7 Simple Curly Hairstyles to Rock During the Holidays

The holiday season offers plenty of opportunities to get dolled up to celebrate. We apply the most dramatic makeup looks and change up our coifs (with sparkling accessories to boot) for all the special occasions on our social agendas. While some might consider this time of year to be blowout season, centering around straighter, smoother styles, there are also plenty of ways to highlight textured tresses. To get into the spirit of the season, a few of our favorite celebrity stylists shared their go-to holiday hair ideas, with a variety of curl patterns in mind.

1. Serious Sparkle: This crystal-encrusted look that Vernon Francois crafted for Amandla Stenberg is sure to steal the spotlight without much effort. “This is an amazing way to upgrade your ponytail by using accessories on the front part of your head,” he says. To nail the look for yourself, slick your strands back into a high pony with a little bit of gel and tease out the texture of your tail. “Remember to give lots of volume to the ponytail, this makes for a better statement,” he says. Finish the look with lots of crystal-covered bobby pins, like the Kitsch X Justine Marjan Classic Rhinestone Bobby Pins ($49) or the Sincerely Jules by Scünci Crystal And Pearl Bobby Pins ($8). (Photo via Amanda Edwards/WireImage/Getty)

2. All Tied Up: Scarves are synonymous with the season, but they can also serve as an exceptional accessory for your hair, according to New York-based stylist and Ouidad Curl expert Jessica O’Brien. To achieve a style like this one that Crystal Starr wore, start with damp hair and slather on a layer of Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream ($26) and add the Moisturizing Styling Gel ($26) on top. Diffuse hair until it’s dry and add sheen with Ouidad’s Shine Glaze Serum ($20). Next, slick the sides with the curl cream, section out the bang, and brush the rest of the hair into a loose ponytail using a WetBrush Shine Enhancer brush ($12). “A quick way to get smooth hair after it’s [been] styled is to run hot water over a boar bristle brush,” she notes. “The wet brush helps to smooth the hair back nicely.” Loosely wrap a hair tie or elastic around the hair once and finish by adding a headband or silk scarf — like the AEO Blush Velvet Headband ($13) — that matches your ensemble. (Photo via Allen Berezovsky/WireImage/Getty Images)

3. Haute Half Up, Half Down: This versatile ‘90s look has proven its range from casual cool to formal and fabulous, depending on the outfit you pair it with. For Janet Mock’s turn on the red carpet, stylist Andrew Fitzsimmons prepped her curls by applying TIGI Catwalk Curls Rock Amplifier ($19) before drying them with a diffuser. After sectioning the hair from ear to ear, he smoothed the top half into a small ponytail, adding a little ORS Olive Oil Edge Control Gel ($5) to tame any flyaways. With a spritz of hairspray, he finger-combed the rest of her curls to boost body. But the pièce de résistance came courtesy of a Chloe + Isabel Bun Cuff ($48) used to cover the ponytail’s hair tie. “[It] gives this look a little extra festive touch,” he says. (Photo via Andrew Fitzsimmons)

4. Basket-Weaved Bobby Pins: According to Creme of Nature stylist Kara Williams, the lead-up to the holidays is the best time to go red. In fact, that’s how she started this look with a bit of the brand’s Moisture Rich Hair Color with Shea Butter ($6) in Vivid Red. While you can work with your own natural texture, you can also change up your curl pattern by applying the Heat Protector Smooth & Shine Blow Out Creme ($7) before blow-drying it straight. After drying, curl your tresses with a wand and break them up a bit with the Coconut Milk Essential 7 Treatment Oil ($6). Next, use the Coconut Milk Edge Tamer ($7) to smooth the right side of the hair, securing it in place with gold accent pins. Finally, apply the edge tamer over what’s already been slicked down, creating an eye-catching basket weave effect secured with more gold pins. (Photo via Creme of Nature)

