30 Formal Hairstyles for Special Occasion

Advertisement1 of 30Next From prom to weddings, there are many life events that require a formal hairstyle. When you are obligated to go beyond the usual ponytail or messy bun, these special occasion hairstyles will get you looking gorgeous in no time.

Special Occasion Hairstyles

Today’s hairstyles for special occasions are no longer restricted to polished, hair-to-hair ‘dos. Since messy hair first appeared on the red carpet, formal hairstyles have got much more relaxed. Check our list for inspiration!

1. Festive French Twist Hairstyle

A twisted bun is one of the trendiest updos, perfect for medium to long-length hair. Elevate this chic look by adding a floral hair clip for a touch of charm, transforming it into a cute hairdo suitable for a special occasion.

2. Braided Crown Loose Top Knot

Braiding a section of hair above the earline offers a creative twist to this effortlessly messy updo, adding flair and sophistication to your look. Whether you’re heading to a casual outing or a formal event, this unique braid detail promises to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

@missysueblog

3. Brunette Sleek Low Bun

Sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate form of elegance, allowing you to shine with minimal effort and maximum confidence. For this low bun hairstyle, slick back your hair in a low pony using a styling gel. Then, twist it in a classic low bun, securing the style with bobby pins.

@hairstylist_avarahimi

4. Slicked-Back High Ponytail

This versatile hairstyle is suitable for both a day at the office and hanging out with friends. Blow-dry your hair smooth with a blow-dry primer and a paddle brush, gathering it on top of your head in a high ponytail. Grab a section of hair to wrap it around the base of the pony and finish with a hairspray.

@beatrice_balinschi

5. Playful Curly Updo

Let your curly hair shine with confidence, showcasing its unique texture and personality. Gather your curls in an elegant updo, leaving a few shorter strands in front to resemble a curly side fringe.

@oliviacalabio

6. Modern French Twist

This style can easily keep up with your dynamic lifestyle, ensuring you look and feel your best no matter where the day takes you. To get this mesmerizing volume at the crown, separate your hair in two parts and tease a top section before gathering your hair in a twisted updo.

@hair_by_raimonda

7. Dutch Braid Ponytail

For this eye-catching hairdo, separate your hair into small sections and start braiding it, crossing the hair underneath sections. Stop at the nape, securing your braid with a hair tie, and leave the remaining hair in a ponytail.

@zaschahair

8. Glamorous Waves with Middle Part

Central parting with waves pulled forward on both sides is an opportunity to give a modern feel to classy side-swept Hollywood curls. Here is a useful tutorial to help you achieve these mesmerizing voluminous waves. Remember to set them in place with a strong-hold product for lasting allure.

@staciegoodwinbridalhair

9. Messy High Bun Upstyle

A high bun and face-framing layers are a combination that exudes timeless elegance and grace, drawing attention and admiration wherever you go. This formal hairstyle beautifully opens up the shoulders, allowing you to demonstrate the dress you’ve prepared for the occasion.

@ash_zara_hair

10. Glossy Wavy Ponytail

High ponytail hairstyles exude a charming elegance that’s perfect for both formal events and everyday wear. Curling the hair after securing it on top of your head with an elastic band will give this style a more festive appearance.

@_hairbymona

11. Cute Twisted Bun for Long Hair

Why settle for one trendy element when you can combine two for the ultimate formal bun hairstyle? By merging the classic bun with stylish twisted braids, you create a sophisticated look that’s perfect for birthdays, parties, and work occasions alike.

@hairbyviiviannika

12. Infinity Bun Hairstyle

With this stylish hairdo up your sleeve, you’ll always be ready to dazzle and impress, effortlessly transitioning from day to night with grace and elegance. Arm yourself with hair ties, bobby pins, hair spray, and a pinch of patience, and create a style that makes you the center of everyone’s attention!

@alexgaboury

13. Classy French Twist Updo

If you’re seeking a chic yet effortless look, this hairstyle is your go-to solution for long, straight hair. With minimal effort, you can elevate your appearance and exude sophistication no matter the occasion.

@styloweczesanie

14. Effortless Wavy Low Ponytail

Here is an excellent idea for a simple yet sophisticated hairstyle for a formal occasion like a wedding or rehearsal dinner. To recreate this charming tousled ponytail, you’ll need a curling iron and a touch of light-holding product. For optimal results, prep your hair with a mouse and heat protectant to let your curls last longer and add natural texture to your locks.

