17 Formal Hairstyles for Short Hair Women: Elegant Looks for Any Occasion
Short hair doesn’t limit your options for formal occasions. You can create stunning looks with your short locks.
From elegant updos to sleek styles, there are many ways to dress up short hair.
These 17 formal hairstyles for short hair will help you look polished and put-together for any special event.
They range from simple to more complex styles, so you can find one that fits your skill level and time constraints.
1: Sleek Pixie with Side Part
A sleek pixie with a side part is a chic choice for formal events. This short hairstyle looks polished and elegant.
You can easily style it by smoothing your hair and creating a deep side part.
2: Curly Bob with Elegant Headband
A curly bob paired with an elegant headband is a chic choice for formal events.
You can enhance your natural curls and add a touch of glamour with a sparkly or floral headband.
This style works well for both daytime and evening occasions.
3: Retro Finger Waves
Finger waves bring vintage glamour to short hair. This classic style creates soft, defined waves that frame your face beautifully.
It works well for fine to medium hair textures.
You can rock finger waves for formal events or special occasions. The look pairs nicely with bold makeup and retro-inspired outfits.
4: Braided Crown
A braided crown is a great formal hairstyle for short hair. You can create this look by braiding your hair around your head.
It adds elegance and works well for special events.
To make a braided crown, start at one side of your head. Braid your hair along the hairline towards the back. Pin the braid in place as you go.
5: Twisted Half-Updo
A twisted half-updo is a great choice for short hair. This style gives you a fancy look without much effort.
To create it, twist two sections of hair from the front and pin them at the back of your head. Leave the rest of your hair down.
6: Mini Pompadour
The mini pompadour is a stylish choice for short-haired women attending formal events. You can create volume at the crown while keeping the sides sleek.
This look works well with pixie cuts or bobs. Use a bit of styling product to hold the shape in place.
7: Smooth Low Bun
A smooth low bun is a classic formal hairstyle for short hair. You can create it by pulling your hair back neatly and securing it at the nape of your neck.
This look is polished and elegant for any formal event.
8: Textured Side Swept Curls
Textured side swept curls add volume and glamour to short hair. You can achieve this look by curling your hair and sweeping it to one side.
Use a texturizing spray for extra body and hold.
9: Pin-Up Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are a classic hairstyle from the 1940s. You can create this look with short hair too.
Roll sections of hair at the sides or top of your head. Pin them in place for a bold, vintage style.
10: Elegant French Twist
The French twist is a classic updo that works well for short hair.
You can create this look by gathering your hair at the back of your head and twisting it upwards.
Secure with pins for a polished, formal style.
11: Floral Hair Clip with Waves
Add a touch of romance to your short hair with waves and a floral clip. Create soft waves using a curling iron.
Pin a flower clip above your ear for a pretty accent.
12: Soft Tousled Waves
Soft tousled waves give your short hair a relaxed, effortless look. You can create this style with a curling iron or by scrunching damp hair.
Use a texturizing spray for extra volume and hold. This versatile style works for both casual and formal events.
13: Side Braided Bangs
Side braided bangs are a chic way to style short hair for formal events. You can create a small braid along one side of your head, incorporating your bangs.
This look adds elegance and keeps hair out of your face.
14: Chic Clipped Bob
The chic clipped bob is a stylish choice for formal events. This short haircut features clean lines and a polished look.
You can wear it sleek and straight or add subtle waves for texture. The clipped ends give a modern, edgy vibe to the classic bob shape.
15: Elegant Tucked Chignon
The tucked chignon is a timeless choice for formal events. To create this look, twist your hair into a bun at the back of your neck.
Secure it with pins and gently loosen some sections for a soft, romantic feel.
16: Classic Ballerina Bun
The classic ballerina bun is a timeless choice for formal events. You can create this elegant look even with short hair.
Pull your hair back tightly and twist it into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. Secure it with pins and hairspray for a polished finish.
17: Glossy Voluminous Blowout
A glossy voluminous blowout can make your short hair look amazing for formal events. You’ll get a shiny, polished look that works for many occasions.
This style adds bounce and movement to your hair. It creates a refined, eye-catching appearance that’s sure to turn heads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short hair can be styled elegantly for formal events. There are many options to create stunning looks, from sleek updos to embellished styles.
These tips will help you achieve the perfect formal hairstyle for your short locks.
How can I style my short hair for a formal event?
Start with clean, dry hair. Use a styling product for hold and shine.
Try a deep side part for a sleek look. Pin back one side with decorative clips. Curl or wave sections for added texture.
Finish with hairspray to keep your style in place all night.
What are some easy formal hairstyles for women with short hair?
The sleek pixie with a side part is simple yet elegant. A curly bob with a headband adds instant glamour. Retro finger waves create a classic formal look.
For longer short hair, try a twisted half-updo or braided crown. These styles take minutes but look polished.
Are there elegant tiara hairstyle options for short hair?
Yes! Place a tiara on a sleek pixie cut for royal flair. With a bob, position the tiara just behind your bangs.
For very short styles, choose a smaller tiara or jeweled headband. Secure with bobby pins matched to your hair color.
Which hairstyles are suitable for a wedding for someone with short hair?
A braided crown looks romantic and bridal. Retro finger waves offer vintage charm. Add fresh flowers or a veil to a curly bob.
A sleek pixie with a sparkly hair clip is modern and chic. The twisted half-updo works well with shoulder-length cuts.
How do you make short straight hair look formal for a wedding?
Use a flat iron for ultra-sleek strands. Create a deep side part.
Sweep hair to one side and secure with decorative pins. Try a low ponytail with a wrapped section of hair.
Add a fancy headband or tiara for extra sparkle.
Can you provide some DIY wedding hairstyle ideas for short hair?
You can try a braided crown using small sections around your head. Create retro waves with a curling iron and pin in place.
Then, twist small sections back and secure for a textured updo.
Add fresh flowers or a sparkly clip for a finishing touch. Lastly, practice your chosen style before the big day.
