19 Elf Hairstyles That’ll Make You Look Straight Out of a Fantasy Novel

Elf hairstyles have turned out to be among the most popular looks both for professional salons, comic book conventions, and Halloween parties. For the past several years, I have been experimenting with different types of braids, buns, and waves that can withstand a wig cap, a camera lens, or being used as a cosplay look. The following tutorial is based on my styling experience rather than on those beautiful Pinterest pictures.

But what are the best elf hairstyles? The best elf hairstyles involve using braids, buns, and gentle waves that create volume and pull the hair away from the face in order to emphasize the pointed elf ears. Such hairstyles can include braided crown, double Dutch braid, or elegant low bun decorated with a thin braid.

Let me give you some detailed information about 19 amazing elf hairstyles along with the tips on how to style them properly. Stay tuned!

Fantasy Elf vs. Holiday Elf: Which Vibe Are You Going For?

In the introduction to our list, let me clarify one thing. There are two completely different things meant when someone asks about elf hairstyle. Some of you may have come here searching for ideas for a Renaissance Fair, Lord of the Rings costume, or a full-scale cosplay. But there is a big chance that some of you are looking for cute pigtails to go to a Christmas party dressed as Elf with your colleagues. This is why I decided to cover both kinds since many people googling “elf hairstyle” are not aware of the difference between two of them.

The first type of hair we are discussing is fantasy-themed. These hairstyles usually are quite light and carefree, for example, loose braids, waves, and buns that make an impression of zero effort but actually require twenty minutes and a lot of texturizing products. The second type of hair we are discussing is holiday-themed. They tend to be more strict and playful such as pigtails, curls, or buns.

1. Classic Braided Elf Crown

That’s why it gets its name as the queen among braids. The braided halo hairstyle begins with braiding from two parts of the hair starting from each temple. You will have to braid your hair in a Dutch manner so that your braid is placed right on top of the hair, not underneath. This hairstyle works well on medium to long hair and suits all types of faces since it guides your eyes upwards and not downwards.

For fine hair, there is a need to backcomb lightly the area of the crown before the actual braiding; this way, it will give more hold to the braid. If you have curly hair, it is recommended to braid slightly wet hair with the curl cream to avoid frizziness of hair after the second hour. This look is very popular on wedding days, Renaissance parties, and during photo sessions.

The next one is a bit lighter and funnier one.

2. Double Dutch Braids with Loose Ends

Double Dutch braids extending from the temples to the base of the neck, left loose on the ends, exude woodland elf vibes. It suits straight and wavy hair really well as the braids remain tight without any need for any additional styling products. The round and oval face shapes suit the look as the braids define the cheeks.

Edge control or some gel should be applied to the part line for a neat look; however, the ends will look messy and wavy. This style is easy to maintain, which makes it suitable for an entire day of being active at a convention. Also, it goes from the casual day cosplays to a fancier evening one by adding some metallic beads.

If you have a thicker hair type and would like to go for a little more structured look, then this style may be just right for you.

3. Half-Up Braided Elf Style

For the half-up braid hairstyle, what is done is that the upper portion of hair is braided from the crown and left to hang freely. The half-up braid is a hairstyle that is very easy-going as it can suit any hair length as well as texture whether straight or curly.

What really suits the square face and heart-shaped face are the half-up braid hairstyle because this hairstyle gives a softer look to the forehead region. Using a texturizing spray prior to braiding gives more hold for those whose hair tends to slip out of braids. You see this is an amazing daily hairstyle because this is office-friendly, low maintenance, and doesn’t require you to be looking into a mirror while doing it.

Let’s now discuss an amazing hairstyle that looks fantastic in pictures at cosplay conventions.

4. Fishtail Braid Ponytail

A simple fishtail braid in either a high or mid ponytail has that warrior-elf vibe going on. They may seem like an ordeal, but in fact, they are actually simpler than your average braid, once you know how to alternate small sections of hair from either side.

It works best for hair that is medium to long in length and already has a little texture going on – for example, hair from the previous day or texturized with a special spray. Those who have oval or long faces would do well to keep the ponytail high, while those with round faces need a low one not to add any height to the face. It is surprisingly resilient when it comes to physical activity, which makes it a good choice for outdoor Renaissance fairs or LARP days.

Space buns are another great option for an elf-inspired hairstyle.

5. Elven Space Buns

Having two high buns adorned with a thin braid as opposed to being plain adds a touch of fantasy to this already very casual hairstyle. This hairdo is great for women with medium-length hair and those whose texture allows holding the hair in a bun without a million bobby pins.

This hairstyle looks great on women with heart and diamond shaped faces due to the height on top that compensates for the thinner chin area. Thin hair can definitely rock this hairstyle as long as there is some texturizing spray applied first.