5. Split Decision: If you prefer something a tad more low key, this look that Jessica Williams recently wore can “add a little holiday spirit or ‘living the best life’ flair” throughout the year, according to celeb stylist Tym Wallace, whose work has been seen on the likes of Taraji P. Henson, Tiffany Haddish, and Mary J. Blige. After washing and conditioning, he suggests starting by making a deep side part and then applying Creme of Nature’s Pure Honey Moisturizing Whip Twisting Cream ($8) to damp hair and using the Texturizing Curl Setting Lotion ($8) as you two-strand twist the hair. Once dry, release the twists with your fingers and use a pick to define the parted hair, combing along each side of the part to create stacked coils or fluff them out further for added volume. Finish the look with a touch of the Pure Honey Moisture Infusion Edge Control ($5) for added hold. (Photo via Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images)

6. Simple Yet Sophisticated: Stylist Eloise Cheung, who counts Awkwafina, Victoria Justice, and Chavi St. Hill as her clients, offers an elegant updo idea that looks similar to Zazie Beetz’s that you can achieve when you’re in a time crunch. Begin by prepping damp curls with a dollop of John Masters Organics Volumizing Foam ($28) and diffusing with the T3 Micro Cura Luxe Dryer ($285) and Soft Curl Diffuser ($30). Once fully dry, pull the hair into a loose ponytail just below the crown and begin to twist into a bun, leaving the ends out. Next, secure the bun with French hairpins and arrange the curls to your liking, pulling a few shorter pieces out to frame the face. To lock everything in place, finish with a blast of R+Co’s Outer Space Hair Spray ($17). “It will make your look last until the end of the holiday party,” Cheung says. (Photo via Hector Retamal/AFP/Getty Images)

7. Gold Standard: Ifyou have braids, twists, or another protective style to keep your ends intact, a bit of gold can add extra glamour to your holiday party look. Need proof? Check out how Francois added some light-reflecting accents to pair with Lupita Nyong’o’s gown. “I knew we wanted to use gold string [but] in what capacity that was not clear until we started binding it around a handful of the Senegalese twists,” he shares. “This is also a great look if you’re at the end of wearing this hairstyle [because it’s] such a [gorgeous] way to take it to the next level before you take them out.” Gather a few braids or twists into one-inch sections throughout the hair before wrapping Magic Collection’s Gold Braid String ($1) around each section, crisscrossing down the length (closely or more spaced out, you choose), and triple knotting at the ends to tie it off securely. (Photo via Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

From Kamala Harris-inspired bobs to silky Lindsay Lohan-esque tresses, the season of the silk press (or straighter hairstyles) is officially here! It's been fun watching watching TikTok videos of women going to the salon to get their hair straightened, but it made me ask myself if people truly know how to maintain this style at home. It's one thing to watch a licensed hairstylist work their magic, but the upkeep may not be as straightforward for some people!

Luckily, celebrity hairstylists, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Natalie Lamorena, are here to answer all my burning questions. Sturdivant-Drew has over 20 years of experience working in the film and commercial industry, styling clients such as Kerry Washington, Lucy Liu, and Ashley Graham. She also worked on TV series like Suits and the Oscar-nominated film Ray. Lamorena owns Polished Pub Hair & Nail Bar— not to mention she invented the viral "Headicure" service for clients who love the idea of getting a manicure while receiving the best blowout of their lives. And with all that experience, the two of them have plenty to say about silk presses.

TL;DR

  • You should rely on professionals for the majority of your silk presses, but you can maintain them at home with "the right tools and products."
  • Different hair types require different temperatures and products — be sure to research and check with your hair dresser to make sure your treating your hair the right way.
  • Don't get a silk press if you've recently straightened your hair.
  • Heat protectant is key for any silk press or hair straightening.
  • Naturally curly or textured hair should limit silk presses to once or twice a month; other hair types should keep it to no more than once a week.
  • Be sure to wrap your hair correctly and use a bonnet to maintain your style.

How do you know when to straighten your hair at home or go to the salon?

Sephora

Desperate times call for desperate measures when you're due for a hair appointment and can't book one. I'm sure all of us have turned into an armchair hairstylist by giving ourselves a trim, quick haircut, or dye job. You've probably even watched a few tutorials about how to give yourself a homemade silk press or blowout. I know I've recently purchased a few things to help me maintain my hair at home, but should we be straightening our hair at home?

