The winter season is upon us, and with it comes formal events that demand your best look.
Whether it’s a holiday party, winter ball, or a formal gathering, having the perfect hairstyle can make all the difference.
In this article, we’re diving deep into 25 Glamorous Winter Formal Hairstyles You Need to Try.
These hairstyles are sure to leave you looking stunning, and we’ve included detailed steps to help you create each style perfectly.
Ready to stand out this winter? Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Low Bun

The low bun is an elegant hairstyle that has stood the test of time. It’s the perfect combination of sophistication and ease, making it a go-to for any formal event.
How to Create the Style:
- Brush your hair back, gathering it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
- Twist the ponytail around itself to form a bun.
- Secure with bobby pins and smooth down any flyaways with a light-hold hairspray.
- Finish the look with a festive hair accessory like a sparkling clip or winter-themed hairpin.
2. Soft Hollywood Waves

Soft waves give a woman a glamorous and timeless look.
This hairstyle is perfect for a winter formal event, adding elegance and sophistication to your appearance.
How to Create the Style:
- Start by curling your hair using a large-barrel curling iron.
- Brush out the curls to create soft waves.
- Set the look with hairspray to keep the waves intact.
- For a formal touch, add a deep side part and tuck one side of the hair behind your ear.
3. Twisted Half-Up Half-Down

The twisted half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect for women who want to combine the best of both worlds—elegance and volume.
How to Create the Style:
- Part your hair in the middle or off to the side.
- Take small sections from each side of your hair and twist them toward the back of your head.
- Secure the twists with bobby pins or a formal winter-themed accessory.
- Leave the rest of your hair in soft curls or waves for a glamorous finish.
4. Sleek High Ponytail

A sleek high ponytail can be as glamorous as any updo. It’s sharp, modern, and adds height and structure to your overall look.
How to Create the Style:
- Straighten your hair using a flat iron for a sleek, shiny texture.
- Brush your hair into a high ponytail, ensuring there are no bumps or flyaways.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the hair tie.
- Add shine serum for an extra polished look.
5. Chic French Twist

The French twist is a classic formal hairstyle that exudes elegance and refinement, perfect for winter occasions.
How to Create the Style:
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail but don’t tie it.
- Twist the hair upwards and tuck the ends inside, securing with bobby pins.
- Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth out any bumps and finish with hairspray.
6. Braided Crown

For a more romantic and feminine winter formal hairstyle, the braided crown is a perfect choice.
It’s both festive and elegant.
How to Create the Style:
- Create two braids, one on each side of your head.
- Wrap each braid across the top of your head, securing them with bobby pins.
- Loosen the braids slightly for a softer, more relaxed look.
7. Low Chignon

A low chignon is an elegant and timeless hairstyle, perfect for women attending a formal winter event.
How to Create the Style:
- Pull your hair back into a low ponytail.
- Twist the ponytail into a chignon and pin it in place.
- Leave a few face-framing pieces out for a soft, romantic touch.
8. Messy Bun with Tendrils

For a less formal but still glamorous look, a messy bun with face-framing tendrils is a great option for winter.
How to Create the Style:
- Pull your hair into a loose, low bun.
- Pull out a few tendrils at the front for a soft, face-framing look.
- Secure with bobby pins and a light mist of hairspray.
9. Vintage Finger Waves

Vintage finger waves give off a glamorous, retro vibe that’s perfect for any winter formal event.
How to Create the Style:
- Apply styling gel to damp hair and use your fingers to sculpt waves.
- Use duckbill clips to hold the waves in place as your hair dries.
- Remove the clips and finish with hairspray for long-lasting hold.
10. Loose Side Braid

A loose side braid is a fun and festive winter formal hairstyle that adds a touch of whimsy to your look.
How to Create the Style:
- Braid your hair loosely over one shoulder.
- Pull gently on the braid to create a fuller, more voluminous look.
- Leave a few tendrils out for a more romantic finish.
11. High Volume Curls

Volume is key when it comes to glamorous winter hairstyles.
Big, bouncy curls are perfect for formal winter occasions.
How to Create the Style:
- Use a curling wand to create large, voluminous curls.
- Backcomb the roots for added height.
- Set with hairspray to maintain volume all night long.
12. Sleek Bob with a Side Part

A sleek bob with a deep side part is the epitome of modern sophistication, especially for women with shorter hair.
How to Create the Style:
- Use a flat iron to straighten your bob for a sleek finish.
- Create a deep side part for added drama.
- Finish with a shine spray for an ultra-glossy look.
13. Elegant Side-Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are a beautiful and glamorous way to showcase your hair at a winter formal event.
This hairstyle adds volume and movement, perfect for a festive night out.
How to Create the Style:
- Curl your hair using a medium-barrel curling iron.
- Sweep all your curls to one side and pin them in place at the back.
- Add a sparkly accessory for an extra festive touch.
14. Twisted Updo

