Men with long hair often face the challenge of finding the perfect formal hairstyle that combines elegance, sophistication, and a touch of personal style. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a black-tie event, or a corporate gala, there are numerous ways to style your long locks to look polished and refined. Here, we explore 23 formal hairstyles for men with long hair that are sure to make an impression.
23 Formal Hairstyles for Men with Long Hair
1. The Classic Man Bun
The man bun is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication. To achieve this look, gather your hair into a ponytail at the crown of your head, twist it around itself, and secure it with a hair tie. For a sleeker appearance, smooth your hair with a bit of pomade or hair gel before styling.
2. The Low Bun
Similar to the classic man bun, the low bun is positioned at the nape of the neck, giving it a more understated and elegant look. This style works well with both casual and formal outfits. To add a touch of flair, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the bun to conceal the hair tie.
3. Slicked-Back Ponytail
A slicked-back ponytail is both simple and stylish. Use a fine-tooth comb and a strong-hold gel to smooth your hair back from your forehead to the nape of your neck, where you secure it with a hair tie. This look is perfect for a clean and sharp appearance.
4. Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style combines the best of both worlds, keeping hair out of your face while showcasing your long locks. Pull the top section of your hair back and secure it with a small hair tie or clip, leaving the rest of your hair flowing freely.
5. Braided Ponytail
Adding a braid to your ponytail can elevate a simple style to a more sophisticated level. Create a single braid starting at the crown of your head and continue it down to the end of your ponytail. Secure it with a hair tie for a polished finish.
6. French Braid
The French braid is a classic and elegant choice for long hair. Begin at the crown of your head, adding sections of hair as you braid down to the nape of your neck. This style keeps your hair neat and tidy, making it ideal for formal events.
7. The Sleek Top Knot
For a modern and edgy look, try the sleek top knot. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a knot, and secure it with a hair tie. Use a smoothing serum to eliminate any flyaways and achieve a glossy finish.
8. The Side Part
A side part can add a touch of sophistication to your look. Use a comb to create a deep side part, then slick back both sections with a bit of pomade or hair gel. This style works particularly well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair.
9. Loose Waves
If you have naturally wavy hair, embrace your texture with loose waves. Use a light-hold mousse to enhance your waves and keep them in place. This relaxed yet polished style is perfect for semi-formal events.
SEE ALSO: How Long Should My Hair Be for Dreads: A Guide for Men
10. The Textured Quiff
The textured quiff is a stylish option that adds volume and height to your hair. Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair, then blow-dry it while lifting the front section with a round brush. Use a bit of pomade to define the quiff and keep it in place.
11. The Polished Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic style that exudes confidence. To achieve this look, apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair and comb it back while creating volume at the front. Finish with a hairspray to keep the style intact throughout the event.
12. The Classic Low Ponytail
A low ponytail is a simple and elegant choice for formal occasions. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. For a sleek finish, smooth down any flyaways with a bit of hair serum.
13. The Double Man Bun
For a unique twist on the traditional man bun, try the double man bun. Divide your hair into two sections and create a bun on each side of your head. This playful yet sophisticated style is sure to stand out.
14. The Braided Top Knot
Combine a braid with a top knot for a stylish and intricate look. Create a French braid starting at your forehead and continue it to the crown of your head, where you secure it into a top knot. This style adds texture and interest to your hair.
15. The Elegant Chignon
The chignon is a classic updo that exudes elegance. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a low bun, securing it with bobby pins. This sophisticated style is perfect for black-tie events and weddings.
16. The Messy Bun
For a more relaxed yet polished look, try the messy bun. Gather your hair into a ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a hair tie, leaving a few strands loose for a casual, effortless appearance. This style works well for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
17. The Crown Braid
The crown braid is a regal and intricate style that wraps around your head like a crown. Start by parting your hair down the middle, then braid each side, wrapping the braids around your head and securing them with bobby pins. This style is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your look.
18. The Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a stylish and intricate option that adds texture to your hair. Divide your hair into two sections, then take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat this process until you reach the end of your hair and secure it with a hair tie.
19. The Twisted Low Bun
The twisted low bun is a sophisticated and elegant style. Divide your hair into two sections, twist each section, and then wrap them around each other into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Secure with bobby pins for a polished finish.
20. The Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a beautiful and intricate style that cascades down your hair like a waterfall. Start by creating a French braid at the crown of your head, but instead of incorporating all the hair into the braid, let sections of hair fall through the braid to create a cascading effect.
21. The Slicked-Back Look
For a sleek and modern appearance, try the slicked-back look. Apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair and comb it straight back from your forehead to the nape of your neck. This style is perfect for a sharp and polished look.
22. The Bun with Side Braid
Add a side braid to your bun for a stylish and unique twist. Create a small braid on one side of your head, then gather the rest of your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Secure the braid into the bun with bobby pins for a polished finish.
23. The Long and Loose
Sometimes, the best way to showcase your long hair is to leave it down. For a polished look, use a straightening iron or a curling wand to create sleek, smooth hair or soft waves. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your hair in place.
Conclusion
Men with long hair have a variety of formal hairstyles to choose from, each offering a unique and sophisticated look. From classic buns and ponytails to intricate braids and sleek styles, there is something for every occasion. With the right tools and products, you can achieve a polished and refined appearance that will make a lasting impression at any formal event. Experiment with these styles to find the one that best suits your personal taste and the occasion.