20 Formal Hairstyles for Long Hair

This guide saves you scrolling by curating event-ready ideas in one place. Expect quick descriptions, who each option flatters, and what makes a look feel polished and photo-ready.

We cover main categories: updos, statement buns, ponytails, braids, half-up styles, twists and waves. Each entry notes structure, texture, and the finishing touches that turn simple into special.

Common pains with long hair—weight, slipping pins, frizz, and styles that fade fast—are real. Later tips show how to secure pieces, boost hold, and keep shine so your look lasts through a wedding, prom, gala, or black-tie night.

Think about dress neckline, weather, and comfort when you choose. Small accessories like ribbons, jeweled clips, ornate pins, headbands, or fresh flowers make a big upgrade without extra effort.

Choose a style that suits the setting and keeps you confident from photos to last dance.

Match the look to the event vibe. Black-tie calls for polished updos or sleek ponytails, cocktail events let you be a bit playful, and outdoor ceremonies need windproof, secure options.

Consider outfit details when deciding. Strapless or off-the-shoulder gowns pair well with updos that show the neck and shoulders. High necklines often work best with a smooth ponytail or a neat down style.

• Face strategy: a center part can elongate the face; a deep side part adds lift; wispy bangs soften features.
• Wedding path: brides and guests should plan veil placement, test looks in windy conditions, and check photos from front and back.
• Makeup link: pull-back styles highlight eye makeup, while softer waves balance a bold lip.
• Do a trial run and bring inspiration photos so your stylist matches volume and polish for the big day.

Prep work makes the difference between a look that lasts and one that falls flat by midnight.

Wash timing matters: aim to shampoo the day before and use light conditioner only on the ends. Fully dry roots before styling so lifts and pins hold better on the event day.

Use product types that boost grip and stay power. A texturizing spray gives hold, a thickening spray builds fuller ponytails, and a flexible hairspray sets style without crunch.

• Volume tactics: root lift with focused blow-drying, gentle teasing in small sections, or sea salt spray for natural texture and body.
• Extensions help when hair is thin or flat—clip-ins add fullness for buns, braids, or flowing curls. Test them at your trial to match color and weight.
• Pin strategy: insert pins in a crisscross at the base, work in layers, and pick pins that match your shade. Keep a few extra bobby pins in reach.
• Packing list for the rest of the night: mini spray, bobby pins, a small comb, and oil-blotting sheets to refresh hair and makeup.

Small accents can turn a simple style into something red-carpet ready.

Choose accessories based on the event’s formality. Subtle pearl pins suit black-tie looks. Rhinestone combs shine at a wedding. Satin ribbons add soft charm for prom or a romantic night out.

Placement makes a piece look intentional. Tuck a jeweled pin into the join of an updo. Slide a comb above a chignon. Weave a long headpiece through braid sections so it reads seamless, not stuck-on.

• Headbands: thin bands add polish with hair down; chunky or braided bands boost drama and hold.
• Floral options: a single bloom behind the ear, small flowers dotted through braids, or a structured crown for outdoor ceremonies.
• Half-up upgrades: ribbons and jeweled clips lift a simple half style into a statement.
• Durability tips: anchor combs into lightly teased sections and secure heavier pieces with crossed pins so they stay put.

Match accessory weight and shine to your overall beauty plan. If jewelry and dress are minimalist, choose one bold piece. If your jewelry is ornate, keep the rest of your style understated.

A well-made updo balances clean lines and soft detail, so it reads elegant in close-ups and from behind.

Define a classic updo: a tidy silhouette, controlled volume, and a smooth back view that photographs consistently. These styles stay neat in photos and feel polished while you move.

The chignon is a timeless alternative to a simple bun. It can be sleek and glossy or lightly tugged so strands fan out for a softer finish. Plan extra bobby pins when you choose this option.

French twists are a staple of evening looks. They need firm pinning; special French twist combs make shaping easier. A messy French twist adds romantic softness around the face.

• Ballerina bun cues: smooth base, centered placement, and optional face-framing curls to avoid a severe look.
• Sleek vs. soft: pick a polished finish for minimalist gowns and soft texture for lace, tulle, or garden weddings.
• Staying power: set with strong hold spray and pin the “spine” of a twist or chignon so the back won’t unravel.

Elevate long locks by building a bun that balances height, shape, and shine.

What makes a statement bun? Intentional height, visible structure, and full mass that reads sculpted rather than rushed. Aim for a shape that holds its form in photos and under lights.

Work in big sections: separate the hair into large sections, twist each piece, then pin toward a central anchor. Twisting and securing every section builds a layered, architectural shape that stands tall on the head.

Use clip-in extensions meant for thin hair to boost density so the bun reads luxe instead of flat. Moving the finished bun higher on the top of the head increases elegance and shows off details like a stacked power bun or a small cornrow tuck.

• Try a glossy space-bun treatment with shine spray and curled tendrils to make the look formal.
• Distribute weight across multiple anchors to stay comfy and avoid tight pulling at the hairline.
• Consider a stacked or tall power bun when you want maximum presence and volume at the crown.

