Cold weather means we have to dress warm, but we don’t need to dress in a way that is boring. Using more winter formal hairstyles, we dress in elegant and timeless looks. In the guide, Winter 2025–2026 Formal Hairstyles for Women, you will find sophisticated hairstyles for different hair types and lengths. From intricate long hairstyles, and updos, to glamorous medium-length curls, and short hairstyles, we balance warmth and beauty for your winter events. Whether you like romantic braids, sleek straight hair, or big curls, this collection of hairstyles will help you stand out effortlessly on any occasion.
Chinon with a Side Part and Sculpted S Wave
The reason I adore this refined twist on a classic low chignon is due to the deep side part and the lone sculpted S-wave bisecting the pony and the bun smoothly blended bun at the nape of the neck. She is sleek yet romantic and sweet. This is the ideal winter formal hairstyles updo. This is formal winter hairstyles for long hair and formal winter hairstyles for medium hair. The side sweep is a lifesaver for strong collars and high necklines. This hair also looks gorgeous with the evening lights.
I wore this to winter weddings because it holds up to wind and scarves better than high buns. Hairstylist Anh Co Tran often reminds me that the shine starts in the blowout and I keep the front section ultra-smooth so the single wave becomes the “jewelry,” so I try to follow this.
For a bolder finish I slide a slim comb or crystal pin right behind the wave’s crest. It leaves the face open for statement earrings to check off “timeless” and “current” at the same time, and “neat” but “not stiff” all together.
Hollywood Waves With Minimal Sparkle Clip
For these the molten, brushed-out waves that skim the shoulders and curve away from the face, I’ve loosened a bend, and they’re the quintessential winter formal hairstyles for long hair and a softer option for winter formal hairstyles curly hair. A clean side part and one minimal jeweled clip gives “I tried but not too hard” energy.
I start with the Shu Uemura Ultimate Reset shampoo and conditioner and color the Wow Dream Coat to make the damp air lighter. To avoid the unmanageability that winter brings I slice the 1.25” iron and pin curls whenever I feel I need to and use a boar-mix brush together with a flexible pump spray. When I lack the time to do what’s necessary I do not even need to thoroughly prepare to use the clip for this formal winter hairstyle.
The cool clip is amazing because it complements the off the shoulder and portrait necklines, making them even more sophisticated without making them feel crowded. It provides a lift to the winter hats that just end up squashing the hair, specially for straight long hair users. The users just need to add a gentle texture spray to finish the style.
To winterize others, I add a light moisture shine spray to the tips of the hair and keep the roots empty. I carry a travel brush in my purse that you can easily keep just to make the curls tight and defined in mid winter without compromising on the dance moves. It’s the perfect blend of simple and reliable, that most definitely screams glamour.
Lifted Deep Side Waves Full of Velvet Finish
Imagine classic Hollywood but softer: A deep side part, lots of volume at the crown, and the ends delicately floating over the collarbone in long, luxurious strands. It has a romantic vibe—yet, remains unrestrained—perfect for a winter formal hairstyle, with the option of modifying the style for shorter layers and medium length hair. When paired with v-neck and cap-sleeve gowns, the hairstyle adds a nice touch to the overall look.
In my opinion: the trick is contrast. It is better to have the roots of the hair in a nice satin-matte finish with the lengths all glistening. As Chris Appleton always says—“polish is not piles of hairspray, polish is leave in conditioner cuticles that have been heat trained.” I use just the right amount of polish with hairspray to keep the hair under control while still maintaining movement.
If the hair is naturally dense or curly muted, I first diffuse for control, then iron-set larger sections to relax curls into waves. It tames the texture while getting that red-carpet curve – subtle drama on frosty nights.
Halo Braid With Soft Barrel Waves
This is a simple braid woven just above the forehead like a crown. It leads to soft, effortless waves that fall freely throughout the hair. It is also an easy solution to flyaway hair, and I love it for formal winter hairstyles with braids and also formal hairstyles for medium length hair. The braid accentuates the face while the remainder of the hair is exposed and free, which is perfect for a soft finish as the hard, block shapes can appear too tight for velvet and satin.
