Finding the perfect hairstyle for formal occasions can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re working with medium-length hair and bangs.
Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, gala, prom, or sophisticated dinner party, your hairstyle sets the tone for your entire look.
The good news is that medium-length hair with bangs offers incredible versatility, allowing you to create stunning formal styles that range from romantically soft to sleek and modern.
This comprehensive guide to 37 Elegant Formal Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair With Bangs will walk you through classic updos, half-up styles, elegant waves, braided designs, and contemporary looks that complement your bangs beautifully.
Each style has been carefully selected to help you look polished, confident, and absolutely stunning at your next formal event.
You’ll discover step-by-step guidance, styling tips, and creative variations that work with different bang styles—from blunt and side-swept to curtain and wispy bangs.
Get ready to transform your medium-length hair into a show-stopping formal masterpiece that turns heads and photographs beautifully.
1. Classic French Twist with Side-Swept Bangs
The French twist remains one of the most sophisticated formal hairstyles, combining timeless elegance with modern refinement
This updo works beautifully with medium-length hair and allows your side-swept bangs to frame your face gracefully.
The style creates instant polish and works perfectly for black-tie events, weddings, and formal galas.
Styling Details:
- Brush your hair backward and gather it at the nape of your neck, leaving your bangs out to sweep naturally to one side.
- Twist the gathered hair upward in a vertical roll, tucking the ends inside the twist.
- Secure with bobby pins along the seam of the twist, ensuring everything feels tight and secure.
- Gently sweep your bangs to your preferred side and set with a light-hold hairspray.
- Add a decorative hair comb or jeweled pins for extra glamour and to reinforce the structure.
2. Romantic Low Bun with Curtain Bangs
Low buns exude effortless romance and pair exceptionally well with curtain bangs that softly frame the face.
This style balances structure with softness, creating a look that’s both polished and approachable.
Perfect for garden weddings, evening receptions, or any formal event where you want to appear elegant yet relaxed.
Styling Details:
- Part your curtain bangs down the middle and allow them to fall naturally on either side of your face.
- Create loose waves throughout your hair using a curling iron before gathering it into a low ponytail.
- Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around its base to form a soft, textured bun.
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces around your ears to enhance the romantic feel.
- Secure with pins and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain movement while keeping everything in place.
3. Sleek Side Part with Tucked Ends
For those who prefer a more minimalist approach, the sleek side part with tucked ends delivers sophistication through simplicity.
This style works particularly well with blunt or straight-across bangs, creating clean lines and a polished appearance.
It’s ideal for corporate events, art gallery openings, or contemporary formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Create a deep side part using a fine-tooth comb for precision and definition.
- Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair and blow-dry using a paddle brush for maximum sleekness.
- Once completely dry, use a flat iron to create perfectly straight hair from roots to ends.
- Tuck the ends under slightly at shoulder length using the flat iron or a round brush.
- Set your bangs straight across your forehead and use a strong-hold hairspray to eliminate any flyaways.
4. Half-Up Crown Braid with Wispy Bangs
Crown braids add a whimsical, fairy-tale quality to formal hairstyles while keeping hair manageable and elegant.
When paired with wispy bangs, this style creates a perfect balance between structure and softness.
This look shines at outdoor weddings, spring formals, and romantic evening events.
Styling Details:
- Leave your wispy bangs loose to frame your face softly and naturally.
- Section off the top half of your hair from ear to ear across the crown of your head.
- Create a Dutch braid (inverted French braid) along this section, following the curve of your head from one side to the other.
- Allow the braid to sit like a crown across the top of your head while leaving the bottom half flowing.
- Gently pull at the braid edges to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance.
- Finish the bottom section with loose curls and set everything with medium-hold hairspray.
5. Vintage Hollywood Waves with Side Bangs
Channel old Hollywood glamour with deep, structured waves that evoke the elegance of 1940s screen sirens.
This dramatic style pairs beautifully with side-swept bangs and creates instant red-carpet sophistication.
Perfect for galas, formal dinners, and any event where you want to make a memorable entrance.
Styling Details:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and create a deep side part.
