23 Winter Formal Hairstyles 2024-2025: Perfect Looks for Snowball and Semi-Formal Events

Winter formal season is upon us, and it’s time to elevate your hair game for those stunning Snowball dances and formal events. Whether you prefer a simple and classic style or want to experiment with bold updos and braids, this guide will have you covered. From glamorous curls to sleek ponytails, discover the perfect hairstyles to complement your gown and leave a lasting impression this 2024-2025 season. So, what’s the ideal look for your long hair or curly hair? Let’s find out!

Elegant Low Chignon 2024 2025

The Elegant Low Chignon is a timeless, classy hairstyle that works beautifully for formal events like the Snowball or semi-formal gatherings. This updo involves tucking the hair into a sleek bun positioned at the nape of the neck, offering a chic yet understated look. Perfect for those with medium to long hair, it suits almost every face shape and is ideal if you’re going for a refined, sophisticated vibe.

To achieve this look, apply a smoothing serum like Moroccanoil Treatment before styling to tame frizz and give your hair a polished finish. Use strong-hold bobby pins and a finishing spray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep everything in place throughout the night.

Sleek High Ponytail with a Twist 2024 2025

This Sleek High Ponytail with a Twist is a stylish and modern choice for the winter season. The hair is gathered into a high ponytail, but with a unique wrapped section of hair around the base to conceal the elastic, adding an elevated touch. It’s perfect for those with long hair who want a sophisticated yet edgy look. This hairstyle works well for round and oval face shapes, elongating the neck and giving a sleek silhouette.

Start by applying Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to smooth the hair and blow-dry it straight. After securing the ponytail, wrap a small section of hair around the base and pin it underneath. Finish with Redken Control Addict 28 to ensure your ponytail holds up all night.

Romantic Loose Waves 2024 2025

Nothing says romance like Romantic Loose Waves. This is a versatile look that pairs perfectly with any formal or semi-formal winter event, including Snowball dances. Best suited for those with long hair or medium length, these waves add softness and femininity, giving off a fairy-tale vibe. It complements heart-shaped and square faces beautifully.

To create this look, use a 1.5-inch curling iron and work in large sections. A lightweight mousse like Bumble and bumble Thickening Full Form Mousse adds volume, while Living Proof Flex Hairspray provides hold without stiffness, keeping your curls bouncy all evening.

Classic French Twist 2024 2025

The Classic French Twist is an iconic hairstyle that exudes sophistication and grace. Ideal for semi-formal and formal events, it’s a go-to choice for those looking to make a chic statement. This updo is sleek and polished, with the hair tucked neatly into a twist at the back of the head. Best suited for medium to long hair, it works well with heart-shaped and oval faces, elongating the neck and emphasizing facial features.

Start by prepping your hair with Ouai Volume Spray to add texture and grip. After twisting the hair and securing it with pins, use Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to keep the style in place without looking stiff.

Braided Crown Updo 2024 2025

A Braided Crown Updo is the perfect combination of elegance and charm, ideal for winter formals and Snowball events. This style involves creating a braid that wraps around the head like a crown, giving off a regal and ethereal vibe. It’s a fantastic option for those with medium to long hair, and works especially well for heart and oval face shapes. The braids add texture and interest, making this an eye-catching look for formal occasions.

To achieve this hairstyle, start by prepping your hair with TIGI Bed Head Masterpiece Shine Hairspray to ensure a good hold. Create two loose braids on each side of your head, then wrap them across your head and pin in place. Finish with Kenra Volume Spray for extra hold, ensuring the braids stay secure all night long.

Voluminous Hollywood Waves 2024 2025

Channel the glamour of old Hollywood with Voluminous Hollywood Waves, a style that’s all about dramatic, glossy waves with serious volume. Perfect for semi-formal or black-tie events, this hairstyle is best suited for long hair but can be adapted for medium length as well. These waves are perfect for heart-shaped and square faces, enhancing facial angles while adding a soft, feminine touch.

To achieve this look, use a large barrel curling iron and curl the hair in uniform sections. Brush out the curls with a boar bristle brush for a soft, wave-like texture. Finish with TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum for a glossy finish and use Sebastian Shaper Hairspray to lock in the waves without stiffness.

Messy Textured Bun 2024 2025

For a more laid-back yet effortlessly chic look, the Messy Textured Bun is a great choice for winter formals. This style combines a relaxed vibe with enough sophistication to work for semi-formal events. The hair is gathered into a loose bun with strands left out to frame the face, creating a soft and romantic feel. This look is perfect for those with medium or long hair, and it works well with all face shapes due to its relaxed and customizable nature.

To create this look, apply a texturizing spray like Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray before gathering your hair into a loose bun at the nape of your neck. Pull out a few face-framing strands, and finish with R+Co Outer Space Flexible Hairspray to maintain a soft hold without losing the messy texture.

