Finding the perfect hairstyle for a gala, wedding, or black-tie event can feel daunting when working with natural texture. Curls offer a built-in volume that straight hair often lacks.
Embracing your natural pattern adds a layer of sophistication and uniqueness to any formal look. These styles are designed to highlight your curls while keeping them secure all night.
From sleek and polished to soft and romantic, there is an updo for every aesthetic. These 18 curly hair updos for formal events and parties will ensure you stand out.
1. The Classic Low Chignon
The low chignon is a timeless staple for any high-end event. By gathering your curls at the nape of the neck, you create a look that is both understated and incredibly elegant.
This style works beautifully with curly hair because the natural volume fills out the bun without the need for padding. It provides a structured silhouette that complements floor-length gowns and sophisticated necklines.
To keep this look formal, use a light-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways around the crown. Leaving a few small curls out around the ears can soften the overall appearance for a romantic touch.
2. Voluminous High Pineapple Bun
The high pineapple bun is a celebration of height and texture. By positioning the curls at the very top of the head, you create a dramatic focal point that draws the eyes upward.
This updo is particularly effective for those with tighter curl patterns who want to showcase their length and bounce. It keeps the hair away from the face while allowing the curls to cascade forward.
For a party-ready finish, secure the base with a silk scrunchie to prevent breakage. Use a decorative gold or silver cuff around the base of the bun to add an extra element of luxury.
3. Side-Swept Curly Waterfall
The side-swept waterfall updo offers a glamorous, vintage-inspired aesthetic. By pinning all the hair to one side, you create a stunning profile that highlights your jawline and shoulders.
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This style allows your curls to flow freely while still being contained in a formal structure. The asymmetrical balance is visually interesting and works perfectly with one-shoulder or strapless dresses.
Use large bobby pins that match your hair color to secure the back. A firm-hold gel can be used on the “slicked” side to create a sharp contrast between the smooth hair and the voluminous curls.
4. Braided Crown with Curly Back
A braided crown offers an ethereal, regal vibe that is perfect for outdoor weddings or summer parties. The braid acts as a natural headband, framing the face with intricate detail.
The back portion of the hair remains gathered in a loose, textured updo. This combination of structure and softness ensures the hair stays secure while still looking effortless and airy.
If your curls are on the shorter side, you can use a faux-braid headband that matches your texture. Finish the look by tucking small floral pins or pearls into the plaits for a whimsical effect.
5. The Twisted Halo Updo
The twisted halo is a sophisticated alternative to the traditional braid. By twisting sections of hair from the temples toward the back, you create a beautiful, rope-like frame for the face.
This style is excellent for managing thick curls that might be too heavy for a standard bun. The twists help to distribute the weight of the hair evenly around the head for maximum comfort.
Ensure the twists are pinned securely using the “criss-cross” method with bobby pins. This ensures that the style remains intact even after hours of dancing at a festive party.
6. Messy French Twist for Curls
The French twist is usually associated with straight hair, but the curly version offers a modern and relaxed update. The natural texture adds grip, making the style easier to secure.
Instead of a perfectly smooth finish, this version embraces the “perfectly imperfect” look. The curls spill out slightly at the top, creating a soft fringe of texture that looks incredibly chic.
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7. Curly Faux Hawk with Tapered Sides
For those who want to bring an edgy energy to a formal event, the curly faux hawk is the ultimate choice. It focuses the volume along the center of the head from the forehead to the nape.
The sides are slicked back tightly using styling cream or gel to mimic the look of a shave. This creates a bold, architectural silhouette that showcases the beauty of your curl definition.
This updo is a great way to show off statement earrings or a high-collar outfit. Use a pick to fluff the center section for maximum height and a truly dramatic entrance.
8. Triple Bun Mohawk
The triple bun mohawk is a playful yet structured updo that involves creating three distinct buns in a vertical line. It offers a unique geometric look that is perfect for modern parties.
Each bun can be styled with varying degrees of “messiness” depending on the level of formality. The repetition of the buns creates a sense of rhythm and balance in the hairstyle.
This style is incredibly secure and distributes the hair’s weight, making it comfortable for long-wear. Use decorative pins in each bun to tie the look together with your jewelry.
9. Low Loose Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
This updo is the epitome of soft romance. By keeping the bun loose and low, you create a relaxed silhouette that feels inviting and elegant without being too tight.
The key to this look is the face-framing tendrils. Allowing a few curls to hang freely around the face adds a delicate touch that softens the features and highlights the eyes.
Use a shine spray as a finishing touch to ensure the curls look hydrated and healthy. This style is a favorite for bridesmaids and those attending evening cocktail parties.
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Space buns get a formal makeover when they are braided and styled with precision. This look is youthful, energetic, and perfect for high-energy parties or festive celebrations.
The braids lead from the hairline up into two symmetrical buns at the crown. This adds detail to the front and sides of the head, ensuring the style looks great from every angle.
Wrap a small section of hair around the base of each bun to hide the elastics. This small detail elevates the style from a casual look to a deliberate, formal updo.
11. Sleek Top Knot with Curly Base
The sleek top knot relies on the contrast between a smooth, flat crown and a voluminous, textured bun. It is a high-fashion look often seen on red carpets and runways.
Use a boar bristle brush and a strong-hold gel to pull the hair back into a tight ponytail. Then, allow the natural curls to expand and form a large, cloud-like bun at the top.