- Use a large-barrel curling iron to create uniform S-shaped waves, working in sections from roots to ends.
- Pin each wave with a duckbill clip while it cools to set the shape.
- Once all waves are cooled, remove clips and brush through gently with a paddle brush to connect the waves.
- Sweep your bangs dramatically to one side and secure with a decorative clip if desired.
- Finish with a shine spray and firm-hold hairspray for lasting structure.
6. Braided Low Ponytail with Blunt Bangs
The braided low ponytail offers an unexpected twist on a classic style, combining the polish of a ponytail with the intricate detail of braiding.
This versatile look works well with blunt bangs and suits both traditional and modern formal aesthetics.
Styling Details:
- Keep your blunt bangs straight and sleek across your forehead using a flat iron.
- Gather all remaining hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
- Divide the ponytail into three equal sections and create a classic three-strand braid down the length.
- Secure the end with a clear elastic and wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic.
- Gently pull at the braid sections to add width and texture for a more substantial appearance.
- Apply a light-hold hairspray to maintain shape while allowing natural movement.
7. Textured Updo with Face-Framing Bangs
Textured updos bring dimension and visual interest to formal hairstyles while maintaining sophisticated structure.
This style works wonderfully with various bang lengths and creates a modern, editorial look.
Ideal for fashion-forward events, contemporary weddings, and artistic formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Allow your bangs to fall naturally while focusing on creating texture throughout the remaining hair.
- Backcomb sections at the crown for volume and spray with texturizing spray for grip.
- Gather hair loosely at different heights, creating sections that twist and pin randomly for an artfully disheveled appearance.
- Leave a few strategic pieces loose around the face to soften the overall look.
- Pull gently at the pinned sections to create more volume and intentional imperfection.
- Set with a flexible-hold hairspray that allows movement while maintaining structure.
8. Sleek Low Chignon with Center-Parted Bangs
The low chignon represents timeless sophistication and pairs beautifully with center-parted bangs for a balanced, symmetrical look.
This classic style never goes out of fashion and works for virtually any formal occasion, from traditional weddings to elegant evening affairs.
Styling Details:
- Part your bangs precisely down the center using a tail comb for clean symmetry.
- Smooth all remaining hair back using a boar bristle brush and gather at the nape.
- Twist the gathered hair into a rope and coil it into a compact bun shape.
- Pin securely underneath and around the chignon, ensuring no loose sections.
- Apply a shine serum to your bangs and blow-dry them straight for a polished finish.
- Complete the look with strong-hold hairspray for all-night staying power.
9. Cascading Side Curls with Swooped Bangs
Cascading side curls create dramatic volume and movement while maintaining formal elegance.
This asymmetrical style draws attention and photographs beautifully, especially when paired with swooped bangs that add softness to the face. Perfect for proms, galas, and red-carpet events.
Styling Details:
- Sweep your bangs to one side and secure them temporarily while working on the rest.
- Create bouncy curls throughout using a medium-barrel curling iron, focusing on mid-lengths to ends.
- Sweep all curls dramatically to one side, opposite your bang direction for balance.
- Pin the curls at the back and side of your head, allowing them to cascade over one shoulder.
- Release your bangs and curl them slightly to blend with the overall style.
- Set with hairspray and add glamorous accessories like jeweled pins or a decorative comb.
10. Twisted Half-Updo with Micro Bangs
Twisted half-updos offer the best of both worlds—the polish of an updo with the softness of flowing hair.
This style works surprisingly well with micro bangs, creating an edgy yet formal aesthetic.
Ideal for fashion events, contemporary weddings, and formal parties with a modern dress code.
Styling Details:
- Style your micro bangs straight across your forehead with precision using a small flat iron.
- Take sections from both sides of your head starting at the temples.
- Twist each section backward toward the crown, pulling slightly for volume.
- Pin both twisted sections together at the back of your head, allowing the ends to blend with the flowing bottom section.
- Create soft waves in the remaining loose hair for texture and movement.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold twists without stiffness.
