39 Best Short Formal Hairstyles for a Stylish 2025 Look

It’s time to reimagine your style with a fresh, sophisticated look that aligns with the latest trends.

Whether you’re preparing for an important business meeting, a special event, or simply seeking an elegant daily hairstyle, short formal haircuts offer an unbeatable combination of style and ease.

In this article, I’ve curated 39 of the best short formal hairstyles that promise to elevate your fashion game this year.

From chic pixie cuts to classic bobs, these styles are designed to complement any outfit and occasion while keeping you at the forefront of modern elegance.

Let’s jump right into it!

Short Formal Hairstyles

1. Finger Waves with Vintage Glamour

Imagine stepping into a timeless era with the elegant finger wave hairstyle. This look brings a touch of vintage Hollywood glamour perfect for any formal setting.

The short hair is styled into smooth, defined waves that frame the face, creating an enchanting old-Hollywood vibe.

To get this iconic look, start by applying a strong-hold gel to damp hair. Use a comb to craft deep, stunning waves, securing each one with clips as you go.

2. Vintage Curls with Jeweled Headband

Step into the spotlight with vintage curls paired with a jeweled headband for a touch of classic glamor. This hairstyle adds a retro Hollywood vibe, making it perfect for evening events.

Create soft, structured curls using a curling iron or hot rollers, and pin them at the nape for extra volume.

Complement the curls with a jeweled headband, adding a regal touch to your look.

3. Sleek Pixie Cut with Deep Side Part

For those seeking a bold, polished style, the sleek pixie cut with a deep side part is a perfect choice.

This edgy cut hugs the head closely, showcasing your natural shape while the deep side part adds an exciting twist.

To achieve a flawless finish, apply a smoothing serum to damp hair and blow-dry it with a flat brush. Use a straightener to ensure every strand is silky smooth, and tuck one side behind your ear for a sharp, refined appearance.

4. Sculpted Retro Waves

Revel in the charm of Old Hollywood with sculpted retro waves, perfect for formal gatherings or red-carpet events. These waves are meticulously crafted to hold a polished and refined shape.

Achieve the look by using a curling iron to form the waves, then carefully set them with pins and hairspray to maintain their structure.

The end result is a sleek, smooth hairstyle that pairs perfectly with vintage-inspired makeup and attire.

5. Sleek Bob with Hairpin Accent

Transform your short hair into a sophisticated masterpiece with a sleek bob adorned by a charming hairpin.

This chin-length style is perfect for those special moments when elegance matters.

Achieving this look is simple: start by blow-drying your hair using a flat brush to ensure straightness and then smooth it further with a straightener. Spritz a bit of shine spray to give your hair that glossy, mirror-like finish.

6. Minimalist Sleek Bob with Side Clip

For those who adore simplicity with a hint of sophistication, the minimalist sleek bob with a side clip is a dream come true. This style features straight, smooth hair parted down the middle or slightly off-center.

A sleek metal or floral clip on one side not only keeps your hair in place but also adds a subtle charm.

Perfect for formal dinners or cocktail parties, this look embodies elegance without overdoing it.

7. Short Natural Curls with Beaded Headband

Celebrate your natural curls with this enchanting hairstyle. Short, defined curls create delightful texture and volume, enhanced by a beaded headband that draws focus to your face.

To achieve this look, apply a curl-defining cream to your damp hair and let it air dry. This approach not only adds natural volume but also ensures your curls retain their bounce.

The beaded headband not only keeps hair away from your face but also adds a decorative flair, perfect for formal events.

8. Elegant Low Knot with Twisted Detail

Elevate your look with an elegant low knot, featuring a twisted detail that exudes timeless sophistication.

Gathering your hair at the nape of your neck, this style twists into a neat knot, creating a polished yet romantic appearance.

To master this elegant look, first backcomb the crown to add volume, then gather your hair into a low ponytail. Twist it into a neat knot and secure with pins.

9. Effortless Tousled Wavy Bob

The Effortless Tousled Wavy Bob is perfect for those who want a soft, natural look at a formal event.

