A formal event does not automatically mean a stiff, sprayed updo. This collection of eighteen looks covers the full range, from classic structured styles to softer options that still feel special. For long hair there are chignons in several moods (messy and tucked, twisted and curled, or paired with a teased pompadour), a loose low bridal bun with face-framing strands and a romantic retro updo. Braided choices include a bohemian fishtail crown, a side plait that wraps around the front of the head and princess braids over loose curls.
Shorter hair gets plenty of attention too. A flicked-back stacked bob, a waved long bob, beachy waves on an ultra-short bob and a voluminous blowout for fine, medium-length hair all prove you do not need length to look polished. For natural hair, a sleek bun piled at the crown and wrapped with a thin braid and pearls gives a refined finish.
When choosing, think about the neckline of your outfit, the length of the event and the weather. Updos show off statement earrings and high necklines, while downdos and half-up looks suit strapless or open-back dresses.
1. Messy, Tucked Chignon
Loosening up a classic chignon makes it modern and extra full. Mist the hair with texturising spray, coil it at the back, tuck the ends in near the neck and gently pull at the bun until you reach the volume you like. It works especially well on long, thick hair.
Inspiration: @Instagram
2. Loose and Lovely Bridal Updo
Elegant hair does not have to be complicated. Natural waves are drawn back and pinned into a soft, low bun with a lifted front, and a few strands are left out for romance. Add a headband or tiara and the look is ready for a wedding aisle.
Inspiration: @Instagram
3. Fairytale Hairstyle
This ethereal half updo is built by securing small sections with clear elastics, then tying neighbouring sections together and repeating the gather. The layered pattern looks intricate and has a fairy-tale quality perfect for formal events.
Inspiration: @Instagram
4. Soft, Curled Locks for Medium Hair
Formal does not have to mean an updo. Curl medium layered hair with a one-inch iron, then rake your fingers through so the waves soften and fall naturally. A volumising, strong-hold hairspray locks in the shape for a night out.
Inspiration: @Instagram
5. Sweet and Simple Beach Waves
Simple can be stunning. On a very short balayage bob, curl the hair with a flat iron but leave the ends straight. The result is natural, beachy waves that look effortless and pretty for a dressy occasion.
Inspiration: @hairby_chrissy
6. Twisted and Curled Low Chignon
Chignons have long been a favourite for formal hair because they elevate a look instantly. A twisted and curled low chignon is a reliable classic, polished enough for weddings or black-tie events and comfortable to wear all night.
Inspiration: @Instagram
7. Quick and Easy Sideswept Curls
Letting curls fall to one side shows off length and colour. Make a deep side part, curl with a 1¼-inch iron and set with spray wax or hairspray. Do not brush the curls out; keeping their shape is essential for this look.
Inspiration: @Instagram
8. Sleek and Glamorous Updo
Piling natural hair into a sleek bun at the crown creates a regal, Cinderella-inspired look. Wrap a thin braid around the bun and add a jewelled headband or a strand of pearls for elegant flair.
Inspiration: @Instagram
9. Everflowing Side Braid
Bohemian plaits suit long hair at formal events. This one sweeps across the hairline and then travels down one side, a pretty match for a printed chiffon dress and a nice way to show off braiding skills.
Inspiration: @Instagram
10. Bohemian Fishtail Crown
For a boho bride or guest, a fishtail crown braid is effortlessly elegant. A metallic headpiece adds a touch of Grecian goddess glamour that pairs well with flowing dresses. Pull the braid loops wider before pinning so the crown looks full and soft rather than tight.
Inspiration: @Instagram
11. Undone Braided Updo
Messy buns can look surprisingly refined. A loose, undone braided chignon complements formal attire beautifully, proving that relaxed texture and elegance can coexist when the shape is controlled. Braid the lengths loosely, coil them at the nape and pin, then tease out a few wisps around the face.
Inspiration: @Instagram
12. Perfectly Waved Long Bob
Short hair has more formal options than you might think. Loose, voluminous curls created with a straightener suit a long bob or shorter cut. Keep them slightly undone so the look stays modern rather than doll-like.
Inspiration: @Instagram
13. Simple and Flawless Blowout
A good blowout is underrated. Fine, thin hair benefits from a sleek blow-dried finish that adds natural body, and lightly teasing the crown gives extra lift for a formal look on medium-length hair. Finish with a shine spray so it catches the light.
Inspiration: @Instagram
14. Pretty Pompadour and Low Bun
Tease the front section into a pompadour and smooth the sides back to upgrade a low bun. It is chic and polished; tame any flyaways with a little wax or gel, since formal styles look best when sleek.
Inspiration: @Instagram
15. Romantic Retro Hairstyle
Retro styles make great formal looks. Curled hair is gathered into a loose, messy updo and held with a thin double-strand headband, giving a ’20s-inspired vintage feel that suits beaded or drop-waist dresses. Leave a few curled tendrils loose at the temples to soften it.
Inspiration: @Instagram
16. Tangled and Twisted Low Braid
Twisting sections and weaving them together creates a low braid that looks complex but is easier than it appears. Combined with a fishtail, it suits thick, long hair best and brings plenty of texture to an elegant outfit.
Inspiration: @Instagram
17. Flicked Back Stacked Bob
Short hair can still go formal. Blow-dry a stacked bob with a large round brush, flicking the ends outward slightly, and focus on lifting the crown so the cut looks full and polished. A smoothing cream on the ends adds shine without stiffness.
Inspiration: @Instagram
18. Princess Braids With Curls
Princess braids make a sweet accessory for loose, flowing curls. Two overlapping braids frame the head in a half updo that is ideal for garden weddings and outdoor celebrations. Curl the hair before braiding so the loose lengths keep their bounce.
Inspiration: @Instagram
Prepping hair the day before a formal event
- Wash the evening before rather than the morning of; slightly lived-in hair grips pins and holds curls far better.
- Skip heavy conditioner on the roots so volume is not weighed down.
- Do a trial run of any updo or accessory at least once, especially if you are styling it yourself.
- Gather supplies in advance: bobby pins matching your hair colour, clear elastics, texturising spray, a curling iron and a flexible hairspray.
Making a formal style last until the last dance
Curls hold longest when each section cools completely before you touch it, so pin curls in place as they come off the iron and release them once cool. Build volume with dry texture spray rather than backcombing alone. Anchor updos with crossed pins at the base, and slide decorative pieces such as tiaras or pearl strands in at an angle so they rest against a pin. Carry a few spare pins and a travel-size spray in your bag for touch-ups.