Knotted and twisted buns give long locks a secure, dressed-up finish with minimal effort.

Why they work: the knot creates a natural anchor that resists slipping. That anchor holds weight and keeps the shape through movement and heat.

Beginner method: split hair into two equal sections. Tie the two sections into a simple knot. Wrap each half around the knot and secure ends with bobby pins.

For a sleek knotted bun, start with a slick low ponytail. Split the tail into two, twist each piece together, then fold and pin for a folded, polished style.

• Textured knot: leave face-framing pieces out, loosen the knot slightly, and add texture spray for grip and soft texture.
• Secure at the back: pin in an X pattern and tuck ends under the fold so pins hide and the finish looks smooth.
• Best moments: this way is ideal for dance-heavy events—chic, secure, and simple to refresh if a pin loosens.

Soft updos strike a balance between neat structure and easygoing texture. This sweet spot suits outdoor weddings and garden parties where you want romance with ease.

Boho-inspired options use loose braid elements and gently pulled-apart texture. Leave a few piecey strands around the face and add subtle curls or soft waves to frame features.

• Banana bun: a relaxed cousin of the French twist; pin with ornate clips to make the look glam.
• Glam messy bun: build an internal anchor, curl a few tendrils, then tuck a sparkly hairpiece sized to the volume.
• Side-swept or side bun: adds asymmetry that flatters many faces and pairs well with statement earrings.

To keep the style all day, set with a flexible hairspray and hide a few pins inside the base. That keeps softness but prevents slippage so your wedding look stays fresh into the evening.

A ponytail can be dressed up to feel intentional, not rushed—perfect when you want hair off your face without a full updo.

Choose one of two directions: sleek and glossy or voluminous and wavy. A high ponytail adds lift and drama, while a low ponytail reads elegant and minimal for weddings or black-tie events.

• To add volume: tease gently at the crown, mist with a thickening spray, and smooth the top layer.
• For a wavy finish: curl sections, leave face-framing strands, and lightly tousle to keep movement.
• Instant upgrade: wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide the band and make the style look finished.

Finish options matter. Go straight and glossy for a modern, sleek look or flip the ends for a subtle retro twist. This style keeps your face clear for makeup and stays polished all day with a light hold spray.

Braiding into a ponytail gives texture and detail without a full updo. It turns a simple silhouette into a planned, photo-ready look that still feels effortless.

Why this works: a braid adds dimension and grip, so the ponytail reads styled rather than rushed. Small braided sections catch light and add rhythm to movement.

• Try a French braid that feeds into a sleek ponytail for a tidy base and smooth finish.
• A fishtail braid or a small fishtail braid wrapped into a side ponytail drapes over the shoulder for a flattering profile view.
• Use a pull-through braid method into a ponytail when you want maximum volume that still holds shape.
• Trend-forward tweak: braid the front strands as braided bangs that clip back into the pony, and weave a ribbon near the end for a prom or wedding guest upgrade.

Secure the base with sturdy elastics and hide pins under the wrapped section so the join looks clean, especially when hair is thick. A bit of texturizing spray helps pins grip without extra weight.

Half looks are the sweet spot when you want to show length while keeping your face framed and neat.

A half-up, half-down base suits many textures and works whether you choose a sleek half-up pony, a twisted half-up, or a braided half-up. Each option brings a different level of polish and movement.

Small changes change the whole vibe. A middle part reads modern; a deep side part lifts the temple. Curtain bangs or swept bangs soften the face. Add volume at the crown for a bouffant or keep it flat for a cleaner silhouette.

• Accessory-forward: a major ribbon bow feels prom-ready; jeweled clips suit weddings and dinners.
• Classic twist: a half-up bouffant is iconic and updates well with looser texture.
• Quick hold tip: lightly tease where pins sit and finish with a small mist so the half-up won’t slide down.

This approach highlights length while keeping hair out of your face during photos, dinner, and dancing. It’s a versatile style that flatters many looks.

Braided looks photograph with built-in texture and shape that read clearly from every angle.

What makes braids photo-proof? Visible texture, tidy sections, and a defined silhouette that holds front, side, and back shots all look great. Clean parts and firm anchors keep the shape through movement and flash.

• Milkmaid and crown braids: raise the braid on the head for a regal feel or place it lower for a softer finish.
• Waterfall braids: perfect to showcase balayage or ombré—color drops catch light and add depth in photos.
• Fishtail options: elevate with a jeweled comb at the join for instant polish.
• Grecian goddess braid: wrap a loose braid with soft curls and subtle waves to suit an off-the-shoulder wedding dress.

Tip: pancake a French braid by gently pulling edges to add fullness and elegance. Finish with a light hairspray mist and tuck a jeweled pin where braids meet for a refined, camera-ready look.

Textured braids offer practical hold and striking detail that read well in photos and on the dance floor.

Position these protective styles as both practical and polished. They keep hair controlled, last through long events, and photograph with clear shape.

