Dos and Don'ts for Holiday Party Hair

Holiday parties are a great opportunity to add some flair and spunk to your average, everyday look and hairstyle. That being said, no one wants to go overboard when creating a holiday hairstyle. It is best to remember to err on the side of caution if you are questioning an accessory, color or cut. In addition to letting your inner voice be the ultimate guide, there are five basic holiday party hair mistakes to avoid and five hair tips to remember.

Five Holiday Party Hair Don'ts

Don't use too much sparkle. I am all for a little glam and glitter, especially when it comes to an understated hair accessory such as a bobby pin. There is a line though, and it is drawn at actual glitter or twinkle embellishments being added to the air. You are a person not a Christmas set piece. Remember this.

Don't be too severe with your hair. An all-over slick back look has been out since the 1950s unless you are Jamie Lee Curtis in "True Lies." If you slick back your hair, add a distracting element somewhere to break up the monotony. A 'just emerged from the pool look' fails in freezing weather.

Don't get a last minute hair dye job, please. Don't go have your hair colored immediately prior to a holiday party. Even if it is just to enhance your regular color it looks very obvious. Make sure to squeeze in a point at least a week before a get together.

Don't depart too much from the classic at a casual get together. When you change up your look a lot for an average Christmas party among friends, it can create awkwardness. Your friends wanted to enjoy your company, not your version of a fashion plate. Save the fancy updos for fancy dress occasions.

Don't use a childish barrette if you are over the age of 12. A subtle snowman print on a bar barrette is one thing. An actual snowman bow is another.

Five Holiday Party Hair Dos

Do get your hair cut prior to a holiday party. Even a routine trim can add extra bounce to your hair.

Do mix and match hair spray to combat all of the ills winter weather thrusts upon us. No one likes killer frizz.

Do keep it simple. Simple doesn't have to mean ordinary. A French twist is easy to craft but looks great at a party.

Do pin it back if necessary. Don't opt for a side swept look if you hair isn't trained to stay out of your eyes. Holiday pictures with a big strand of hair blocking much of your face will not look good for posterity.

Do be subtle while having fun. Incorporate holiday flair with festive colors or subtle accents like a Christmas tree bobby pin or a red and white striped clip.

Have fun with your hair over the holidays, but don't go too far when grooming it for a party!