11. Elegant Ponytail with Wrapped Base and Long Bangs
The elevated ponytail wrapped at the base adds sophistication to a typically casual style, making it formal-event appropriate.
Long bangs that graze your eyebrows create mystery and frame the face beautifully.
This versatile look works for various formal occasions from rehearsal dinners to corporate galas.
Styling Details:
- Allow your long bangs to fall naturally while smoothing the rest of your hair into a high ponytail.
- Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic at your desired height—mid-crown works well for formal events.
- Take a one-inch section from the underside of the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic base.
- Pin the wrapped section underneath to hide the elastic completely.
- Create subtle waves or keep the ponytail sleek depending on your preference and dress style.
- Slightly curl your bangs inward to frame your eyes and add softness.
12. Soft Romantic Updo with Layered Bangs
Soft romantic updos incorporate loose sections, gentle twists, and delicate pinning to create an effortlessly beautiful look.
Layered bangs add dimension and movement around the face.
This style is perfect for garden weddings, spring formals, and any event with a romantic or vintage theme.
Styling Details:
- Let your layered bangs fall naturally in soft, feathered pieces around your face.
- Create loose curls throughout all remaining hair for texture and volume.
- Section hair randomly and pin pieces in various directions to create an artfully arranged updo.
- Allow some curled pieces to escape intentionally for a softer, more romantic finish.
- Avoid symmetry—the beauty of this style lies in its organic, imperfect arrangement.
- Use minimal product to maintain natural movement and softness throughout.
13. Sleek Straight Style with Side-Parted Bangs
Sometimes simplicity makes the strongest statement.
The sleek straight style with side-parted bangs delivers sophistication through impeccable execution and flawless shine.
This minimalist approach works beautifully for modern formal events, fashion shows, and sophisticated evening occasions.
Styling Details:
- Create a precise side part using a fine-tooth comb and section off your bangs.
- Apply heat protectant throughout your hair before any thermal styling.
- Blow-dry hair completely straight using a paddle brush and concentrator nozzle on your dryer.
- Follow with a flat iron at moderate temperature, working in small sections for maximum smoothness.
- Style your side-parted bangs with the same attention to sleekness and shine.
- Apply a glossing serum to ends and finish with anti-humidity spray for lasting perfection.
14. Braided Crown Updo with Curtain Bangs
The braided crown updo creates a regal, princess-like appearance while remaining sophisticated enough for adult formal events.
Curtain bangs soften the look and prevent it from appearing too costume-like.
This style works wonderfully for weddings, formal garden parties, and milestone celebrations.
Styling Details:
- Part your curtain bangs down the middle and allow them to frame your face naturally.
- Section the top portion of your hair and create a Dutch braid that wraps around your head like a crown.
- Gather remaining hair at the nape and twist into a low bun.
- Connect the braid end to the bun, tucking and pinning for a seamless finish.
- Gently pull at the braid to create fuller, more dimensional texture.
- Add small flowers or delicate pins along the braid for extra elegance.
15. Voluminous Half-Up Bouffant with Blunt Bangs
The half-up bouffant brings dramatic height and volume to the crown while maintaining elegance and formality.
Paired with blunt bangs, this style creates a bold, statement-making look.
Perfect for vintage-themed events, retro formal parties, and anyone wanting to stand out with confidence.
Styling Details:
- Keep your blunt bangs straight and precise across your forehead.
- Section the top half of your hair from ear to ear across the crown.
- Backcomb this section heavily at the roots to create maximum volume and height.
- Smooth the top layer over the backcombed section and pin it back, maintaining the lifted shape.
- Leave the bottom section flowing with soft curls or waves for contrast.
- Set the bouffant with firm-hold hairspray to maintain height throughout your event.
16. Loose Fishtail Braid with Side Bangs
The loose fishtail braid offers intricate detail with a relaxed, approachable elegance. This style works beautifully with side-swept bangs and creates a bohemian-formal hybrid aesthetic.
Ideal for outdoor weddings, beach formal events, and celebrations with a relaxed dress code.
Styling Details:
- Sweep your side bangs to your preferred side and pin them temporarily out of the way.
