When it comes to formal events, having short hair doesn’t mean you’re limited in your styling options.
In fact, there are countless elegant and chic hairstyles that can elevate your cropped locks to new heights of sophistication.
To provide some inspiration for your next formal affair, we’ve rounded up 13 stunning hairstyle ideas that are perfect for short hair.
These looks range from classic and timeless to modern and edgy, so there’s something for every personal style.
Get ready to turn heads and steal the spotlight with these gorgeous formal hairstyles for short hair.
With a little creativity and the right products, you can create a red-carpet-worthy look that will have everyone asking for your stylist’s number.
The Classic French Twist
You can never go wrong with a timeless French twist for a formal affair.
This vintage-inspired ‘do exudes elegance and refinement.
To create the look on short hair, start by applying volumizing mousse to damp strands and blow drying your hair smooth.
Then, gather your hair to one side and begin twisting it inward, rolling and pinning as you go.
Tuck and secure the ends at the nape of your neck with bobby pins.
For a modern twist (pun intended), leave out a few face-framing pieces in front.
Spritz with hairspray to hold the style in place all night.
Pair this look with some statement earrings and a bold lip for added glamour.
The French twist is the perfect style when you want a polished updo that will stay put while you dance the night away.
It works especially well for short bobs or lobs.
Give this classic style a try for your next cocktail party or wedding.
You’ll feel instantly transported to a more glamorous era.
Audrey Hepburn, eat your heart out!
Braided Crown
For a look that’s fit for a queen, try a regal braided crown hairstyle.
This ‘do is both whimsical and stylish, perfect for a garden party or outdoor wedding.
Start by creating a deep side part.
Then, French braid along the front hairline, continuing around to the opposite side.
Secure the braid at the nape of your neck with an elastic.
If your hair is too short to braid all the way around, simply create two French braids on either side and pin the ends into a half-up style at the back of your head.
Gently pancake the braid to make it appear fuller.
Pull out a few wispy pieces around your face for an ethereal vibe.
Mist the style with shine spray for a glossy finish that will glisten in the sunlight.
A braided crown is unexpected and ultra-feminine.
It shows off the beauty of short hair while keeping strands out of your face.
This adorable style would look lovely with a floral sundress and strappy sandals.
Who needs a fairy godmother when you can create your own magic with this enchanting braided ‘do?
You’ll be the belle of the ball, guaranteed.
Sleek and Straight
Sometimes, less is more.
A sleek and straight hairstyle is minimalist chic for a black tie event or upscale dinner party.
It elongates your neck and lets your outfit take center stage.
To achieve pin-straight strands, start with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner.
Apply a heat protectant spray before blow drying hair with a paddle brush.
Once hair is fully dry, use a flat iron to straighten one-inch sections at a time.
Mist a shine serum on your hands and run them through your hair for a glossy, frizz-free finish.
Tuck hair behind your ears for a fashion-forward look.
This minimalist style puts all the focus on your facial features.
Play up your eyes with smoky shadow and your lips with a deep berry hue.
Keep jewelry and accessories understated to maintain the sleek vibe.
A straight hairstyle may seem basic, but it can be incredibly striking and sophisticated, especially on short hair.
It’s also a great way to show off a stunning pair of chandelier earrings or an intricate neckline.
Try this look for your next art gallery opening or charity benefit.
You’ll exude confidence and modern elegance.
Who said simple has to be boring?
Textured Pixie
A textured pixie cut is an edgy and fashion-forward style for a formal event with a modern dress code.
The combination of longer pieces on top and cropped sides creates an interesting contrast.
To style, work a texturizing pomade through damp hair, tousling strands with your fingers.
Blow dry hair using your hands to scrunch and lift at the roots.
Once dry, use a wax or clay to define piecey texture and shape the longer top section.
For extra dimension, try pinning one side back with decorative bobby pins or adding a sparkly hair accessory.
