Sleigh your holiday hair! Celebrity hairstylist Sophie Rose Gutterman, who has worked with Emmy Rossum, Nicky Hilton, Karlie Kloss, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jackie Tohn, is spilling her mane do’s and don’ts for the upcoming holiday season with ET.
While prepping for parties can feel stressful, Gutterman says keeping your strands low-key with high shine is essential for a festive celebration.
“Start with moisture and a good leave-in product like the Curlsmith Moisture Memory Weightless Leave-In Release or Double Cream Deep Quencher to guarantee hydration and prevent frizz. … Apply it to wet hair from the mid-lengths to ends and try a slicked back bun. It’s a heatless style that looks chic and helps treat the hair,” she explains.
If you want to take it up a notch while still letting your sparkly outfit shine, the hair expert suggests leaning on simple accessories.
“Working with clothes is always recommended, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely tone it down. … While hair may sometimes have to take a back seat to a high collar or sequins, it’s still fun to create statements that speak beyond the wardrobe.”
Her pick this year: “Balenciaga recently did a fashion show featuring tons of bows, and my client who attended wore one with a half-up style and face framing bangs. It was so fun.”
It’s also important to avoid overdoing your locks so that you look good (and feel good) while mingling.
“Limit the number of bobby pins you use. If it hurts while you’re styling, chances are you’ll have a headache by the end of the night and nobody wants that,” she notes.
Instead, opt for the Root Boost Uplifting Spray to keep your style lasting from cocktails to carols.
“Blow dry your hair with a good round brush, set it with clips, let it dry, take it down, and shake it out. You’re welcome for your new obsession,” she dishes.
But if you’re craving a bolder change as we head into 2026, the hairstylist believes bangs are the move.
“Don’t be scared of them! … They’re super cute with updos and make lived-in looks easier to style.”
And for a color shift, Gutterman suggests experimenting with a subtle semi-permanent shade.
“Looking for more warmth but not quite ready to go red? Ask your stylist for a toner. … Think of it as a lip-gloss for your hair.”
For a full new year, new hair vibe, try a fresh chop.
“If you’re open to cutting your hair, I’m loving the Sydney Sweeney bob right now! You can wear it so many different ways.”
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