29 Hairstyles for Long Hair: Stunning Looks for Weddings, Prom, Work, and Special Occasions

When it comes to long hair, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, preparing for prom, or looking for something easy and casual for work, long hair offers you the flexibility to switch things up. The key to maintaining long hair is knowing how to work with its length, whether you’re going for sleek, voluminous, or intricately braided styles. In this article, we’ll explore dynamic hairstyle ideas for long hair, perfect for everything from formal occasions to relaxed summer days. So, whether you prefer curly locks or straight tresses, there’s something here for everyone.

Braided Crown

The braided crown is a romantic and boho-inspired hairstyle perfect for outdoor weddings, beach days, and casual summer get-togethers. This look involves weaving braids around the crown of your head, giving you the appearance of a royal, natural headpiece. It’s an excellent option for brides who want a bohemian touch to their bridal look or even for a bridesmaid seeking a unique style. The braided crown suits oval and heart-shaped faces, drawing attention to your cheekbones. It’s also a fantastic style for any summer occasion, as it keeps your hair away from your face while still looking effortlessly chic.

To achieve the braided crown, start by parting your hair down the middle, then create two braids on either side of the part. Secure each braid with a small elastic, and wrap them around the top of your head, pinning them in place with bobby pins. Finish off with some texturizing spray for added hold. To maintain this style, consider using a lightweight hairspray like Kenra Volume Spray for hold without the stiffness. Additionally, regular conditioning treatments can keep your hair soft and manageable, especially if you’re braiding often.

Loose Beach Waves

Loose beach waves are the quintessential summer look, perfect for a day at the beach or an outdoor party. The relaxed and tousled nature of this hairstyle embodies a carefree vibe. It’s an easy-going hairstyle suitable for most occasions, especially more casual settings like work or a day out with friends. It flatters almost all face shapes, especially oval and round faces, and is especially gorgeous on those with naturally wavy or curly hair. Beach waves are a great way to show off the natural texture of long hair while keeping it simple and chic.

To achieve loose beach waves, start by applying a salt spray to damp hair. Scrunch the hair and let it air dry or use a diffuser if you’re in a hurry. For those with straight hair, you can use a curling iron to create loose waves. Maintain this style with a texturizing spray such as Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to keep your waves fresh and natural. Using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo is essential to prevent dryness, especially after spending time in the sun and saltwater.

Classic Half Up, Half Down

The classic half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect for when you want the best of both worlds—hair down for volume and femininity but pulled back enough to keep it out of your face. It’s ideal for formal events like graduation, prom, or even a bride on her big day. This style works especially well for those with long layers, and it can be paired with curls or left straight for a more polished finish. It complements oval and heart-shaped faces, softening angles and adding a playful touch to your look.

To create this style, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and securing it with a clip or elastic. You can either twist or braid the upper portion for added texture. The lower half can be curled or left natural, depending on the occasion. To maintain the style throughout the day, use Aveda Air Control Hair Spray for a light yet flexible hold. Regular trims are essential to keep the ends healthy, especially for a style that emphasizes length and volume.

Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that can be worn for any formal occasion or even a casual workday. This hairstyle involves twisting sections of hair and gathering them into a low bun at the nape of the neck. The result is a sleek and sophisticated look that works well with both straight and curly hair. It’s perfect for weddings, Valentine’s Day dinners, or any event where you want to look polished. The twisted low bun suits oval and heart-shaped faces, elongating the neck and adding elegance.

To create the twisted low bun, divide your hair into two sections. Twist each section and wrap them around each other, securing the bun with hairpins. For added texture, use a volumizing mousse like Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse before twisting the hair. A lightweight hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray will help hold the style in place throughout the day.

Cornrows with Bun

Cornrows with a bun offer a sleek and modern hairstyle that is both protective and stylish. This look involves braiding small sections of hair close to the scalp, then gathering the braids into a high or low bun. Cornrows are a great option for those with naturally curly or textured hair and are perfect for summer, beach days, or work settings. This style suits oval and round face shapes, and the bun adds a sophisticated touch to the otherwise edgy look.

To create this style, divide your hair into small sections and create tight cornrows. Once the braids are complete, gather them into a bun and secure it with pins. To keep your hair healthy and moisturized, use a leave-in conditioner like Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream. Maintaining this style requires regular touch-ups, but it’s low maintenance once the braids are in place.

Middle Part with Loose Waves

A middle part with loose waves is a classic and versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This style works well for prom, graduation, or even a wedding. The middle part creates symmetry, making it ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces, while the loose waves add softness and dimension to long hair. This style works for both straight and wavy hair types, making it a go-to look for many.

To achieve this look, create a middle part and use a large curling iron to add loose waves throughout your hair. Use a heat protectant like CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray before curling, and finish with a flexible hold hairspray to keep the waves intact. Regular conditioning treatments will keep your hair healthy and shiny, which is essential for maintaining long waves.

