8 Formal Curly Hairstyles That Are Elegant and Sophisticated

Special occasions call for special hair.

These eight formal curly styles are perfect for weddings, galas, proms, or any event where you want to look your absolute best.

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1. The Curly French Twist

Step by step

1. Gather your curls to one side at the nape.
2. Twist the hair upward toward the crown.
3. Tuck the ends into the twist.
4. Secure with pins along the seam.
5. Let some curls escape softly.
6. Classic and elegant.

Picture this: You’re at a black-tie gala with a curly French twist, looking timeless and sophisticated, the soft curls adding romance to the structured style, refined and graceful.

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2. The Low Curly Chignon

Step by step

1. Create a low ponytail at the nape.
2. Twist the curly length gently.
3. Wrap into a bun at the base.
4. Secure with decorative pins.
5. Let curls frame your face.
6. Polished and pretty.

Picture this: You’re a bridesmaid with a low curly chignon, looking elegant and coordinated with the wedding party, the style photograph-ready and beautiful, sophisticated and lovely.

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3. The Curly Side Sweep

Step by step

1. Sweep all your curls to one side.
2. Secure at the shoulder with a decorative clip.
3. Let the curls cascade over one shoulder.
4. The asymmetry is dramatic.
5. Add sparkle with jeweled pins.
6. Glamorous and striking.

Picture this: You’re at an awards ceremony with curls swept to one side, looking like a celebrity on the red carpet, the style dramatic and eye-catching, stunning and elegant.

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4. The Braided Curly Crown

Step by step

1. Braid sections from each side of your hair.
2. Bring them together at the crown.
3. Pin to create a crown effect.
4. Let the remaining curls flow down your back.
5. The braids add intricate detail.
6. Regal and romantic.

Picture this: You’re at a formal dinner with a braided curly crown, looking like royalty, the crown framing your face while curls cascade, majestic and beautiful.

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5. The High Curly Bun

Step by step

1. Gather all your curls to the crown.
2. Twist and wrap into a high bun.
3. Secure firmly with pins.
4. Let some curls escape artfully.
5. Add a decorative hairpiece.
6. Dramatic and sophisticated.

Picture this: You’re at the opera with a high curly bun, the height elongating your neck, looking cultured and refined, the bun elegant and commanding.

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6. The Curly Half-Up With Jewels

Step by step

1. Take the top half of your curls.
2. Secure with a jeweled clip or comb.
3. Let the bottom half flow freely.
4. Add additional pins for sparkle.
5. The jewels catch the light.
6. Luxurious and elegant.

Picture this: You’re at a wedding reception with jeweled pins in your half-up curls, the crystals catching the candlelight, looking romantic and expensive, dreamy and glamorous.

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7. The Curly Gibson Tuck

Step by step

1. Create a low side ponytail.
2. Make a hole above the elastic.
3. Tuck the ponytail up and through.
4. Spread the tucked section wide.
5. Secure with pins underneath.
6. Vintage and elegant.

Picture this: You’re at a vintage-themed ball with a Gibson tuck in your curls, looking like you stepped out of the 1920s, the style unique and sophisticated, timeless and chic.

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8. The Curly Waterfall Updo

Step by step

1. Create a waterfall braid along one side.
2. Gather all hair into a low updo.
3. Secure with pins.
4. Let some curls fall like a cascade.
5. The waterfall adds detail.
6. Romantic and intricate.

Picture this: You’re at a prom with a waterfall curly updo, looking like a princess, the cascading curls soft and dreamy, ethereal and unforgettable.

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Formal curly hairstyles prove that curls can be just as elegant as straight hair.

Whether you twist, pin, braid, or tuck, these styles are perfect for your most special occasions.

Dress up your curls and shine!