17 Formal Hairstyles for Short Hair Women: Elegant Looks for Special Occasions

Short hair doesn’t limit your formal style options. You can create stunning looks for special events with the right techniques and accessories.

These 17 formal hairstyles for short hair will help you look polished and elegant for any occasion.

From sleek updos to romantic curls, you’ll find styles to suit your taste and hair type.

1: Sleek Side Part

A sleek side part is a chic choice for short hair. You can create this look by combing your hair to one side. Use a flat iron to smooth any flyaways.

Finish with hairspray to keep everything in place.

2: Textured Pixie Cut

A textured pixie cut gives your short hair a fresh, modern look. This style features choppy layers that add volume and movement.

You can customize the length and texture to suit your face shape and hair type. Ask your stylist for soft, feathered layers to create a chic, effortless vibe.

3: Vintage Finger Waves

Vintage finger waves bring 1920s glamour to short hair. This elegant style creates S-shaped waves using fingers and styling products.

You can rock finger waves for formal events or special occasions. They work well with fine to medium hair textures.

To achieve this look, you’ll need patience and practice. Start with damp hair and use a strong-hold gel or mousse.

4: Messy French Twist

The messy French twist adds a fun twist to a classic style. You can create this look with short hair in minutes.

Tease your hair for volume, then twist and pin it up loosely. Let some strands fall out for a carefree vibe.

5: Elegant Top Knot

The elegant top knot is a chic choice for formal events. This sleek updo works well with short hair, creating a polished look.

To create it, pull your hair up high on your head. Twist it into a neat bun and secure with pins.

Smooth any flyaways for a refined finish.

6: Curly Updo

Curly hair is perfect for creating stunning updos. You can style your short curls into a sophisticated look for formal events.

Try pinning the front sections to the back of your head. Pull the rest into a low bun or leave it loose, depending on your hair length.

7: Braided Crown

A braided crown is a beautiful formal hairstyle for short hair. You can create this look by braiding two sections of hair from each side of your head.

Bring the braids up and around your head like a crown. Pin them in place for a elegant and romantic style that works well for special events.

8: Classic Pompadour

The classic pompadour is a timeless formal hairstyle for women with short hair.

You sweep your hair up and back from your forehead to create height and volume.

This elegant look works well for formal events and adds a touch of sophistication to your style.

9: Wavy Bob with Headband

A wavy bob with a headband is a chic and easy formal style for short hair. You can create soft waves in your bob using a curling iron or overnight braids.

Add a sparkly or elegant headband to dress up the look. This style works great for weddings, parties, or other special events.

10: Chignon with Hair Accessories

A chignon with hair accessories adds elegance to short hair. Pin your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Secure it with bobby pins.

Add sparkle with a decorative clip or comb. Pearls, rhinestones, or flowers work well for formal events.

11: Knotted Half-Updo

A knotted half-updo is a great choice for short hair. You can create this look by pulling the top section of your hair into a small bun or knot.

Leave the rest of your hair down for a stylish blend of polished and relaxed.

This style works well for formal events. It’s easy to do and looks elegant on shorter hair.

12: Pinned Curls

Pinned curls are a great choice for short hair formal styles. You can create this look by curling small sections of hair and pinning them close to your scalp.

This technique adds volume and texture to your short hair.

Try pinning curls in different directions for a unique look. You can leave some curls loose for a softer style.

Add hairspray to keep your pinned curls in place all night.

13: Tucked Chignon

The tucked chignon is a classic choice for formal events. You can create this look even with short hair.

Start by pulling your hair back smoothly. Twist it into a low bun at the nape of your neck.

Tuck the ends under and secure with pins.

14: Asymmetrical Bob with Clips

An asymmetrical bob with clips is a stylish choice for formal events. You can add flair to this short haircut by using decorative clips on one side.

This look works well for any hair type and face shape.

15: Retro Rolls

Retro rolls are a classic vintage hairstyle that works great for short hair.

You can create this look by rolling sections of your hair upwards and pinning them in place.

It gives a cute, 1940s-inspired vibe that’s perfect for formal events.

16: Sculpted Pin-Up Curls

Sculpted pin-up curls give your short hair a classic, glamorous look. You can create this style with hot rollers or a curling iron.

Start by curling small sections of hair, then pin each curl to your head. Let the curls cool before gently brushing them out.

17: Volume Boosted Bob

The volume boosted bob adds lift and body to fine hair. You can achieve this look with layering and strategic styling.

Use volumizing products at the roots before blow-drying. Tease the crown area gently for extra height. This style works well for formal events.