For any important event, it’s necessary to have that perfect formal hairstyle. Whether your hair is straight or curly or somewhere in between, an updo hairstyle is easy to pull together in just minutes, so you can look amazing at any event. No matter the texture, the styles below will help both your locks and you look awesome.

Formal Hairstyles

Here are 30 formal hairstyles that will get you a red carpet look also worthy of posting to Instagram.

1. Formal Straight Hairstyle

For straight hair, give the illusion of curls by pinning hair up off the neck. Twist or braid back the sides and tuck them into a low updo secured with bobby pins in the same shade as your hair.

2. Formal Pixie Hairstyle

Besides using bobby pins to secure the front bits of your hair off the forehead, you can also use a headband to create volume at the crown of your head.

3. Half Up Formal Hairstyle

Here’s one hairstyle that doesn’t take much time at all. Gather the two sections of hair by temples and braid them back, securing in a low pony at the back of the head.

4. Formal Hairstyle for Medium Hair

Medium length hair, like this gorgeous platinum bob, can easily be fashioned into a formal hairstyle similar to a pin-up look. Insert a heavy side part and pin it back near the neck, filling ends with soft waves.

5. Formal Hairstyle for Black Women

If you’re a black woman and your hair is already in braids or twists, you can leave your hair down and it’ll look formal enough. Be sure to smooth the cuticle with styling creme for shine and to nix frizz.

6. Formal Ponytail

The ponytail is an always classy choice for a formal hairstyle. Whether your locks are straight or wavy, gather it up high and let the body cascade down your back.

7. Formal Updo Hairstyle

Another gorgeous choice for a formal hairstyle is this cute updo where the hair is fashioned into a bow. There are many tutorials you can follow to get this sleek, stylish hairdo.