6. Twisted Milkmaid Braids

Milkmaid braids — two braids crossed and pinned over the top of the head — read as soft, romantic, and distinctly elven when done with a slightly messy, pulled-apart texture. This style suits long hair best, though shoulder-length hair can work if you loosen the braids enough to add length illusion.

Round and square face shapes benefit here because the braids create height without adding width. I always recommend pulling small pieces loose from the braid after pinning it — it keeps the look from feeling too tidy or costume-y. This one’s a favorite for outdoor weddings and garden-party themed events.

7. Loose Waterfall Braid

A waterfall braid lets pieces of hair “fall” out of the braid as you go, creating a cascading effect that pairs beautifully with loose waves underneath. This technique works best on wavy or curled hair since straight hair tends to slip out of the braid faster.

Oval and heart face shapes look especially good with this one since it draws attention along the side of the face rather than straight down the middle. A light-hold hairspray after braiding keeps those loose pieces from unraveling completely. It’s a formal-leaning style, ideal for fantasy-themed weddings or evening photoshoots.

8. Elf Warrior Micro-Braids

Several thin braids, pulled back from the front and mixed into a low ponytail or half-up style, create serious “elven warrior” vibes. This works on any hair length past the chin and suits thick, coarse hair particularly well since it can handle the extra manipulation without looking flat.

Any face shape can wear this one since the braids are small and distributed evenly rather than concentrated in one spot. Expect this style to take longer — 30 to 45 minutes — but it holds for multiple days, making it great for multi-day conventions or festivals.

9. Sleek Low Bun with Braided Wrap

A smooth, low bun wrapped with a single thin braid instead of an elastic gives off refined elven royalty energy. This is one of the more formal options on this list and works best on straight or slightly wavy hair that’s easy to slick down.

Long and oval faces suit this style well since the low placement doesn’t add extra height. A pomade or edge control smooths flyaways along the hairline for that clean, polished look. This one’s perfect for black-tie fantasy events, bridal parties, or professional photoshoots.

10. Side-Swept Braid with Curls

A single side braid, paired with loose curls cascading over one shoulder, brings asymmetry into play — a subtle way to make an elf hairstyle feel a little more modern. Curly and wavy hair types shine here since the curl pattern blends naturally into the braid.

Square and round faces benefit from the asymmetry since it breaks up strong jawlines. Use a curling wand on the loose side after the braid is secured, working in one-inch sections for consistent curl size. This look transitions easily from daytime casual to evening formal with just a change of accessories.

11. Elven Topknot with Face-Framing Strands

A high topknot with two face-framing pieces left loose gives a clean, elegant elf look without much braiding involved. Works great on medium to long hair, especially thick or coarse textures that hold a topknot shape without collapsing.

Heart and oval faces look balanced with the height this style adds. Curl the face-framing pieces slightly with a wand for softness. This is one of the fastest options on this list — under ten minutes — making it ideal for last-minute costume needs or busy mornings before a con.

12. Rope Braid Ponytail

A rope braid — two sections twisted around each other rather than woven — creates a textured, cord-like effect that reads as effortlessly elven. This works on any hair length past the shoulders and suits fine to medium hair especially well since rope braids don’t require as much hair to look full.

Any face shape wears this comfortably. A light-hold spray keeps the twist from loosening throughout the day. Great for casual outings, day trips to a Renaissance fair, or a low-effort convention look.

13. Braided Half-Up with Flower Accents

Taking the half-up braid a step further, tucking small flowers or floral hairpins along the braid gives a distinctly woodland-elf, fairycore feel. This works on all hair lengths past the chin and any texture.

Round and heart faces do especially well since the flowers draw attention outward and upward. Secure flowers with small bobby pins woven directly into the braid rather than just pinned on top, so they don’t slip. Perfect for spring festivals, garden weddings, or outdoor photoshoots.

14. Elf Pigtail Braids (Holiday Elf Style)

Switching gears to holiday elf territory — two low pigtail braids, often finished with curled ends, are the classic “Christmas elf costume” look. This works on straight to wavy hair and suits shorter lengths (even a long bob) better than most fantasy elf styles since it doesn’t rely on length for effect.

Any face shape can wear pigtail braids. Curl the ends with a small-barrel curling iron after braiding for that classic elf-costume bounce. This is your go-to for office parties, family photos, or a quick costume that still looks intentional.

15. Curly Pigtails for Christmas Elf Costume

If braiding isn’t your thing, curly high pigtails accomplish the same playful holiday elf look with less technical skill required. This works best on hair that holds curl well — think medium-textured, slightly porous hair that responds to a curling wand without needing fifteen products.

Round and oval faces look cute with the height these pigtails create. A heat protectant spray is non-negotiable here since you’re curling hair that’s already pulled tight. This one’s a five-minute style, perfect for parents getting kids ready or last-minute holiday parties.