- Gather all remaining hair to one side and divide into two equal sections.
- Create a fishtail braid by taking small pieces from the outer edge of each section and crossing them to the opposite side.
- Continue this pattern down the length of your hair, keeping the braid loose and relaxed.
- Gently pull at the braid sections to create width and a fuller appearance.
- Release your bangs and allow them to blend naturally with the face-framing pieces.
17. Asymmetrical Updo with Long Side Bangs
Asymmetrical updos create visual interest through intentional imbalance and artistic arrangement.
Long side bangs complement this contemporary style perfectly, adding softness to the geometric structure.
This look works well for fashion-forward events, modern art openings, and unconventional formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Allow your long side bangs to sweep dramatically across your forehead and down one side.
- Gather sections of hair at various heights and angles, avoiding symmetry.
- Pin sections to create an updo that’s fuller on one side than the other.
- Leave some pieces intentionally loose for texture and movement.
- Play with different twisting and tucking techniques to create depth and dimension.
- Use a flexible-hold hairspray that maintains shape while allowing natural movement.
18. Classic Ballerina Bun with Straight Bangs
The ballerina bun represents the pinnacle of classic elegance and works beautifully for the most formal of occasions.
Straight, precise bangs add a modern touch to this timeless style.
Perfect for ballet performances, black-tie galas, and any event requiring maximum sophistication.
Styling Details:
- Style your straight bangs with precision using a flat iron for a clean, sharp line.
- Brush all remaining hair back smoothly without any bumps or imperfections.
- Gather into a high ponytail at the crown of your head, securing with a strong elastic.
- Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base to create a compact, smooth bun.
- Pin the bun securely all around, tucking any loose ends completely inside.
- Apply strong-hold hairspray and use a light mist of shine spray for a polished finish.
19. Waterfall Braid Half-Updo with Curtain Bangs
The waterfall braid creates a cascading effect that’s both intricate and romantic, perfect for special formal occasions.
Curtain bangs frame the face beautifully while the waterfall effect adds movement and visual interest.
This style photographs exceptionally well and works for weddings, proms, and elegant evening events.
Styling Details:
- Part your curtain bangs down the middle and allow them to fall naturally on each side.
- Start a waterfall braid from one temple, creating a French braid but dropping the bottom strand each time and replacing it with a new section.
- Continue the braid across the crown to the opposite side, creating a cascading ribbon effect.
- Pin the braid end behind the opposite ear and leave the bottom section flowing.
- Create soft curls in all the dropped strands and the bottom section for cohesive texture.
- Set with a light-hold hairspray to maintain movement while keeping the braid secure.
20. Twisted Low Bun with Wispy Bangs
The twisted low bun combines structure with softness, creating an elegant style that’s both sophisticated and approachable
Wispy bangs add a delicate, feminine touch that prevents the style from feeling too severe. This versatile look works for virtually any formal occasion.
Styling Details:
- Leave your wispy bangs to fall naturally and softly around your face.
- Divide your hair into two sections at the nape of your neck.
- Twist each section in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in opposite directions.
- Coil the twisted sections into a low bun at the nape, creating texture through the twisting.
- Pin securely underneath and around the bun, ensuring stability.
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces near your ears for added softness.
21. Sleek Side-Swept Style with Deep Side Part and Bangs
The dramatic side-swept style with a deep side part creates instant glamour and sophistication.
This look works exceptionally well when you want to showcase statement earrings or a beautiful neckline.
Perfect for formal dinners, galas, and red-carpet events.
Styling Details:
- Create a deep side part far to one side, incorporating your bangs into the heavier side.
- Apply smoothing serum throughout your hair for sleekness and shine.
- Blow-dry everything to one side using a paddle brush, creating volume at the roots.
- Sweep all hair dramatically over one shoulder and secure behind the opposite ear with pins.
- Use a flat iron for extra smoothness and shine throughout.
- Set with strong-hold hairspray, especially on the pinned side to prevent shifting.
22. Braided Headband Style with Center-Parted Bangs
The braided headband creates a bohemian-formal look that’s both unique and elegant.
