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60+ Elegant Formal Hairstyles for 2024

As we step into 2024, the need for elegance and poise in formal settings remains timeless. Whether attending a gala, a wedding, or a corporate event, the right hairstyle plays a pivotal role in your overall appearance. This guide to over 60 formal hairstyles offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. From classic updos to modern twists and everything in between, discover the perfect hairstyle that not only suits your personal style but also complements your evening attire flawlessly.

1. Golden Braided Elegance

A beautifully intricate braid adorned with gold chains and delicate jewelry, creating a luxurious, regal look. The braid starts high on the head and is seamlessly interwoven with gold accessories, giving it a stunning and sophisticated appearance. Perfect for formal events or occasions requiring a touch of opulence.

2. Ornate Braided Masterpiece

A thick, dark braid adorned with gold beads and floral motifs, creating an elaborate and ornate hairstyle. The braid is interwoven with intricate gold chains and ornaments, enhancing its luxurious appeal. Ideal for grand events where a statement hairstyle is essential.

3. Classic Braided Sophistication

A timeless, elegant braid decorated with subtle gold chains. The braid begins at the crown, with gold accents woven throughout, adding a touch of sophistication. This classic style is perfect for both formal occasions and elegant gatherings.

4. Voluminous Braided Romance

A voluminous, romantic braid adorned with intricate gold accessories. The hairstyle features large, loose twists that cascade down the back, with gold chains and a decorative piece at the top, creating a soft, vintage look. Ideal for weddings or special occasions.

5. Majestic Braided Adornment

A majestic braid interwoven with blue and gold jewelry, creating a regal and opulent hairstyle. The braid is richly decorated with intricate ornaments and dangling chains, perfect for royal-themed events or formal occasions where an extravagant look is desired.

6. Sleek Minimalist Ponytail

A sleek, minimalist ponytail with a modern, polished finish. The hair is tightly pulled back and secured with a simple metallic band, exuding contemporary elegance. This understated style is perfect for professional settings or formal events.

7. Timeless Low Bun

A classic low bun that radiates elegance and professionalism. The hair is smoothly slicked back and twisted into a low bun, secured with a subtle hair tie. This timeless style is ideal for formal events or business meetings.

8. Polished Sleek Updo

A polished, sleek updo characterized by its clean lines and minimalist design. The hair is meticulously combed back and secured with a simple hair accessory, creating a smooth and glossy finish. Perfect for formal events or professional settings where a chic look is required.

9. Sleek Low Bun

A sleek and polished low bun that exudes elegance and sophistication. The hair is smoothly pulled back into a tight bun at the nape of the neck, with each strand meticulously styled for a glossy finish. Ideal for formal occasions or professional settings where a refined and understated look is desired.

10. Voluminous Chignon

A voluminous chignon that combines classic elegance with modern style. The hair is teased for volume and then expertly twisted into a large, structured bun. The smooth, shiny finish enhances the sophisticated appearance, making it perfect for upscale events or formal gatherings.

11. High Volume Updo

A high volume updo that creates a striking and glamorous look. The hair is styled with significant height and volume, then gathered into a sleek, rounded bun at the back. This dramatic hairstyle is ideal for red carpet events or any occasion requiring a bold, elegant statement.

12. Glossy Structured Bun

A glossy, structured bun that showcases intricate styling and precision. The hair is meticulously arranged into a large, rounded bun with a shiny, smooth finish. This elegant hairstyle is perfect for formal events, offering a sophisticated and polished look.

13. Retro Glamour Updo

A retro glamour updo inspired by vintage styles, featuring elegant curls and a voluminous shape. The hair is styled with precision, creating a classic yet contemporary look. Adorned with a sparkling hair accessory, this hairstyle is perfect for glamorous occasions and formal events.

14. Royal Braided Crown

A royal braided crown featuring an intricate braid adorned with a golden crown. The braid encircles the head, creating a regal and majestic look. Perfect for themed events, weddings, or any occasion where a royal appearance is desired.

15. Ethereal Braided Elegance

An ethereal braided hairstyle adorned with delicate golden accessories and flowing ribbons. The hair is intricately braided and styled into a loose, romantic braid, complemented by an elegant headpiece. Ideal for weddings, bridal events, or any occasion requiring a soft and dreamy look.