Lamorena says, "While it’s possible to straighten hair at home, I’d recommend going to a professional for the best results. Stylists know how to work with different hair types, adjust heat settings accordingly, and use high-quality products that protect your hair." If we decide to forego a stylist's expertise, she says we can "accidentally cause damage with uneven heat or over-processing."

Sturdivant-Drew agrees that it's best to see a stylist "for the first few silk presses," but it's not impossible to safely straighten your own hair. "If you have the right tools and products, along with research, you can achieve this hairstyle at home," she says.

How should different hair types approach a silk press?

Sephora

Just like everyone doesn't have the same skin complexion or undertones, hair types can differ too. This means someone with a fine hair isn't always going to have the same routine as someone with thicker strands — which is why all silk presses aren't the same. "There's definitely no one-size-fits-all approach. The technique used depends on the client’s hair type and texture," Lamorena confirms. This isn't to scare you, however!

Sturdivant-Drew says, "The process of getting a silk press is pretty standard — prepping the hair with shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant, followed by straightening with a blow dryer and flat iron, and finishing with a lightweight oil or serum."

She and Lamorena do agree that some hair textures require a little more than others though. Lamorena says you could only need "a simple blowout and flat iron" while someone may need "more intensive treatments like keratin or a Brazilian blowout for longer-lasting results." If your hair is very curly or textured — and you're ultimately not seeing the results you want — she says chemically straightening your hair is another option. However, Sturdivant-Drew reminds me, "Stylists usually adjust heat settings based on their client's hair health and texture."

Either way, we always recommend you check with your stylist before making any permanent or lasting decisions!

What should you avoid doing before getting a silk press?

Mike Jones

Getting a silk press doesn't always involve chemicals, but there are still things you need to avoid before your appointment. Unlike the steps you may follow at home, Lamorena wants you to "avoid loading your hair with a bunch of heavy products " because this can "make the straightening process less effective and lead to more heat being used" than you need. Also, she doesn't want you to wash your hair because "natural oils protect your hair from the heat."

It probably goes without saying, but you also shouldn't book a silk press appointment if you've already straightened your hair. "...that can make it harder for the stylist to work with and could increase the risk of damage," says Lamorena. Besides that, Sturdivant-Drew advises against "using color or relaxers should be avoided before getting a silk press" because "this could lead to a lot of breakage."

What increases a risk of heat damage with this style?

Amazon

As gorgeous as silk presses are, it's possible to use "too much heat," according to Lamorena. She says, "People tend to crank up the heat on their flat irons and blow dryers, but that can seriously damage the hair cuticle, especially if your hair is fine or already fragile." Something I've learned over time is that a licensed and experienced hair stylist has better knowledge of what's really going on with our hair. They're able to have a clearer view of your scalp, roots, split ends, and more.

The other thing that contribute to damage is not protecting your hair. Lamorena implores that heat protectant products are "are crucial for minimizing damage." Even if you use the right products, you could be straightening your hair way too often. It's normal to want to have straighter hairstyles for a little while, but you should keep in mind that you don't want to overdo it.

"Not prepping or using a heat protectant on your hair will cause a lot of damage. Silk presses require a lot of heat, so it's best to use good heat protectant," adds Sturdivant-Drew. She personally prefers to use Smooth Moisture's Thermal Hair Strengthener because "their system is built for silk presses specifically." She loves that it truly upholds against heat and "adds a nice shine to the hair" once you apply it.

When would it be recommended that a client avoid getting a silk press?

Kaboompics.com

Here comes the not so fun part. As much as you don't want to hear this, your hair may not be able to handle getting a silk press right now. "If your hair is already damaged, it's best to hold off on straightening. Hair that's brittle, dry, or over-processed can be further damaged by heat styling," says Lamorena. What you can do in the meantime is help strengthen your hair by giving yourself "deep conditioning treatments," according to Lamorena.

This is completely up to you and your stylish, but Lamorena suggests staying away from having your hair straightened "during really humid months...if you're prone to frizz" because "the style may not last as long."

Is there a limit to how often clients should receive a silk press?

