15 Formal Event Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Elegant Updos

Finding the perfect look for a gala, wedding, or black-tie gala starts with your hair. The right style completes your ensemble and boosts your confidence.

Choosing between flowing waves, intricate braids, or a polished updo can be a challenge. Each style offers a unique vibe ranging from modern chic to timeless elegance.

This guide explores versatile options that suit various hair lengths and textures. These professional-grade styles ensure you look stunning from the first toast to the final dance.

Discover the most sophisticated 15 Formal Event Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Elegant Updos to elevate your next special occasion.

1. Classic Hollywood Waves

This iconic style features deep, uniform ripples that exude vintage glamour and high-end sophistication. It is a staple for red-carpet events because it creates a polished and intentional aesthetic.

To achieve this look, hair is curled in the same direction and then brushed out gently to create a continuous wave pattern. A high-shine finishing spray is essential to provide that signature glossy glow.

This hairstyle works exceptionally well for those wanting a down-do that still feels formal and structured. It frames the face beautifully and complements gowns with open necklines or off-the-shoulder cuts.

2. Low Chignon with Braided Detail

The low chignon is a timeless updo that gains a modern edge with the addition of a delicate side braid. This combination offers a balanced mix of texture and smoothness.

The braid typically starts near the temple and wraps around into the bun at the nape of the neck. This adds visual interest from every angle, making it perfect for photography.

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Securing the style with professional-grade pins and a firm-hold hairspray ensures the updo remains intact throughout the evening. It is a practical yet beautiful choice for long events.

3. Waterfall Braid with Loose Curls

The waterfall braid creates a romantic, ethereal effect by allowing strands of hair to “flow” through the braid. It transitions seamlessly into soft, voluminous curls at the ends.

This style provides the security of a half-up look while maintaining the elegance of long, flowing hair. It is often chosen for garden weddings or upscale outdoor evening celebrations.

Using a large-barrel curling iron helps create the soft waves that define the lower half of the hair. Light texturizing spray adds volume without making the hair feel heavy or stiff.

4. Sleek High Bun

A sleek high bun is the epitome of modern sophistication and clean lines. It pulls the hair away from the face, highlighting your features and statement jewelry.

Achieving the perfect “snatched” look requires a fine-tooth comb and a quality styling gel to smooth down flyaways. The bun itself can be styled as a tight knot or a more voluminous donut.

This updo is highly functional for events where you will be dancing or moving frequently. It remains secure and maintains its sharp, professional appearance from start to finish.

5. Half-Up Boho Braids

For a formal event that leans toward a relaxed or creative vibe, boho braids offer a stunning solution. This style uses multiple small braids to pull back the crown.

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The remaining hair is typically styled in beachy waves or soft curls to maintain a natural appearance. It strikes a beautiful balance between being styled and feeling effortless.

Adding small floral pins or metallic rings into the braids can further customize the look. This style is particularly effective for adding volume to hair that lacks natural lift.

6. Soft Side-Swept Waves

Side-swept waves offer an asymmetrical silhouette that is both dramatic and flattering. By pinning one side back, you emphasize the jawline and create a focal point on the flowing waves.

This look is achieved by creating deep curls and securing one side behind the ear with decorative pins or hidden bobby pins. It provides a luxurious, voluminous feel.

It is an ideal choice for pairing with one-shoulder dresses or high-neck gowns. The concentration of hair on one side creates a sense of movement and grace.

7. Dutch Braid Crown

The Dutch braid crown, also known as a halo braid, is an elegant updo that wraps entirely around the head. It is a regal choice that keeps hair completely secure.

Unlike a traditional French braid, the Dutch technique pulls hair under, creating a 3D effect that stands out. This adds significant texture and height to the hairstyle.

This look is perfect for those who want a “set it and forget it” style for a long formal night. It looks intricate and expensive while remaining extremely comfortable to wear.

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8. Messy Textured Updo

The “messy” updo is actually a highly calculated style that uses texture and loose strands to create a soft, romantic look. It is a favorite for contemporary formal events.

The hair is typically curled first and then loosely pinned into a low or mid-height bun. Leaving a few face-framing tendrils out helps to soften the overall appearance.

A sea salt spray or dry shampoo is often used to give the hair the “grip” needed to stay in place. This style offers a more approachable and youthful take on traditional formal hair.

