28 Short Formal Hairstyles: Perfect Looks for Special Occasions

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When it comes to special occasions, short hair can be just as versatile and glamorous as longer locks. 

Whether you’re attending a wedding, gala, or any formal event, there are countless chic and elegant short hairstyles to choose from. 

From sophisticated bobs to playful pixie cuts, each style can be tailored to suit your personal taste and the occasion’s vibe. 

Achieving these looks is easier than you might think, with the right tools and a few styling tips. 

So get ready to turn heads and feel fabulous with these stunning short formal hairstyles that are perfect for any special event!

28 Iconic Short Formal Hairstyles

1. Sleek Bob With Middle Part

Imagine walking into a room with a sleek bob that turns heads with its refined elegance. This hairstyle features a chic middle part, creating a polished and sophisticated look perfect for any formal event. 

To achieve this style, use a flat iron for that ultra-straight finish and shine serum to add a touch of gloss. Ideal for those with straight hair, this bob is timeless and chic, offering a clean and contemporary aesthetic.

2. Curly Pixie Cut

For a playful yet elegant vibe, the curly pixie cut is your go-to. It gives you a youthful and spirited look. 

To style it for a formal occasion, use curl-enhancing cream to define each ringlet and set your curls without creating a crunchy or stiff look.

3. Wavy Lob With Pearly Headband

To style a wavy lob for a formal event, start by creating loose waves with a curling wand, ensuring they are not too tight. 

Apply light-hold hairspray to keep the waves intact throughout the event, and accessorize with a delicate headband with pearls and crystals to enhance the look’s elegance.

4. Slicked-Back Short Hair

Channel your inner movie star with slicked-back short hair that exudes sophistication. This hairstyle is all about sleekness and control, achieved by using a strong-hold gel to keep every strand in place. 

This look is bold and refined, perfect for any formal gathering. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to showcase their facial features and is particularly striking on oval and heart-shaped faces.

5. Voluminous Curls With Side-Swept Bangs

Add a touch of glamor to your formal look with voluminous curls and side-swept bangs. These bouncy curls are all about drama with a full, luxurious appearance. 

Use a volumizing mousse and a large-barrel curling iron to achieve those beautiful curls. This style is perfect for adding height and dimension, making it a great choice for round and square face shapes. 

6. Side-Swept Pixie With Accessories

If you have a pixie, you can sweep it to the side stylishly with a comb and secure the swept section with a small, elegant clip.

Finish with a light mist of hairspray to ensure your style stays put throughout the event.

To accessorize this glamorous look, choose a statement earring for the exposed ear to add a touch of sophistication and sparkle. 

7. Classic Finger Waves

Step back in time with classic finger waves — a ’20s– and ’30s-inspired hairstyle that never goes out of style. These meticulously sculpted waves offer a timeless elegance, making them ideal for formal events like weddings and galas. 

They’re also perfect for short hair and work well with all hair textures, adding a touch of old Hollywood glamor to your ensemble.

8. Voluminous Pompadour

Those who have a pompadour haircut or a short haircut with long bangs can try this striking voluminous look. 

Begin by prepping your hair with volumizing spray and backcombing the front section of your hair to create volume and lift, focusing on the roots to achieve that signature height. Secure with hairspray and smooth the sides and back for a clean, polished finish.

9. Braided Crown for Short Hair

For a formal event, style your short hair with a braided crown to create an elegant and sophisticated look. Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections, then braiding each one toward the back. Use pins to tuck the ends of the two braids into the crown. 

Alternatively, you can do a deep side part and gather most of your hair into one section to achieve enough length for a braided crown. This method works particularly well for those with longer or overgrown pixies.

10. Short Hair With Elegant Bobby Pins

For a formal event, a short hairstyle embellished with bobby pins can create an elegant and eye-catching look. 

To make your hairstyle stand out, you can opt to slick your short hair down and place bobby pins creatively all over the front section. You can also create a middle part and place rhinestone-studded bobby pins on each side. 

11. Soft Curls With a Headband

Add a touch of whimsy to your formal look with soft curls paired with a decorative headband. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a romantic and elegant appearance without too much fuss. 

Loose curls create a soft, flowing look, while the headband adds a charming accessory that keeps your hair in place.

12. Straight Bob with Blunt Bangs

Consider a straight bob with blunt bangs for a sleek and modern vibe. This hairstyle exudes sophistication and is perfect for formal events where you want to make a stylish statement.

The straight bob offers a clean, sharp look, while the blunt bangs add a contemporary edge. 

13. Retro Flip With Volume

This hairstyle is inspired by the classic looks of the 1960s and is perfect for formal occasions where you want to stand out. The flip adds a playful yet elegant touch, while the volume at the crown gives it a dramatic flair. 

To create this look, use a round brush while blow-drying to achieve the flip and tease the roots for extra volume.

14. Side Braided Pixie

This hairstyle combines the edgy appeal of a pixie with the intricate detail of a braid, making it perfect for formal events where you want to showcase your individuality. The side braid adds texture and interest, while the pixie cut keeps the look fresh and modern. 