Tomaz Barcellos

I'm not an expert, but even I know too much of something can become a bad thing. In the case of using excess heat, I can imagine the implications of that over time. Lamorena says, "There's definitely a limit. You don't want to be straightening your hair too often," and shares her rule of thumb for textures:

  • Naturally Curly or Textured Hair — Limit silk presses to once or twice a month to avoid weakening the hair or losing your curl pattern.
  • Other Hair Types — Keep it to no more than once a week.

All hair types are capable of experiencing "long-term damage," but giving "your hair a break between sessions helps maintain its health," Lamorena says.

Sturdivant-Drew stresses, "Taking a break between silk presses is important in allowing your hair to recover and maintain the health of your hair. I recommend limiting your silk presses to every 6-8 weeks."

How can clients maintain this style at home during the fall?

Sephora

Even though cooler temperatures means you won't have to fight against possible frizz, you still have to take care of your silk press. "Maintaining a straight style during the fall can be tricky with cooler weather, wind, and dryness in the air, but it’s doable," says Lamorena. She suggests that you use:

  • Use a flat iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid unnecessary damage. Tools like the Dyson Corrale or GHD Platinum+ are solid options
  • A wide-tooth comb is great for detangling without pulling or breaking the hair

"Keeping up with a regular routine and using the right tools and products can really help your style last, even through the challenges that fall weather brings," she says.

No matter what your hair type is, Sturdivant-Drew suggests "wrapping your hair correctly and using a bonnet" as they're "key to maintaining" a silk press. Similar to what Lamorena said earlier, Sturdivant-Drew believes "humidity is your worst enemy...so try to avoid humid environments as best as possible!"

Shop Other Expert Silk Press Recommendations

Amazon

Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer

"Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Some favorites include Oribe Royal Blowout and Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," she says.

Amazon

Moroccanoil Treatment

"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.

Amazon

John Frieda Frizz Ease

Another option you can use to beat the frizz is John Frieda's Frizz Ease. It's another one of Lamorena's recommendations that will "help seal in moisture and keep your style sleek even in windy fall weather."

Amazon

Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime

Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."

Amazon

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

"To extend your style without washing, use dry shampoo. This is a great option to absorb oil without having to restyle with heat," she says.

Our Silk Press Recommendations

Amazon

Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Serum

This anti-frizz serum will not only keep humidity from messing up your silk press, but it'll help improve your hair's elasticity over time and will even add an extra boost of shine to it.

Amazon

Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser

If you decide to straighten your hair at home, you need a good blow dryer that'll work with your texture. Wavytalk has an inexpensive option that comes with a comb attachment, diffuser, and nozzle to help you dry your hair no matter what style you're wearing. It also has the right amount of heat settings that'll lessen the chance you cause any damage.

Amazon

CHI 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant

Not only do I personally love this heat protectant, so does our Affiliate Writer Meredith Holser! It's been our go-to product whenever we straighten our hair because it truly does a great job of protecting our hair from heat and has a slightly fragrant smell we can't get enough of. In my experience, a little goes a long way so you'll get plenty of uses out of it.

Follow our Amazon storefront to see which hair products we'll always keep in our bathrooms.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

We love our families, we really do, but one of the best parts of growing up is getting to make yourself a new friend-family to celebrate with, whether it's your college buddies or the group you do happy hour with after work. Think Galentines Day and, our more timely fave, Friendsgiving. Whether you're looking forward to Turkey Day at your in-laws' or not, you can always count on your squad for a killer festive time, especially with these 19 Friendsgiving ideas.

Share The Wealth

Fauxels/Pexels

One of the most stressful things about big holiday dinners is the pressure to host the whole thing, from prep to table. You need production calendars, ideally a second oven, and three extra sets of hands. Not so with Friendsgiving! You roast the bird and let your buds bring the rest, potluck-style. Then, let them go around the table and present their dish. Make them really sell it and brag about their sweet cooking skills.

Game of Football or Soccer

Mizuno K/Pexels

If you want to take inspiration from an episode of Friends, a game of football or soccer is always a good idea. Just don't let things get *too* competitive!