9. Fishtail Braided Ponytail

A high-fashion take on the classic pony, the fishtail braided ponytail combines sleekness with intricate detail. The braid adds a level of complexity that elevates the look for formal settings.

The top of the hair is usually smoothed back into a tight base, while the tail is woven into a precise fishtail pattern. This creates a long, elegant line down the back.

Wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic band hides the hardware for a professional finish. This is a great choice for those who want to keep hair off their neck.

10. Twisted French Roll

The French roll is a classic vertical updo that has been modernized with twists and softer edges. It is a quintessentially elegant look that never goes out of style.

By tucking the ends of the hair inward and securing them vertically, you create a sleek and elongated silhouette. It is particularly effective for highlighting the neckline of a gown.

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Modern versions often incorporate slight volume at the crown to prevent the look from appearing too severe. It is a sophisticated choice for black-tie dinners and corporate galas.

11. Braided Low Bun

The braided low bun combines the structure of a braid with the neatness of a bun. It is a sturdy and beautiful option that works well with thick hair.

You can start with a single large braid or several smaller ones that meet at the nape of the neck. The braids are then coiled together to form the bun.

This style is excellent for displaying multi-tonal hair colors, as the braiding highlights highlights and lowlights. It provides a dense, textured look that feels very secure.

12. S-Wave Glamour

The S-wave is a more relaxed and modern version of Hollywood waves. It features flatter, “S” shaped bends rather than round curls, giving it a high-fashion edge.

This look is often achieved using a flat iron or a specialized triple-barrel waver. It results in a sleek, liquid-like movement that looks incredible under event lighting.

Because the waves are flatter, this style is less prone to frizz and maintains its shape well in humid environments. It is a chic, “cool-girl” alternative to traditional curls.

13. Halo Braid with Tendrils

This variation of the crown braid focuses on a softer, more ethereal finish. Instead of a tight wrap, the braid is slightly pulled apart to increase its width and volume.

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Strategically released tendrils around the ears and forehead add a whimsical touch. This breaks up the circular line of the braid and creates a more flattering frame for the face.

It is a popular choice for those wearing flowing, lace-heavy gowns or romantic styles. The “pancaking” technique on the braid ensures it looks lush and full.

14. Voluminous Bouffant with Waves

Combining 60s-inspired height with modern waves creates a powerful and glamorous formal look. The bouffant adds drama and presence to the upper half of the style.

Back-combing at the crown provides the necessary lift, while the lengths are styled in large, bouncy curls. This creates a balanced silhouette that looks great from the front and profile.

A smoothing brush is used over the top of the bouffant to ensure a clean, polished finish. This style is perfect for those who want to add perceived height and volume.

15. Multi-Braided Updo

The multi-braided updo is a complex and artistic style that involves weaving several different braid types into a single cohesive bun. It is a true showstopper for formal events.

By mixing fishtail, three-strand, and rope braids, you create a masterpiece of texture. This style is best handled by a professional to ensure the weight is distributed evenly.

Because it is so detailed, it often requires minimal accessories to stand out. It is the perfect choice for a simple gown where you want your hair to be the main accessory.

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How long do these formal hairstyles typically take to create?

Most professional formal styles require between 45 and 90 minutes. Intricate braids or highly structured waves take longer than simple updos due to the precision required for sectioning and setting.

Should I wash my hair on the day of the formal event?

It is generally recommended to wash your hair the day before your event. “Second-day hair” usually has a better grip and holds styles, especially braids and curls, much better than freshly washed, slippery hair.

Which of these styles is best for fine or thin hair?

Braided updos and messy textured styles are excellent for fine hair because they allow for “pancaking” (pulling the braid apart) to create the illusion of thickness. Adding a bouffant or crown volume also helps.

How can I make my waves last throughout the entire night?

To ensure waves last, use a heat-protectant setting spray before curling and allow each curl to cool completely in your hand before releasing it. Finish with a high-quality, humidity-resistant firm-hold hairspray.

Do I need professional tools to achieve these braided looks?

While simple braids can be done at home, formal events usually require professional-grade tail combs for clean sectioning and high-end styling products for longevity. A professional stylist can also ensure the back is perfectly symmetrical.

Can I add hair accessories to these elegant updos?

Absolutely; accessories like pearl pins, metallic clips, or even fresh flowers can enhance any of these styles. It is best to choose one focal point accessory to ensure the hairstyle remains the primary focus.