Formal Event Hairstyles

Formal hairstyles can be any length.

Whether you're attending a prom, a wedding, or a special dinner, your hairstyle is as important as your attire for completing your elegant look. Formal-event hairstyles come in all lengths and include pinned-up tresses, free-flowing hair, or a combination of both. When seeking that perfect hairstyle, you should consider the event type and styling time required.

Shorter Length

Shorter hair can be either curled or worn straight.

You can choose from several options when wearing a formal short hairstyle. According to Thehairstyler.com, short 'dos are considered "neat and tidy, structured, in place, and tailored." The shorter formal hairdo comes in different styles, including curly, top heavy, razor cut, cropped, or pixie cut. Use a volumizing product such as a thickening leave-in conditioner to add body and shine.

To create a curly look that's flattering for weddings, use a wide- to small-barreled curling iron to loosely curl 1-inch-wide pieces, beginning at the crown. For longer hair, use a 1 1/2-inch to 2-inch curling iron to fully curl each piece. For shorter hair, use a barrel no wider than 1/2 inch to 1 inch. Using your fingers, separate the curls into several smaller curls. Do this with each chunk of hair. Use a holding spritz to keep the resulting soft, baby doll-like curls in place. Styling time is approximately 20 minutes.

Medium Length

Have your stylist try jagged-edged bangs for a softer look.

You have many options with medium-length hair. Consider a bob for a straight look. Your bob can be cut at several lengths, but keep it no longer than the jawline for added body. Jagged bangs soften the look by framing the face and giving your look polish. The bob is easily maintained and requires minimal styling time. Curl ends upward with a curling iron and sweep bangs to the side for a different look that works well for any formal event. Styling time is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Longer Length

Longer hair can be either pinned up or worn loosely for an appealing formal hairstyle.

Pin up your long tresses in a bun with cascading loose tendrils. Wear free-flowing curls for a carefree formal appearance. Try the same pinned-up style without the loose strands for a more businesslike look. Styling time is approximately 30-40 minutes.

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