Go For a Walk

Thirdman/Pexels

Nothing makes you feel better after a heavy meal than going for a walk. Whether it be a beach, a park, or just around the neighborhood, grab your friends and walk and talk.

Caravan Draw Together Thanksgiving Set

Brit + Co

Print out an epic tablecloth that you can color in, or just put butcher paper, crayons, and paints on the table and let your friends go to town decorating. We bet they wouldn’t even be opposed to making turkeys with their handprints.

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

IMDB

Age is just a number, and the Peanuts gang will live in our hearts forever. Watch the movie on the big screen with all your friend and reminisce about Thanksgivings from your younger days.

Macy's Parade Drinking Game

Cottonbro Studio/Pexels

When it comes to the Macy’s parade, some things are a given: There will be a marching band from the Midwest, there will be floats, and there will likely be some country star wearing a cowboy hat. Lay out the rules, and then get ready to do some pre-dinner drinking. If you want to save that valuable stomach real estate for food, make it a workout game rather than a drinking game. Think jumping jacks, burpees, and plank (while you’re doing that, we’ll be in the corner, thank you very much).

Card Games

Yan Krukau/Pexels

If you’re too full to swing a stick around, board games or card games are always a safe bet. Maybe playing Cards Against Humanity might seem slightly wrong on this most thankful of days, but we do promise that it will be fun. You can even get in the spirit of the upcoming season by adding in the Holiday Pack.

Potluck Dessert

Ron Lach

Invite each guest to bring a family favorite, provide toppings (hello, whipped cream), and dig in.

Booze Tasting

Pexels

If you consider yourself a connoisseur of a certain elixir, there’s no better time to show off than the holidays. Pick the perf wine to go with your turkey, showcase the beer you’ve been brewing, or tell the crew a thing or two about whiskey.

Gratitude List

Unlike birthday wishes, you can totally tell people what you’re thankful for. In fact, sharing in your gratitude on a group list is a great way to discover what else you may be grateful for.

To-Go Pie

ROMAN ODINTSOV

Have your guests help assemble the containers so that at the end of the night everyone gets to bring a slice or two (or three) home.

Thanksgiving Bingo

This fun printable is a great place to start, but if your squad has their own particularities, you may want to create your own. Suzie gets sloshed on rosé? Check. Tom quotes Charlie Brown? Check.

Giant Dominos

Alena Darmel

Set up lawn games.You can easily play an outdoor version of dominoes while sipping a cocktail in your Turkey Day best, or just watch everyone else run around the yard.

Appetizers

Wendy Wei/Pexels

You don’t need to wait until the afternoon to celebrate Turkey Day. Starting the festivities with some out of the ordinary thanksgiving treats before you all head to your dinners is a great way to say you’re thankful for each other.

Photo Area

Cottonbro Studio/Pexels

Instead of one big awkward photo, you can take all the cute photos you want in a designated photo area. DIY an ombre leaf wall and bring in some fun props like a turkey leg, wishbones, and more!

Have dessert outside

Aline Viana/Pexels

While having your entire Thanksgiving feast probably isn't feasible, take some of the fun outside when it comes to dessert! This allows you to get some fresh air, put on your cutest chunky sweater, and enjoy the fall weather.

Decorate Cookies

Roman Odinstov/Pexels

This activity is fun and tasty! What could be better than that? Play some music, light some fall-scented candles, and watch everyone have a blast.

Gossip Girl Thanksgiving Episode Marathon

Cottonbro Studio/Pexels

Arguably the best Thanksgiving episodes come from Gossip Girl! Queue them all up and sit back and watch all the drama unfold.

Make Hot Chocolate

Cottonbro Studio/Pexels

Nothing is cozier than hot chocolate! Put on a holiday movie, distribute hot chocolate, and have a great time.

If you need ideas for your menu, check out our easy and affordable Friendsgiving recipes!

This post has been updated.

It's getting to be that time of year where everyone's looking to switch up their hairroutine just a bit — it's the perfect time to try someone slightly new to welcome the new season. But if you're anything like me, then you're portably looking for something that is fun and new but still super low maintenance. I just want to be able to get a haircut that makes styling my hair much easier, not harder — is that too much to ask?