Chic Half-Up, Half-Down Curls 2024 2025

For those who want the best of both worlds, the Chic Half-Up, Half-Down Curls is a perfect winter formal hairstyle. This look blends the romance of cascading curls with the elegance of an updo, offering a balanced, versatile style. It’s perfect for showing off long hair or medium length while adding height and dimension to the look. Best for oval and heart-shaped faces, this style highlights the hair’s natural texture while still maintaining a structured finish.

To style, curl the lower half of the hair using a medium barrel curling iron, then pull the top half into a small bouffant, securing it with pins. A lightweight mousse like Garnier Fructis Curl Construct Mousse can help enhance your curls, while Aveda Control Force Hairspray will ensure the hold stays firm without weighing down the curls.

Sleek Side Part Bob 2024 2025

The Sleek Side Part Bob is a chic, minimalist hairstyle perfect for formal winter events. The side part adds an extra touch of sophistication, while the bob length gives it a modern, fashion-forward edge. This style works best for those with medium length hair and is flattering on oval and square face shapes. Whether you’re attending a semi-formal or black-tie affair, this sleek bob is sure to make an impact.

Before styling, apply Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment to protect your hair and add shine. Use a flat iron to smooth the hair, creating a sharp side part. Finish with Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Finishing Spray to add sleekness and control frizz.

Retro Finger Waves 2024 2025

For a touch of vintage glam, Retro Finger Waves bring the old-world charm of the 1920s into the modern day. These structured waves are sleek and shiny, making them perfect for formal occasions like Snowball events or winter galas. Best for medium or short hair, this style works beautifully on square and heart-shaped faces, giving a flattering and sculpted silhouette.

To get this look, use a strong-hold gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel and a fine-tooth comb to create the waves. After shaping the waves, set them with Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray to ensure they last all night.

Glamorous Braided Ponytail 2024 2025

The Glamorous Braided Ponytail is the perfect mix of modern and elegant, making it an ideal choice for winter formals and semi-formal events. This look features a high ponytail with a thick braid running down the back, giving a polished yet playful vibe. It works best for long hair, and it’s particularly flattering for oval and round face shapes, as the height elongates the face and neck.

To achieve this look, smooth your hair with CHI Silk Infusion serum before gathering it into a high ponytail. Braid the length of the ponytail, securing the end with an invisible elastic. Use TIGI Catwalk Strong Hold Mousse to add volume and shine, and finish with TRESemmé TRES Two Ultra Fine Mist Hair Spray for a long-lasting hold.

Modern Top Knot Bun 2024 2025

For a sleek and stylish look, the Modern Top Knot Bun is a favorite for winter formals, offering a high-fashion vibe while keeping the hair out of the way. This updo is especially ideal for medium to long hair, and it flatters oval and heart-shaped faces, highlighting the cheekbones and jawline. It’s perfect for those looking for a polished and minimalistic yet trendy hairstyle.

To create this look, apply Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil for a smooth finish, then pull your hair into a high bun, securing it with pins. Wrap the hair around itself to form a structured top knot, and lock the style in place with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray for a light but secure hold.

Vintage Beehive with a Modern Twist 2024 2025

The Vintage Beehive with a Modern Twist offers a bold, retro-inspired look perfect for those who want to stand out at winter formal events. This voluminous updo combines the height of a classic beehive with soft, modern touches. It works best for those with medium to long hair, especially if you have naturally thick hair. Ideal for heart and oval face shapes, this hairstyle adds drama and sophistication to your formal look.

To achieve this style, tease the hair at the crown for volume and use a strong-hold hairspray like Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray. Smooth the outer layer with a brush and pin the hair into a beehive shape, adding a modern touch by leaving a few tendrils loose at the front. Use John Frieda Frizz Ease Moisture Barrier Hairspray for extra hold.

Waterfall Braid with Curls 2024 2025

The Waterfall Braid with Curls is a romantic and intricate hairstyle, perfect for those looking to add some whimsical elegance to their winter formal look. This braided style creates the illusion of cascading curls, making it ideal for long hair. It’s particularly flattering for heart and round face shapes, softening facial angles while adding texture and volume.

To style, create a waterfall braid across the crown of the head, allowing the rest of the hair to fall in loose curls. Use a curling wand to enhance the natural curl and finish with Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream for definition. Set with Paul Mitchell Soft Spray for flexible hold without stiffness.

Side-Swept Hollywood Glam Waves 2024 2025

The Side-Swept Hollywood Glam Waves bring red carpet elegance to your winter formal look. This hairstyle features deep, glossy waves swept to one side, evoking old Hollywood charm. Best suited for long hair, this style is perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces, adding drama and elegance to any formal outfit.

Start by using a large barrel curling iron to create big, uniform waves. Sweep the hair to one side and pin it behind the ear. Apply CHI Shine Infusion Spray for a high-shine finish, and lock the look in place with Sebastian Shaper Plus Hair Spray for strong yet flexible hold.

Sleek Braided Bun 2024 2025

The Sleek Braided Bun is the perfect combination of elegance and practicality for winter formal events. This style involves creating a sleek braid that is wrapped into a low bun, offering a polished, minimalist look. It works beautifully for medium to long hair, especially for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. This hairstyle flatters oval, round, and heart-shaped faces, highlighting the jawline and neck.