The twisted updo offers a romantic yet polished look for any formal winter occasion.
It’s a sophisticated style that will keep your hair neat throughout the event.
How to Create the Style:
- Section your hair into two parts and twist each section.
- Pin the twists at the nape of your neck to create an elegant updo.
- Leave a few loose strands around the face for softness.
15. Low Ponytail with Ribbon

For a simple yet glamorous hairstyle, a low ponytail tied with a ribbon is the perfect festive look.
It’s chic, feminine, and easy to style.
How to Create the Style:
- Smooth your hair back into a low ponytail.
- Tie a velvet or satin ribbon around the base of the ponytail.
- Curl the ends for added elegance.
16. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a trendy and unique hairstyle that’s great for formal events, giving your winter look a fashionable twist.
How to Create the Style:
- Separate your hair into two sections.
- Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right.
- Repeat the process from the other side, continuing down until the braid is complete.
- Loosen the braid slightly for a more voluminous, boho look.
17. Braided Low Bun

Combining the elegance of a low bun with the charm of a braid, this hairstyle is perfect for women who want a polished yet unique winter formal look.
How to Create the Style:
- Create a braid with the lower section of your hair.
- Wrap the braid into a low bun and secure it with pins.
- Finish with hairspray to keep it in place.
18. Pinned-Back Waves

For a more relaxed yet formal hairstyle, try pinning back soft waves.
This hairstyle combines the beauty of flowing waves with the structure of a pinned-back look.
How to Create the Style:
- Curl your hair into soft waves.
- Pin the front sections of your hair back toward the crown of your head.
- Add a decorative pin or hair clip for a festive touch.
19. Vintage Roll Updo

The vintage roll updo is a glamorous hairstyle perfect for winter formal events, giving you a classic, old-Hollywood charm.
How to Create the Style:
- Section your hair into three parts: two side sections and one back section.
- Roll the back section inward and pin it in place.
- Style the side sections into soft curls and pin them above the roll.
20. Messy Fishtail Bun

For a modern twist on the classic bun, the messy fishtail bun offers a fun and relaxed winter formal hairstyle.
How to Create the Style:
- Start by creating a loose fishtail braid with your hair.
- Twist the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck.
- Pull a few strands loose to create a messy, voluminous look.
21. Slicked-Back Look

For a bold, modern hairstyle, the slicked-back look is a confident choice that will ensure you stand out at any winter formal event.
How to Create the Style:
- Apply a strong-hold gel to the roots and comb your hair back, creating a sleek, wet look.
- Smooth the rest of your hair back for a glossy, polished finish.
- Secure with hairspray to maintain the look throughout the evening.
22. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is a stunning and intricate style that’s perfect for women wanting a romantic winter formal hairstyle.
How to Create the Style:
- Begin braiding from the side of your head, allowing strands to drop as you braid.
- Continue the braid along the crown, leaving sections of your hair cascading down.
- Finish the braid by pinning it behind your ear.
23. Side Bun with Braids

This side bun incorporates braids for an added element of texture and creativity, making it ideal for a glamorous winter event.
How to Create the Style:
- Create small braids on one side of your hair.
- Gather the rest of your hair into a side bun.
- Wrap the braids around the bun for a textured, elegant finish.
24. Hollywood Glam Curls

Channel your inner Hollywood starlet with large, glamorous curls that give you a vintage yet modern formal look.
How to Create the Style:
- Use a large-barrel curling iron to create big, voluminous curls.
- Brush them out slightly to achieve a soft, flowing look.
- Set with a shine spray for a glossy finish.
25. Elegant Top Knot

The top knot is a sleek and sophisticated hairstyle that’s easy to create and ideal for formal winter occasions.
How to Create the Style:
- Pull your hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a top knot.
- Secure it with bobby pins and finish with hairspray to keep it in place.
- Add a decorative hairpiece for extra glamour.
Each of these 25 Glamorous Winter Formal Hairstyles You Need to Try is designed to make any woman feel confident and beautiful, whether she’s attending a winter formal, festive event, or modelling her best look for the season.
The versatility of these hairstyles ensures that there’s something for everyone, from simple, sleek styles to more elaborate, romantic designs.
Make sure to try out these hairstyles and create the perfect look for any winter occasion!
Let me know if you’d like to make any changes or explore more options!