Craving a new look for an extra special occasion? Or maybe you are just looking for ways to jazz up your everyday style? Look no further, ladies. Peep these fancy hairstyles for some serious style inspiration!
Boho Crown
Q&A with style creator, Alexandra Wilson
Hairstylist @ Hair Styling By Alexandra Eisemann in East Greenwich, RI
How would you describe this look?
This is a boho braided crown look. My favorite thing about it is how it looks intricate but it’s really just four braids pinned over each other. Super easy!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look is ideal for longer hair and perfect for someone who wants a quick, 10-minute style.
To achieve bigger braids, use a volumizing powder. I personally love to use Puff Me from Design Me.
3D Pull-through Braid
Q&A with style creator, Regan Timothy
Stylist / Owner @ Beautyy By Regan in Tremonton, UT
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as a 3D pull through braid with some twists and curls. My favorite part is the 3D pull through braid because it’s not a braid you see very often!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This would be an ideal style for someone with medium to fine textured hair that can hold a curl. It can be easily accented with some hair jewelry or a ribbon.
This style would best suit someone with a fun, adventurous, and edgy personality/style. This look would hold up well for events such as prom, dances, photo shoots, and fashion shows. I will hold its own throughout the night and stand out in the crowd!
Classy Casual
Q&A with style creator, Danielle Broughton-Evans
Hairstylist @ Danielle Broughton-Evans Hair in Crewe, England
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as classy casual. My favorite thing about it is that it is wearable from day to night. It’s casual enough for work and classy enough for a night out.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look is adaptable to all hair types but works best as a textured look on multi-tonal hair.
If you have silky hair and want to achieve this look, then I would advise drying in Redken Fashion Waves to create a little texture first.
Bohemian Rock
Q&A with style creator, Olivia Arendt
Stylist / Balayage Artist @ Scotia Salon in Marietta, GA
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as bohemian rock. It has a softness to it, but the hair rings give it some grit. My favorite thing is definitely the braids. I love the different textures they give.
Any advice for someone considering it?
The grey blonde color takes a lot of time and maintenance to keep the tone the same. It fades quickly, so invest in a salon-quality shampoo and conditioner to help maintain the color. The braid is a great way to add some texture and interest into your style.
Effortlessly Sexy & Touchable
Q&A with style creator, Sarah
Hairstylist / Colorist @ Marsha Nadalin Salon & Spa in Honolulu, HI
How would you describe this look?
I love how effortlessly sexy and touchable these curls look. You can tell she feels beautiful and you get the feeling she’ll be tossing her around all night on the dance floor!
Any advice for someone considering it?
You definitely need to take into account the client’s hair texture & ability to hold curl. This model has heavy, thick hair that is almost to her waist. I used a working spray and a 1 1/4-inch barrel iron to curl, then pinned the hair to cool for 45 minutes. I used a finishing spray after very lightly breaking up the curls. All of these steps ensured the style would last all night.
However, for another client with some natural curl and body, this look could be achieved much quicker. I think this look is universal for any a client wants to feel special without looking overdone.
Multi-Braided Updo
Q&A with style creator, Tracy
Stylist @ Red Cottage Salon & Spa in Long Grove, IL
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as multiple braids coming together to create a fun updo.
My favorite thing about it is all the texture that it creates and how it can last all day. It’s great for hot and humid times when you want your hair to stay up all day.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you want a hairstyle that you won’t have to worry about, this look is ideal. It will hold all day and night! There are multiple braids in the updo, so you have to begin with a lot of hair. It just won’t have the same effect with thin hair.
Additionally, her color helps a lot because it shows all the detail in the style. For this style, I used Monat Styling Taffy near the roots to keep the flyaways down and give a finished look. I finished the style with Refinish Monat Hairspray for all day hold.
Elegant French Twist Ponytail
Q&A with style creator, Rachel Lusk
Hair & Make-up Artist @ Rachel Lusk Hair & Makeup in Bay Area, CA
How would you describe this look?
I describe this look as a combination of effortless and elegant.
My favorite thing about this style would be how simple and versatile it is. You can use it as an on-the-go style, or add some simple accessories and curls to create a beautiful look for bridesmaids. You can add texture or volume at the crown to make it messy and textured, or brush the style close to your head to keep it nice and sleek.