We've all gotten those haircuts that ended up being way too much work in the end, so we asked the experts to get some low maintenance hair inspo for those of us that have medium length hair. We talked toWilliam Whatley(celebrity hairstylist), Katelyn Ellsworth(The Roslyn salon), Bryce Scarlett (celebrity hairstylist), Nickie Alton (Master Stylist), Rachel Eggie (Salon owner), and Terri Rehkopf (Ippodaro Salon) for their hot takes and opinions. Keep scrolling to read their best tips!

Textured Curtain Bangs

Instagram/@brycescarlett

This textured curtain bang — where your bangs are parted down the middle and styled with soft, feathered layers that frame the face — is a super versatile haircut, as shown on Daisy Edgar Jones. These are definitely an upgrade from the classic curtain bangs you may be used to seeing all over the internet lately!

Celeb hairstylist, Bryce Scarlett, let us know that the texture adds movement and a natural, effortless vibe to the overall look — making it super easy to style! The effortless look matches the vibe of the season this fall.

Long Bob

Claire Craig

Celebrity Hair Stylist William Whatley said that transitioning to a medium length bob is going to give you so many options, whether it’s layered or all one length. And since it's not too short, Whatley mentioned that you'll be able to wear it up or pull it back, freeing your face on those days when you just can't deal with it in your face. Whether you have a fringe with the bob or you don’t have a fringe with the bob, it allows you to create some fun options with this particular hairstyle

As one of William's signature cuts, he particularly loves doing a very layered bob to create a lot more movement with just a blow dryer and a toss of the head. You get a nice style with volume by styling it that way! However, with a bob that's all one length, you can just let it dry and go. We love the sounds of that!

Long Layers

Nickie Alton

Another amazing style for our girls with medium length hair? Some long layers. Hair stylist, Nickie Alton recommends these because of how they make your hair flow when styling. According to Alton, these long layers will help to add some “movement” in your every day style.

Long layers also tend to grow out seamlessly, giving a more effortless lived in look. This style is one of my personal go-tos because of the endless styling options — you can wear it messy and lived in, straight, or curled. The world is your styling oyster!

Textured Short-Medium Length Cut 

Nickie Alton

Alton also recommends this short and sweet hairstyle! It's on the shorter side of medium length hair, and we're fully obsessed with it! This haircut will really help to frame your face, and define your features. Plus, with the texture from the layers, it will be so easy to style! Easy maintenance = big win for us lazy girls!

Soft Layers

Rachel Eggie

Rachel Eggie Gibbs, Owner of EGGIE Salon Studio, recommends these beautiful soft layers and long bangs to help enhance your natural hair texture. This means that you can embrace your natural wave or curl pattern without extensive styling, making it easy to manage. So this is curly-haired girl approved, which we love to hear! This also require less trims, because the more it grows out, the easier it is to maintain!

Light, Layered Strands

Katelyn Ellsworth

Katelyn Ellsworth, of The Roslyn salon, also gave us some great tips for medium length of hair. She let us know that you want to cut for the texture of their hair specifically. If you consider yourself low maintenance, then you're most likely not doing a lot of heat styling on a regular basis, so you want to cut your hair keeping that in mind, too. (AKA get a hair cut that is great for air drying!)

Given the unique texture needs, these layers will differ from person to person! Face framing layers are good that fall naturally and create some style without daily effort. Lightly layered strands are also a great call as these don't require a lot of styling. Whatever you go for, this easy look is A+ for sure!

Blunt Cut

Katelyn Ellsworth

Lastly, Ellsworth recommended this blunt cut for low maintenance gals! She says that this cut is also a great option because it makes your hair look healthy and thick without having to style! I, personally, love getting a blunt cut because it makes my hair look so much more luscious and full!

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Don’t tell the fam, but Friendsgiving may have topped Thanksgiving as your favorite holiday. There’s no feeling like you have to one-up your cousin, you can have that extra glass of affordable fall wine without judgment, and you get to eat food that you *actually* like (sorry, stuffing). Easy Friendsgiving recipes are easy to come by, so when you’re assigned the appetizer, there’s no excuse not to rock it. Get the table set and throw your apron on, because these easy and elegant appetizers will be the talk of your squad until Friendsgiving 2025.

