (inside‑out) braid from one temple across the hairline to the opposite side, repeat on the other side if desired, then pin the braid(s) into a halo at the nape, pulling gently on braid loops for fullness. Leave a few soft strands around the face and shape with a 1 curling wand for a relaxed finish. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins and a curling iron. Products required: heat protectant, texturizing spray or powder, light smoothing serum for flyaways and a flexible‑hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate (25–35 minutes). Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or loose scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and re‑pin any loosened braid loops; trim bangs every 4–6 weeks to keep the face shape crisp.

Crown Dutch Braids with Twisted Side Buns — Halo Braided Updo for Medium to Long Hair

This regal halo-style updo combines two Dutch (or French) crown braids that transition into twisted side buns — flattering for medium-to-long hair and ideal for straight, wavy, or slightly textured hair. Fine hair benefits from light texturizing and gentle backcombing to add grip; thick hair creates a fuller, more dramatic crown; very curly hair can be smoothed slightly or braided as-is for a softer look. Technique: create a clean center part, section into two sides, and Dutch-braid each side along the hairline toward the nape; secure ends, wrap each braid into a low twisted bun at the temple or behind the ear, pin with U-pins and small elastics. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby/U-pins, small brush, and optional curling iron for ends. Products: lightweight smoothing cream or mousse, salt spray or texturizer for hold, medium-hold hairspray, and shine serum for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate (30–50 minutes). Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or scarf, refresh with dry shampoo, and re-pin loosened sections; use a toothbrush with light gel for baby hairs.

Boho Double Dutch Braids with Feather Accents

This bohemian double Dutch braid with feather accents suits medium to long hair and works best on straight to wavy textures. For fine hair, use a texturizing spray or light clip-in extensions for added grip and volume; thicker hair will create a fuller braid naturally. Technique: create a deep side part, section along the hairline and braid two Dutch/French braids by crossing under and adding hair as you go, guide each braid down behind the ear and secure with a small elastic. Add feather clips or threaded feather extensions at the nape for a styled finish. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and optional extension beads or feather clips. Products: pre-styling texturizer or dry shampoo, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty: moderate — requires comfortable braiding skills and 20–40 minutes depending on length. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh texture with dry shampoo, re-tighten or pin any loosened sections, and remove feather accessories gently to avoid breakage.

Boho Loose Waves with Fishtail Braids and Floral Crown

Suitable for medium-to-long hair, this romantic boho look works best on naturally wavy or thick textures; fine hair can be adapted with lightweight clip-in extensions and extra texturizer. Technique: start on second‑day hair — apply heat protectant and a sea‑salt/texturizing spray, then create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling wand, alternating directions. Section two larger pieces at either side and create loose fishtail braids from ear level, secure with small elastics, then pancake (gently tug) for volume. Backcomb the crown lightly for lift, pull out soft face‑framing tendrils, and tuck small dried flowers or floral pins into the braids using U‑pins so they sit flush. Tools needed: curling wand, tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, U‑pins. Products required: heat protectant, texturizing/sea‑salt spray, lightweight mousse or styling cream, flexible‑hold hairspray, and dry shampoo for refresh. Difficulty: moderate — comfortable for stylists and confident DIYers; expect 45–60 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on silk or wrap hair, refresh with dry shampoo and a light mist of sea‑salt spray, re‑pin slipped flowers, avoid heavy brushing, and remove floral pieces before washing.

Double Fishtail Braids with Twisted Crown and Feather Accents

Suitability: Best for long to mid‑length hair with medium to thick density; naturally wavy or slightly textured hair holds shape best. Fine hair will benefit from light teasing or temporary extensions for volume. Technique: Create a clean center part, pick up two small front sections and twist them back to form a soft twisted crown, then gather remaining hair into two low fishtail braids. Pancake each fishtail (gently pull outer loops) to broaden the plaits and secure with clear elastics. Add decorative feathers or small charms into the braid tails and anchor with discreet bobby pins. Tools needed: fine-tooth comb, rat-tail parting comb, small clear elastics, bobby pins, sectioning clips. Products required: texturizing spray or sea-salt spray for grip, lightweight styling cream for frizz control, a medium-hold hairspray to set, and dry shampoo to refresh. Difficulty level: Intermediate — requires braiding skill and patience (30–60 minutes). Maintenance tips: Sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap with a silk scarf, remove decorative pieces before bed, refresh volume with dry shampoo and a little backcombing at the roots, and re-pin loose pieces as needed.