Any advice for someone considering it?
For a more voluminous look, I recommend blowing your hair out with a volumizing mousse before styling. To create a sleeker look, straighten the hair and apply a pomade around the hairline and crown area to keep it smooth and simple. If you would like to create more body in the ponytail, you can always add a few rows of clip-in hair extensions!
Braided Mohawk
Q&A with style creator, Sandra Joseph
Pureartist @ Pureology and Master Stylist @ Dani’s Hairloft in Pittsburgh, PA
How would you describe this look?
I just love this simple yet fun braid that can be worn out shopping, to a lunch out, or dressed up for an evening event. It also works well as a second-day style. After you take out the braid, you can expect to see a beautiful wavy look.
Because the braid is stacked on itself, it gives a higher Mohawk finish that is secure and can last a few days. Hot tip! Roll the ponytail into a bun then secure with a few pins for an evening out to dinner.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is a look for the long-haired ladies, however, you can always attach a hair piece around a short ponytail to add length.
As far a hair texture goes, it really works on most hair types. It does work best with minimal layers though. The finished look is great with all hair colors and added highlights give the braid character.
To style this look, all you need is a volumizing mousse to add texture and grip. I recommend Pureology Rootlift because it can be used on damp or dry hair. Apply the product throughout, then blow dry the hair upside down. You can find further styling steps for this exact look on my Instagram page!
Dutch + Fishtail Braid into a Messy Bun
Q&A with style creator, Rachelle Edrozo
Special Event & Wedding Hair Stylist @ Alante Hair Design in El Cajon, CA
How would you describe this look?
This fun updo is a Dutch Braid with a fishtail braid into a low messy bun. It’s perfect for an outdoor wedding or an event where you want your hair to stay in place all day.
I used Redken Diamond Oil for added shine and to control flyaways. To finish, I sprayed the entire look with Hard Head hairspray by Bed Head. It is my favorite and never lets me down!
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you have a lot of hair or just like to have your hair up, this is the look for you. I love to braid blonde hair and her highlights look amazing.
This look is great for a night of dancing under the stars!
Braided Detail
Q&A with style creator, Twylla Jane
Redken Artist @ Lumos Nox at Sass Studios & Salon Suites in Naperville, IL
How would you describe this look?
This is a half updo with volume through the top, soft curls, and a side-swept braid detail.
My favorite thing about this look is that it is formal without being over the top. It works for any occasion from a date night to a black tie event to a wedding. To take the fancy up a notch, a decorative comb or clip could be placed above or below the braid.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is a hairstyle that will live with you through the evening whether it’s a low key event or a night out on the town. If your hair curls easily, I love Redken Iron Shape 11 to keep curls soft and bouncy. If your hair falls flat easily, reach for something stronger like Redken Hot Sets 22. Spray it over sections, then quickly comb through to disperse the product. This will give the hair a softer result while keeping all the control.
For the half updo, volume at the top is creating by backcombing, then held in place with bobby pins. The bonus is that style may last until the next day if pinned well! Pin the hair up loosely and add a headband for a chill and chic bohemian vibe the next day.
Elegant Boho Chic
Q&A with style creator, Shaylean
Hairstylist @ Hair By Shay – Magnolia Avenue Salon in Larkspur, CA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This look is boho chic. I️ love how soft, textured and messy I️ was able to make it, yet it still looks elegant.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
I️ blow dried a workable hairspray into the hair. I then flat iron curled the whole head, curling away from the face. After lots of back combing, we used one ponytail and lots of bobby pins and hair pins to create the shape. We finished with a shine spray and hard hold hairspray.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look was for a fundraiser gala and will work for any elegant events. This look is perfect for someone with a beautiful jawline and needed height. The hair can be fine, but there needs to be a lot of it, and it must be shoulder-length or longer.
Eye-Catching Braid
Q&A with style creator, Holly Smeltzer
Hairstylist / Make-up Artist @ Skye Salon & Spa in Grosse Pointe, MI
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This look is easy, fun and eye-catching. I love this style because it allows me to be creatively expressive. It also shows all the different tones in the hair, making it more visually interesting.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
For this look I like to use a medium hold hairspray so the curls will stay in place. Also, using a flexible hold cream helps with flyaways and defines the curls. To top it off, I love a good shine spray!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
Braids and curls can easily be dressed up or down. This hairstyle is great for any occasion and any hair type.