Voluminous Ponytail

The voluminous ponytail is a fun and flirty hairstyle that’s perfect for casual outings or even formal occasions like prom or graduation. This style adds volume at the crown and creates a full, bouncy look that works well with both straight and curly hair. The voluminous ponytail is ideal for oval and round face shapes, as it elongates the face and draws attention to your features. It’s a great option for anyone looking to add some extra oomph to their hairstyle.

To create this look, start by teasing the crown of your hair to add volume. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. To maintain the volume, use a volumizing powder like Big Sexy Hair Powder Play and finish with a light-hold hairspray. Regular trims will help keep your ends looking healthy, which is crucial for achieving a full ponytail.

Half Up, Half Down with a Twist

The half-up, half-down style with a twist is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that can be worn to work, school, or even a formal occasion. This style involves twisting small sections of hair from the front and pinning them at the back, leaving the rest of your hair down. It’s a great way to add some interest to a classic look, and it works well for all hair textures. The twisted half-up, half-down style is perfect for heart and oval face shapes, as it frames the face beautifully.

To achieve this look, start by parting your hair down the middle. Take a small section from each side and twist it, pinning it at the back of your head. You can leave your hair straight or add some waves for extra texture. To maintain the style, use a texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray to keep the twists in place. Regular use of a hydrating conditioner will keep your hair looking smooth and shiny.

Side Swept Curls

Side swept curls are a glamorous hairstyle that’s perfect for weddings, prom, or any formal occasion. This style involves sweeping your curls to one side, creating a romantic and voluminous look. It’s a great option for those with curly or wavy hair, as it enhances the natural texture. Side swept curls work well with oval and heart-shaped faces, and they add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to any look.

To achieve side swept curls, start by creating loose curls with a large barrel curling iron. Once your curls are in place, sweep them to one side and secure them with bobby pins. Use a lightweight hairspray like Kenra Volume Spray 25 to hold the curls in place without making them stiff. To keep your curls looking fresh, use a curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner like DevaCurl No-Poo and One Condition.

Messy Top Knot

The messy top knot is an effortlessly chic hairstyle that’s perfect for casual days, beach outings, or even a quick party look. This style involves gathering your hair into a loose bun at the top of your head, leaving some strands out for a relaxed, undone look. It’s great for all hair textures and works particularly well for oval and round face shapes. The messy top knot is perfect for days when you want to keep your hair out of your face while still looking stylish.

To create this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist it into a loose bun. Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place, leaving some strands out for a messy effect. To maintain the look, use a texturizing spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to add volume and hold. Regular use of a leave-in conditioner will keep your hair healthy and manageable, even on days when you wear it up.

Sleek Ponytail with Braided Accent

A sleek ponytail with a braided accent is a modern and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for work, school, or a night out. This style involves creating a sleek ponytail and adding a small braid as an accent, giving the ponytail a unique twist. It’s ideal for those with straight or slightly wavy hair and works well for heart and square face shapes. The sleek ponytail is a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion.

To achieve this look, start by creating a sleek ponytail and securing it with an elastic. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and create a braid, wrapping it around the base of the ponytail. Secure the braid with a bobby pin and finish with a shine spray like Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine for a glossy finish. Regular trims will help keep your ponytail looking sleek and healthy.

Textured Low Ponytail

The textured low ponytail is a laid-back yet stylish hairstyle that’s perfect for casual outings, work, or even formal occasions. This style involves creating a low ponytail with added texture, giving it a relaxed and effortless look. It’s perfect for those with wavy or curly hair, as it enhances the natural texture. The textured low ponytail suits oval and round face shapes, adding a touch of bohemian charm to your look.

To create this style, start by applying a texturizing spray to your hair and scrunching it for added volume. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic, leaving some pieces loose for a messy effect. To maintain the style, use a dry shampoo like Batiste Dry Shampoo to add texture and absorb oil. Regular conditioning treatments will help keep your hair soft and manageable.

Romantic Waterfall Braid

The romantic waterfall braid is a soft, cascading hairstyle that’s ideal for summer weddings, beach parties, or Valentine’s Day dates. This style allows sections of hair to “fall” through the braid, creating a beautiful, flowing effect. The waterfall braid is perfect for curly or wavy textures, and it flatters oval and round face shapes. It’s a romantic, ethereal look that adds a touch of whimsy to any outfit, making it perfect for bridesmaids or even graduation ceremonies.

To achieve this look, start by parting your hair to one side. Begin braiding at the front, allowing strands of hair to fall through as you go, creating the waterfall effect. Use a holding spray like Garnier Fructis Style Flexible Control Anti-Humidity Hairspray to keep the braid in place without making it stiff. Maintain this look by deep conditioning your hair regularly to ensure it stays soft and silky.

Fishtail Braid with Side Part

The fishtail braid with a side part is a chic and trendy hairstyle that works well for casual summer days, school, or even work. This intricate braid creates a striking visual effect while the side part adds an element of sophistication. It’s a great option for those with long, thick hair and works especially well for oval and heart-shaped faces. The fishtail braid is perfect for beach days, adding a playful yet stylish touch to your look.