To style, braid a small section of hair on one side and secure it with a bobby pin, then use a texturizing spray to enhance the overall look.

15. Half-Up Braid for a Bob

For a formal event, style your bob with a half-up braid for a chic and sophisticated look. Start by parting your hair in the middle and curling it to create beach waves.

Take a section of hair from one side of the part and braid it towards the back. 

Secure the braid with a small, clear elastic band, and repeat on the other side. Join both braids at the back of your head, securing them with bobby pins or another elastic band. Adorn with small decorative hairpins or clips for added elegance.

16. Curly Bob With Defined Ringlets

Embrace your natural curls with a curly bob featuring defined ringlets.

This playful yet elegant hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions, providing a youthful and vibrant appearance while maintaining a polished look. Plus, it’s an ideal haircut for any age!

17. Sleek Pixie With Sideburns

The sleek pixie cut with longer sideburns is a fantastic choice for a bold and dramatic look that’s ideal for formal events where you want to make a statement. 

The sleek finish keeps it polished, while the longer sideburns add a unique touch. This style suits those with straight hair and is particularly striking on oval and square face shapes.

18. Braided Crown on Short Blonde Hair

Add a ethereal look to your formal hairstyle with a braided crown and a golden blonde hue.

This look is perfect for those who want an elegant style for a formal occasion while maintaining a light feel. 

The braid makes your hairstyle stand out and goes with sweet, romantic dresses. Don’t forget to use a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.

19. Classic Marcel Waves

Step into the elegance of yesteryear with classic Marcel waves, a hairstyle that exudes vintage charm and sophistication.

These meticulously sculpted waves create a polished and refined look, perfect for formal occasions such as weddings or black-tie events. 

Remember to curl your hair inches from the root and away from your face to achieve the ruffled look, then set with a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the shape throughout the evening.

20. Short Hair With Floral Accessories

Add a touch of whimsy to your formal hairstyle by incorporating floral accessories into your short hair.

This look is perfect for outdoor weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to embrace a playful yet elegant vibe. 

Adorn your hair with small, delicate flowers or a floral headband to complement your outfit.

21. Textured Waves With Hair Jewelry

For a formal event, style your short hair with textured waves and elegant hair jewelry for a sophisticated and glamorous look.

Begin by creating soft, textured waves using a curling iron or wand, ensuring the curls are loose and natural.

Then add delicate hair jewelry, such as a leaf hair clip, that drapes gracefully across your waves or is strategically placed to catch the light.

22. Short Hair With Side-Swept Curly Bangs

For a romantic and elegant appearance, style your short hair with side-swept curly bangs.

This hairstyle is perfect for formal events such as weddings or proms, where you want to look effortlessly chic. 

The side-swept curls create a soft and flowing look that frames the face beautifully.

23. Sleek Wet Look

Got an upcoming formal event? A trendy wet look can transform your short wavy hair into a sleek and sophisticated style.

Start by applying a generous amount of gel to damp hair, ensuring even distribution from roots to tips. Use your fingers to maintain the natural waves while creating a smooth, slicked-back effect with a slight side part for added dimension. 

This modern, edgy style pairs beautifully with minimalist accessories, such as simple stud earrings or a delicate necklace, keeping the focus on the sleek, glossy finish that exudes confidence and elegance.

24. Short Hair With Vintage Rolls

Try this unique vintage style, with retro-style rolls that add sophistication to your hair and draw attention to your facial features. 

You can customize the classic look with looser waves to achieve a more contemporary feel without compromising the vintage vibe.

25. Asymmetrical Bob With Crystal Headband

An asymmetrical bob can be styled to perfection with a statement headband.

Begin by using a flat iron to straighten your hair, ensuring it is smooth and glossy. Pay special attention to the longer side of the bob, enhancing its dramatic effect. 

Once your hair is sleek, add a statement headband adorned with crystals or other embellishments. This combination of the sleek asymmetrical cut and the eye-catching headband creates a sophisticated and glamorous look.

26. Bob With Soft Curls and Side Bangs

This hairstyle offers a gentle, flowing appearance that’s perfect for special occasions with more casual themes like Boho or garden weddings.

The soft curls add volume and movement, while the side bangs frame your face beautifully. 

27. Short Hair With Pearl Accessories

Short hair adorned with pearls exudes sophistication and class, making it ideal for upscale events and formal gatherings.

Whether you choose pearl-studded pins, a pearl headband, or scattered individual pearls, these accessories add a touch of elegance and refinement. 

28. Short Hair With Vintage Pin Curls

Exude classic elegance with short hair styled into vintage pin curls.

The pin curls create a structured yet soft look that works well with different accessories and various types of formal wear.

Rock Any Formal Attire with These Short Formal Hairstyles!

Short formal hairstyles offer a delightful blend of elegance and ease, making you look and feel fabulous on special occasions.

Whether you’re rocking romantic curls or a bob with a gorgeous accessory, these styles can be effortlessly achieved with the right tools and a touch of creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories and details like braids to add your unique flair. 

With some practice and styling tips, you can create stunning looks that turn heads and make you feel fabulous.