Autumn-Inspired Braided Updo with Floral Crown for Red Curly Hair

This romantic braided updo suits medium-to-thick naturally wavy or curly hair (great for ginger tones) and can be adapted for straight hair when texture is added. Technique: prep hair with texture, create two or three loose Dutch or rope braids along the hairline and crown, wrap and pin them into a low, messy bun, then gently pull face-framing tendrils for softness. Finish by wiring or tucking a floral/wheat crown into the braid base for an organic look. Tools needed: fine-tooth tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, lots of bobby pins (U-pins and hairpins), optional curling iron for shaping tendrils, and floral wire if using fresh/delicate accessories. Products required: heat protectant, salt- or texture-spray for grip, light-hold mousse (for fine hair), smoothing serum on ends, and a flexible-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty: moderate — 30–60 minutes depending on hair length and accessory work. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk pillowcase or loose bonnet, refresh shape with dry shampoo and texturizer, re-pin any loosened pieces, avoid heavy oils near the crown, and store the accessory separately to preserve shape.

Loose Textured Double Braids with Face‑Framing Tendrils

This relaxed, romantic style suits medium to thick hair and natural waves or curls best; fine hair can achieve the look with added texture. From salon experience, prep damp hair with a sea‑salt or texturizing spray and rough‑dry with a diffuser to enhance grip. Create two loose three‑strand or Dutch braids starting near the nape, secure with small elastics, then gently pancake each braid to widen and soften the shape. Pull out a few face‑framing tendrils and lightly curl them for softness if needed. Tools: wide‑tooth comb, paddle brush, sectioning clips, small elastics, 1

Romantic Braided Low Updo with Autumn Floral Crown

This romantic braided low updo paired with a full floral crown suits medium to long hair and works best on hair with some natural texture or a few days’ growth. Start by applying heat protectant and a light texturizing spray to create grip. Section hair and loosely curl 1–2 inch pieces for body, then braid or twist sections into a low, slightly messy bun at the nape, securing with elastics and plenty of bobby pins. Place the floral crown over the top and anchor discreetly with U-pins. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, 1–inch curling iron, bobby pins, hair elastics and U-pins. Products required: heat protectant, texturizing spray or sea-salt spray, smoothing cream for flyaways, and a medium-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — requires comfortable pinning and shaping skills to keep the look soft but secure. Maintenance tips: check pins after movement and resecure as needed, avoid heavy humidity or rain, touch up volume with dry shampoo at the roots, and store the floral crown flat to preserve blooms. For long events, pack extra pins and a travel hairspray.

Boho Crown Dutch with Dual Fishtail Braids

This boho crown Dutch with dual fishtail braids creates a textured, romantic style suited to medium‑to‑long hair. Best on naturally wavy or straight hair and medium to thick densities; fine hair will benefit from light extensions or root‑teasing for body. Technique: start with a deep side part, Dutch‑braid a crown section along the hairline and secure, then divide remaining hair into two sections and fishtail each side. Pancake the braids gently for width and tug a few face‑framing pieces loose for softness. Tools needed: tail comb for parting, clips, small clear elastics, a bristle brush, and a 1–1.25

Textured Messy Low Bun with Face‑Framing Tendrils

Suitable for fine-to-medium straight or wavy hair and adaptable to thicker, layered hair, this relaxed textured low bun with face-framing tendrils is a versatile salon-style updo. Begin on damp hair with a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, then rough-dry while lifting at the roots for natural volume. Add soft bends using a 1 curling wand or boost grit with a sea-salt/texturizing spray. Create a small loose braid or twist at the crown for height, gather hair at the nape, and form a messy low bun; secure with an elastic and discreet bobby pins, leaving several strands out to frame the face. Loosen the crown and bun by gently pulling sections to achieve lived-in movement. Tools: blow dryer, 1 curling wand, tail comb, elastics, bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, texturizing spray or dry shampoo, light-hold hairspray, and a tiny smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: easy–intermediate — basic braiding/twisting and pinning skills required. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo and re-pin as needed, re-curl face pieces for definition, sleep on silk to reduce frizz, and avoid heavy oils that flatten texture.

Braided Crown to Low Bun — Dutch/French Braid Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils

This romantic braided crown updo works best on medium to thick hair, shoulder-length to long. Fine hair can achieve the same look with light teasing, texturizing spray or clip-in extensions for added volume. Start with a side part and create a Dutch (inside-out) or French braid along the hairline, incorporating hair as you move toward the opposite side; pancake the braid slightly to widen it. Gather the remaining hair at the nape, braid or twist into a low bun and secure with elastics and bobby pins, leaving a few face‑framing tendrils loose for softness. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, and a blow-dryer if pre-styling. Products: texturizing or sea-salt spray for grip, lightweight mousse or root-lift, smoothing cream for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty: intermediate — allows 20–40 minutes depending on familiarity with braiding. Maintenance tips: refresh with dry shampoo for second-day texture, re-pin loosened pieces, re-pancake the braid gently for volume, and sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz.