16. Bohemian Braided Style

A bohemian braided style featuring multiple braids and a decorative headband. The hair is styled into a combination of loose and tight braids, creating a textured and natural look. This casual yet elegant hairstyle is perfect for outdoor events, festivals, or casual gatherings.

17. Regal Braided Crown

An intricate, regal braided hairstyle featuring two symmetrical braids merging into a central braid. The braids are adorned with a delicate golden headpiece, enhancing the royal and sophisticated look. Ideal for formal occasions and events requiring a touch of elegance and tradition.

18. Elegant Curled Updo

A sophisticated updo with intricate curls and a shimmering hair accessory. The hair is styled into smooth, polished curls gathered elegantly at the back, creating a voluminous and glamorous appearance. Perfect for weddings, proms, and formal events.

19. Classic Twisted Chignon

A classic twisted chignon adorned with a sparkling hair accessory. The hair is smoothly pulled back and twisted into a low bun, exuding timeless elegance. This sophisticated style is ideal for formal occasions and elegant gatherings.

20. Romantic Bubble Braid

A romantic bubble braid accented with velvet flowers. The hairstyle features loose, voluminous sections tied with small bands to create a bubble effect, with soft curls and floral accents adding a whimsical touch. Perfect for romantic events and weddings.

21. Vintage Braided Bun

A vintage-inspired braided bun with elegant twists and a bow accent. The hair is intricately braided and styled into a low bun, adorned with a velvet bow for a charming, retro look. Ideal for themed events, vintage weddings, and formal gatherings.

22. Sleek Twisted Bun

A sleek and sophisticated twisted bun with a smooth, polished finish. The hair is tightly twisted and secured into a low bun, creating a modern and elegant look. Perfect for formal occasions, professional settings, and stylish events.

23. Artistic Braided Updo

An artistic braided updo with an intricate design. The hair is styled into a series of twists and braids, creating a unique and elaborate look. Ideal for fashion-forward events, art shows, and formal occasions where a statement hairstyle is desired.

24. Glamorous Star-Adorned Bun

A glamorous bun adorned with sparkling star-shaped hairpins. The hair is neatly styled into a smooth bun, with shimmering accessories adding a touch of sparkle and elegance. Perfect for red carpet events, galas, and formal gatherings.

25. Radiant Bejeweled Bun

A sleek, low bun adorned with a radiant, bejeweled hairpiece. The hair is smoothly pulled back and secured in a bun, highlighted by the sparkling accessory, adding a touch of glamour and elegance. Perfect for high-end events and formal gatherings.

26. Sleek Chignon with Crystal Brooch

A polished chignon accented with a crystal brooch. The hair is styled into a smooth, low bun, with the shimmering brooch serving as a focal point, enhancing the sophisticated look. Ideal for elegant events, galas, and formal occasions.

27. Twisted Low Bun with Rhinestone Bands

A twisted low bun embellished with rhinestone bands. The hair is intricately twisted into a bun, with sparkling bands adding a glamorous touch. Perfect for formal events, weddings, and high-society gatherings.

28. Blue Jewel-Embellished Braids

A stunning braided hairstyle adorned with blue jewels. The hair is braided and decorated with intricate blue gemstone embellishments, creating a luxurious and regal look. Ideal for special occasions and formal events.

29. Blue Enchanted Wavy Hairstyle

A captivating wavy hairstyle adorned with blue embellishments. The hair features soft waves interwoven with intricate blue beaded decorations, creating a magical and enchanting appearance. Perfect for themed events and formal gatherings.

30. Royal Braided Crown with Chains

A royal braided hairstyle decorated with delicate chains and jewels. The hair is braided and intertwined with gold chains and blue gemstones, exuding a regal and majestic vibe. Ideal for formal events and special occasions.

31. Elegant Twisted Updo with Pearls

An elegant twisted updo accented with delicate pearl hairpins. The hair is styled into a sophisticated updo, with pearl accents adding a touch of grace and refinement. Perfect for weddings, formal events, and elegant gatherings.

32. Intricate Braided Updo with Crystal Accents

An intricate braided updo adorned with crystal accents. The hair is styled into an elaborate updo with braided sections, enhanced by sparkling crystals for a luxurious and sophisticated look. Ideal for weddings, galas, and high-end events.

33. Elegant Twisted Updo with Subtle Jewels

An elegant twisted updo adorned with subtle jeweled pins. The hair is intricately twisted and pinned up, with delicate jewels adding a hint of sparkle and sophistication. Perfect for weddings, proms, and formal events.