Brit + Co

Cantaloupe, Prosciutto and Rosemary on Triscuit crackers

The combo of smooth fruit, salty prosciutto, and fresh herbs (plus the crunch of your favorite cracker) is literally mouth-watering.

Brit + Co

Crescent Roll Cornucopia

This isn't your average cheese-board. The DIY cornucopia is easier than it looks and it's both delicious and Instagrammable.

Ron Lach / PEXELS.

The Easiest Baked Brie

Brie is a great app because it goes so well with so many other things: veggies, meat, fruit, crackers. You name it, this melty cheese will pair perfectly.

Half Baked Harvest

Baked Gruyère in Pastry with Rosemary and Garlic

Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe a cinch, and there's nothing better than when it's wrapped around melted gruyere with honey, rosemary, and garlic and baked.

Feed Me Phoebe

Warm Butternut Squash Dip With Gruyère and Pistachios

Does anything sound more autumnal than butternut squash dip? Negative. Make it cheesy with Gruyère and add a salty crunch with pistachios.

Creme de la Crumb

Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad

Salad is a necessity for your Friendsgiving meal, and this one makes a great first course. Good luck trying to keep everyone from filling up before dinner.

Reluctant Entertainer

Apricot Ricotta Honey Basil Bites

If you have other dishes to prepare, no-cook appetizers are a great way to keep your guests satisfied without having to make more room in the oven. These ripe apricots are stuffed with honey-sweetened ricotta and topped with basil and tangy balsamic.

Fit Foodie Finds

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are definitely a love-it-or-hate-it veggie. Pro tip: If you wrap it in bacon, people will be a lot more likely to love them.

The Mediterranean Dish

French Baked Brie Recipe With Figs, Walnuts and Pistachios

When you’re planning out your perfect Friendsgiving menu, remember that you can’t go wrong with warmed Brie. Serve with your favorite multigrain crackers and watch it disappear before your eyes.

Happy Kitchen Rocks

Baked Figs With Goat Cheese

In just 15 minutes you could be serving your friends this luxurious hors d’oeuvre. Switch things up and stuff with your choice of blue cheese, goat cheese or ricotta.

Macheesmo

Bite-Sized Blooming Onions

Cipollini onions make the perfect miniature alternative to a big ol’ blooming onion. This way, everyone can have as many as they want without having to share.

Snixy Kiitchen

Butternut Squash Deviled Eggs With Bacon

Give your traditional deviled eggs a fall twist by adding butternut squash to your filling. Top with crispy bacon to balance the sweetness and add a smokey quality.

Chef in Training

Cranberry Orange Cheese Ball

This is *not* your grandma’s cheese ball. Cranberry and orange give it a seasonal flavor and sweetness that’ll rival the meal’s desserts.

Reluctant Entertainer

Honey Crisp and Goat Cheese Ladyfinger Crostini Appetizer

Did you think ladyfingers were only for tiramisu? Think again! Switch from your usual baguette crostini and top the cookies with apples and goat cheese.

The Pioneer Woman

Perfect Fall Cheese Board

Fruit, olives and Gouda — oh my! Building the perfect cheese board is an art you can master. Hint: Layering different textures and heights is key.

Parsnips and Pastries

Roasted Grape Crostini With Lemon Ricotta and Honey

Don’t underestimate the power of a honeyed crostini. When that warm grape pops in your mouth… pure bliss.

Real Simple Good

Mashed Sweet Potato Bacon Cups

If you can boil potatoes, you can make these cups. They require only six ingredients, and your squad is sure to fall in love with them. Winning!

NeightborFood

Parmesan Asparagus Tart

You *finally* have a reason to use that puff pastry in the freezer. Between the flaky crust and creamy Parmesan-ricotta topping, this may just be your new favorite starter.