Center-parted bangs add symmetry and balance to this creative style.
This look works wonderfully for outdoor ceremonies, rustic-elegant weddings, and spring formal events.
Styling Details:
- Part your bangs down the center and allow them to frame your face naturally.
- Take a section of hair from behind one ear and create a tight three-strand braid.
- Bring the braid across the top of your head like a headband and pin behind the opposite ear.
- Leave all remaining hair flowing in soft waves or curls.
- Gently pull at the braid to widen it slightly for a fuller headband effect.
- Add small flowers or pins along the braid for extra formal elegance.
23. Voluminous Curly Updo with Side Bangs
The voluminous curly updo creates dramatic, romantic impact perfect for the most special formal occasions.
Side-swept bangs balance the volume and add softness to the face.
This style works beautifully for weddings, milestone birthday celebrations, and any event where you want to feel like royalty.
Styling Details:
- Sweep your side bangs dramatically to one side and curl them slightly for cohesion.
- Create tight curls throughout all remaining hair using a small-barrel curling iron.
- Pin curls randomly at various heights and angles, creating a voluminous, textured updo.
- Allow some curls to cascade down for added romance and dimension.
- Avoid flattening or smoothing—the beauty lies in the full, bouncy texture.
- Use flexible-hold hairspray to maintain shape while preserving natural curl movement.
24. Sleek Low Ponytail with Straight-Across Bangs
The sleek low ponytail offers sophisticated simplicity that never fails to look polished and professional.
Straight-across bangs add a modern edge to this classic style.
Perfect for corporate formal events, sophisticated dinners, and contemporary celebrations.
Styling Details:
- Style your straight bangs with precision using a flat iron for a sharp, clean line.
- Brush all remaining hair straight back without any bumps, using a boar bristle brush.
- Gather into a low ponytail at the nape, securing with a matching elastic.
- Take a small section from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it.
- Apply shine serum to the ponytail for a glossy, polished finish.
- Set with anti-frizz spray for long-lasting sleekness.
25. Romantic Side Bun with Long Bangs
The romantic side bun creates an asymmetrical, elegant look that’s both sophisticated and soft.
Long bangs that sweep across the forehead add mystery and frame the face beautifully.
This style works wonderfully for weddings, formal dinners, and romantic evening events.
Styling Details:
- Allow your long bangs to sweep across your forehead, curling slightly at the ends.
- Gather all remaining hair to one side at ear level or slightly below.
- Create loose curls in the gathered section before forming the bun.
- Twist and pin the curled sections into a loose, textured bun.
- Pull out a few pieces around the face for softness and romance.
- Keep the bun deliberately imperfect for a more approachable, romantic aesthetic.
26. Crown Twist Half-Updo with Wispy Bangs
The crown twist half-updo combines the elegance of an updo with the softness of flowing hair, creating a balanced formal style.
Wispy bangs add delicate femininity that complements the structured twists.
This versatile look works for various formal occasions from afternoon weddings to evening galas.
Styling Details:
- Leave your wispy bangs to fall naturally and softly around your forehead and temples.
- Take sections from both sides of your head starting at the temples.
- Twist each section toward the back, keeping twists loose and textured rather than tight.
- Pin both twists together at the crown, allowing ends to cascade with the bottom section.
- Create soft waves throughout the flowing bottom half for texture and movement.
- Use minimal product to maintain the soft, natural quality of the style.
27. Sophisticated High Bun with Side-Parted Bangs
The high bun creates an elongated silhouette and showcases your neck and shoulders beautifully.
Side-parted bangs add asymmetry and visual interest to this elevated classic.
Perfect for black-tie events, formal galas, and any occasion requiring maximum sophistication.
Styling Details:
- Create a deep side part and style your bangs to sweep smoothly to one side.
- Brush all remaining hair up to the crown, gathering into a high ponytail.
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a compact, smooth bun.
- Pin securely all around the bun, ensuring it sits high and stable.
- Smooth any flyaways with a small amount of pomade or gel.
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray for all-night staying power.
28. Loose Romantic Waves with Curtain Bangs
Sometimes the most elegant formal hairstyle is simply beautiful, flowing hair.
