Gala Hair Ideas That Bring the Wow Factor to Any Formal Shindig

It's time to let your hair do the talking and make a statement wherever you go! Slay your next gala with a hairstyle that screams formal fabulousness. These styles are your ticket to turning heads and stealing the spotlight at any special event.

With the red carpet season and award shows flooding your feeds, the glamorous looks of celebrities attending these events are a sight to behold. Lavish gowns, the brightest jewelry, and elegant styling take center stage. And if you're looking for inspiration for your next gala event, there's nothing like the red carpet.

Today, we're shining a spotlight on chic gala hair inspirations so you can embrace elegance and channel your inner Hollywood star when you show up to your next formal feté.

Gigi Hadid turns heads with her blonde top knot hairstyle at the British Vogue X Self-Portrait Summer Party on July 20, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images"

Gala Hair Ideas for You to Try

1. There Is Fun in the Messy Low Bun

A messy low bun allows the hair to form a distinctive shape. This hairstyle—loosely assembled in all its glory— is ideal for achieving a polished appearance without investing significant time.

Keep in mind that to create a messy bun, it doesn't have to be perfect. Start by pulling your hair into a ponytail, then twist and secure it with a hair tie. Elevate the style by incorporating accessories, such as a pearl clip.

Jennifer Lawrence fashioned a messy low bun at the 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 13, 2013, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images | Source: Getty Images

2. Ride through the Vintage Waves

Vintage waves are often the favored option for formal hairstyles. The modern take on this retro style emphasizes a natural and fresh look, aiming for full, voluminous waves with a contemporary twist.

Achieving this classic appearance is easy with tutorials on platforms like YouTube, which enable anyone to recreate and enhance their hairstyle effortlessly. To add a touch of old Hollywood glamour, wear bold red lipstick for the perfect finishing touch.

Chloe Fineman showcased her vintage waves at the Met Gala on September 13, 2021, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

3. Take Top Knots up a Notch

Top knots remain timeless as they offer universal appeal, showcasing versatility and the added benefit of being a quick and easy hairstyle. Although the topknot is not new, its latest twist brings a fresh vibe.

The updated look includes face-framing tendrils, which means leaving some strands of hair to hang loosely around your face, giving a soft and framing effect. Plus, intentionally spiky ends and a clear, deep middle parting add to the charm of this modernized style.

Ciara sported a top knot at the 2021 CFDA Fashion Awards at The Grill Room on November 10, 2021, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

4. Straight and Sleek Hair for Frizz-Free Finesse

Sleek and straight hair is a classic style, but achieving it effortlessly requires careful attention. If frizz is a constant struggle for you, and you find yourself admiring the shiny and luxurious look of perfectly sleek hair, don't worry—there are ways to keep your hair frizz-free!

Megan Fox dazzled with a sleek and straight hairstyle at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards on May 15, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada. | Source: Getty Images

Whether a messy bun, vintage waves, a top knot with a modern twist, or straight and sleek hair, these gala hair ideas offer a perfect blend of style and sophistication for your special occasion!

And as you step into the exciting world of hair styling, there's more to enhance your beautiful locks! Dive into the enchanting trend of fairy hair colors.