I prepare the hair using Davines OI All In One Milk for slip, then take a loose Dutch braid and wrap the ends and pinning behind the ear. A 1.25” iron creates the soft bends, which I then break with a wide-tooth comb. This too works with curly hair for winter formal hairstyles – just braid first on the dry curls, then later touch up a few front pieces so that it looks like it was planned.
Having witnessed this firsthand, this style is uniquely beautiful day or night, minimal makeup with accessories. And with coats and scarves, the crown keeps the map line concealed, a hard-learned bonus for the winter.
For the fine or thin-haired, a dab of Schwarzkopf OSIS Dust It is a God-sent in braiding Dust It is a God-sent. It confiers a royal bust and keeps the style lively through the night.
Low Twisted Bun Avery with Neck Length Hair
This is the instance of a glossy, “wet look” low bun with a tilted, back head position. “Airy” elbow-length ribbons fashionably framing the face, which is a bighead, and a faint wiggle shape. Ultra-feminine and perfect for frills on arms or high necks. It is winter formal hairstyles updo and also winter formal hairstyles midi effortlessly. It is additionally very complimentary to the round and heart face shapes. I. A bit further back from center.
To maintain my hair health and lessen static I use Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair around the roots. I use a pea sized amount of Moroccanoil Treatment Light on the armor augmenting the mid and ends of the hair.
There’s a certain way in which I enjoy untethering the two low ponytails. I twist them around eachother, and rope them around in a bun and secure it on my head with hair pins. I like to curl the loose strands that gently frame my face, and apply pomade to give them that wispy look without the stringy effect. I even have the convenience of a chignon bun and I don’t have to deal with the complex maneuvering of an intricate bun.
This step involves the use of an anti-humidity mist like the Color Wow Extra shine. A few invisible pins are added and tucked in. The hair style ends up looking neat and romantic at the same time.
Old-Hollywood Side Waves With Liquid Shine
Soft and sculpted S waves draped elegantly over one shoulder and combined with a stylish side part is timeless and luxurious and benefits from a touch of shine. I much prefer this sassy and dramatic winter formal hairdo since the hair fanned out over one side of the head slips effortlessly under the coat collar. The waves are neither curls or bends so the hair is particularly flattering to the jawline and neck by extending the neck. Total sophistication without being too over the top.
To begin the hair prep, I apply the Lady Jayne Heat Protecting Spritz, followed by its wonderfully effective Firm Hold Mousse to build hold and texture into the hair. After setting the hair in clips to cool, I amp up the hold and finish the style with a Kenra 25 Hair Spray Mist. The hair is remarkably smooth and polished and retains its waves even in a scarf.
Based on my experience, this style works well with various densities, including very thin hair, because with careful backcombing at the crown, any flatness is concealed while the side sweep provides the illusion of increased volume. If your texture is very straight and smooth, secure hair on the flat side with a hidden bobby pin at the nape for insurance. Small moves tend to have a major payoff on long nights.
For a softer finish, replace mousse with a light hold gel cream and while cooling, paddle brush the top to sleek. Looking to enhance texture for winters formal hairstyles? Curly hair vibes? Pinch the S wave and ridges with your fingers and some spray wax. Choose your desired level of shine and then dominate the room.
Low Wrapped Pony With Luxe Winter Curls
I’m a devotee of the low pony when I want sleek polish that doesn’t compete with a high neckline on the dress. In this style, the volume is placed at the crown and temples, the pony is wrapped with its own hair, and the lengths are curled in large barrels for movement. This is the quiet alternative to an upstyle and works beautifully for winter formal hairstyles for medium and long hair.
To prevent the hair from becoming too dry I apply a few drops of Kérastase Elixir Ultime which I distribute from the mid to the ends of the hair. To gather the hair, I apply the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo to the roots for volume. After, I wrap the hair in an elastic, a hair wrap, and two bobbies which I cross underneath the wrap. This allows for the hair to stay in place and remain secured to the head, especially when wearing a coat.
When I want a nod to winter hairstyles with a formal bang, I place the folded pony underneath, and use a pin, which gives the illusion of a faux chignon. This allows for the wrapped base of the hair to hide the pin and bobbie placement for the ponytail. The Easy Off Trick. Pin it, and the top of the base brings the hair underneath. The base, which is wrapped with hair, allows the hair to be hidden while the pin is placed, which only takes about two minutes from the ceremony to the dinner. This Trick is Useful.