Baked Samosas

Traditionally, samosas are made with sheet phyllo dough and folded into triangles. Opt for that if you have more time, or try a quick version using pre-made phyllo cups. (via Gimme Some Oven)

Nutmeg Nanny

Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups

These bite-size treats are as easy as sautéing the filling ingredients together and popping the filled cups in the oven to melt the cheese. They’re quick, foolproof and, most importantly, delicious.

As Easy As Apple Pie

Savory Pumpkin Hummus

Okay, you’re most likely going to have pumpkin pie for dessert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have pumpkin in your appetizer too. This hummus is ultra savory, so even if you don’t like pie, you’ll LOVE this.

Mom on Timeout

Easy Slow Cooker Apple Cider Maple Meatballs

Using frozen meatballs and a slow cooker saves you a ton of time come party day. Don’t be afraid of them turning out bland, though. Apples, apple cider and maple syrup make that impossible.

The View from Great Island

Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Bread

You can’t go wrong with a classic flavor combination like spinach and artichoke. Stuff in a hollowed loaf of Italian bread and slice to serve.

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy Friendsgiving appetizer recipe ideas.

This post has been updated.

Friendsgiving season is coming folks! And if you have one on the books, but have no idea what to cook, we have you covered. From deliciously cheesy veggies to a healthy take on everyone's favorite spuds, we're rounding-up easy recipes to make that won't weigh heavy on your pocketbook. Take a look through to see the yummy ensembles you should be whipping up!

Brit + Co

Drop Biscuits

Because everyone needs a carb to soup all those juicy drippings on your plate. This 'The Final Table' winning recipe does the job.

Brit + Co

Smashed Brussel Sprouts

Not crazy about veggies? These greens will change your mind. Topped with cheese, chives, and a nice crisp topping, they're extra yummy (and keto-friendly!)

Brit + Co

Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas

Sure this one is a bit non-traditional, but your vegetarian friends will love it. Plus they make the perfect topping to nearly any dish (who needs croutons when you have these anyways?!).

Brit + Co

Roasted Broccoli

Puts some greens on your plate with this holy-grail recipe. Trust us: It's sooo easy!

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Polenta

Dust off the ole' Instant Pot will this delectable fall polenta. Filled with butternut squash and lots of parmesan you (and your besties!) will quickly fall in *love*.

Brit + Co

Roasted Sweet Potato

Just when you thought you knew how to roast sweet potatoes, this recipe came along. And boy are we taking notes!

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Be the friend that brings the booze. This autumn-themed mulled wine drink will warm everyone's spirits.

Brit + Co

Fall Quinoa Salad

If you're designated salad duty, take a twist on it by packing it full-on quinia, pomegranate, and a tangy dressing. Yum!

Brit + Co

Cheesy Pasta Bake

When the temperatures drop, your friends will be extra thankful for this soul-warming, cheesy pasta.

Brit + Co

Spinach + Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole

No time? No worries! This freezer-friendly pasta bake complete with pillowy gnocchi, creamy mushrooms and spinach is super easy to create ahead of time, without taking away from any day-of deliciousness.

Brit + Co

Cheddar, Jalapeno, and Chive Biscuits

Upgrade your biscuits with "addicting" flavors of cheddar, chives, and jalapeños. Pro tip: Double the batch to ensure you have more than one for everyone!

Brit + Co

Keto Cheese Ball

Your hostess will thank you extra for showing up with an app to tide guests over until the main meal is served. Packed with yummy baked potato fixings, it's got an extra "kick" to make it comparable to store bought options. Plus it's keto-friendly... you can't go wrong with that!

Brit + Co

Cheesy Keto Asparagus

Keep the keto ideas coming, am I right?! Make this popular Pinterest vegetable dish loaded with garlic and extra cheese. Yes please!

Brit + Co

Yogurt Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Pack a 'lil extra protein into your mashed spuds (with the bonus of making them extra creamy!). Who knew yogurt would soon become your go-to secret ingredient?

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Toffee

And let's not forget about the sweets! Make a batch of this pumpkin spice-flavored treat as a great take-home option for overstuffed guests! (Just be sure to save some extra for yourself!)

Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty Thanksgiving recipes!

This post has been updated.