@idohairbykmay

15. Textured Bun for Long Hair

Whether you’re heading to a casual outing or a formal event, this hairstyle adds a playful and effortlessly elegant twist to your look. Add a few strands in front, from one side or both, to frame your face and accentuate your beautiful features.

@newshahairstyle

16. Braided Crown Wedding Hair

Formal hairstyles can be fun and feminine without being a ton of work. Incorporating a chunky crown braid into the hair is ideal for locks that are in the midst of that awkward “growing out” stage or for layers that won’t cooperate for formal occasions.

@sunkissedandmadeup

17. Special Occasion Beach Waves

A braided crown with a waterfall braid is a perfect formal hairstyle for hair that is shoulder length or shorter. Wear it curly to add both volume and a distinct sense of formality.

@kakagomes

18. Short A-Line Formal Hair

A long bob cut produces angled hair that is ready to party. Add in some tousled, subtle waves and a variety of brown and caramel hues, and you have short hair that will be the envy of all the other guests. Braids and curls are all well and good, but sometimes it feels better to just go simple and natural.

@hairbykatlin

19. Thick Braid with Thin Hair

If your hair tends to be thin or lifeless, you can thicken it up by gathering the top layer into a messy plait. Braid it to the side to add both depth and volume and style some messy waves for the hair that’s left down.

@christinagunnell

20. Voluminous Special Occasion Updo

Special occasion hairstyles don’t need to be perfectly coifed – in fact, they can often come across as messy, effortless, or both. Instead of spending a fortune at the salon before that next event, play around with your long hair until you find a combination of buns, braids and tendrils that looks best on you.

@kuku_la_praline

21. Multiple Braids in One

Braid up across the top of your head with a deep side sweep. The braids can be thick or thin, varying in style or remaining uniform. Whatever braids you choose to incorporate into your roster of hairstyles for special events, they are sure to make you look unique and one-of-a-kind.

@annette_updo_artist

22. Flip for Special Occasion Hair

This half up ponytail is dolled up with a small section that is flipped through to fancy up your strands for a special event. You will need shoulder length or longer hair to pull off this look.

@hairbykacie1

23. Sweet and Sassy Updo

Long and thick hair is able to take on so many personas, including fun updos that twist and turn in all sorts of paths. Start styling with damp hair to play around until you find the look that is right for you. Additionally, complement the texture of your messy updo with a texturizing spray.

@elstilespb

24. Modern Formal Chignon

The chignon is a classic hairstyle that has endured for generations. Start by twisting the front sections of hair just above the earline and securing them with hair pins. Then, twist sections of hair that’s left down making loose loops and pinning them in place as you go. It’s okay sometimes if hairdos turn out more messy than rigid. Special occasion hairstyles are for all personality types.

@tonyastylist

25. Shaggy Blonde Waves

Braids for curly hair are fun and definitely enviable, but what about using hair color instead of texture to grab attention? At your next gathering you will find yourself having fun and loosening up in crowds thanks to your new blonde ‘do.

@saloncouture_ny

26. Hairstyle with Highlights and Back-Swept Layers

Layers can sometimes lack movement and appear lifeless. Honey brown accents, fullness at the roots and flicks at the ends of the layers keep this look modern and exciting.

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27. Messy Curly Bob with a Braid

The curly unkempt medium-length bob is a vivid example of the trendy bedhead style that you can make in a matter of minutes. If you hair is naturally curly, you don’t even need to worry about the imperfection of the waves. Braid an asymmetric French braid, wrapping your head on one side as an adornment and a clear sign that you’ve still styled your hair this morning.

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28. Loose Curls and Waterfall Twist

Nothing screams a Pinterest worthy look like a waterfall twist. It seems complicated, but once you master the style it is an easy way to upgrade a standard curly look for a special occasion.

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29. Low Side-Bun with Double Braid

This prim curly updo can be worn just as easily to a prom as an outdoor picnic. The key is the perfect balance between the polish and casualness, achieved with undone curls, slightly messy braids and shiny strands.

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30. Curly Updo for Medium Hair

Pinning curly hair at the nape of the neck gives the illusion of a full bun, even if there is not enough length to actually create it. This style stands out due to the lightened ends, which give it a truly radiant appearance.

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Hairstyles for special occasions are fun to play around with. Whether you have a special event coming up very soon or a bit far out into the future, get some practice to see what looks best on your hair.

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