A ear cuff or stud earrings complete the trendy look.
This tousled pixie style is cool and confident.
It’s great for showing off your facial features and a long, graceful neck.
Pair it with a structured jumpsuit or avant-garde dress.
A textured pixie is proof that short hair can still be versatile and make a statement.
It’s an unexpected choice for a formal event, which makes it all the more stylish.
Rock this bold look at your next cocktail party or gala.
Get ready to turn heads and start conversations with your fearless fashion sense.
You trendsetter, you!
Side-Swept Curls
For a soft and romantic look, try side-swept curls.
This style is all about touchable texture and flattering asymmetry.
It’s perfect for a spring wedding or garden soirée.
Start by applying a heat protectant and texturizing spray to damp hair.
Blow dry roughly with your fingers for volume.
Once hair is dry, use a one-inch curling iron or wand to curl small sections, leaving the ends out for a modern touch.
Part your hair dramatically to one side.
Then, use your fingers to sweep curls to the opposite side and pin behind your ear.
Leave the other side a bit tighter to the head for an asymmetrical effect.
Set with a light hold hairspray.
Side-swept curls add instant glamour to any formal outfit.
The deep side part elongates your neck and the face-framing waves soften your features.
This look pairs beautifully with pearl or diamond jewelry.
Try these glossy curls with a flowy chiffon dress for an ethereal, fairytale-inspired ensemble.
You’ll be a real-life princess ready to find her Prince Charming.
This romantic, asymmetrical style proves that short hair can still bring the drama.
It’s an easy way to elevate your look while still feeling soft and touchable.
Sky-High Pompadour
Dare to go bold with sky-high volume in the front.
A pompadour is an edgy, gender-bending hairstyle that makes a serious statement.
It’s not for wallflowers!
Begin with clean, dry hair.
Use a comb to create a dramatic side part.
Then, take the front section and backcomb at the roots to build volume.
You really want to tease this section to achieve major height.
Smooth the top layer of the pompadour back with a brush, and secure it with pins in the back.
Leave the back and sides sleek.
Set the style with a strong hold hairspray.
For extra staying power, spray each section as you pin.
This avant-garde updo is for the fashion risk-taker.
It’s an editorial look that will earn you major cool points.
Wear it with a masculine tuxedo jacket or sleek jumpsuit and prepare to wow the crowd.
Since this daring ‘do is all about the pouf in the front, keep your makeup relatively simple.
A classic cat eye and nude lip let your hair have the spotlight.
Try a pompadour for an art exhibition opening, fashion show, or any event where you really want to push style boundaries.
Be bold, be noticed, be unforgettable.
You got this!
Slicked Back Wet Look
Unleash your inner supermodel with a slicked back wet look hairstyle.
This ultra-sleek ‘do screams high fashion and looks like you just stepped off the runway.
Spritz damp hair liberally with styling spray.
Using a fine-tooth comb, slick your hair straight back from your forehead, keeping it tight to your head.
Make sure to comb the product evenly through your strands.
Once you’ve achieved a smooth, wet look, lock in the style by blow drying on the coldest setting or letting your hair air dry.
Finish with a generous coating of high-shine hair spray or gel.
This dramatic hairstyle puts all the emphasis on your facial features.
Play up your bone structure with shimmery highlighter on your cheekbones and brow bones.
A glossy lip perfectly complements the wet look sheen.
Try this fierce style with a backless dress or off-the-shoulder gown for a head-to-toe fashion moment.
It’s also an unexpected choice for a formal work event like an awards ceremony.
You’ll definitely stand out from a sea of generic updos.
Be warned, a slicked back look is not for the meek.
It takes guts to rock this much attitude.
Wear it with confidence and watch as everyone admires your edgy elegance.
Slay on, queen!
Pinned Back Waves
For a look that’s equal parts retro and modern, try pinned back waves.
This style has a 1940’s Hollywood starlet vibe, but with a fresh twist.