For fine hair or Thin hair, the ends should be wrapped around the curling iron more than what is assumed in order for it to become curlier. For Curly hair types, wet the hair with ColorWow Dream Coat for Curly Hair and let the hair dry naturally before putting it into a ponytail. The result of this hairstyle will be softer curls which are more romantic.
Classic Nape Chignon With Face-Framing Tendrils
The combination of red lipstick and a black dress is undeniably alluring. A low chignon bun hairstyle paired side and contains soft, floating tendrils adds aclassic touch to any outfit. My favorite is a slightly off center coiled bun at the nape for added daintiness. This requires zero styling. I love this hairstyle for winter formals. I can enjoy cocktails without worrying about the wind.
I like an uncomplicated care routine. I start with a blowout using Redken and their Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame. I then use a flat iron to smooth the hair, and finish the hair with a bun. I use U-Pins to secure the hair pieces. A L’Oréal Elnett hairspray is the icing on the cake. I like L’Oréal Elnett especially, for the winter magic, because it reduces crispy feeling when waking the next morning.
I personally find this style helpful in cases where the neckline is detailed or the earrings are extravagant. The style appears lovely on Medium and Short lengths that reach the nape, which makes it an optimal choice for winter formal hairstyles short hair that are more sophisticated in style. The soft tendrils help to accentuate the angles without concealing the cheekbones.
For added refinement, remove the tendrils and sleek the part down with a small touch of pomade. For a more romantic style, gently back comb the crown for height and let those pieces be looser for a touch of ‘cute’. Either way, it captures attention beautifully with candlelight.
Winter Half-Up Ponytail with Airy Romantic Curls
This style ponytail is lovely for winter, the added curls and the way it is kept up looks incredible with a winter formal look. The ‘half-up’ style gives it that romantic vibe that is ‘in’ right now which elevates the look even further. This style is also lovely for an outdoor ceremony and gives your guests a great view. It is a great choice for winter formal hairstyles medium length and longer as the shape gives a light feel even with layers and sweaters.
SexyHair Powder Play is a lightweight volumizing powder. For hold, I sprinkle a little at the roots. I then clip the top back with mini jaw clips and curl the lower half. After I release, I collect the half-up portion and secure it with a small elastic. I then wrap the elastic with a strand and cover the elastic with it. After, I sprinkle a little Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium onto it. This adds control without stiffness. This becomes important once the room starts heating up.
This is one of my favorite winter formal hairstyles for curly hair. The focus is on the natural texture of the hair. While it combats hairline frizz, it also celebrates movement. For drier air, use a small amount of curl cream on the back for tighter curls. This helps flyaway curls. It still looks soft, but just slightly messy-Super cozy, but able to dress it up.
Further up, add a pearl pin, or thread a slim ribbon through the wrap. For the winter formal hairstyles easy to put together, skip the curling iron and add a sea salt spray and a diffuser for an effortless wave. This gives the same vibe, but takes away time for more hot cocoa.
Braided Crown Accent With Cascading Blonde Curls
The most fun version for long lengths is the loose side braidily woven into the front hairline that almost touches the cascading, curled hair. It adds detail around the nifty, write side of the head, while allowing the rest of the face to remain free. This is a strong contender for ‘winter formal hairstyles braids’ and works great for ‘winter formal hairstyles for long hair’ too.
To preserve the glow of the hair I apply the Olaplex No.3 followed by K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Mask, both of which are meant to retain color and shine. I braid the hair from the dry hair stage, pancake the braid for width, then curl the rest of the hair with the iron, switching directions to modernize the ribbon effect. I finish with trophy desired shine and texture spray, the purpose of which is to make the braids flexible and free when they aren’t.In my opinion, it maintains an effortless elegance while still maintaining an element of sweetness, and it goes great with winter knits and satin, as well. If your hair is on the thinner or lighter side, for added fullness clip in two wefts just under the crown. The braid conceals everything. If for Curly hair, braid loosely and allow your natural spirals to do the work.
