17 Formal Hairstyles for Men: Elegant Looks for Special Occasions

Looking your best at formal events is important. The right hairstyle can boost your confidence and complete your polished look.

You have many options for formal hairstyles that will impress at any occasion.

From classic side parts to modern quiffs, there’s a stylish choice for every hair type and face shape. Let’s explore some top formal hairstyles for men.

1: Pompadour

The pompadour is a classic formal hairstyle for men. It features hair swept up and back from the forehead.

You can achieve this look by using styling products and a hairdryer.

The pompadour works well for formal events and adds a touch of sophistication to your appearance.

2: Side Part

The side part is a classic formal hairstyle for men. You can create it by combing your hair to one side with a defined part.

This look works well for short to medium hair lengths. It gives you a polished, sophisticated appearance perfect for formal events.

3: Slick Back

The slick back is another classic formal hairstyle for men. You can achieve this look by combing your hair straight back from your forehead.

Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to keep your hair in place. For a polished finish, make sure your hair is smooth and shiny.

This style works well for various hair lengths and face shapes.

4: French Crop

The French crop is a popular formal hairstyle for men. It features short sides and back with a blunt fringe on top.

You can adjust the length of the fringe to suit your preference. This versatile cut works well for formal events while still looking stylish.

To style it, keep the top textured or slick it down for a neater look. Pair with a fade on the sides for a modern touch.

5: Undercut

The undercut is a stylish choice for formal events. You’ll have short, buzzed sides with longer hair on top. This creates a sharp contrast that looks sleek and modern.

The undercut works well with many styles like slicked back or textured looks.

6: Quiff

The quiff is a classic formal hairstyle for men. It features longer hair on top styled upward and back.

You can achieve this look by brushing your hair up and using a strong-hold product.

The quiff works well for many face shapes and hair types. It’s versatile enough for both casual and formal events.

7: Buzz Cut

The buzz cut is a short, simple hairstyle that can work for formal occasions. You can get this look by cutting your hair very close to the scalp all over your head.

It’s easy to maintain and gives you a clean, neat appearance. For a more polished look, pair your buzz cut with a well-groomed beard or clean-shaven face.

8: Comb Over

The comb over is a classic men’s hairstyle that exudes sophistication. You can create this look by brushing your hair smoothly to one side.

For a modern twist, try a short taper or fade on the sides and back. This gives a seamless transition to longer hair on top.

The comb over works well for both formal and casual occasions. It’s a versatile choice that can suit many face shapes and hair types.

9: Caesar Cut

The Caesar cut gives you a classic, refined look for formal events. This short style features a horizontal fringe across the forehead.

You can pair it with a fade on the sides for a modern twist. The Caesar cut works well for most face shapes and hair types.

10: Crew Cut

The crew cut is a classic formal hairstyle for men. It features short hair on the sides and back with slightly longer hair on top.

This low-maintenance cut works well for formal events. You can style it neatly with some product for a polished look.

The crew cut suits most face shapes and hair types. It’s a good choice if you want a clean, professional appearance.

11: Ivy League

The Ivy League haircut is a classy choice for formal events. It blends short sides with a longer top that’s neatly combed to the side.

You can style it with a bit of pomade for a polished look. This cut works well for different hair types, including curly hair.

12: Spiky Hair

You can rock spiky hair at formal events. Use a small amount of styling product to create texture.

Brush your hair up and forward for a modern look. Keep the sides short for contrast.

13: Textured Fringe

A textured fringe haircut gives you a stylish, modern look for formal events. This versatile style features longer hair on top, cut with texture and swept forward.

You can adjust the length and styling to suit your face shape and personal taste. For a polished appearance, use a small amount of styling product to keep the fringe in place.

14: Fade with Part

The fade with part hairstyle combines a classic side part with a modern fade. You’ll get a clean, polished look that works for formal events.

The fade starts low on the sides and back, blending into longer hair on top.

15: Hard Part

A hard part is a sharp, shaved line in your hair. It creates a bold look that stands out.

You can pair it with many styles like fades or pompadours. For a formal event, try a hard part with slicked-back hair.

It looks clean and stylish. Use hair gel to keep everything in place.

16: Angular Fringe

An angular fringe can give you a sharp, modern look for formal events. This style features longer hair on top swept forward at an angle.

The sides are kept shorter for contrast. You can style it with some hair product for a polished finish.

17: Short Waves

Short waves make a great formal hairstyle for men. This look keeps your hair neat and tidy while adding texture.

To style, use a small amount of product and scrunch your hair. You can part it to the side or brush it back for a polished finish.