Start with day old hair for added texture and grip.
Use a large barrel curling iron to create loose, sexy waves throughout your hair.
Brush out the curls gently with your fingers.
Take the front sections of your hair on either side and pin them back behind your ears with decorative bobby pins.
You can criss-cross the pins for an interesting geometric effect.
Leave some soft waves out around your face.
Mist your waves with a light hold hairspray so they maintain their shape without looking crunchy.
Tuck hair behind your ears on both sides to really show off the pretty pins.
This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between polished and tousled.
It’s a great choice for an elegant daytime event like a garden party or bridal shower.
The glam waves dress up a sundress beautifully.
Shimmery eyeshadow and a berry lip stain complete the Old Hollywood inspired look.
Don’t be surprised if people mistake you for a movie star with this timeless wavy ‘do!
Embrace your inner silver screen siren and give pinned back waves a whirl for your next soirée.
It’s amazing how a couple strategically placed pins can take your style to a whole new level.
Twisted Half Updo
When you want to show off your short hair’s texture and volume, a twisted half updo is the perfect choice.
This style looks intricate, but is actually surprisingly easy to achieve.
Begin by applying a volumizing mousse to the roots of damp hair.
Rough dry your hair upside down for maximum body
.
Once dry, use a texture spray or dry shampoo to add some grit.
Take a small section of hair from one side and twist it back toward the crown of your head.
Pin in place.
Repeat on the other side, twisting the hair in the opposite direction.
Make sure the twists are symmetrical.
Take a few pieces from the back and twist those up as well, joining them with the side pieces and pinning everything together at the crown.
You should be left with a pretty criss-cross of twisted sections.
Spritz the style with a light hold hairspray and use your fingers to gently loosen the twists and create a slightly undone texture.
This style looks best when it’s not too perfect.
A twisted half updo is a lovely option for a rustic barn wedding or an outdoor cocktail party.
It’s both romantic and carefree.
Pair it with a flowy maxi dress and some killer heels.
By pinning up just the top half of your hair, you get the best of both worlds – an updo’s elegance with your natural texture on display.
It’s an effortless, boho-chic look for any formal event.
The Faux Hawk
Too cool for school?
Rock a faux hawk for an edgy, punk-inspired formal hairstyle.
This daring ‘do certainly bucks convention.
Start by applying a strong hold gel or pomade to damp hair, focusing on the top section.
Use a comb to create a dramatic side part.
Then, slick both sides straight back close to the head.
Now comes the fun part!
Take the hair on top and backcomb it at the roots to create volume.
Use your fingers to mold this section straight up into a mohawk shape.
The higher, the better.
Secure with pins and blast with hairspray.
Leave the back smooth and sleek.
You can even add some temporary dye or glitter to the mohawk section for extra punk rock flair.
Finish with another layer of hairspray to really lock in the gravity-defying style.
This unapologetic hairstyle makes a memorable statement.
It’s great for an avant-garde fashion event, underground art show, or indie film premiere.
Pair it with a leather jacket and combat boots for the full rebel effect.
The faux hawk is proof that formal hair doesn’t have to follow the rules.
It’s a hairstyle for the nonconformists, the rulebreakers, the mavericks.
If you’ve got an anti-establishment streak, this look is for you!
Be prepared to attract a lot of attention with a faux hawk.
It’s not a shy hairstyle!
But if you’re bold enough to rock it, you’ll earn instant cool cred wherever you go.
Classic Chignon
For a timelessly elegant formal hairstyle, you can’t go wrong with a classic chignon.
This sleek updo is the epitome of sophistication.
Begin by applying a smoothing serum to damp hair and blow drying straight with a paddle brush.
Create a deep side part for a touch of Old Hollywood glamour.
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a low bun.
You can either wrap the bun around itself or coil it into a spiral shape – there are many variations!
Secure with pins, tucking the ends under.
