28 Elegant Formal Hairstyles for Girls: Redefining Grace and Glamour

Whether you’re attending a gala, a wedding, or a formal event, your hairstyle can make or break your entire look. From sleek updos to intricate braids, these elegant hairstyles cater to both long and short hair, offering versatility and timeless charm. Let’s dive into these stunning options and explore how you can elevate your style with ease.

1. Braid-Wrapped High Bun

What You Need:

• Comb
• Hairspray
• Hair donut (donut bun maker)
• Bobby pins
• Hair tie

How to Achieve:

1. Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles.
2. Take two small sections of hair from the front and clip them aside.
3. Gather the rest of your hair into a high ponytail at the crown.
4. Place a hair donut over the base of the ponytail and wrap your hair around it to form a smooth bun. Secure with a hair tie.
5. Braid one of the clipped sections and wrap it around the base of the bun, tucking the ends underneath. Secure with bobby pins.
6. Twist the remaining front section, criss-cross it over the bun, and pin it in place.
7. Finish with a generous spritz of hairspray to lock everything in place.

Why It Works:
This style combines elegance with creativity, making it perfect for formal events. The braid adds texture, while the high bun elongates your neck, creating a regal silhouette.

2. Space Buns with a Twist

What You Need:

• Comb
• Hairspray
• Hair ties

How to Achieve:

1. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove knots.
2. Part your hair down the middle, dividing it into two equal sections.
3. Create two high pigtails on either side of your head and secure them with hair ties.
4. Lightly tease each pigtail for added volume without making it overly messy.
5. Twist each pigtail into a rope-like strand and coil it into a bun. Tuck the ends underneath and secure with hair ties.
6. Spritz generously with hairspray to keep stray strands at bay.

Why It Works:
Space buns are playful yet sophisticated, offering a youthful vibe that’s perfect for semi-formal occasions. They also work wonders for adding height and dimension.

3. Low Bun with Soft Curls

What You Need:

• Bobby pins
• Curling iron
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Begin by brushing your hair to detangle it.
2. Use a curling iron to create loose, relaxed curls throughout your hair.
3. Gently brush out the curls for a softer, more natural look.
4. Gather your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck, leaving a few strands loose for an effortless finish.
5. Secure the bun with bobby pins and set it with hairspray.

Why It Works:
A low bun exudes understated elegance, while the soft curls add a touch of romance. This style is ideal for those who prefer simplicity with a hint of glamour.

4. Accessorized Low Bun

What You Need:

• Bobby pins
• Sectioning clips
• Headband
• Elastic bands
• Comb
• Curling iron
• Barrette
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Curl your hair using a curling iron and lightly brush out the curls.
2. Divide your hair horizontally into two sections—top and bottom—and clip the top half up.
3. Place a decorative headband over the bottom section.
4. Twist sections of hair from the sides and tuck them under the headband.
5. Gather the remaining hair, flip it within the headband, and form a bun. Secure with pins.
6. Release the top section, create a pouf, and twist the sides over the bun. Add a fancy barrette for extra flair.

Why It Works:
This hairstyle combines structure and whimsy, making it perfect for formal events. The headband and barrette add a touch of luxury, elevating the overall look.

5. Crossed Half-Updo

What You Need:

• Bobby pins
• Elastic bands
• Comb
• Curling iron
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Detangle your hair with a comb and curl it from mid-lengths to ends.
2. Tease the crown area for added volume and comb the front section back. Pin it securely at the crown.
3. Take sections of hair from the sides, cross them over the pinned section, and tuck them underneath. Secure with bobby pins.
4. Arrange the hair gently for a natural finish and accessorize with a starfish-like barrette.

Why It Works:
This half-updo strikes the perfect balance between voluminous and balanced, making it ideal for both romantic and modern aesthetics.

6. Dreamy Updo with Floral Accents

What You Need:

• Brush
• Curling iron
• Elastic bands
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray
• Floral hair accessory

How to Achieve:

1. Brush your hair and curl it in medium or small sections.
2. Braid small sections of hair on either side of your head.
3. Gather the rest of your hair at the back and wrap curled sections around the base to form a bun.
4. Wrap the braids around the bun and pin them in place.
5. Gently pull a few strands loose for a fuller, slightly messy effect.
6. Add a floral accessory for a fresh, elegant touch.

Why It Works:
This dreamy updo is perfect for garden parties or outdoor weddings. The floral accent adds a whimsical element, while the curls and braids provide texture and depth.