Loose Crown/Dutch Braid Pulled into Low Bun — Textured Romantic Updo

This romantic crown braid pulled into a low bun works best on medium-to-long hair and suits fine, medium or thick textures; light layering or natural wave adds instant movement. Start on clean, towel-dried hair with a light mousse or salt spray for grip. Create a deep side part and Dutch-braid (inside-out braid) along the hairline toward the opposite side, adding hair as you go; repeat on the other side if preferred. Pancake the braid by gently pulling the outer loops to widen and soften the look, then gather remaining hair at the nape and twist into a loose low bun, tucking and pinning the braid around it. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, 20–30 bobby pins, and optional curling iron to add bend. Products: lightweight mousse or texturizing spray, smoothing serum for flyaways, medium-hold hairspray and a heat protectant. Difficulty: moderate — 25–45 minutes for someone comfortable with braiding. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo and texturizer, re-pin loose pieces after wear, sleep on a silk pillowcase, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve shape.

Romantic Braided Crown Updo with Loose Tendrils and Floral Accents

This romantic braided crown updo suits medium to long hair and works best on naturally wavy or medium-thick textures. Fine hair can achieve similar volume with added texturizing products or padding. Start by prepping hair with a heat protectant, then add body using a volumizing mousse or sea-salt spray. Create soft waves with a 1–1.25 inch curling wand to add grip, then section a crown portion and braid a loose Dutch or French braid across the hairline, feeding in hair and pulling gently to pancake for fullness. Gather remaining hair into a low twisted bun or messy chignon and secure with bobby pins; leave face-framing tendrils soft. Insert dried or fresh floral accents and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to preserve movement. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, curling wand, bobby pins, small elastics. Products: heat protectant, texturizing spray, light-hold mousse, smoothing serum for ends, flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes. Maintenance tips: refresh with dry shampoo, re-pin loose pieces, sleep with a silk scarf for one-night wear, and book a touch-up before long events.

Crown Braid into Textured Low Bun with Feather Accent

This elegant crown braid into a textured low bun suits medium to long hair and works best on wavy or thick straight hair; fine hair can achieve the same look with light extensions or padding. Start by prepping with a volumizing mousse at the roots and a salt spray through the lengths, then blow-dry for grip. Create a Dutch/French crown braid along the hairline, gently pancake the braid for width, and gather remaining hair into a loose, low bun at the nape. Pull a few soft face-framing tendrils and backcomb sections in the bun for texture before pinning. Secure any feather or decorative pieces with U-pins or hidden bobby pins. Essential tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, U-pins, and a fine-tooth brush. Recommended products: volumizing mousse, texturizing or salt spray, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate (30–60 minutes). Maintenance tips: refresh texture with dry shampoo or salt spray, tighten pins as needed, sleep with a silk scarf to preserve shape, and avoid heavy oils that flatten the braid.

Romantic Textured Side Fishtail Braid with Feather Accents

This look suits medium-to-long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair can achieve the same fullness with light teasing or clip-in extensions. Start on second-day hair for grip: apply a texturizing spray and a small amount of smoothing cream at the ends. Create a deep side part, begin a loose Dutch/French braid along the hairline and transition into a relaxed fishtail at the nape. Pancake the braid by gently pulling outer loops to build volume and soften the shape. Secure with a small elastic and hide it with a wrapped strand; anchor any ornate feathers or pins with discreet bobby pins through the braid’s base. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, 1

Loose Textured Side Fishtail Braid with Autumn Leaf Accent

This romantic, textured side fishtail braid works best on medium to thick hair and on natural waves or loose curls — fine hair can still achieve the look with added texture. Start on dry hair: apply a sea-salt or texturizing spray through the lengths, then create a deep side part. French-braid small sections along the hairline to form a braided crown, then gather remaining hair to one side and create a loose fishtail braid, gently pancaking each section for width. Tuck and pin small silk or real leaves into the braid where desired and secure with discreet bobby pins. Tools: rat-tail comb, paddle brush, small elastics, bobby pins, 1

As a salon professional, my best advice is to plan and prep. Do any color or major trimming at least a week before Thanksgiving so your style looks polished. Use a heat protectant and a lightweight styling product (mousse or texturizing spray) to add hold without stiffness. For longevity, tease the roots lightly on updos and secure with quality pins that match your hair color; finish with a flexible-hold hairspray for natural movement. If you’re short on time, pick one braided or pinned-back look to frame the face — they’re fast and photograph beautifully. Bring a small kit to the event (bobby pins, travel brush, mini hairspray) for quick touch-ups. Most importantly, practice your chosen look once so it’s stress-free on the day. Enjoy the season, eat well, and wear a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable. — Lena