This style gives your hair a playful wave that adds volume and texture, making it look full without trying too hard.

To get this look, start by applying a light mousse to damp hair. Then, use a medium-barrel curling iron to create gentle, loose waves. After curling, rake your fingers through the waves for a carefree, tousled effect.

10. Mohawk-Inspired Pixie Cut

The Mohawk-Inspired Pixie Cut is a striking choice for those who want to make a statement. This style is all about being bold and edgy while still keeping it formal.

The sides of your hair are sleek and tight, while the middle section stands tall for added drama.

To create this look, apply a strong-hold gel to the sides. Use a blow dryer to lift the top section upwards, then finish with a pomade to keep its shape.

11. Curly Bob with Natural Volume

Embrace a playful yet refined look with the Curly Bob with Natural Volume.

This style is ideal for formal events, offering lively and bouncy curls that bring texture and dimension to your hair.

Begin by applying a curl cream to damp hair. Use a diffuser or let your hair air-dry to enhance your natural curl pattern. For an extra boost, gently tease the roots at the crown.

12. Vintage Victory Rolls

Add a touch of retro glamour to your formal event with the Vintage Victory Roll Hairstyle. This classic look brings back the elegance of the past with its large, structured rolls.

To achieve this iconic style, start by curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron. Roll each section firmly and pin it in place to create the signature victory rolls.

Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the structure intact. This hairstyle is perfect for occasions where vintage elegance is celebrated, ensuring you look timeless and sophisticated.

13. Slicked-Back Pixie Cut

Embrace the sleek allure of the slicked-back pixie cut, a perfect choice for those who cherish elegance and simplicity.

This style brings a polished and sophisticated look, ideal for formal occasions like black-tie events.

To achieve this stunning hairstyle, start by applying a strong-hold gel to damp hair. Comb your hair back neatly from the forehead, creating a clean side part that enhances the overall sharpness and neatness.

14. Classic Glossy Bob with Side Part

The classic glossy bob with a side part is a timeless hairstyle that exudes sophistication. This look is perfect for events where elegance is paramount, such as weddings or formal dinners.

To create this style, use a flat iron to achieve sleek, straight strands, ensuring every lock is perfectly in place.

A deep side part adds a hint of drama, while a shine serum gives the hair a reflective, glossy finish that catches the light beautifully.

15. Braided Crown on Short Bob

Step into a fairy tale with the half-up braided crown on a short bob, a whimsical yet polished look perfect for outdoor weddings or elegant garden parties.

This enchanting style involves creating two small braids from the front sections of your hair.

Part your hair in the middle and braid each side, securing them together at the back to form a beautiful crown effect.

16. Textured Pixie Cut with Layers

For those who desire a modern twist on formal styles, the textured pixie cut with layers is an exciting option. This look is all about movement and volume, thanks to its carefully crafted layers.

To achieve this chic, carefree style, apply a volumizing mousse to your hair and blow-dry while lifting the roots with your fingers.

The result is a tousled effect that adds depth and dimension, offering a bold yet sophisticated appearance.

17. Vintage Finger Curls

Step back into the golden age of Hollywood with Vintage Finger Curls, perfect for those glamorous evenings or black-tie events.

This hairstyle showcases tightly shaped curls that gracefully frame your face with soft, defined waves. To bring this classic look to life, start by applying a strong-hold mousse to damp hair.

Use your fingers or a comb to artfully form the curls, ensuring each one holds its shape. Secure these curls with clips while they dry, maintaining the elegant structure.

18. Soft Waves with Floral Clip

Embrace a romantic and feminine aura with the Soft Wavy Bob accented by a floral clip. Ideal for weddings or outdoor events, this look features loose waves that add both volume and texture to your hair.

To achieve this enchanting style, use a large-barrel curling iron to create gentle waves, then softly brush them out for a relaxed finish.

To enhance the whimsical feel, place a floral clip on one side, offering a delicate, ethereal vibe.

19. Pompadour with Height

Make a bold statement with the Pompadour, a hairstyle that exudes confidence and style at formal gatherings.