34. Glamorous Curled Updo with Floral Accents

A glamorous curled updo embellished with floral accents. The hair is styled into voluminous curls and pinned up, decorated with delicate floral hairpins, creating a romantic and elegant look. Ideal for weddings and special occasions.

35. Bohemian Braided Ponytail with Jewel Clips

A bohemian braided ponytail adorned with intricate jewel clips. The hair is braided and gathered into a loose ponytail, with jewel clips adding a touch of bohemian elegance. Perfect for outdoor weddings and boho-themed events.

36. Regal Bubble Braid with Rhinestone Brooch

A regal bubble braid accented with a rhinestone brooch. The hair is styled into a sleek bubble braid, with a sparkling brooch adding a touch of opulence and sophistication. Ideal for galas and high-end events.

37. Romantic Wavy Ponytail with Crystal Hairpiece

A romantic wavy ponytail adorned with a crystal hairpiece. The hair features soft waves cascading down, secured with a beautiful crystal hairpiece, creating an enchanting and elegant look. Perfect for weddings and formal occasions.

38. Classic Low Ponytail with Elegant Brooch

A classic low ponytail accented with an elegant brooch. The hair is styled into sleek waves and gathered low, with a sparkling brooch adding a touch of sophistication. Ideal for formal events and elegant gatherings.

39. Intricate Braided Updo with Gold Accents

An intricate braided updo adorned with gold accents. The hair is styled into a detailed braid, with gold hairpins adding a touch of luxury and elegance. Perfect for weddings, galas, and high-end events.

40. Simple Braided Hairstyle with Natural Elegance

A simple braided hairstyle exuding natural elegance. The hair is neatly braided down the back, creating a timeless and graceful look. Ideal for weddings, proms, and formal gatherings.

41. Romantic Half-Updo with Pearl Accents

The hairstyle features loose, romantic waves cascading down the back with a half-updo twist. Pearl and floral accents are delicately woven into the hair, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy. The intricate detailing and soft curls create a look that’s both timeless and ethereal, perfect for a wedding or special occasion.

42. Ethereal Curly Half-Updo with Pearl Sprinkles

This ethereal hairstyle showcases voluminous curls styled into a half-updo, with tiny pearls sprinkled throughout the hair for a magical effect. The curls are soft and bouncy, giving a fairy-tale-like appearance. The overall look is delicate and enchanting, suitable for brides or formal events.

43. Futuristic Sleek Ponytail with Neon Lights

A striking futuristic look featuring a sleek, high ponytail interwoven with neon lights. The hair is smooth and glossy, and the colorful lights create a dramatic and avant-garde style. This bold and innovative hairstyle is perfect for high-fashion events or themed parties.

44. Space-Age Twin Buns with Reflective Ribbon

This space-age hairstyle includes twin buns adorned with a reflective, iridescent ribbon. The sleek, wet-look hair is styled neatly into buns, and the ribbon adds a touch of modernity and shine. It’s a unique and eye-catching look, ideal for futuristic fashion shows or creative photo shoots.

45. High-Tech Rainbow Hair with Metallic Accents

A high-tech hairstyle featuring long, sleek hair with vibrant rainbow colors and metallic accents. The hair is parted neatly and decorated with metallic ribbons that add a shimmering effect. This bold and colorful look is perfect for fashion-forward individuals and futuristic-themed events.

46. Rainbow Bubble Ponytail

A playful and colorful hairstyle with a high ponytail divided into segments using colorful bubble bands. The hair is smooth and straight, and the bright bands add a fun and quirky touch. This hairstyle is great for casual events, festivals, or any occasion that calls for a vibrant and unique look.

47. Multi-Color Braid with Fabric Accents

This hairstyle features a long, multi-color braid adorned with fabric accents. The braid incorporates various bright hues and is tied with colorful fabric strips, giving it a bohemian and artistic feel. Perfect for festivals, boho weddings, or casual, creative settings.

48. Traditional Braided Updo with Floral Accents

A traditional braided updo styled with intricate braids and floral accents. The hair is neatly braided and pinned up, with delicate flowers woven into the style. This classic and romantic look is ideal for weddings, formal events, or any special occasion requiring an elegant hairstyle.