• Classic cornrows: a timeless option with neat parts. Clean lines give a refined, formal effect that feels intentional.
• Long box braids: versatile and low-maintenance. Add cuffs, beads, or a bold color to shift from understated to standout.
• Chunky braids: maximum drama and volume. Great when you want a statement at prom, birthday, or a creative black-tie event.
• Lemonade braids: a sweeping pattern along the scalp that looks incredible with length. Gather them into a high or low pony to showcase the design.
• Braided crown: a single or double crown braid creates a fairytale finish. Add a small tiara or sparkling pins to make it wedding-ready.

These options keep your locks secure while giving a polished look. Choose a style that matches your outfit and event vibe.

Neat twists and tidy locks turn protective styles into picture-ready statements.

Clean parts, controlled edges, and an intentional shape make these looks feel polished. Try a top knot, low bun, or a half-up twist to keep hair off the face and show earrings or necklines at a wedding.

Type affects the finish. Marley and Havana twists read chunkier and dramatic. Senegalese twists are slimmer and more detailed. Senegalese installs can take up to eight hours and often last about six weeks, making them a great choice during a busy event season.

Locs can be styled into a loose top knot by separating a section and wrapping it on top. That updo highlights jewelry and keeps movement clean without constant touch-ups.

• For drama: go chunky; for delicate detail: choose smaller twists.
• Try a curly faux hawk by using ties, pins, and spray to build height and texture.
• Polish tips: smooth edges with control gel, add a light shine product, and pin strategically so the style stays secure.

When you want motion and polish, controlled curls give a camera-ready finish that still feels natural. Wearing hair down reads most formal when curls and waves are glossy, shaped, and set to photograph well.

Old Hollywood waves are simple: curl small sections with a 1.5-inch iron, pin each curl to cool, then gently brush into smooth waves for a classic wedding look. For a modern vintage twist, try jumbo curls with one spiral left to frame the face, or softer S-waves that nod to the ’70s.

The ponytail trick saves time on event day—gather hair into a high pony, curl the tail in sections, release, and style into bouncy curls that hold without fuss. Consider a perm if you curl often; it can add reliable texture and reduce prep time.

• Side-swept curls lengthen the neck and highlight makeup and earrings—add fresh flowers for instant beauty.
• Cascading curls suit thick hair, while messy ringlets soften as they fall—aim for flexible hold, not stiffness.

Here’s a concise menu of elevated options that make long length read intentional and photo-ready.

1. Classic Chignon: A low, smooth updo that suits weddings and black-tie events. Secure with plenty of pins and a light shine spray.
2. Romantic French Twist: A slightly undone twist with face-framing pieces; use layered pinning or a twist comb to hold long tresses.
3. Ballerina Bun: Centered and sleek; add a few curled strands at the face to soften the look for photos.
4. High Statement Bun: Built up at the crown to show volume and shape; tease the base and anchor with cross-pins.
5. Twisted/Knotted Bun: Split sections, tie a knot, wrap ends; ideal when you need a secure style that lasts all night.
6. Sleek Knotted Low Bun: Start with a low pony, twist two pieces, fold into a neat knot and smooth with serum.
7. Loop Bun: A quick, elegant option—loop the ponytail once and pin for an intentional, finished look.
8. Banana Bun: A relaxed French-twist cousin; elevate it with ornate pins or a comb to read dressy.
9. Side Bun: An asymmetric option that flatters many faces; tuck in a pearl clip for wedding-ready polish.
10. Pompadour Updo / Half Pompadour: Add height at the front then sweep the rest into an updo or leave it down for drama.
11. Sleek High Ponytail: Modern and clean—smooth the top, hide the elastic, and pair with statement earrings.
12. Voluminous Wavy Ponytail: Tease lightly at the crown and use a thickening spray; let soft waves cascade for movement.
13. Wrapped-Base Ponytail: Hide the band with a wrapped section of hair to instantly refine a simple pony.
14. Braided Ponytail (French): Feed a French braid into the base for a structured, elegant upgrade that holds well.
15. Fishtail Braided Ponytail: A delicate, textured option that looks intricate without fuss; finish with a light sheen mist.
16. Pull-Through Braid Pony: Big, voluminous, and dramatic—ideal when you want an Instagram-ready statement.
17. Ponytail with Braided Bangs: Front braids act like bangs and frame the face; clip them into the ponytail for a formal touch.
18. Half-Up Half-Down with Bow/Jeweled Clip: Shows off length while keeping the front polished—choose a ribbon or clip to match the outfit.
19. Half-Up Bouffant: Crown volume that reads classic; keep the texture soft so it feels modern and wearable.
20. Waterfall Braid with Waves: A romantic braid that spills into soft waves—great with balayage or ombré to show dimension.

Wrap up your plan by focusing on comfort, shape, and a few hold tactics so your look lasts through photos and dancing.

Long hair offers wide options—from updos to ponytails and braid-forward looks—so pick a choice that suits your dress, weather, and how you want your beauty and accessories to read.

Do a quick at-home test or a professional trial before the wedding. Clip-in extensions can add needed fullness for a bun, braid, or dramatic down-style.

On the day, style second-day hair when possible, finish with the right hold products, and pack a tiny touch-up kit (pins, mini spray, comb). Save favorites and bring photos to a trusted stylist for the most polished result.