14 Elegant Formal Updo Hairstyles for Any Occasion

Formal updo hairstyles are the go-to choice when you need a polished look for special occasions like weddings, proms, or galas. These styles can range from classic buns to intricate braids, making them versatile enough to suit any personality. Whether you’re aiming for something sleek and sophisticated or soft and romantic, there’s an updo to match every outfit and mood.

Messy Bun with Accessories

The messy bun is a fun and trendy hairstyle that perfectly balances casual and chic. In this style, the hair is gathered into a loose bun at the back, creating a relaxed vibe while still looking polished.

Adding accessories takes this look to the next level. You can see beautiful hairpins adorned with gems and elegant designs, making the messy bun feel more special. These little touches can transform a simple hairstyle into something striking and memorable.

This hairstyle is perfect for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. It’s versatile and easy to achieve, making it a favorite choice for many. Simply twist and tuck sections of hair, and finish it off with your favorite accessories to showcase your personal style!

Also Read: 10 Stunning Elegant Updo Hairstyles for Any Occasion

Fishtail Braid Updo

The fishtail braid updo combines elegance with a touch of whimsy. It’s perfect for formal occasions and adds a unique twist to traditional hairstyles. The braid weaves in a way that creates a stunning texture, making it stand out from regular braids.

This hairstyle features a beautiful blend of browns, showcasing the intricate details of the fishtail. Flowers are added for a fresh and romantic look. The blossoms not only enhance the updo but also give it a soft, feminine touch.

For those looking to recreate this style, start by gathering your hair into a ponytail, then divide it into two sections. Take small pieces from each section and cross them over to create the fishtail effect. Secure the bottom and fluff the braid a bit to add volume. Finally, tuck in the flowers for that extra flair.

Classic Chignon

The classic chignon is a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for formal events and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This style often features a low bun at the nape of the neck, giving it an elegant look.

In the image, you can see a beautiful chignon accentuated by soft, flowing strands framing the face. The neatness of the bun contrasts with the gentle waves, adding a touch of romantic flair. The hair’s rich tones catch the light, enhancing its overall charm.

Wearing a chignon is not just about looking good; it’s also about feeling confident. This hairstyle allows for easy accessorizing. You can add hairpins, flowers, or even a headband to personalize your look. The versatility of the chignon makes it a favorite among brides and wedding guests alike.

Braided Crown Updo

The braided crown updo is a stunning hairstyle that combines elegance with a touch of whimsy. This style features intricate braids wrapped around the head, creating a crown-like appearance. Perfect for formal events, it adds a sophisticated flair to any outfit.

The image showcases a lovely version of this hairstyle. The hair is beautifully braided and styled, giving off a soft glow against a backdrop of vibrant flowers. The colors in the hair add dimension, making the braid even more captivating.

This updo is not just visually appealing; it’s also practical. It keeps hair neatly in place while allowing for creativity in the braiding technique. Whether for a wedding, a prom, or any special occasion, a braided crown can elevate your look.

To achieve this style, start by sectioning the hair and creating a few braids. Then, wrap them around the base of your head, securing them with bobby pins. Finish off with hairspray to keep everything in place. It’s a fun and rewarding process!

Half-Up Half-Down Twist

The Half-Up Half-Down Twist is a charming hairstyle that strikes a balance between formal and relaxed. It’s perfect for events like weddings, proms, or fancy dinners.

This hairstyle features the top section of hair twisted elegantly and pinned back, while the rest cascades down in beautiful curls. The twist adds a touch of sophistication, making it ideal for any formal occasion.

In the image, you can see how the hair flows beautifully with soft waves. A decorative hairpin adds a lovely accent, enhancing the overall look without overwhelming it. This simple accessory can really elevate the hairstyle.

This style is great for showcasing your hair’s natural texture and color. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, it can be adapted to suit your unique look. It’s a versatile choice for anyone wanting to feel elegant.

Also Read: 11 Stunning Bun Updo Hairstyles to Try This Season

Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun is a stunning choice for formal updo hairstyles. This style combines elegance with a touch of casual charm. The image showcases a beautiful low bun that features twists, giving it a unique look.

The soft waves blend seamlessly with the twisted sections, creating an eye-catching effect. This hairstyle is perfect for events like weddings, proms, or formal dinners. It works well with various hair types, allowing everyone to enjoy its beauty.

To achieve this look, start by curling your hair for soft waves. Then, gather the hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. Secure it with pins and let a few strands frame your face. It’s an effortless way to elevate your style.

Vintage Roll Updo

The vintage roll updo is a stunning hairstyle that captures the charm of bygone eras. This particular style features elegantly rolled sections of hair, creating a refined look that feels both timeless and sophisticated.

In the image, you can see how the hair is intricately styled into smooth rolls, showcasing a blend of classic beauty and modern flair. The addition of decorative elements, like the black beads, adds a touch of glamour, making it perfect for formal occasions.

This updo is not just a hairstyle; it’s a statement. Ideal for weddings, proms, or other elegant events, the vintage roll updo enhances any outfit with its graceful silhouette. Whether you have long or medium hair, this style can be adapted to suit your needs, ensuring you look fabulous no matter the occasion.

Sleek High Bun

The sleek high bun is a classic hairstyle that radiates sophistication and elegance. This style is perfect for formal occasions, weddings, or a night out. It keeps your hair neatly pulled back, creating a polished look.