7. Rolled-In Mohawk

What You Need:

• Round brush
• Bobby pins
• Hair gel
• Fancy U-pins

How to Achieve:

1. Apply hair gel to damp hair and brush it toward the center to create a mohawk shape. Secure with bobby pins.
2. Using a round brush, curl small sections of hair and roll them toward your head.
3. Once all sections are rolled, accessorize with fancy U-pins for a polished finish.

Why It Works:
The rolled-in mohawk is edgy yet refined, making it a bold choice for fashion-forward individuals. It’s a statement piece that demands attention.

8. Braided Low Bun

What You Need:

• Big elastic band
• Hairspray
• Comb

How to Achieve:

1. Braid small sections of hair on either side of your head. Pancake the braids for a boho vibe.
2. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and topsy-tail it a few times to form a bun.
3. Tuck the ends of the braids under the bun and secure with pins.

Why It Works:
This style combines practicality with elegance, making it perfect for long events. The braids add visual interest, while the low bun keeps things neat and tidy.

9. Messy Fishtail Braid

What You Need:

• Rat-tailed comb
• Bobby pins
• Elastic bands

How to Achieve:

1. Backcomb the crown of your hair to create volume.
2. Divide the rest of your hair into two sections and begin fishtail braiding.
3. Secure the braid with an elastic band and pancake it for a messy, romantic look.

Why It Works:
The messy fishtail braid is effortlessly chic, offering a laid-back yet polished aesthetic. It’s perfect for outdoor events or casual formal gatherings.

10. Bouffant Low Bun

What You Need:

• Bobby pins
• Elastic bands
• Comb
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Tease the crown of your hair to create a bouffant.
2. Gather the rest of your hair into a tight low bun, leaving a small section free.
3. Wrap the small section around the base of the bun and pin it in place.
4. Set the entire look with hairspray.

Why It Works:
The bouffant adds height and drama, while the low bun keeps the look grounded and elegant. It’s a classic choice for black-tie events.

10. Soft Bangs with Defined Layers

This hairstyle uses soft bangs and layered ends to frame the face beautifully, creating a harmonious balance between structure and softness.

What You Need:

• Curling iron
• Shine spray
• Comb

How to Achieve:

1. Begin by curling small sections of your hair to add subtle waves.
2. Part your hair deeply on one side to elongate the forehead and draw attention to your eyes.
3. Allow the inward and outward layers at the bottom to give your hair a fuller look.
4. Use a comb to smooth out any stray strands and finish with a shine spray for a polished effect.

Why It Works:

• The soft bangs soften facial features while adding a touch of elegance.
• Defined layers create movement and dimension, making this style versatile for both casual and formal settings.

11. Brown Locks with Dimensional Highlights

This rich brown hairstyle is perfect for those looking to transition from blonde tones while maintaining depth and dimension.

What You Need:

• Brown hair dye (ombre or full coverage)
• Hydrating conditioner
• Shine-enhancing spray

How to Achieve:

1. Opt for an ombre effect if you’re new to brunette shades, keeping the roots slightly darker for a natural gradient.
2. Deep condition your hair after coloring to maintain shine and health.
3. Finish with a shine-enhancing spray to bring out the richness of the brown tones.

Why It Works:

• Brown locks add warmth and sophistication to your overall look.
• Ombre highlights create a seamless transition, making the color change appear effortless.

12. Fluffy Layers with Side-Swept Bangs

This voluminous hairstyle adds height and texture, making it ideal for round or oval face shapes.

What You Need:

• Volumizing mousse
• Round brush
• Blowdryer

How to Achieve:

1. Apply volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush to lift the roots.
2. Focus on creating fluffy layers around the crown area for added volume.
3. Sweep your bangs to one side for a soft, elongating effect.

Why It Works:

• Fluffy layers create the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.
• Side-swept bangs elongate the face and highlight your cheekbones.

13. Smoother Layers with Angular Bangs

This sleek hairstyle combines smooth layers with angular bangs for a modern, edgy look.

What You Need:

• Smoothing serum
• Flat iron
• Shine spray

How to Achieve:

1. Start by applying smoothing serum to damp hair and blow-drying straight.
2. Use a flat iron to refine the layers and ensure a polished finish.
3. Style your bangs to fall diagonally across your forehead, creating an angular feel.

Why It Works:

• Smoother layers emphasize precision and elegance.
• Angular bangs add a contemporary twist, perfect for professional settings.