Sophisticated Half Updo
Q&A with style creator, Aimee Beam
Licensed Cosmetologist & Founder @ Top Knots By Aimee, LLC in Philadelphia, PA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This look is a sophisticated half updo with tons of volume at the crown of the head. It’s a classic style for the #bighairdontcare lovers. It doesn’t matter if you have long, medium or short hair, this is a look that is très chic on all hair lengths and types.
I love that this look doesn’t take hours to create and is very versatile. The model in the photo is a bride on her wedding day, but this look can also be used for a holiday party, bachelorette party, cocktail party, wedding guest, and more!
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
To recreate this sophisticated half-up style, start with freshly blown out hair. I love my Babyliss Pro Volare V2 Mid-Size Hair Dryer, and I never blow out my hair without my Oribe Volumista root pump spray. Once your hair is completely dry and blown out, spray a TON of dry shampoo at the root of your hair. I love using Oribe Dry Texture Spray. Then, if you want your curls to last all night, I recommend using a 1 1/4-inch curling iron. I use Hot Tools Marcel irons. Curl and “set” the curls to your head until they are all cooled. Before I pin each curl to the head, I use Kenra Volume 25 hairspray on each curl.
Take down the curls. Then with a tail comb, section your hair into three sections: front left (from the top of your head to behind your left ear), front right (from the top of your head to behind your right ear), and then leave out the entire back section. To get the volume at the crown of your head and the overall “form” of the half-up style, start with a tiny horizontal section at the very top of your head. Backcomb it and add Big Sexy Powder Play. Repeat this step four or five more times until you have achieved the level of volume you would like for your half-up look.
With four bobby pins, secure your “poof” to the back of your head. If you need even more volume, use the pick side of your teasing comb to get even more lift. Moving to your front sections, use horizontal rows again and tease at least three rows on each side of your part at the crown of your head. Spray the entire section of hair with Oribe Dry Texture spray to make creating the twists even more easy.
The model uses a side part, but this look would also look amazing with the on-trend middle part. One side at a time, twist inward until you get a beautiful organic twist. Don’t pull the hair too tight to your head and pull apart each twist with your fingers to still create volume on the sides. One side at a time, lay each twist over the back section of the half-up style where you secured the original bobby pins to hide them. Check your style from the front to ensure all looks even with the twists on each side and give yourself a final hairspray with Kenra Volume 25 spray all over. Time to hit the town!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is so versatile! The model photographed was a bridal client. As a wedding hair expert, a lot of my clients select this look for their wedding day. It gives brides the flexibility of having their hair down, but still out of their face. It also gives my brides volume that is sure to last until the last song is played at their reception!
While this is the perfect look for a wedding, it is also a look I recommend for a holiday party, prom, bachelorette party, or even as a guest at a wedding. This is my top requested look for the past three years!
Faux Bob
Obtain a new hairstyle without giving up the length of your hair! Give your blonde balayage a retro finish as you wear this neck-length faux bob. The side part style, soft waves, and some lovely hairpins will all provide you a fancy result.
Pinned Back Side
Intricate braids and curls go together like a perfect couple, and this one is proof. This easy half-up for medium-length hair will let you walk in a room with confidence. Rock a hairstyle like this if you have dark blonde locks, and show off your hair color’s dimension.
Gorgeous Formal Curly Hair
Incorporate your natural texture and curls in an updo, and turn it into something classy. This gorgeous formal curly hair will give you a soft style to go with your dark-rooted blonde shade. Embellish it with sparkling hairpins plus face-framing strands for extra details.
The Perfect Braided Updo for Long Hair
Without a single doubt, this is the perfect braided updo for long hair! If you have straight and blonde locks, this suits you the best. It appears so elegant on whichever side you gaze at it.
The Fanciest Prom Updo
If you want a voluminous hairstyle, don’t settle for less. Here’s the fanciest prom updo that will accompany you to a great party. Add texture to your blonde tresses, so it emphasizes subtle layers of your hairstyle.
The Fancy French Braid
This is how you incorporate the term “fancy” to your typical style! Flaunt your two-toned, mid-length hair by wearing the fancy french braid half-updo. The black and blonde shades plus the added face-framing strands create a softer vibe to this look.