Loose romantic waves with curtain bangs create a effortlessly glamorous look that works for countless formal occasions.
This style is perfect when you want to look polished without appearing overly styled.
Styling Details:
- Part your curtain bangs down the middle and blow-dry them with a round brush for soft volume.
- Create loose, flowing waves throughout using a large-barrel curling iron.
- Alternate curl directions for a more natural, dimensional wave pattern.
- Gently brush through the waves with a paddle brush to soften and blend them.
- Apply a light texturizing spray for movement and separation rather than stiff curls.
- Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray that allows hair to move naturally.
29. Braided Updo with Blunt Bangs
The braided updo showcases intricate braiding techniques while maintaining formal sophistication.
Blunt bangs provide a striking contrast to the textured braid work.
This statement style works beautifully for weddings, fashion events, and any formal occasion where you want to showcase detailed hairstyling.
Styling Details:
- Keep your blunt bangs straight and sleek using a flat iron for clean lines.
- Create multiple braids of varying sizes throughout your hair—three-strand, fishtail, or Dutch braids all work.
- Pin the braids in an artistic arrangement at the back of your head, creating an intricate updo.
- Weave braids together and tuck ends underneath other sections for a seamless finish.
- Pull gently at braid sections to create fuller, more dimensional texture.
- Secure everything with numerous pins and set with medium-hold hairspray.
30. Elegant Twisted Chignon with Long Bangs
The twisted chignon adds textured dimension to a classic low bun, creating sophisticated visual interest.
Long bangs that graze the eyes add mystery and elegance.
This refined style works perfectly for formal dinners, elegant weddings, and sophisticated evening affairs.
Styling Details:
- Allow your long bangs to sweep naturally across your forehead, curling ends slightly inward.
- Divide your hair into multiple sections and twist each section individually.
- Coil the twisted sections together at the nape, creating a textured, dimensional chignon.
- Pin throughout the chignon, allowing the twists to show for added texture.
- Pull gently at sections to create a fuller, more substantial appearance.
- Apply shine serum and finish with flexible-hold hairspray.
31. Half-Up Top Knot with Curtain Bangs
The half-up top knot combines contemporary casual styling with formal polish, creating a modern, youthful formal look.
Curtain bangs add softness and prevent the style from appearing too severe. This style works well for younger formal events, modern weddings, and fashion-forward occasions.
Styling Details:
- Part your curtain bangs down the center and allow them to fall naturally.
- Section the top half of your hair from ear to ear across the crown.
- Gather this section into a high ponytail and twist it into a compact knot.
- Secure the knot with bobby pins and wrap a small section of hair around the base.
- Leave the bottom section flowing with soft waves or straight for contrast.
- Keep the overall look polished but modern with minimal product.
32. Vintage Pin Curls Updo with Side Bangs
Vintage pin curls create authentic 1940s glamour perfect for themed events or anyone who loves retro elegance.
Side-swept bangs complete the vintage aesthetic while keeping the look wearable for modern formal occasions.
This style shines at vintage-themed weddings, formal galas, and classic Hollywood events.
Styling Details:
- Create a deep side part and style your side bangs in a smooth, dramatic sweep.
- Set hair in pin curls throughout, using setting lotion for hold.
- Once dry, carefully remove pins and arrange curls into an artful updo without brushing them out.
- Pin curls strategically to create a sculpted, vintage silhouette.
- Keep some curls visible rather than smoothing everything for authentic period styling.
- Set with firm-hold hairspray to maintain the structured vintage shape.
33. Cascading Curls Half-Updo with Wispy Bangs
Cascading curls in a half-up style create volume, movement, and romantic elegance. Wispy bangs soften the face and add delicate femininity.
This glamorous style works beautifully for proms, weddings, formal dances, and any occasion where you want to feel princess-like.
Styling Details:
- Style your wispy bangs to fall softly around your face with natural, feathered texture.
- Create tight to medium curls throughout all your hair using a curling iron.
- Gather the top section from your temples back and secure at the crown.
- Allow the secured section to poof slightly for volume before pinning.
