25 Elegant Formal Hairstyles for Long Hair That Turn Heads

Having long hair gives you endless styling possibilities for formal events.

Whether you’re attending a wedding, gala, or prom, the right hairstyle can elevate your entire look.

Ready to make a statement at your next special occasion?

These 25 gorgeous formal hairstyles will help you showcase your lengthy locks in the most flattering ways.

From classic updos to modern twists, you’ll find options that match your personal style and complement your dress perfectly.

1: Classic French Twist

This timeless updo exudes sophistication and elegance. You can wear it sleek for a minimalist vibe or slightly textured for a more modern approach.

The French twist works wonderfully with strapless dresses and statement earrings. Add a decorative hair accessory to one side for extra glamour.

2: Romantic Side-Swept Waves

Channel old Hollywood glamour with voluminous waves swept gracefully to one side.

This style offers the perfect balance between wearing your hair down while keeping it controlled.

Secure with hidden pins and a medium-hold hairspray. This versatile look complements virtually any formal attire and face shape.

3: Braided Crown Updo

Create a regal look by wrapping a thick braid around your head like a crown.

This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck, perfect for summer events.

You can customize with fresh flowers, delicate pins, or leave it unadorned for understated elegance. This style works especially well with bohemian or Grecian-inspired dresses.

4: Sleek Low Bun

A polished low bun at the nape of your neck offers clean, sophisticated lines. You can create it with a center or side part depending on your face shape.

This minimalist style provides the perfect canvas for showcasing statement jewelry or an intricate dress. Apply a smoothing serum before styling to eliminate frizz.

5: Half-Up Twisted Crown

Combine the best of both worlds with this half-up style that keeps hair off your face while still showcasing your length.

The twisted crown adds interesting texture and dimension.

This versatile look works for various formal occasions and pairs beautifully with both modern and vintage-inspired outfits.

Add small fresh flowers or pearl pins for a romantic touch.

6: Cascading Side Fishtail Braid

This intricate braid draped over one shoulder creates a dramatic yet feminine statement.

The fishtail technique adds delicate texture that catches the light beautifully.

Gently pull apart the braid for a fuller, more romantic effect. This style particularly complements one-shoulder or asymmetrical dresses.

7: Vintage-Inspired Pin Curls

Transport yourself to the glamour of the 1920s with sculptural pin curls.

This structured style works wonderfully with vintage-inspired or Great Gatsby-themed events.

The precise pattern of curls creates a sophisticated look that stays in place all night.

Pair with art deco accessories for authentic vintage appeal.

8: Twisted Rope Braid Updo

Create visual interest with intertwined rope braids twisted into an elegant updo.

This architectural style looks far more complicated than it actually is to create.

The clean lines and structured shape make this perfect for modern formal wear.

The style works especially well for those with layered hair as it keeps shorter pieces securely in place.

9: Low Messy Chignon

Embrace relaxed elegance with this deliberately undone low chignon. The purposeful messiness adds texture and a contemporary edge to this classic shape.

This style works beautifully for bohemian or garden party events. Pull out a few face-framing tendrils for a soft, romantic effect.

10: Slicked-Back High Ponytail

Make a bold statement with a sleek, high-shine ponytail positioned at the crown of your head. This modern style creates a face-lifting effect while showcasing your length.

The contrast between the sleek roots and flowing ends creates dynamic visual interest. This pairs beautifully with architectural or minimalist dresses.

11: Woven Updo with Volume

Create dramatic height and intricate detailing with this woven updo that focuses volume at the crown. The complex pattern of interlaced sections creates a showstopping effect.

This architectural style works particularly well for those with thick hair. The substantial structure complements dramatic formal attire.

12: Twisted Side Updo

Gather your hair into an asymmetrical updo with twisted sections for an elegant, modern look. The off-center placement creates interesting visual balance.

This style draws attention to your neck and jawline, making it perfect for showcasing statement earrings or necklaces.