16. Elven Long Layers with Deep Side Part

Sometimes the simplest option is a great one. Long, face-framing layers with a deep side part and a light wave give an effortless fantasy-elf feel without a single braid. This works on long, straight-to-wavy hair and suits fine hair particularly well since layers add movement without weight.

Square and diamond faces benefit from the softening effect of a deep side part. A texturizing spray and a loose curling wand technique finish the look. Great for everyday wear when you want elf-inspired vibes without committing to a full costume.

17. Twisted Crown Braid with Ear Cuffs

This one leans hard into the accessory game. A twisted crown braid — using simple two-strand twists instead of a full braid — paired with decorative ear cuffs creates a fast, low-effort elven look that still photographs beautifully. Works on medium to long hair, any texture.

Every face shape wears this comfortably since the twist sits close to the head. This is one of the quickest options on the list, and the ear cuffs do most of the visual “elf” work for you. Great for conventions where you don’t have hours to spend on hair.

18. Elf Pixie Cut with Slicked Sides

For those with short hair, don’t worry — I haven’t forgotten you. A pixie cut with slicked sides and a bit of textured height on top creates a sleek, almost otherworldly elf look. This works specifically on short, straight to slightly wavy hair.

Oval and heart faces suit this cut particularly well. A strong-hold pomade smooths the sides while a texturizing paste adds definition on top. This is about as low-maintenance as elf hairstyles get — a five-minute morning routine, tops.

19. Braided Bun with Metallic Hair Accessories

Closing out the list, a simple braided bun dressed up with metallic combs, cuffs, or thread-wrapped strands turns an ordinary updo into something fit for elven royalty. Works on medium to long hair, any texture, though thicker hair holds the bun shape longer without extra pins.

Long and oval faces look especially elegant with this one. Wrap thin metallic thread or ribbon around small sections before braiding for a subtle shimmer effect. Ideal for formal fantasy events, bridal styling, or a dramatic convention entrance.

Elf Hairstyle Comparison by Hair Type and Occasion

Hairstyle	Best Hair Type	Face Shape	Styling Time	Maintenance
Braided Crown	Medium-thick	All shapes	20–25 min	Medium
Double Dutch Braids	Straight-wavy	Round, oval	15 min	Low
Half-Up Braid	Any	Square, heart	10 min	Low
Fishtail Ponytail	Medium-long	Oval, long	15–20 min	Medium
Space Buns	Thick, medium	Heart, diamond	15 min	Low
Milkmaid Braids	Long	Round, square	20 min	Medium
Waterfall Braid	Wavy, curly	Oval, heart	25 min	High
Warrior Micro-Braids	Thick, coarse	All shapes	30–45 min	Low (multi-day)
Low Bun with Wrap	Straight	Long, oval	15 min	Medium
Pixie with Slicked Sides	Short, straight	Oval, heart	5 min	Low

Definitions Worth Knowing Before You Start

Fantasy Elf Hair
: Loose, textured styles inspired by movie and fantasy-novel elves — braids, waves, and buns that look effortless but rely on prep work.

Holiday Elf Hair
: Structured, playful styles inspired by Christmas costume elves — tight pigtails, curls, and slicked-back buns.

Dutch Braid
: A braid where sections cross underneath one another, making the braid sit on top of the hair — ideal for crowns.

French Braid
: A braid where sections cross over one another, making it lie flat — better for close-to-scalp styles.

Hair Porosity
: How well your hair absorbs and holds moisture — high porosity hair holds curls longer but frizzes faster, which matters when choosing curl-heavy elf styles.

Tips for Success

• Prep hair the night before with a light leave-in conditioner if you’re braiding — freshly washed hair is often too slippery to hold shape.
• Use a texturizing spray at the roots for fine hair before any updo — it gives braids and buns something to grip.
• Always test your chosen style at least once before the actual event, especially if it involves a wig cap.
• Keep bobby pins that match your hair color on hand for touch-ups throughout the day.
• Set braids and buns with a light-hold hairspray, not a heavy one — heavy hold makes hair harder to brush out later.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Skipping texture prep. Freshly washed, silky hair slides out of braids fast. Wait a day or use texturizing spray first.
• Overloading with product. Too much gel or hairspray looks stiff on camera and under stage lighting. Less is more.
• Ignoring face shape. A style that adds height might not suit a longer face. Match the style to your shape using the table above.
• Rushing the braid tension. Braids that are too tight cause headaches by hour three; too loose and they fall apart. Aim for firm but comfortable.
• Forgetting heat protectant. Curling wand styles without heat protectant lead to dry, frizzy ends by the end of the night.

Elf hairstyles offer something for nearly every hair type, occasion, and skill level, whether you’re chasing a woodland-elf braid for a convention or a playful pigtail look for a holiday party. Pick the style that matches your hair texture and face shape, prep with the right products, and you’ll have a look that holds up from morning photos to late-night festivities.