Sleek and Sideswept
Written by Kassandra Kuehl
This sleek look really shows off some stunning highlights!
How to Style:
- Apply thermal protectant spray and smoothing serum to damp hair.
- Dry hair using round brush to create volume and pull hair over to one side.
- Flat iron hair in one-inch sections to create the soft roundness at the ends and in the bangs.
- Finish with medium hold hairspray and shine spray.
Recommended Products:
Aveda Smooth Infusion Naturally Straight not only straightens curly hair for the day, but also will progressively straighten tresses after several uses!
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This look will surely create width on anyone who has a longer face shape and will work for any hair type.
The Perfect Quinceanera Hairstyle
Needs an updo that boosts your glam for a special occasion, or just wanna go extra on a typical day? The perfect quinceanera hairstyle is here to help you out! Looking great on your long and black locks, this is a high bun that serves as your tiara. Curly strands around your face let you have such a sweet and romantic aura to flaunt all day long.
Q&A with style creator, Alyssa Celeste
Hair Stylist @ Celestial Haven Studio in Houston, TX
How would you describe this look?
This style can be put together for any occasion. It is classic and modern. It is a great idea for a wedding, prom, or even date night. Having the bangs styled down in front of the face gives it a sophisticated appearance. My favorite part is the bun of course. The bun is simplistic yet is also has flavor. The twist around the base really makes it stand out.
Any advice for someone considering it?
You’re going to stun everyone! It goes with any style of dress. You don’t have to worry about your hair falling after dancing all night long. On those hot or humid days, your hair will be out of your way. Even if you change your mind about the bangs, it’s super easy to pull them back and twist them around the bun. Stronghold hairspray is definitely a must for this look to tame those baby hairs.
The Bun
Definitely sleek and smooth! Pull your hair back, and pin a fancy pearl accessory into it—that’s how you create an elegant bun. Pull some strands out, as well, to form a subtle texture. Achieve this look with no sweat if you have long and straight blonde locks.
Pretty and Short
Bring out a boho feel when you wear a fancy look such as this one. Looking pretty and short, this soft low bun is achievable if curls and texture team up. Hints of pink tint and dainty accessories on your blonde locks complete the flirty vibe you’re going for.
The Perfect Wedding Updo
It’s the perfect wedding updo that’s very ready to make a statement! Pull it off when you want a textured style that makes your dark copper, thin locks look fuller. The strands that hang and the dainty accessory are necessary to complete your glam look.
Cute Curly Updo
A textured hairstyle can create a look that’s beyond stunning! Take it from this cute curly updo, which can breathe new life to your blonde locks. Salt, texture, and sparkler sprays will give a good hold to a relaxed style like this one.
Q&A with style creator, Rosie Hart
Hair Stylist @ Hair by Rosie in Surrey, LDN
How would you describe this look?
This look is a textured, relaxed, curly updo – the perfect balance of soft romance and classic structure. It’s such a beautiful, versatile style, and I totally adore it!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This hairstyle is perfect for brides who want to keep their hair up and structured but with a soft, natural element to it. It would look super elegant and glamorous with an off-shoulder dress or could also be the perfect bohemian look with the addition of some wildflowers. This style works with all types of hair – the model actually has very naturally curly (and frizzy!) hair, so it’s very versatile in that way!
Sleek and Straight
Fancy hairstyles aren’t always about waves and massive updos. Your sleek and straight mane can also create a classy half-updo, and all you need is braid and a dainty hairpiece. Color your long tresses with smokey ash blonde balayage with dark root for added flair, too!
Curly Bun
Take advantage of your natural texture, and show it off like a real queen! Wear your blonde tresses on a low curly bun in which flow is so noticeable.
Formal Short Hairstyle
No one says you can’t slay a chic half-updo when you have a neck-length lob. Achieve this formal short hairstyle by adding curls and a braid that works as a headband. It’s also the ideal time to flaunt your shadow-rooted blonde balayage with flair.
Q&A with style creator, Ness MacKinlay
Independent Stylist @ in Peterborough & Belleville, ON
How would you describe this look?
I was going for a soft, romantic look with a pop of interest. I think a braid can add a great look to any updo without looking over the top.
