A night out is a good excuse to wear something a little more considered than your everyday hair, but nobody wants to spend the whole evening worrying about pins. The eighteen styles here balance effort and staying power: a braided headband over loose waves, a voluminous wavy pony with a hidden lift, a high braided bun, a half-up fishtail, glam springy curls, a geometric highlighted bob, a big blonde topknot, a half-up bun for natural curls, a looped braided mohawk, a retro rope-braid updo, a curvy laced S-braid, a deconstructed low knot, a sleek pony with a leather crisscross, two low buns, a messy crown braid and a ring used in place of an elastic.
Pick a style that matches the plans as well as the outfit. Dinner and a show suits a polished updo or a sleek pony; a walk, a concert or anything outdoors calls for braids and buns that won’t collapse. Curly and coily hair often looks its best simply defined and lifted, while fine straight hair benefits from texture spray or curls before pinning.
1. Braided Headband
A small braid running across naturally wavy hair keeps the face open while showing off length. The result looks charming and effortless, as though it took almost no time. Loosen the braid slightly for a soft, romantic finish.
Inspiration: @jbraidsandbows
2. Wavy Voluminous Pony
A glamorous wavy pony suits an elegant evening. For extra lift, slide a small clip under the top section of the ponytail so it looks fuller and puffier. Light teasing at the crown creates the bouffant shape.
Inspiration: @kykhair
3. High Braided Bun
High updos look neat, smart and almost bridal. This bun wrapped with a braid complements a cocktail dress or evening gown and highlights the neck and face. Secure the braid around the bun with plenty of pins.
Inspiration: @lilithmoonlife
4. Half-Up Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braids are joined into a flat, flower-like bun while the rest of the hair flows freely. Curl a few strands or use sea salt spray for a natural boho finish. It feels romantic and feminine for an evening out.
Inspiration: @kassinka
5. Glam Springy Curls
Springy, glossy curls swept to one side are a classic choice for a night out. Use your favorite curling method, then finish with shine spray and firm-hold spray so the curls last through dinner and beyond.
Inspiration: @kykhair
6. Geometric Bob
Bob-wearers with bangs can enjoy date-night hair too. A geometric cropped bob with highlights shows how texture and color can create a modern, stylish look. Smooth the edges with a flat iron for crisp lines.
Inspiration: @salsalhair
7. Massive Bun
A massive high bun manages to feel simple yet sophisticated. It works with a fancy dress or a casual outfit and with bold or nude makeup alike. Set it with firm-hold spray so it doesn't need adjusting all night.
Inspiration: @kykhair
8. Half-Up Bun
Long, lush, naturally curly hair looks beautiful in a casual yet classy half-up bun. Elastics, pins and firm-hold spray let you make the bun any size, while the loose curls show off the richness of your texture.
Inspiration: @jazminenicolee
9. Braided Mohawk
Loops of braided hair form a daring mohawk updo for anyone who likes to stand out. It is bold, memorable and certain to attract attention. Tease each section slightly before pinning for fullness. Finish with a strong-hold spray.
Inspiration: @heatherchapmanhair
10. Smooth Waves
Smooth, loose waves with a deep side part give a relaxed, effortless mess that still looks deliberate. It is one of the easiest ways to look put together for a date. Finish with a light shine spray.
Inspiration: @kearybladel
11. Rope Braided Updo
A low rope-braided updo carries a retro mood and an air of mystery. Twist two sections around each other, then wrap the rope into a knot at the nape and pin it securely. Ideal with a vintage-style outfit.
Inspiration: @heatherchapmanhair
12. Fluffy Ponytail
On second-day hair or a busy evening, a fluffy bouffant pony is quick and confident. Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a more elegant finish. Teasing at the crown adds glamorous volume.
Inspiration: @natalieannehair
13. Laced S-Braid
A curving S-shaped waterfall braid laced through a half updo looks festive and sophisticated. It is easier to do at home than it appears; practice a few times before the night to master the snake-like pattern.
Inspiration: @n.starck
14. Lil Deconstructed Bun
A small deconstructed knot at the nape suits anyone who prefers casual hair. It looks simple but elegant, especially with smoky eyes and statement jewelry. Medium-length hair works best for this style. Pull out a few face-framing strands.
Inspiration: @brittsully
15. Sleek Pony with Crisscross
A sleek low ponytail gets a fashionable twist from a leather band crisscrossed down its length. Swap the leather for a silk ribbon if you want a softer, more feminine feel. Smooth the base with a light gel.
Inspiration: @hairwithlinda
16. Two Buns at Once
Two low buns side by side are simple to make at home with just a few pins, elastics and firm-hold spray. The pair looks original and playful, a sweet choice for a romantic evening. Place the buns at the nape for an elegant finish.
Inspiration: @taylor_lamb_hair
17. Braided Crown
A messy crown braid adds a touch of French chic to any evening. Braid around the head, pin the ends underneath and pull at the loops to make it fuller. Leave a few wisps loose around the face.
Inspiration: @brittsully
18. Rings Instead of Elastics
Instead of an elastic, a large ring from your jewelry box holds this half-up braid in place, secured with pins. It is an inventive way to personalize your hair. Try it with a statement ring that matches your outfit.
Inspiration: @heidimariegarrett
Prepping hair for an evening look
Freshly washed hair is often too slippery for updos and braids. If you can, wash the day before, or add a texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots for grip. Curl or wave the lengths before you braid or pin; even a quick wave with a large wand gives buns and ponies more volume and hides the elastic better.
Keeping it in place until the end of the night
- Cross two bobby pins in an X over heavy sections for extra hold.
- Use a small claw clip under the top of a ponytail to lift it and stop it drooping.
- Spray hairspray onto a toothbrush to smooth flyaways along the hairline without stiffness.
- Carry a couple of spare pins and a mini spray in your bag for quick fixes.
Accessories like rings, ribbons, leather ties or a statement clip make even a simple style feel deliberate, and they are easy to remove if you want a more relaxed look later in the evening.