Want to incorporate a sleeker angle? More Long hair straight energy? Hold on to the braid, but press the lengths straight and tuck behind one shoulder. The sleek lengths and the textured braid is a sophisticated touch, and feels purposeful and chic. This would look wonderful under twinkle lights.
Honey Ribbons and Face-Frame Lift
Rolling past the chest, this highly polished curled set with a bubble-lifted side part and barrels brushed curls with honey ribbons framing the face, is the ideal blend of precision and movement for evening wear. For easy semi-formal hairstyles for the winter, this style is also perfect for long hair due to the above the chest hair, big and rounded perfect curls with even height. The honey highlights with the curl ends leave a soft sculpted look making the style a hit during winter evenings.
To soften the ends, the weekly hair mask, “K18 Leave-In” is perfect. To prevent the hair with the “Color Wow Dream Coat” from going too frizzy in dry air, a small amount should be applied before the hair is set with a 1.25” iron. such frizzy hair with the color can be set ro dry in the leave. This style is completed by pinning the hair to set, brushing with a boar-mix, then lightly pomading the cash piece and ends for definition. If a person has thin hair, a light puff of dry root powder can be applied to the root for style and blend.
In my opinion, the shape goes well with the high-neck dress and the sleeveless columns and looks great in photographs. During the warmer parts of the day, I keep a mini brush in my bag to touch up the pattern. The brush instantly brings the gloss back with just a single stroke.
For more winter bling, I add a single micro crystal pin above the brow side and stop there. The delicate construction of the pin is more than enough to the already beautiful. The design is extreme simplicity, but it gives an impression of expensive, rather than tacky.
Twisted Side Party Curls
In this case, the pattern of the curls is a bit tighter, and the curls are uniform and even from the middle to the ends. They are complemented by a deep side part of the hair that is pulled back from the face. It’s one of the winter formal hairstyles that is timeless and works beautifully with wavy hair. The hair falls below the collarbone with a nice festive flow and great movement.
I use Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse for glue-like durability at the root and apply GHD Bodyguard Mousse as heat protectant, curling with 1” iron and clamping each coil while they cool. I brush and finish with L’Oreal Elnett Extra Strong for a flexible shell. A drop of Moroccanoil on the palms tames static at the ends which is immensely helpful for the scarves and coats.
Tucked away in the back is my personal opinion on why the side sweep is advantageous. She opens the face for the statement earrings, and does not need extra accessories. It is also long hair straight type friendly. Pre-curls using larger sections, and only the top layer is refined for that uniform finish.
To winterize, I keep roots satin-matte (a whisper of texturizing spray) and lengths glassy. That root-to-end contrast looks modern and helps the curls last through a late dinner then a quick rooftop photo.
Regal Crown Braid With Tapered Curls
A polished crown braid traveling around the hairline meets cascading curls that are gathered low – a romantic combination that lives happily in winter formal hairstyles for braids as well as winter formal hairstyles for medium and longer hair. The face-framing pieces are gently curled to keep the shape soft instead of harsh, which looks lovely with off-the-shoulder dresses.
To keep the braid as full as possible, I Dutch braid the front and pin the length behind the ear forgetting a small section. The braid gets a spritz of Kenra Dry Texture Spray for some hold, which helps with the upkeep. The lengths get a 1 inch iron set and are brushed into arcs for a nice smooth finish. For those with Curly hair, braiding on dry curls works best and then I suggest a few relaxed spirals with the iron for a blended finish.
I think it’s ultra cute while remaining formal and the braid gets the most attention when indoors and in winter lighting which is softer and the curls add a nice movement for the photos. I’ve always liked the saying from hairdresser Justine Marjan who often emphasizes to “balance sparkle with silhouette”, and that’s why I add only two tiny pins tucked into the braid.
To make the style last, I mist anti-humidity spray (Color Wow Extra Shine) and stash a few U-pins. The style survives coat changes and still looks regal when the dance floor heats up.
Soft Romantic Updo With Wispy Curls
This low, tousled bun with airy temple tendrils is the definition of relaxed elegance. The curl direction floats away from the face and the bun sits at the base of the head, making it perfect for dramatic earrings and wrap coats.