The image showcases a beautifully crafted high bun, featuring smooth strands that are neatly twisted and secured. Adorned with delicate hairpins, the hairstyle adds a touch of sparkle while maintaining a refined aesthetic.

This style works well for various hair types and lengths, making it versatile. You can easily achieve it by gathering your hair at the crown of your head, twisting it, and securing it in place with bobby pins or a hair tie. For a flawless finish, consider using a shine-enhancing spray.

The sleek high bun not only looks great, but it also keeps your hair out of your face, allowing you to shine at any event. Whether you’re dressing up for a party or simply want to look chic at the office, this hairstyle won’t let you down.

Elegant French Twist

The French twist is a classic hairstyle that radiates sophistication. This style is perfect for formal events where you want to make a lasting impression. The image showcases a beautiful French twist, elegantly crafted to complement the sleek look of the hair.

This hairstyle features a smooth, twisted design that pulls the hair back into a neat bun. It’s flattering for various hair types and lengths, making it versatile for many occasions. The twist is often secured with pins, ensuring it stays in place throughout the event.

In the background, you can see a classy setting, which adds to the overall charm of the hairstyle. Such a look pairs well with formal attire and is suitable for weddings, galas, or business events. The simplicity of the French twist allows you to accessorize with delicate earrings or a stunning necklace.

Side-Swept Updo

The side-swept updo is a timeless hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any formal look. This style beautifully combines elegance with a relaxed vibe, making it perfect for weddings, proms, or any special occasion.

In the image, we see a lovely updo that showcases soft, cascading curls swept to one side. The placement of the curls gives a flattering shape, drawing attention to the neckline and shoulders. Adding a decorative hair piece enhances the overall elegance of the hairstyle, making it stand out even more.

This style is not only stunning but also versatile. It can be adapted for various hair types and lengths. Plus, it works well with a variety of accessories, from floral pins to jeweled clips, allowing for personal expression.

For those looking to recreate this look, start by curling your hair for volume and texture. Then, gather the curls to one side and secure them with bobby pins. Finish off with a beautiful hair accessory for that added sparkle.

Romantic Loose Updo

The romantic loose updo is a stunning hairstyle that beautifully combines elegance with a relaxed vibe. Imagine soft waves and gentle curls, perfectly placed to create an effortlessly chic look.

In the photo, we see a lovely loose updo adorned with intricate braids, showcasing a playful yet sophisticated feel. The hair is gathered at the back, allowing a few stray strands to frame the face, adding a touch of romance. This style is perfect for weddings, proms, or any formal event.

The backdrop of blooming flowers enhances the overall charm, making it an ideal setting for showcasing this hairstyle. It’s a hairstyle that radiates warmth and joy, making it a popular choice among those looking to make a statement.

Also Read: 12 Elegant Updo Hairstyles for Any Occasion

Interwoven Ribbon Updo

The interwoven ribbon updo is a standout style for any formal occasion. This hairstyle showcases a beautifully braided bun, artfully arranged to create a stunning visual. The intricate weaving of the hair gives it a textured and rich appearance, making it perfect for weddings, proms, or any elegant event.

What makes this updo pop are the colorful ribbons tied into the braid. These vibrant accents add a playful touch, breaking the formality while keeping the overall look chic. The ribbons are not just for decoration; they can also match or contrast with your outfit, adding a cohesive element to your appearance.

To achieve this look, start with clean, dry hair. Braiding the hair in sections allows for better control and a neater finish. Once your braid is secure, you can gently pull at the sections to create volume. Tying in the ribbons can be done at the end for a neat look or throughout for a more dynamic style. This hairdo is not only stylish but also allows for personal expression through color and design.

Bohemian Braid Updo

The Bohemian Braid Updo is a charming hairstyle that captures a carefree spirit. This look is perfect for special occasions or casual outings. In the image, you can see a lovely braided hairstyle that combines elegance with a fun vibe.

Two braids cascade down the back, intricately woven to create depth and texture. The addition of delicate flowers enhances the overall boho aesthetic. These floral accents bring a touch of nature and softness to the hairstyle, making it ideal for weddings or outdoor events.

This hairstyle is versatile and can be paired with various outfits. Whether you’re wearing a flowing dress or a chic top, the Bohemian Braid Updo complements many styles. It’s also a great choice for those looking to express their individuality while maintaining a polished appearance.

Creating this hairstyle requires some basic braiding skills. Start by sectioning the hair and making two separate braids. Once complete, gently pull apart the braids for a fuller look. Finally, secure the ends with hair ties and add flowers for that perfect finishing touch!

Geometric Bun Design

The geometric bun design is a stunning hairstyle that combines elegance with a modern twist. This style features neatly arranged sections of hair fashioned into a sculptural bun shape, often resembling contemporary art. The clean lines and sharp angles make it a statement look, perfect for formal occasions.

One of the best things about a geometric bun is its versatility. It works well with various hair types and lengths. You can pull off this look whether you have long, thick locks or finer hair. The key is to create structure, which can be achieved with the right products and techniques.

When styling a geometric bun, consider adding accessories to enhance its look. Hairpins or decorative clips can add a touch of sparkle and refine the overall appearance. This hairstyle can be paired beautifully with bold makeup for a complete glam effect.

Whether you’re attending a wedding or a formal gala, a geometric bun will have you looking stylish and sophisticated. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and formality, making it a go-to choice for any special event.