To create a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other section, repeating this process until the braid is complete. Secure with an elastic and pull at the braid gently to loosen it for a more relaxed look. Maintain the style by using a moisturizing shampoo like Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo to keep your hair smooth and manageable.

High Bun with Braided Accent

The high bun with a braided accent is an elevated version of the classic bun hairstyle, adding texture and interest with a small braid wrapped around the base. This style is perfect for formal occasions like prom or Christmas parties, but it also works well for casual outings or work. The high bun flatters oval and heart-shaped faces, elongating the neck and adding a touch of elegance to your look. It’s an excellent option for those with straight or wavy hair.

To create this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and wrap it into a bun. Then, take a small section of hair and create a thin braid, wrapping it around the base of the bun and securing it with a bobby pin. Finish with a shine spray like TIGI Bed Head Headrush Shine Spray for a glossy finish. Regular use of a smoothing serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum will keep the bun sleek and polished.

Boho Braided Crown with Curls

The boho braided crown with curls is a perfect hairstyle for outdoor weddings, beach days, or even Valentine’s Day celebrations. This romantic style involves creating a crown of braids with the rest of the hair left down in soft curls. It’s a great option for those with long, thick hair and works well for oval, round, and heart-shaped faces. The braided crown adds a bohemian vibe, making it ideal for bridesmaids or casual summer gatherings.

To achieve this look, create two braids on either side of your head and wrap them around the crown, securing them with pins. Use a curling iron to create loose, voluminous curls for the rest of your hair. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray like Nexxus Comb Thru Finishing Spray to keep the curls bouncy. Regular conditioning treatments will keep your hair hydrated and soft, perfect for creating this boho look.

Vintage Victory Rolls

Vintage victory rolls are a throwback to the 1940s, offering a bold, retro look perfect for Christmas parties, formal occasions, or themed events. This hairstyle involves rolling sections of hair into voluminous spirals, usually at the front of the head, while the rest of the hair is either left down or styled into a low bun. Victory rolls work best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair and suit oval and heart-shaped faces. They add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to any outfit.

To create victory rolls, start by sectioning off the front of your hair and curling it with a large barrel curling iron. Roll the curled section backward and pin it in place, repeating the process on the other side. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray like Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray to keep the rolls intact. Regular use of a volumizing mousse like Paul Mitchell Extra-Body Sculpting Foam will help create the height needed for this style.

Half-Up Top Knot with Loose Waves

The half-up top knot with loose waves is a trendy and versatile hairstyle that works well for casual outings, work, or even a party. This style involves pulling the top half of the hair into a high bun, leaving the rest of the hair down in soft waves. It’s a great option for all hair textures and works especially well for oval and heart-shaped faces. The half-up top knot adds a modern twist to a classic style, making it perfect for both formal occasions and everyday wear.

To create this look, gather the top half of your hair into a high bun and secure it with an elastic. Use a curling iron to add loose waves to the rest of your hair, and finish with a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray. Regular trims will help maintain the ends of your hair, ensuring the waves look fresh and bouncy.

Side Part with Loose Braids

The side part with loose braids is a boho-inspired hairstyle perfect for summer days, beach outings, or casual work settings. This style involves creating a side part and adding small, loose braids throughout the hair for a playful yet stylish look. It works well for all hair textures and flatters oval and round face shapes. The loose braids add texture and interest to long hair, making it a great option for school or a day out with friends.

To achieve this look, create a deep side part and braid small sections of hair loosely, securing them with small elastics. You can leave the rest of your hair natural or add some loose waves for extra texture. Finish with a lightweight hairspray like R+Co Outer Space Flexible Hairspray to keep the braids in place. Regular conditioning treatments will help keep your hair soft and manageable for this boho style.

Twisted Half-Updo with Curls

The twisted half-updo with curls is an elegant yet effortless hairstyle perfect for prom, weddings, or even a graduation ceremony. This style involves twisting sections of hair from the front and pinning them at the back, while the rest of the hair is left down in soft curls. It’s ideal for those with curly or wavy hair and suits oval and round face shapes. The twisted half-updo adds a romantic touch to any outfit, making it perfect for bridesmaids or brides.

To create this look, twist small sections of hair from each side of your head and pin them at the back. Use a curling iron to add soft curls to the rest of your hair, and finish with a flexible hold hairspray like OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Multi-Benefit Hairspray. Regular use of a curl-enhancing shampoo like DevaCurl No-Poo Original Zero Lather Cleanser will help keep your curls defined and frizz-free.

Conclusion

Long hair is a canvas for endless hairstyle possibilities. From formal updos to casual beach waves, there’s something for every occasion and personal style. Whether you prefer intricate braids or sleek buns, these hairstyles are designed to make the most of your long locks. We’d love to hear your thoughts—what’s your go-to long hairstyle? Share your experiences and any additional tips in the comments below!