Do you have long thick hair and aren’t sure what hairstyle to choose for your wedding day or a formal occasion? Read on for 20 great options just for you! Whether you prefer your hair all up or just pulled back, a sleek style or a looser look, there is a formal hairstyle for long hair you’ll definitely fall in love with!
1. Chic Braided Updo
This braided style is the perfect romantic style for long thick hair. We added in a headband accessory from Twigs and Honey for added detail in the front. This style is well suited for a bridal gown with a deep V cut in the back.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
2. Waterfall Braid Half Updo
If you are more comfortable with some hair down, you can’t go wrong with a half up crown braid! We went with a French fishtail braid for a softer delicate look.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
3. Twisted Bun Hairstyle for Long Hair
This low textured updo is one of my favorite requests for formal occasions this season! It is the perfect choice for a wedding updo and looks great with all necklines!
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
4. Simple Hairstyle for a Formal Event
This bubble braid is perfect if you are looking for a more sleek, modern style. This is a great choice if your hair does not hold a curl and you want to keep your hair straight.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
5. Elegant Low Bun
Textured low buns make excellent formal hairstyles for long hair! Pro tip: we utilized a micro crimper in combination with a volumizing powder at the root for added texture and volume on finer hair!
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
6. Ponytail Hairstyle for a Special Occasion
Ponytails are one of the biggest trends in bridal hair this season! For this look, I chose a soft glam wave for the perfect modern style that will suit any formal outfit.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
7. Long Wavy Hair Half Updo
This is great half up option if braids are not your style! This style requires quite a bit of hair, so it is better suited for thick hair or extensions added.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
8. Sleek Braided Bun
If you love braids but want a tighter sleek look, this updo is perfect for you! We went with a 4 strand braid for an eye-catching detail!
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
9. Messy High Bun
If you are looking for a high updo, this high bun is sure to have all eyes on you! You can find a pictorial on how I created his voluminous bun style here on my Instagram page.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
10. Long Side Braid
This over-the-shoulder boho braid is the perfect choice if you want to see more detail from the front! The more length the better for this look! Extensions added for length can help ensure that your braid reaches the most flattering length- armpit level or below is ideal.
Instagram / @cedarandsage_photography
11. Romantic Half Up Hairstyle for Long Hair
This half up hairstyle is the perfect romantic style for long hair. I find the occipital bone region to be the most flattering placement for half up styles. We added in a Dutch fishtail braid accent for added detail.
Instagram / @cedarandsage_photography
12. French Braid into a Chignon Bun
This braided updo is a great choice for any special occasion! And the dimensional hair color adds to the look in such a great way. You can find a tutorial for this look on my Instagram page.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
13. Infinity Braid Ponytail Hairstyle
This is a perfect choice for the modern bride or a wedding guest! The infinity braid in combination with a low ponytail touches on all of the latest trends.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
14. Infinity and Bubble Braid Style
This half up style is sure to wow! The combination of the infinity braid with the bubble braid is so unique and fun! Add in some loose waves, and you’ll get a super cute look for a prom night.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
15. Fishtail Braids into Rolled Bun
The Dutch fishtails coming back into a low bun roll is the perfect choice for any occasion. Keeping some strands loose adds laid-back vibes to the ‘do. You can find a tutorial on this style on my Instagram page.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
16. Twisted Bun for Long Straight Hair
This sleek bun is a perfect choice if you want to keep your formal hairstyle simple. It is both modern and timeless and a very popular look this season!
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
17. Boho Style for Long Thick Hair
This is one of my favorite boho hairstyles for long, thick hair! If you prefer your hair down but are worried it won’t hold up, this is a great choice for you. You can have the feel of it down, with the security of knowing it is going to last all evening.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
18. All About Sassy Texture
If you like lots of volume and texture, this is the perfect updo for you! Be sure to prep hair with a texturizing spray and quality root lift powder for added volume. This style is great on its own or with an accessory or florals added!
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
19. French Twist
Here’s another classic formal hairstyle for long hair that can be styled with a beautiful twist! Namely, I use a topsy tail tool to create loops, which makes the style full of volume and texture without the worry of the hairstyle falling out. Bobby pins with pearls are great accessories to finish off the look.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
20. Half Up Style with Loose Messy Braid
Half up styles and loose braids are very popular choices for all occasions, and combining the two win-win for long hair! This style works best with a lot of hair to work with, so extensions may be needed for extra fullness.
Instagram / @updos.by.jocelyn
With long, thick hair you have so many options to choose from for your perfect hairstyle! Be sure to consider how you feel the most confident and comfortable, and look for inspiration photos featuring hair that is similar to yours in terms of color and texture. This will ensure that you have realistic expectations of how this style will look on you. You can find lots of other options and tutorials on my Instagram page @updos.by.jocelyn.