This look is all about height and volume, giving you a striking and structured appearance.

To create this standout style, backcomb the top section of your hair to build lift. Smooth the outer layer back, securing it with bobby pins or hairspray for a polished finish.

20. Victory Rolls with Modern Twist

Bring the best of both worlds with the Victory Roll hairstyle, a vintage-inspired look with a contemporary edge.

Perfect for retro glam events, this style features carefully shaped and pinned rolls for an elegant, structured look.

Start by curling your hair, then roll sections upward, securing them with bobby pins. Finish with a spritz of hairspray for a long-lasting hold.

21. Sleek French Bob with Bangs

To create a sleek French bob with bangs, start by ensuring your hair is cut into a sharp, classic bob.

The blunt bangs should be trimmed so they fall just above your eyebrows, framing your face perfectly.

To get that polished look, straighten your hair with a flat iron and apply a smoothing serum to keep it sleek all day.

22. Vintage Hollywood Waves

Bring the glamour of old Hollywood to life with vintage Hollywood waves. This look is all about glossy, defined waves that flow beautifully.

Start by using a large-barrel curling iron to create those iconic waves. Once curled, gently brush them out to achieve a soft, sculpted effect.

Finish with a high-shine spray to make your hair glisten and add hairspray to keep those waves in place.

23. Soft Wavy Bob with Sparkling Hair Clip

The soft wavy bob is both effortless and stylish, and when paired with a sparkling hair clip, it transforms into a formal masterpiece.

Start by creating loose waves with a curling wand, then gently break them up with your fingers for a natural, voluminous look.

Add a touch of glamour by securing a sparkly clip above one ear, which adds an elegant sparkle to your hairstyle.

24. Tucked Behind-the-Ear Bob

The tucked behind-the-ear bob is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. This hairstyle features sleek, straight hair that is neatly tucked behind one ear, showcasing your face and any statement earrings you might wear.

To achieve this look, blow-dry your hair straight and apply a smoothing serum for a silky finish.

Gently tuck one side behind your ear and use a lightweight hairspray to maintain the sleek appearance throughout the event.

25. Tousled Wavy Bob with Wispy Bangs

Transform your style with a tousled wavy bob that exudes effortless charm, perfect for any formal event.

The soft waves add texture, while the wispy bangs provide a playful touch, beautifully framing your face.

To achieve it, simply curl random sections with a curling wand and lightly tousle the waves with your fingers. A touch of lightweight hairspray will keep the texture intact without weighing down your hair.

26. Retro-Inspired Curled Bob with Blunt Bangs

Step into a world of vintage glamour with a retro-inspired curled bob complemented by blunt bangs.

This hairstyle is perfect for adding a touch of old-school sophistication to modern formal settings.

The voluminous curls are meticulously crafted, offering a structured and polished finish. The blunt bangs draw attention to your eyes, adding a dramatic flair.

27. Messy Textured Pixie with Layers

For a daring and stylish appearance, embrace the messy textured pixie cut with layers. This look is a perfect match for formal occasions, bringing an edgy and chic vibe.

The layers add depth and volume, while the tousled texture gives a carefree yet sophisticated feel.

Ideal for those who prefer short hair, this style is easy to create with a texturizing spray and simple finger styling.

28. Deep Side-Parted Retro Waves

Channel the essence of classic Hollywood with deep side-parted retro waves. This elegant hairstyle boasts structured waves with a glossy finish, radiating sophistication.

The deep side part adds drama, enhancing the vintage allure. To create this glamorous style, use a medium-barrel curling iron, ensuring each curl goes in the same direction.

Once curled, gently brush out the curls into soft waves. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray for added shine and durability.

29. Edgy Undercut Pompadour

The undercut pompadour is a striking hairstyle designed to make a bold statement at formal events. This look features sharp undercut sides paired with a thick, stylish pompadour on top.

The sides are closely shaved, while the longer top is styled to stand tall, adding height and drama. To create this look, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and dry it upwards with a blow-dryer.