The twisted texture adds sophistication without looking too “done.”

13: Braided Ballerina Bun

Elevate the classic ballerina bun with intricate braided details wrapped around the base. This high-positioned style elongates your neck and showcases your facial features.

The combination of sleek structure and braided texture creates beautiful dimension. This versatile style works for virtually any formal occasion.

14: Waterfall Braid with Curls

Combine structure and flow with this half-up style featuring a delicate waterfall braid that transitions into voluminous curls. The braid creates a beautiful crown effect.

The cascading curls add movement and romantic softness. This style particularly flatters round face shapes by creating the illusion of length.

15: Twisted Low Ponytail

Update the classic ponytail with elegant twisted sections wrapped around the base. Position it low at the nape of your neck for timeless sophistication.

This refined yet simple style works beautifully for minimalist aesthetics. The twisted elements elevate it from everyday to event-worthy.

16: Dutch Braid Updo

Create impressive texture with this updo based on inverted Dutch braids gathered into a sculptural arrangement. The three-dimensional quality makes this style truly stand out.

This intricate style holds up remarkably well throughout an event. The structured pattern works beautifully with architectural or modern formal wear.

17: Twisted Side Sweep

Gather your hair to one side with a series of twisted sections for an asymmetrical style that’s both elegant and interesting. The gathered side creates beautiful dimension.

This style works particularly well for showcasing earrings on the exposed side. The twisted texture adds sophistication while maintaining softness.

18: Curly High Ponytail with Wrap

Elevate a ponytail to formal status with voluminous curls and a section of hair wrapped around the elastic. The height creates a lengthening effect for your face and neck.

The bouncy curls add playful movement while maintaining sophistication. This style transitions beautifully from day to evening events.

19: Knotted Low Updo

Create architectural interest with a series of knotted sections gathered into a low updo. The unexpected texture offers a modern twist on classical styling.

This innovative approach works wonderfully for contemporary formal occasions. The knotted elements create beautiful shadows and highlights in photographs.

20: Braided Halo with Loose Waves

Frame your face with a delicate braided halo while letting waves cascade down your back. This angelic style offers the perfect balance of structure and movement.

The face-framing braid draws attention to your features while the loose waves maintain romantic softness. This style particularly complements ethereal or bohemian formal wear.

21: Side-Parted Hollywood Waves

Channel timeless glamour with deep, glossy waves dramatically swept to one side. This classic style has remained popular for decades because it flatters virtually everyone.

The deep side part creates instant sophistication. This versatile look works for everything from black-tie galas to upscale cocktail parties.

22: Twisted Rope Bun

Create an interesting texture with twisted rope sections gathered into a structured bun. The intertwined pieces create beautiful dimension and visual interest.

This style strikes the perfect balance between polished and interesting. The twisted elements catch the light beautifully, creating natural highlights.

23: Braided Mohawk Updo

Make a bold statement with this edgy yet elegant style that features a central braid creating a mohawk-inspired silhouette. The sides remain sleek for dramatic contrast.

This architectural style creates impressive height and structure.

The unexpected combination of edgy shape with elegant execution makes this perfect for fashion-forward events.

24: Low Side Bun with Twist

Position a structured bun asymmetrically with twisted sections for a modern interpretation of a classical shape.

The off-center placement creates interesting visual balance.

This style particularly flatters those with heart-shaped faces. The low position works well with high-necked or detailed-back dresses.

25: Loose Romantic Updo with Tendrils

Create soft volume with this deliberately undone updo featuring face-framing tendrils. The controlled messiness offers contemporary elegance with romantic appeal.

This versatile style complements both modern and vintage-inspired formal wear.

The soft texture and loose pieces create movement that photographs beautifully.

Conclusion

Your long hair is your crown, and these 25 styles offer endless possibilities to shine at your next formal event.

Remember, confidence is your best accessory—wear your chosen style proudly!