14. Dirty Blonde Waves with Dark Roots

This trendy hairstyle blends dark roots with dirty blonde waves for a chic, lived-in look.

What You Need:

• Dirty blonde hair dye
• Curling wand
• Sea salt spray

How to Achieve:

1. Dye your hair a dirty blonde shade, keeping the roots dark for contrast.
2. Curl large sections of hair using a curling wand for loose, beachy waves.
3. Scrunch your hair with sea salt spray for a textured, undone finish.

Why It Works:

• Dirty blonde tones are universally flattering and add warmth to your complexion.
• Dark roots make the color transition look more natural and low-maintenance.

15. Center Bangs with Soft Waves

This timeless hairstyle features center-parted bangs paired with soft waves for a romantic vibe.

What You Need:

• Fine-tooth comb
• Curling iron
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Part your hair down the middle using a fine-tooth comb.
2. Curl medium-sized sections of hair away from your face for soft, cascading waves.
3. Let a few strands fall naturally onto your face for a relaxed, effortless look.

Why It Works:

• Center bangs elongate the face and draw attention to your eyes.
• Soft waves enhance femininity and add a touch of romance to your overall aesthetic.

16. Silver Pixie Cut with Textured Ends

The silver pixie cut is bold, elegant, and perfect for embracing natural aging with confidence.

What You Need:

• Silver hair dye
• Short-length styling scissors
• Matte pomade

How To Achieve:

1. Start by dyeing your hair a cool-toned silver shade, ensuring even coverage.
2. Trim your hair into a short pixie cut, leaving textured layers around the crown for added volume.
3. Apply a small amount of matte pomade to define the edges and add polish.

Why It Works:

• The silver hue highlights maturity and grace.
• A pixie cut is low-maintenance yet stylish, making it ideal for modern women.

17. Choppy Fringe with Layered Ends

This edgy hairstyle combines choppy fringes with layered ends for a playful yet sophisticated look.

What You Need:

• Texturizing scissors
• Lightweight mousse
• Blowdryer

How to Achieve:

1. Ask your stylist for a choppy fringe that varies in length.
2. Apply lightweight mousse to damp hair and blow-dry using a round brush for softness.
3. Use texturizing scissors to refine the ends of the fringe for a piecey effect.

Why It Works:

• Choppy fringes soften angular features and highlight the eyes.
• The uneven texture adds movement and personality to the style.

18. Defined Bangs with Blonde Layers

This hairstyle accentuates your natural bone structure with heavy, defined layers and flawless bangs.

What You Need:

• Layering scissors
• Smoothing serum
• Shine spray

How to Achieve:

1. Ask your stylist for heavy, defined layers that cascade around your face.
2. Style your bangs so they fall naturally across your forehead, enhancing your facial structure.
3. Apply smoothing serum to tame flyaways and add shine.

Why It Works:

• Defined layers highlight your natural bone structure.
• Blonde tones brighten the complexion and draw attention to your eyes.

19. Heightened Shag Cut

This shoulder-length shag cut blends rebel vibes with a touch of elegance. The contrast between the front and back lengths creates an edgy yet soft look.

What You Need:

• Texturizing spray
• Round brush
• Blowdryer

How to Achieve:

1. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush to add volume at the roots.
2. Focus on creating shorter layers near the jawline and longer ones at the back.
3. Finish with texturizing spray for a tousled finish.

Why It Works:

• The layered cut adds dimension and movement.
• Front layers soften the face shape for a balanced look.

20. Pouf Twist

This chic updo combines a French twist with a faux facelift effect, making it perfect for formal events or red-carpet moments.

What You Need:

• Teasing brush
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Tease the crown of your hair for added height.
2. Gather your hair into a French twist and secure it with bobby pins.
3. Pull the twist slightly higher to lift your cheeks and slim the lower half of your face.

Why It Works:

• The pouf adds instant glamour and elongates the face.
• A sleek finish ensures a polished and timeless aesthetic.

These hairstyles cater to a variety of preferences, whether you’re aiming for classic elegance, modern edge, or playful charm. Experiment with these styles to find the perfect match for your personality and occasion!

21. Crown Braid

This romantic hairstyle frames the face beautifully, making it ideal for weddings or garden parties.

What You Need:

• Rat-tailed comb
• Elastic band
• Bobby pins

How to Achieve:

1. Tease the hair at the crown and pin it into a slight pouf for added height.
2. Begin weaving a French braid along the hairline, following the circumference of your head.
3. Once you reach the back hairline, transition into a regular braid and secure it with an elastic band.
4. Wrap the braid around the crown and pin it in place.