My favorite thing about this style is the fact that it is so versatile. The waves are very loose and boho and the braid is very structured, so this can be a black-tie, wedding, graduation, or everyday look.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Anyone can achieve this look, but the process is different for each client. This naturally comes easy for someone with thick hair because they have a lot to work with. For someone with fine, thin hair I would take a different approach.
Kenra texture powder is great for adding volume at the roots and helps to hold teasing or backcombing in place. Kenra dry volume burst helps to add a bit of plumpness to fine hair. Kenra thermal styling spray is a great product to spray on before curling. Not only does it protect your hair from heat but it also help to hold curls on the most stubborn hair.
If your hair is too thin to braid, a great trick I like to use is to create a braid out of hair extensions and incorporating it into the updo to make or look like your own hair.
This is a perfect style for any hair length past the chin and works great on anyone with a fun, flirty, laid back personality. It’s great on people who aren’t really into hair and makeup because it has a very effortless look and feels to it.
Romantic Pull Back
Now, this is how you flaunt your dark-rooted blonde locks, packed with glam. This romantic pull back updo features a braid for the appearance of a fuller-looking mane.
Q&A with style creator, Sylvia Barson
Hair Stylist @ Rumors Salon For Hair & Nails in Jackson, MI
How would you describe this look?
This style is fun and formal. I love how daring and bold this look is. Updos/formal styles nowadays are all loose and very tousled pinned back, leaving pieces around the face. They’re very pretty but after a while can be boring. It’s nice to switch things up and style something a little out of the box like this.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Keep your chin up because this look is all about confidence. Wearing a slicked-back style portrays that you have no fear and nothing to hide.
Half Up Bouffant
Puff out your long, blonde locks to achieve a hairstyle that’s beyond impressive! This half-up bouffant is sure to get attention if you pair it with glamorous curls and side bangs.
Curly Bob with Bangs
It’s so pretty; you won’t stop staring at it! This neck-length, curly bob with bangs has all the volume, texture, and movement you desire to have. It has a shape that gives such a cheerful aura. Wait no more and revamp your dark tresses now!
Q&A with style creator, Amanda Payne
Hair Stylist @ Artistic Edge Salon and Spa in Marriottsville, MD
How would you describe this look?
This look is a chic, naturally textured bob. What I love about this cut is the ability it has to look great on many textures of hair. This cut has low angled interior layers, as well as a graduated perimeter, without the heaviness of a traditional graduated bob with a slight disconnection in the crown. Because of this, every hair doesn’t have to be in place. In fact, that is what makes the cut always look so good!
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you have wavy to curly hair, I say go for it! I cut all my textured clients dry but at the very least when adding a fringe line on curls/waves make sure your stylist cuts dry. This cut and can be translated on many hair types but can help medium to fine hair have more fullness. To style this cut for a more tousled look, use a cream or salt spray and air-dry, for more fullness – break the curl/wave clusters up a bit for maximum movement.
To style for a more polished look, use a gel casting product and diffuse and finish with a small amount of water-soluble pomade. This is a great universal cut that can be worn in many ways.
Low and Textured
The low and textured hairstyle is so in! Here’s another fancy way to class up your blonde hair. The subtle twists and waves of strands are vital to form movement and more texture. Floral hairpiece and face-framing strands are what make this look very romantic.
The Curled Pixie
Written by Kassandra Kuehl
Growing out a pixie? This hot look allows for a little length up top to have fun styling with!
How to Style:
- Apply thermal protectant spray a texturizing spray to damp hair.
- Rough dry hair with your fingers and a blow dryer.
- Curl hair in small sections with a 1-inch barrel curling iron.
- Use a shine serum to define the curls.
- Finish with a medium hold hairspray.
Recommended Products:
Use Kasia Organic’s Hydra-Boost Texturizing & Volumizing Spray on wet or dry hair for an added boost!
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This versatile pixie is great for any hair type and is perfect on those with an oval face shape.
Go ahead and do something special for yourself and try one of these fancy hairstyles today!
The Curled Pixie
A short haircut is always sassy, but you can make it fancier by adding tousled texture to it. Here’s the curled pixie to match your boldness. Blonde hue on the dark root will emphasize more for the movement, too.
