Elegant hair down, a soft romantic updo, a classic ponytail, or a sleek bun—whichever style you prefer for your upcoming special occasion, here’s a list of formal hairstyles for medium-length hair to help you find your favorite!
1. Side Braid Into A Pony
Combine a braid and a ponytail for a romantic, relaxed hairstyle that still works as a formal updo. This side braid into a pony is simply lovely—perfect for a wedding guest or even a bridesmaid’s hairstyle.
2. Hollywood Waves
Looking for a voluminous, glam style that will make your hair the highlight of your entire look? You can’t go wrong with Hollywood waves! This retro, timeless hairstyle is all about volume, softness, and femininity.
3. Half Updo
Your medium-length hair is perfect for a half updo: a great option if you’re not in the mood for a full high updo but also don’t want your hair completely down, getting in your way or dancing around your face.
4. Simple Ballerina Bun
For lovers of classic, elegant hairstyles, the ballerina bun is one of the best options, offering a secure, polished, and gorgeous formal style.
5. Low Ponytail
How can we not love a low ponytail? When styled like this, it not only creates a pretty formal updo but can even work as a bridal hairstyle!
6. Elegant Chignon
Here’s another classic that will never go out of style for occasions like weddings, proms, and special formal nights: the elegant chignon.
7. Modern French Twist
The French twist is one of the most iconic formal updos. Our mothers and even our grandmothers wore it, and we still love it today! To make this classic less strict and more modern and youthful, ask your hairdresser for a more effortless version, like the one shown in the picture above.
8. Loose Waves With A Fishtail Braid
An updo isn’t the only formal style for a special event. If wearing your hair down is more your thing, loose waves combined with a side fishtail braid make a lovely option, creating a soft, romantic, and sophisticated look.
9. High Relaxed Bun
Choose a high bun to get a formal, elegant look, but keep it slightly relaxed to maintain an effortless, casual vibe.
10. High Sleek Bun
If you prefer polished, neat updos, a sleek high bun will make you feel glamorous and confident about your hair!
11. Low Braided Bun
Another way to incorporate a braid into a formal hairstyle is by combining it with a low bun. A braided bun offers a gentle, charming look.
12. Side-Swept Wavy Hair
Updos are great, but a formal event is also the perfect opportunity to show off your voluminous medium-length hair. Side-swept locks with soft waves will have everyone complimenting your fabulous style!
13. Waterfall Braid
A relaxed, romantic, and adorable waterfall braid is the right formal hairstyle if you prefer loose, effortless styles over stricter ones.
14. Bouncy Blowout
In the sea of different formal hairstyles, we often overlook the simplest ones, which often turn out to be the best option. Like this bouncy blowout—it offers volume and elegance, and looks so good on medium-length hair. Simplicity is sometimes truly priceless, isn’t it?
15. Sleek Top Knot With Face-Framing Pieces
A sleek top knot is a great option for a polished formal hairstyle. Complete the look with face-framing pieces as the perfect cherry on top.
16. Curly Bun
Your curls are irresistible in any style. For formal occasions, one of the simplest and best ways to wear them is in a loose high bun, with a few curls casually left on your forehead for a more charming look.
17. Soft Textured Bun
A soft textured bun is the perfect formal style to make you feel like a princess. All that’s left is a dreamy dress and soft makeup to bring the fairytale to life!
18. Hollywood Glam Bun
Here’s a Red Carpet-worthy glam bun that will make your hairstyle the hottest one on the dance floor!
19. Flipped Pony
Your medium hair is just long enough to wear a formal, slicked-back ponytail. To make the style a bit more fun, ask your hairdresser to flip the ends outward.