When attending a formal event, gala, wedding, or sophisticated party, your hairstyle should be elegant, polished, and timeless. Whether you prefer a chic updo, glamorous waves, or a sleek ponytail, these 16 classy hairstyles will help you look effortlessly stunning for any special occasion.
✨ Elegant Updos
1. Classic Low Chignon (Timeless & Sophisticated)
A low chignon is the epitome of elegance, perfect for black-tie events and weddings.
✔️ Smooth hair into a low bun at the nape.
✔️ Twist and pin sections for a fuller look.
✔️ Add a decorative clip or pearl accessory.
💡 Best for: Weddings, gala nights, elegant soirées.
2. Sleek French Twist (Polished & Chic)
A French twist updo is refined, sophisticated, and works for any formal occasion.
✔️ Gather hair at the back and roll it upwards.
✔️ Secure with pins and a comb or hairpiece.
✔️ Finish with shine spray for a sleek look.
💡 Best for: Black-tie events, corporate parties, elegant receptions.
3. Twisted Low Bun (Simple & Romantic)
A twisted low bun gives an effortless yet classy look.
✔️ Divide hair into sections and twist them into a bun.
✔️ Secure with pins and a light-hold hairspray.
✔️ Pull out soft tendrils for a romantic effect.
💡 Best for: Formal dinners, charity balls, engagement parties.
4. Braided Crown Updo (Regal & Ethereal)
A braided crown updo creates a goddess-like appearance.
✔️ Create a Dutch or French braid around your head.
✔️ Tuck the ends into a low bun.
✔️ Decorate with small pearls or flowers.
💡 Best for: Weddings, vintage-themed parties, formal dinners.
✨ Glamorous Waves & Curls
5. Hollywood Waves (Red Carpet Glam)
Vintage Hollywood waves add a touch of old-school luxury.
✔️ Use a 1.25-inch curling iron for uniform curls.
✔️ Brush through curls for soft, sculpted waves.
✔️ Tuck one side behind the ear with a sparkly clip.
💡 Best for: Black-tie events, proms, gala nights.
6. Voluminous Blowout (Lush & Bouncy)
A bouncy blowout is effortless yet sophisticated.
✔️ Use a round brush and blow dryer for volume.
✔️ Add soft waves for extra movement.
✔️ Finish with light-hold hairspray.
💡 Best for: Work parties, cocktail receptions, red carpet events.
7. Side-Swept Waves (Elegant & Romantic)
Side-swept waves are glamorous yet soft and feminine.
✔️ Curl hair in one direction for a uniform wave.
✔️ Sweep hair to one side and secure with pins.
✔️ Use a shine spray for a glossy finish.
💡 Best for: Formal weddings, gala dinners, anniversary parties.
8. Loose Waves with a Deep Side Part (Sultry & Chic)
A deep side part with tousled waves gives a modern yet elegant touch.
✔️ Use a curling iron for loose, effortless waves.
✔️ Create a deep side part for a dramatic effect.
✔️ Finish with a light mist of shine spray.
💡 Best for: Cocktail parties, engagement events, dinner galas.
✨ Sleek & Sophisticated Styles
9. Sleek High Ponytail (Modern & Trendy)
A sleek high ponytail is bold, polished, and stylish.
✔️ Straighten hair for a smooth, sleek look.
✔️ Secure into a high ponytail and wrap a section around the base.
✔️ Use a strong-hold hairspray for all-night hold.
💡 Best for: Trendy formal events, award ceremonies, fashion galas.
10. Low Ponytail with a Twist (Minimalist & Chic)
A low ponytail with a twist is elegant and effortless.
✔️ Tie hair into a low ponytail at the nape.
✔️ Twist a section and wrap it around the elastic.
✔️ Add a sleek hairpin or pearl accessory.
💡 Best for: Corporate parties, formal galas, minimalist aesthetics.
11. Sleek Straight Hair with a Middle Part (Effortless & Sophisticated)
Super sleek, straight hair is modern and timeless.
✔️ Use a flat iron for a pin-straight finish.
✔️ Apply serum for shine and smoothness.
✔️ Tuck one side behind the ear for a chic, effortless look.
💡 Best for: Black-tie events, modern weddings, upscale parties.
✨ Braided & Twisted Hairstyles
12. Fishtail Braid with Accessories (Boho & Glam)
A fishtail braid adds a sophisticated bohemian touch.
✔️ Create a loose fishtail braid.
✔️ Pull apart for a fuller, voluminous effect.
✔️ Add small pearl or jeweled pins.
💡 Best for: Rustic weddings, garden parties, outdoor galas.
13. Rope Braid Low Bun (Structured & Elegant)
A rope braid bun is sleek yet unique.
✔️ Create a twist or rope braid on both sides.
✔️ Gather into a low bun and secure.
✔️ Add a minimalist hair comb for a touch of elegance.
💡 Best for: Elegant receptions, museum galas, weddings.
14. Waterfall Braid with Waves (Romantic & Delicate)
A waterfall braid with waves is dreamy and feminine.
✔️ Braid a section at the crown, letting strands fall through.
✔️ Curl the rest of the hair for a soft, flowing effect.
✔️ Secure with a small crystal clip.
💡 Best for: Fairy-tale weddings, prom, engagement parties.
✨ Unique & Trendy Styles
15. Bubble Ponytail (Trendy & Fun)
A bubble ponytail is a modern, playful twist on a classic look.
✔️ Tie hair into a high or mid ponytail.
✔️ Add small elastics every few inches.
✔️ Pull apart each section for volume.
💡 Best for: Fashion-forward events, stylish parties, modern weddings.
16. Pearl-Embellished Updo (Regal & Stunning)
Adding pearls to an updo creates a luxurious, chic style.
✔️ Style hair into a sleek low bun or twisted updo.
✔️ Place pearls or decorative pins throughout.
✔️ Secure with strong-hold hairspray.
💡 Best for: Elegant evening receptions, royal-themed weddings.
Final Thoughts
From sleek updos to voluminous waves, these 16 classy hairstyles are perfect for formal events and parties. Whether you prefer classic, modern, or trendy styles, you’ll find the perfect look to turn heads and make a statement.
💁♀️ Which formal hairstyle will you try first? Let us know in the comments! ✨