This style acts as an instant face-lift, pulling the features upward for a sharp, striking look. It is best paired with bold makeup and minimalist evening wear.
12. Scarf-Wrapped Curly Updo
Incorporating a silk or satin scarf into your updo adds a pop of color and a touch of luxury. The scarf can be woven through a bun or used to wrap the base of a high ponytail.
This is a fantastic option for parties where you want to coordinate your hair with your outfit. The fabric also helps to protect the curls from friction and maintains moisture throughout the night.
Choose a scarf with a metallic sheen or a sophisticated print to keep the look formal. Knot the scarf at the bottom and let the ends hang for a flowing, dynamic effect.
13. Side Bun with Deep Side Part
A deep side part adds instant drama and a classic “Old Hollywood” feel to any curly updo. It changes the way the hair frames the face and creates a sophisticated asymmetry.
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Apply a small amount of pomade to the part line to ensure it stays crisp and clean. This updo is perfect for showcasing a beautiful neckline or an intricate necklace.
14. The Curly Gibson Tuck
The Gibson tuck is a vintage style that looks incredibly intricate but is surprisingly easy to achieve. It involves tucking the length of the hair into a “pocket” created at the nape.
With curly hair, the tuck becomes much fuller and more textured than its straight-haired counterpart. It creates a horizontal roll of curls that looks polished and very secure.
You can use a hair donut or padding if you want extra volume, though most curly textures provide enough lift naturally. Secure with long pins to ensure the roll doesn’t sag.
15. Half-Up Top Knot with Cascading Curls
While technically a “half-up” style, it functions as an updo for those who want to keep hair out of their face while still showing off their length. It is the best of both worlds.
The top section is pulled into a neat, high knot, while the rest of the curls cascade down the back. This creates a beautiful silhouette that works well with semi-formal party attire.
To make it more formal, ensure the bottom curls are well-defined with a curl-defining cream. This prevents the look from appearing too casual or messy for a gala event.
16. Pearl-Adorned Low Textured Bun
Accessories can transform a simple updo into a masterpiece. A low, textured bun becomes a work of art when scattered with small pearl pins or iridescent crystals.
This style is perfect for formal events like weddings or holiday parties. The pearls catch the light and add a layer of sophistication that complements the natural beauty of the curls.
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Space the accessories out randomly for a “stardust” effect, or line them up for a more structured look. This updo proves that sometimes more is actually more when it comes to glamour.
17. Criss-Cross Back Bun
The criss-cross back bun is all about the detail at the nape of the neck. Sections of hair are crossed over each other before being pinned into the main bun, creating a woven effect.
This style is visually stunning from the back, making it a great choice for events where you will be photographed from all angles. It adds a level of complexity that looks professional.
Keep the front of the style simple to allow the back to be the star of the show. Use a setting spray with a high-shine finish to make the “woven” sections pop.
18. Waterfall Braid into a Side Pony
This updo combines the elegance of a braid with the playfulness of a side ponytail. The braid wraps around the head, collecting curls as it goes, before ending in a voluminous side-set tail.
It is a dynamic style that moves with you, making it ideal for parties with plenty of movement and dancing. The texture of the curls makes the braid look thick and luxurious.
Secure the end of the braid with a clear elastic and hide it with a small wrap of hair. This ensures a seamless transition and a high-end, professional finish to the look.
How do I prevent frizz in a curly updo?
To prevent frizz, start with well-hydrated hair and use a microfiber towel to dry. Apply a leave-in conditioner and a gel or mousse while the hair is still damp to lock in the curl pattern. During the styling process, avoid over-touching the curls and finish with a light-hold, anti-humidity hairspray to create a barrier against moisture.
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Essential tools include a wide-tooth comb for detangling, a boar bristle brush for smoothing the edges, and plenty of heavy-duty bobby pins. Seamless hair elastics or silk scrunchies are also vital to prevent snagging and breakage. For extra volume or definition, a hair diffuser can be used to set the curls before you begin pinning them into place.
Can I do these updos on short curly hair?
Yes, many of these updos can be adapted for shorter lengths. Styles like the twisted halo, the French twist, and the side-swept look work well with shoulder-length or shorter curls. If you need extra length or volume for a specific style, high-quality curly hair extensions or “hair donuts” can be used to provide the necessary structure.
Should I wash my hair right before styling a formal updo?
Generally, “second-day hair” is better for updos because it has more natural grip and hold. Freshly washed hair can be too slippery, making it difficult for pins to stay in place. If you must wash your hair on the day of the event, use a texturizing spray or a bit of dry shampoo to add some “grit” to the strands before styling.
How can I make my curly updo last all night?
The secret to longevity is a solid foundation. Use the “criss-cross” pinning technique, where two bobby pins lock over each other in an ‘X’ shape. Ensure your ponytail or base is secure but not so tight that it causes discomfort. Finally, use a strong-hold finishing spray and carry a few extra pins in your evening bag for quick touch-ups.
Which curly updos are best for high-humidity environments?
For humid environments, opt for more secure, “contained” styles like the triple bun mohawk, the braided crown, or the sleek top knot. These styles keep the hair tightly gathered, which minimizes the surface area exposed to moisture. Using a dedicated anti-humidity sealer or a light hair oil can also help keep the cuticle flat and prevent the style from expanding.