I prep with Davines OI All In One Milk for slip, blow-dry with a round brush, then curl large sections for shape. Two low twists are crossed and pinned into a bun, then the face pieces are curled and glazed with R+Co Continental Balm so they stay wispy. Great pick when I want neckline drama without hair competing for attention.
This updo is best worn outdoors when there is cold air. The static from higher buns is not an issue. It also flatters thin hair. A small chignon pad adds fulleness that is subtle enough not to be detectible.
When the night is longer than expected, I pack an Elnett travel size hair spray and a few bobby pins in my purse. Almost a bun and the french twist are renewed bunten. The loose textures keep the winter protective bun and hair charm.
Half-Up Smooth Gloss Curls with Crystal Comb
The sleek section cups the smooth half up, while the flowing curls twirl and cascade down, making an easy and elegant look. It’s also extremely easy to take pictures with. This style adds a formal bun which meets the requirements for a winter formal hair with curls for long hair. This style also combines the polished part with bouncy hair that ends in curls. The half up style gives some lifted hair to frame the face which is very flattering while the rest just gently falls over the shoulders.
Care wise, I go for mirror shine: Shu Uemura Silk Bloom shampoo/conditioner, a glossy blowout, then 1.25” curls brushed into waves. I smooth the crown with a soft boar brush, secure the half up with two crossed bobby pins before placing the comb, and finish with a lightweight shine spray. This is one of winter formal hairstyles easy choices for when time is scarce.
I like this for winter receptions because the top section resists flattening by hats and hoods, and the accessory looks festive when lit warm. It’s also very pretty on espresso tones and Black hair – the contrast with crystals is *chef’s kiss*.
If your hair tends to slip, rough up the underside of the half up with a touch of texturizing powder before pinning. The style remains pristine through toasts and late-night dancing, quietly confident and beautifully secure.
Ballroom Volume with Smooth Side-Part Waves
I amp up the sophistication with grand side-parted waves that begin with curls starting mid-length and ballooning into soft waves that luxuriously frame the collarbones. It’s indeed very flattering on long hair and winter formal hairstyles for long hair because the shape retains its profile even with coats and cocktails on the dance floor. The end result is smooth and glossy – so it captures candlelight, while the crown remains refined and elevated.
To increase the duration of the hold, I use Oribe Grandiose Mousse at the roots and Olaplex No.7 on ends of the hair, then I put and Let the curls cool all the way before brushing into an S shape. A layer of L’Oréal Elnett helps to smooth and control of flyaways without clouding shine – very essential in the winter months.
I always make sure I build in more curls than I may think I need because the indoor heat does help the ribbons stay in for long. If your texture is naturally wavy, winter formal hairstyles for girls with curly hair tend to look more appealing so scrunch in ColorWow Dream Coat for Curly Hair before the rest of the finishing touches. The result is always brush-out that looks soft and fluffy without any frizz.
If you have thin hair, you may add two hidden crown sections of micro backcombing for a lift that looks seamless. Tuck the flatter side behind the ear for balance while the other side fans out, gaining instant red carpet energy on a snowy night.
Braided Halo Into Textured Low Bun
When it is necessary to have more polish that can survive under scarves, I reach for a braided halo that gently funnels into a low, messy bun. The plait at the hairline functions as built-in decoration, while the bun provides the winter formal hairstyles updo security I desire for hair of Medium length or longer. Face-framing pieces add skin-baring flair.
I smooth Kérastase Discipline Keratine Thermique to the hair before braiding to control the frizz, then pancake the braid to add width, and I pin the bun with X- straddled U-pins to get maximum grip. A little Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium and the hairdo is secure, but easy to touch, which is great for the unpredictable street to ballroom temperature.
This shape loves highlights as the weave showcases them with zero work on my part. In Curly hair, I twist chunks more than I backcomb so the definition of the bun is held, it is the type of definition that reads intentional, not tight. It is the type of updo that is lightweight all evening, which I love.
For a more sleek feeling, glaze the part line with a rice grain of pomade and tuck the ghosting tendrils. Want it more relaxed? snag a couple strands of hair and wrap them around the ears and nape. Either way, the halo does the work and the bun stays effortless.