Then, use a strong-hold pomade or gel to slick back the hair, ensuring it stays perfectly in place.

30. Formal Twist Knots

The twisted knots hairstyle offers a unique blend of formal and fun aesthetics, perfect for enhancing natural curls.

The hair is twisted into small, structured knots that provide depth and texture. To achieve this look, divide hair into sections and twist each one tightly, securing with small elastics or bobby pins.

Finish with a shine serum to highlight the texture. This style pairs beautifully with bold accessories and simple attire, drawing attention to the intricate knots.

31. Curly Bob with Floral Accents

Transform your curly bob into an enchanting hairstyle with floral accents, perfect for weddings or formal galas.

This style shapes your natural curls into a soft bob that frames the face elegantly. Small flowers are delicately placed throughout, adding a touch of romance and elegance.

To achieve this look, define your curls with a curl-enhancing cream and let them air dry or use a diffuser.

32. Voluminous Mohawk Undercut

The voluminous mohawk undercut is a daring and powerful hairstyle perfect for standing out at formal events.

With shaved sides and a high, voluminous mohawk, this look demands attention. To create this style, use a texturizing spray and blow-dry the top section upwards for volume.

A strong-hold gel keeps the mohawk standing tall, while the sides remain sleek and polished.

33. Braided Crown Low Bun

Discover elegance with the braided crown low bun, an ideal choice for weddings or galas.

This enchanting style features a crown braid that gracefully wraps around your head, offering a textured and dimensional look.

To create this, simply part your hair, braid along the crown, and secure it with pins. The rest of your hair is then twisted into a soft, voluminous low bun at the nape of your neck.

34. Platinum Buzz Cut with Glitter Detail

Make a bold statement with a platinum buzz cut adorned with glitter details, perfect for a striking entrance at any formal event.

This sleek, futuristic style highlights your facial features, offering a clean and modern appeal. Begin by trimming your hair to a short buzz, then color it platinum for a dazzling effect.

Elevate the look by applying glitter details on one side, turning your hairstyle into an artistic focal point.

35. Voluminous Bob with Side Flip

Bring a modern twist to your look with a voluminous bob enhanced by a stylish side flip.

This chic hairstyle adds both volume and flair to short hair, with soft waves creating a lively, dramatic effect.

Begin by using a curling iron to form loose waves throughout your hair. Then, backcomb the roots to achieve that coveted extra lift.

36. Soft Wavy Bob for Formal Events

Embrace a classic and feminine style with a soft wavy bob, perfect for any formal occasion.

This shoulder-length cut is enhanced with loose, flowing waves that exude romance and effortless charm.

To create this timeless look, use a large-barrel curling iron to form soft curls. Then, gently run your fingers through the curls to transform them into waves.

37. Elegant Braided Low Bun

Step into elegance with the Elegant Braided Low Bun, a sophisticated hairstyle perfect for weddings or formal gatherings.

This look features a thick braid that gracefully wraps into a sleek bun at the nape of your neck.

To achieve this stunning style, start by creating a Dutch or French braid from one side of your head. Continue braiding until you reach the back, then twist the braid into a neat and polished bun.

38. Buzz Cut with Glitter Applique

Dare to stand out with the Buzz Cut with Glitter Applique, a bold yet glamorous choice for formal events.

This style features a buzz cut, styled in a platinum blonde hue, with a touch of sparkle through a glittery leaf-shaped applique.

To recreate this look, have your hair closely cropped to create a uniform buzz cut. Then, add glitter embellishments on one side for a striking contrast that shines.

39. Curled Bob with a Rhinestone Headband

Embrace vintage charm and elegance with the Curled Bob with a Rhinestone Headband. This hairstyle features soft, defined curls that rest just above your shoulders, exuding a timeless allure.

To get this look, use a curling iron to craft tight, structured curls in your bob haircut. Complement these curls with a sparkling rhinestone headband placed across the crown of your head.

This addition enhances the formal vibe, making it ideal for evening events where you want to channel a romantic, classic style.