For a modern touch, gently tug at the hair above your ears to create a bit of volume around your face.
Make sure the chignon itself is sleek and shiny.
Mist with hairspray to tame any flyaways.
This polished hairstyle pairs beautifully with a sleek evening gown and statement jewelry.
It’s a fantastic choice for a black tie wedding, gala, or opera.
You’ll look like you belong on the red carpet!
A chignon is also a practical choice for a formal event, as it keeps your hair out of your face and neck.
You can eat, drink, and dance the night away without having to fuss with your ‘do.
When in doubt, a classic chignon is always a good idea.
It’s a universally flattering style that works on all face shapes and hair types.
You simply can’t go wrong with this timeless updo.
Glittery Accent
Want to add some sparkle to your formal hairstyle?
Try incorporating a glittery hair accessory for an instant dose of glamour.
Start by creating your favorite updo or half-up style.
A French twist, braided crown, or pinned back ‘do all work beautifully with a glittery accent.
Make sure your style is sleek and secure.
Now for the fun part – adding some shimmer!
You’ve got lots of options here.
Try pinning in a bejeweled hair comb, barrette, or clip.
Look for pieces with crystals, rhinestones, or shimmery enamel.
For a more subtle effect, sprinkle some loose glitter or shimmery hairspray onto your finished style.
Concentrate the sparkle near your hairline or on the back of your updo for a pretty, eye-catching effect.
Glitter instantly elevates a hairstyle and makes it feel festive and fun.
It’s perfect for a New Year’s Eve bash, holiday party, or any event where you want to unleash your inner disco diva.
When wearing a glittery hair accessory, keep the rest of your jewelry simple so it doesn’t compete.
A pair of shimmery stud earrings is all you need.
Let your hair be the star!
Don’t be afraid to get your shine on with this playful formal hair idea.
It’s amazing how a little sparkle can transform a simple updo into a magical, red-carpet-worthy look.
Go ahead and get your glitter on, girl!
Embellished Headband
For a formal hairstyle that’s fit for a princess, add a jeweled headband to your ‘do.
This glamorous accessory dresses up any look in seconds.
Start with your hair down in its natural texture – blown out straight, curled, or somewhere in between.
If your hair is feeling a little lackluster, add some volumizing mousse at the roots and scrunch while drying for body.
Now, place a bejeweled headband about an inch back from your hairline.
Look for headbands with crystals, pearls, rhinestones, or other shimmery embellishments.
A metallic finish like gold or rose gold is especially luxe.
If you want to get really fancy, layer two thinner headbands in contrasting metalsor textures for a rich, regal effect.
Aim to cover at least a few inches of your hair in the front with the headband(s) for maximum impact.
A jeweled headband looks incredible with a floor-length gown or cocktail dress.
It’s a chic choice for a formal wedding, charity gala, or prom.
Pair it with chandelier earrings and a swipe of red lipstick for all-out glamour.
This accessory is a lifesaver when you’re pressed for time.
Just throw on a glam headband and boom – instant updo!
No hot tools or complicated braiding required.
It’s amazing how a simple headpiece can take your style from basic to beautiful.
Embrace your inner royal with an embellished headband hairstyle.
You deserve to look and feel like a queen!
With this easy but impactful hair idea, a tiara-like transformation is just a headband away.
As you can see, having short hair doesn’t limit your formal styling options in the slightest.
From sleek and simple to intricate and glam, there are so many chic ways to dress up a cropped cut.
I hope these formal hairstyle ideas have inspired you to try something new for your next special occasion.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these looks your own.
With the right attitude, you can totally pull off a daring ‘do!
And remember – a killer hairstyle is the ultimate accessory.
No matter what you’re wearing, great hair has the power to make you feel like a million bucks.
So go ahead and rock that short hair with pride.
Flaunt what you’ve got, lady!
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a wedding updo to start pinning.
Happy styling, my short-haired sisters!