Why It Works:

• The crown braid adds a whimsical, fairy-tale-like charm.
• It keeps hair off the face while highlighting your features.

22. Messy Low Bun

This effortless style is perfect for those who want a chic yet relaxed look.

What You Need:

• Hairbrush
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Brush your hair to remove tangles and gather it loosely at the nape of your neck.
2. Twist the hair and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins.
3. Allow a few strands to fall loose for a carefree vibe.
4. Set the style with hairspray.

Why It Works:

• The messy low bun exudes understated elegance.
• It’s quick and easy to achieve, making it perfect for last-minute styling.

23. Rose Gold ‘Do

This bold hairstyle combines color and texture for a modern, edgy look.

What You Need:

• Comb
• Rose gold hair dye
• Petroleum jelly
• Curling iron
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Apply petroleum jelly to your skin to prevent staining, then dye your hair rose gold.
2. Once dry, curl small sections of hair for soft waves.
3. Gather the top section of your hair into a loose top knot and secure it with bobby pins.

Why It Works:

• Rose gold is a trendy, eye-catching shade that complements various skin tones.
• The combination of curls and a top knot adds dimension and texture.

24. Half Top Knot

This playful style strikes the perfect balance between casual and chic.

What You Need:

• Elastic band
• Comb
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Brush your hair to detangle it and gather the top section at the crown.
2. Secure it with an elastic band, twisting it into a small top knot.
3. Pancake the knot for added volume and finish with hairspray.

Why It Works:

• The half top knot is versatile, working for both casual and formal settings.
• It keeps hair out of your face while maintaining a laid-back vibe.

25. Double Dutch Braid

This intricate hairstyle is perfect for showcasing braiding skills.

What You Need:

• Brush
• Elastic bands
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Divide your hair vertically into two halves and clip one side up.
2. Braid the unclipped half into a Dutch braid, securing it with an elastic band.
3. Repeat on the other side.
4. Merge the tails of both braids into a ponytail or continue braiding them together.

Why It Works:

• Double Dutch braids add symmetry and structure to your look.
• They’re practical yet stylish, keeping hair secure and out of the way.

26. Waterfall Braid

This ethereal hairstyle is perfect for boho-inspired events or outdoor gatherings.

What You Need:

• Bobby pins
• Comb
• Hairspray

How to Achieve:

1. Begin by taking a small section of hair near the front and dividing it into three parts.
2. Weave a stitch as you would in a regular braid but drop the bottom section.
3. Pick up a new section of hair from the top and continue braiding until you reach the other side.
4. Pin the braid underneath your hair to hide the ends.

Why It Works:

• The waterfall braid creates a cascading effect, adding movement and romance to your look.
• It’s elegant yet easy to achieve with practice.

27. Kinky Low Side Bun

This bohemian-inspired style is perfect for embracing natural textures.

What You Need:

• Comb
• Thick elastic band
• Bobby pins

How to Achieve:

1. Stretch out your kinky locks and gather them into a low side ponytail.
2. Fluff the ponytail for added volume and roll it into a bun.
3. Secure with bobby pins and pancake the hair for a messy, textured finish.

Why It Works:

• The side bun highlights natural curls and coils, celebrating individuality.
• Metallic accessories enhance the boho vibe, making it festival-ready.

28. Bouncy Curls

This glamorous hairstyle is all about volume and bounce, perfect for making a statement.

What You Need:

• Curling iron
• Heat protectant spray
• Comb
• Styling mousse
• Texturizing spray

How to Achieve:

1. Detangle your hair and apply heat protectant spray evenly.
2. Curl small sections of hair using a curling iron, holding each section for 8-10 seconds.
3. Allow the curls to cool before gently running your fingers through them for a softer look.
4. Apply styling mousse and finish with texturizing spray for extra volume.

Why It Works:

• Bouncy curls add movement and dimension, creating a youthful, lively appearance.
• This style works well for both short and long hair, offering versatility.

These hairstyles cater to a variety of preferences, whether you’re aiming for classic elegance, modern edge, or playful charm. Experiment with these styles to find the perfect match for your personality and occasion!

Final Thoughts:

These hairstyles are not just about looking good—they’re about feeling confident and expressing your personality. Whether you opt for intricate braids, voluminous updos, or sleek buns, remember to consider your hair type, outfit, and the occasion’s theme. With these tips, you’ll be ready to turn heads and make a lasting impression at any formal event!