To style, smooth the hair with L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray, braid the hair down the back, and twist it into a low bun at the nape. Secure the bun with pins, and finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Glossing Mist for extra shine.

Floral-Embellished Loose Updo 2024 2025

The Floral-Embellished Loose Updo is a soft, romantic hairstyle that’s perfect for winter formals, adding a touch of nature-inspired beauty to your look. This loose updo incorporates fresh or faux flowers, woven delicately into the hair, making it ideal for long hair or medium length. Best for oval and round faces, this hairstyle softens the features and adds a whimsical, feminine touch.

Start by loosely pulling the hair into a low bun, leaving some tendrils free to frame the face. Weave small flowers into the hair, securing with bobby pins. Use Verb Ghost Hairspray for a light hold that keeps the updo soft and romantic without looking too polished.

Twisted Low Bun with Side Tendrils 2024 2025

The Twisted Low Bun with Side Tendrils is a sophisticated yet soft hairstyle that’s ideal for winter formal occasions. This look involves twisting the hair into a low, elegant bun at the nape of the neck, with delicate tendrils left out to frame the face. It works well for those with long hair or medium length, and it is especially flattering for round and oval face shapes, as the tendrils soften the face.

To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and twist it into a low bun. Leave a few face-framing pieces out and curl them slightly for added softness. Apply Redken Shine Flash 02 to give your hair a glossy finish, and secure the style with Paul Mitchell Freeze and Shine Super Spray for a long-lasting hold.

Loose Braided Updo 2024 2025

The Loose Braided Updo is a relaxed yet elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of effortless beauty to any winter formal look. This style features a loose braid that’s twisted into a low updo, creating a textured, romantic vibe. It’s perfect for those with long hair or medium length and works especially well for oval and heart-shaped faces. The loose braids give the hair a soft, voluminous look that’s ideal for formal events.

To create this style, loosely braid your hair and then twist it into a low bun, securing it with pins. Let a few strands fall freely for a more relaxed feel. Finish with Ouai Matte Pomade to add texture and Aveda Control Force Firm Hold Hair Spray for long-lasting hold.

Elegant Sleek Bun with a Hair Ribbon 2024 2025

For a polished and refined look, the Elegant Sleek Bun with a Hair Ribbon is a top choice for winter formals. This minimalist style features a sleek, low bun with a ribbon tied around it, adding a chic and feminine touch. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair lengths, and it suits square and oval face shapes, giving a clean and structured appearance.

To style, smooth your hair with Oribe Smooth Style Serum, gather it into a low bun, and tie a satin ribbon around the base. Secure with TIGI Hard Head Hairspray for extra hold, ensuring that the style stays sleek and shiny throughout the evening.

Polished French Braid Updo 2024 2025

The Polished French Braid Updo is a timeless, structured style that’s perfect for formal winter events like a Snowball or a gala. This look involves weaving the hair into a French braid that is tucked into an updo, creating a polished and sophisticated hairstyle. It’s best suited for long hair, especially if you have naturally straight or wavy hair. The style flatters all face shapes and is particularly great for those who prefer a sleek, pulled-together look.

Start by braiding the hair from the crown down to the nape, then twist the remaining braid into a bun. Use Kérastase Elixir Ultime Oil for added shine and smoothness, and finish with L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hair Spray to keep everything in place.

Twisted Half-Up Hairstyle 2024 2025

The Twisted Half-Up Hairstyle is a simple yet elegant look that combines soft curls with twisted sections of hair pinned at the back, making it ideal for semi-formal winter events. This style works well for long hair and medium length, and it is especially flattering for round and heart-shaped faces. The twists add a romantic touch, while the loose hair keeps it casual yet sophisticated.

To create this style, twist two small sections of hair from each side and pin them at the back, leaving the rest of your hair in loose waves. Use Living Proof Curl Defining Gel to enhance the curls, and finish with Bed Head Masterpiece Shine Hairspray for added hold and shine.

Curly High Ponytail with Tendrils 2024 2025

The Curly High Ponytail with Tendrils is a fun and lively hairstyle perfect for winter formals. This look features a high ponytail with defined curls and face-framing tendrils, giving off a playful yet elegant vibe. This style is ideal for those with naturally curly hair or long hair, and it’s especially flattering for oval and square face shapes. The high ponytail adds height and structure, while the curls soften the overall look.

To achieve this style, apply DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler to define and enhance your curls. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and let a few strands fall loosely around your face. Finish with Ouidad Curl Last Flexible-Hold Hairspray to keep your curls bouncy and defined all night.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect hairstyle for your winter formal can make all the difference in completing your look. Whether you prefer a simple and easy style like a sleek ponytail or a more intricate updo with braids, these hairstyles offer something for everyone. Experiment with curls, twists, and braids to find the perfect style that makes you feel confident and elegant. What will you try this season? Let us know in the comments!