Romantic Low Chignon With Whisper Curls
My go anywhere forml style for winter is a low chignon with the soft center part and air relaxed face framing pieces. It is elegant without being harsh, which is why I added it to my rotation for winter formal hairstyles medium and short that go to the nape. The bun is low in the nape, as it doesn’t disturb collars and wraps.
I apply Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame for heat control to hair. The hair is then put into a ponytail and divided into two pieces. The two pieces are twisted and pinned into a loose coil. The hair framing the face is curled backward and lightly tousled. My hairspray of choice is Kenra 25 because it fights static but still brushes out easily. The next morning the hair is surprisingly clean.
I keep the hair and head in proportion. A little height at the crown keeps the entire look modern. The looseness around the chignon is maintained for a more classic look. It’s also really kind to thin hair, because the bun can be built from loops, and there is no bulk or filler required.
This gives a less ‘over-the-top’ look for a weeknight gala. With the hair, a small comb can be put in for ‘dressy’, or the comb can be taken out for a more relaxed and ‘quiet-luxury’ look. A single drop of oil on the ends, and the hair goes from can-little chic to bouncy and charming in an instant.
Vertical Jeweled Ponytail with Curls
This is a very pretty option for winter formal hairstyles with a medium length or long hair. Captivating formal hairstyles for women include a pinned back and twisted half-up with curls flowing down and winter jeweled sparkle headpiece. Jeweled clip added to the muscle memory helps reduce the memory of poor posture.
Apart from sparkle and shine the jeweled clips adds winter touch in a very subtle way. The curls come from a big old barrel hot iron. Hold the entire shape for a solid 45 seconds to 1 minute, then loosen the heat for about 5 seconds. This helps reduce hair damage. The halfback section is sharper to get the ‘island’ shape.
The touchable curl for extra shine, is the `Hold Me Tight` and `Finishing` hairspray combo. This is ideal for sneaky daytime formal occasions. Little to no down time is required with this look.
Winter formal hairstyles for women formal hairstyles elevating your daytime formals with pretty layered hair? This look is very ideal with finishing touches of a sparkle and shine added in winter.To add some volume back to your curls after using an iron, winter formal hairstyles simply involves using a diffuser while adding a curl cream to your waves which will be slightly enhanced. No, Winter Formal hairstyles doesn’t have to be difficult! You will have a party-ready look…well, after some hot cocoa.
Sculpted Front Waves with a Tucked Nape Roll
For the winter, nothing can match the classic retro vibes. Here the front waves are sculpted while the back is styled to look like a faux bob. I love the nape roll. It’s so smooth and the styling not only adds sophistication, but its perfect middle formal hairstyles. Short slash shorter, mid cuts. You will definitely impress with a bold lipstick. I love vintage and winter galas.
I like to set the front with a strong hold setting lotion and a clip to the ridges, just until cools and then let it cool so I can perfect the brush. With some U-pins and a bit of R+Co Wall St Gel to smooth it, the back tucks into a sleek, storage roll. It then gets a light spray of shine, so walking under a chandelier makes it look like shine itself. It feels like satin.
This style is one of my favorites for short hair when I want to have an easy evening with maximum impact. On black hair and dark brunettes, the gloss payoff is gorgeous, the wave looks both sculptural and modern.
If more softness is preferred, loosen the ridge and let the roll sit a bit lower. Then, for a celebratory touch, a velvet bow pin can be added just above the hairline at the nape. Simple touch, and can dramatically change the whole vibe.
Bob Hair with Modern Finger Waves and a Gloss Finish
For shorter hair, I adore a sleek chin to shoulder bob style with a deep side part and sculpted into wide modern finger waves. It is the very definition of no effort luxe, and a fabulous winter formal hairstyle for short hair. The bends are wider than the traditional finger wave, so it holds a vintage nod but still feels current.
My take: it carries structured elegance without tipping over into costume territory – brilliant. Even better for Medium length bobs or lobs. Flatters Long hair straight gets who just cut off length – the party-ready fitness is a game-changer – the bend holds it.
For a bend just the front and keep the rest smooth. The contrast is intended, and the effect – ear-grazers, my definition is a Holla at the holiday lights.
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