49. Intricate Braided Updo

This elegant updo features multiple intricate braids woven together to create a sophisticated, crown-like effect. The hairstyle is adorned with delicate floral accents, adding a touch of romance and femininity. Ideal for formal occasions, this hairstyle showcases detailed craftsmanship and a refined aesthetic, perfectly complementing the lace details of the gown.

50. Romantic Double Braid

This hairstyle features two thick, symmetrical braids cascading down the back, interwoven and secured into a chic, slightly tousled finish. Small, white floral accessories are strategically placed within the braids, enhancing the romantic and whimsical feel. The soft, loose curls around the face add an effortless elegance, perfect for weddings or other special events.

51. Classic Braided Bun

A timeless braided bun, this hairstyle combines elegance and simplicity. The hair is smoothly pulled back and intricately braided into a low bun at the nape of the neck. This classic look is ideal for formal events, providing a polished and sophisticated appearance that pairs well with elaborate dresses.

52. Elegant Side Braid Updo

Featuring a voluminous side braid that wraps into a graceful low bun, this hairstyle exudes elegance and sophistication. The hair

is meticulously braided and pinned to create a seamless and intricate pattern. This updo is perfect for formal occasions, showcasing a balance of structure and softness that complements a variety of evening gowns.

53. Bohemian Floral Braids

This bohemian-inspired hairstyle features multiple colorful braids adorned with vibrant hues of pink, purple, and orange. The braids are tightly woven and accented with beads and small floral accessories, giving a playful and lively vibe. Ideal for festivals or casual gatherings, this look is all about fun and creativity.

54. Sleek Bow Bun

This elegant hairstyle features a sleek, polished bow bun. The hair is meticulously gathered and smoothed into a sophisticated bow shape at the back of the head, secured with a simple black band. The high-shine finish enhances the sleekness, making it perfect for formal events. The model’s modern earrings and geometric black dress complement the overall chic look.

55. Classic Retro Waves

This hairstyle showcases classic retro waves, styled into a voluminous bob. The rich, dark hair is elegantly curled to form structured waves, exuding a vintage glamour vibe. The sheer, intricately detailed black lace dress adds a touch of sophistication, perfect for a glamorous evening out or a formal gathering.

56. Elegant Braided Updo

This elegant updo features intricately braided sections woven together to form a stylish and sophisticated bun. The warm auburn hair is adorned with delicate jeweled pins, adding a touch of sparkle. Paired with emerald drop earrings and a black, finely detailed dress, this hairstyle is ideal for formal events and special occasions.

57. Elegant Looped Updo

This formal hairstyle features an intricate updo with elegantly looped sections of glossy blonde hair. The loops are carefully twisted and pinned, creating a voluminous yet sleek look. This style is perfect for weddings and high-profile events, offering both sophistication and a touch of glamour. Pair it with a detailed, lace dress for an exquisite appearance.

58. Chic Side Bun

The chic side bun is a graceful hairstyle where the hair is gathered and twisted into a loose bun positioned to one side of the nape. The smooth finish and soft, understated waves provide a refined, timeless elegance. This look is ideal for formal occasions, especially when paired with delicate lace attire, enhancing the wearer’s feminine charm.

59. Intricate Braided Bun with Emerald Accents

This sophisticated updo features intricately braided hair, meticulously woven into a bun. Adorned with emerald-studded hairpieces, the hairstyle exudes a regal elegance. The rich, dark hair is styled to perfection, creating a flawless and polished look. Ideal for formal events, this hairstyle pairs beautifully with luxurious fabrics and detailed embellishments, as shown with the matching earrings and embroidered dress.

60. Romantic Curled Half-Updo

This charming hairstyle showcases long, cascading curls elegantly gathered into a half-updo. The soft, golden locks are intertwined into delicate braids and twists, creating a whimsical and romantic look. Perfect for weddings or formal occasions, this hairstyle complements vintage-inspired dresses and natural makeup, emphasizing a soft, feminine aesthetic.

Conclusion

Selecting the ideal hairstyle for a formal event is more than just a routine decision; it’s an opportunity to showcase your elegance and attention to detail. With over 60 hairstyles to choose from in our 2024 guide, you can ensure that your look is as polished as your occasion. Whether you choose a sophisticated bun, a delicate braided updo, or lush, flowing waves, each style is designed to enhance your features and elevate your formal wear. Remember, a great hairstyle is the crown jewel of your ensemble, making your special occasions truly memorable.