- Let all remaining curls cascade down freely over your shoulders.
- Use flexible-hold hairspray to maintain curl shape while allowing natural bounce.
34. Sleek Asymmetrical Tuck with Blunt Bangs
The asymmetrical tuck creates modern sophistication through clean lines and geometric precision.
Blunt bangs add to the contemporary aesthetic while framing the face sharply.
This cutting-edge style works perfectly for fashion events, modern art openings, and contemporary formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Style your blunt bangs perfectly straight across your forehead with sharp precision.
- Create a deep side part and smooth all hair to one side with a paddle brush.
- Tuck all hair behind one ear and pin it flat along the side and back of the head.
- Keep the opposite side smooth and flowing forward, creating asymmetry.
- Use gel or pomade for sleekness and to eliminate any texture or flyaways.
- Set with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the precise shape throughout your event.
35. Romantic Messy Bun with Long Side Bangs
The romantic messy bun combines intentional imperfection with formal elegance, creating an approachable yet sophisticated look.
Long side-swept bangs add drama and frame the face beautifully.
This style works wonderfully for outdoor weddings, garden parties, and relaxed formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Sweep your long bangs dramatically to one side and curl them softly for face-framing.
- Create texture throughout your hair with dry shampoo or texturizing spray.
- Gather hair loosely at the crown or slightly lower, avoiding perfect smoothness.
- Twist and pin sections randomly to create an artfully messy bun.
- Pull out several face-framing pieces and allow some sections to fall naturally.
- Use minimal product to maintain the soft, undone quality that makes this style romantic.
36. Structured Updo with Center-Parted Bangs
The structured updo creates architectural interest through purposeful sectioning and precise pinning.
Center-parted bangs add symmetry and balance to this modern formal style.
Perfect for fashion-forward events, contemporary weddings, and artistic formal occasions.
Styling Details:
- Part your bangs precisely down the center using a tail comb for perfect symmetry.
- Divide your hair into geometric sections and create distinct twists or folds.
- Pin each section deliberately to create a sculptural, structured updo.
- Allow the architecture of the style to show rather than blending everything smoothly.
- Keep edges sharp and clean for maximum contemporary impact.
- Use strong-hold products to maintain the structured shape throughout your event.
37. Classic Elegant Waves with Side-Swept Bangs
Classic elegant waves represent timeless formal beauty that never goes out of style.
Side-swept bangs add softness and frame the face gracefully.
This universally flattering style works for virtually any formal occasion, from traditional weddings to elegant evening affairs.
Styling Details:
- Sweep your bangs to your preferred side and curl them softly to blend with face-framing waves.
- Create uniform waves throughout using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers.
- Brush through waves gently to create smooth, connected S-shaped patterns.
- Pin one side behind your ear if desired for an asymmetrical element.
- Apply shine spray for a glossy, polished finish that catches the light beautifully.
- Set with flexible-hold hairspray to maintain wave shape while allowing natural movement.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect formal hairstyle with medium-length hair and bangs opens up a world of elegant possibilities, as demonstrated throughout this guide to 37 Elegant Formal Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair With Bangs.
From classic updos and romantic braids to sleek modern styles and vintage-inspired looks, you now have a comprehensive collection of sophisticated options for every formal occasion.
The key to choosing the right style lies in considering your bang type, face shape, dress style, and the formality level of your event.
Remember that medium-length hair offers the ideal canvas for formal styling—long enough to create intricate updos and elaborate braids, yet manageable enough to work with comfortably.
Your bangs add personality and frame your face beautifully, so incorporate them thoughtfully rather than fighting against them.
Whether you prefer romantic softness, structured elegance, or contemporary edge, there’s a formal hairstyle in this collection that will make you feel confident, beautiful, and perfectly polished.
Practice your chosen style before the event, gather the necessary tools and products, and don’t hesitate to add your personal touch with accessories or subtle variations.
With these 37 elegant options at your fingertips, you’re fully prepared to create a stunning formal hairstyle that complements your medium-length hair with bangs beautifully and helps you shine at your next special occasion.