Ever dreamed of turning heads like your favorite celebrities on the red carpet? We’ve got you covered with 15 stunning hairstyles that bring Hollywood glamour straight to your styling routine.
From elegant updos that dominated award shows to tousled waves that stole the spotlight at movie premieres, these red carpet-inspired looks are surprisingly achievable at home. We’ll walk you through each style with step-by-step instructions, product recommendations, and pro tips to help you recreate these camera-ready hairstyles for your next special occasion.
15 Glamorous Red Carpet Hairstyles That Will Turn Heads
- Classic Hollywood Waves
Classic Hollywood waves remain a red carpet staple for good reason. Stars like Blake Lively and Sofia Vergara frequently showcase this timeless style that works beautifully with evening gowns and statement earrings. We’ve noticed this hairstyle particularly flatters oval and heart-shaped faces while adding instant glamour to any formal look.
- Sleek High Ponytail
Sleek high ponytails have become Ariana Grande’s signature but appear regularly on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Bella Hadid during award shows. This versatile style elongates the neck and face while creating a polished yet dramatic effect. You’ll need a good smoothing serum and strong hold hairspray to maintain this look throughout your event.
- Textured Bob
Textured bobs cut just below the jawline create major impact on the red carpet. Celebrities including Lucy Hale and Margot Robbie have made this chic, shorter style a favorite for formal events. We love how this modern cut frames the face while offering endless styling possibilities from sleek to tousled.
- Braided Crown
Braided crowns offer ethereal elegance perfect for formal occasions. Lupita Nyong’o and Emily Blunt have worn innovative variations of this style that beautifully showcase facial features while keeping hair securely in place. Your stylist can incorporate decorative pins or fresh flowers to elevate this look further.
- Slicked-Back Wet Look
Slicked-back wet looks provide edgy sophistication on red carpets worldwide. Kim Kardashian and Zendaya frequently sport this bold style that works with virtually any outfit and face shape. We recommend using high-quality gel products to achieve the glossy finish without crunchiness or flaking.
- Side-Swept Curls
Side-swept curls create romantic drama perfect for special events. Stars like Amanda Seyfried and Emma Stone have made this asymmetrical style a photogenic favorite. This versatile look complements one-shoulder dresses particularly well while framing the face beautifully.
- Ballerina Bun
Ballerina buns offer classic elegance that never fails on the red carpet. Celebrities including Selena Gomez and Jennifer Lawrence frequently choose this polished updo for major awards ceremonies. We appreciate how this style works for virtually any hair texture while showcasing statement jewelry and dress necklines.
- Vintage Victory Rolls
Vintage victory rolls bring retro glamour to modern red carpet events. Dita Von Teese and Gwen Stefani occasionally sport these structured, 1940s-inspired curls for maximum impact. Your hairstylist will need strong-hold products and plenty of bobby pins to create this dramatic, photograph-worthy style.
- Sleek Center Part
Sleek center parts with straight hair create sophisticated minimalism beloved by celebrities. Kendall Jenner and Naomi Campbell frequently showcase this runway-ready look that highlights bone structure and makeup. We suggest using a flat iron and shine spray to achieve the mirror-like finish this style demands.
- Voluminous Blowout
Voluminous blowouts bring body and movement that photographs beautifully on red carpets. Kate Middleton and Priyanka Chopra regularly display this bouncy, glamorous style that works especially well for those with naturally thick hair. Your stylist can add subtle layers to enhance the effect while maintaining elegant shape.
- Twisted Updo
Twisted updos offer architectural interest while keeping hair elegantly contained. Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett have worn various interpretations of this sophisticated style at major awards shows. We love how this versatile updo can be customized to complement facial features and dress styles.
- Brushed-Out Curls
Brushed-out curls create soft, romantic volume reminiscent of Old Hollywood. Stars like Adele and Lady Gaga occasionally choose this dramatic style for red carpet appearances. This technique works particularly well for those with naturally wavy or curly hair seeking a refined finish.
- Half-Up Bouffant
Half-up bouffants balance playfulness with sophistication on red carpets worldwide. Celebrities including Beyoncé and Rihanna have showcased modern versions of this retro-inspired style. Your stylist can adjust the height and texture to suit your face shape and overall look.
- Sculptural Topknot
Sculptural topknots create artistic impact perfect for making statements at formal events. Zoe Kravitz and Rooney Mara occasionally sport these architectural styles that highlight cheekbones and jawlines. We recommend working with an experienced stylist to achieve the structural integrity this bold look requires.
- Accessorized Low Bun
Accessorized low buns combine classical elegance with modern detailing. Emma Watson and Lily Collins frequently wear these sophisticated styles enhanced with decorative combs, ribbons, or jeweled pins. This versatile updo flatters virtually every face shape while complementing backless or detailed dresses beautifully.
Elegant Hollywood Waves: The Timeless Classic
Hollywood waves remain a staple on red carpets worldwide, characterized by soft, sleek, flowing curls that evoke the glamour of classic Hollywood. This sophisticated style has graced countless premieres and award ceremonies, becoming synonymous with timeless elegance.
How to Achieve Perfect Hollywood Waves
- Start with clean, damp hair and apply a heat protectant to shield your locks from damage.
- Use a large curling iron or wand (1.5-2 inches) to create loose, uniform curls working from mid-length to ends.
- Allow the curls to cool completely before gently brushing through them with a paddle brush to achieve that signature soft, wavy look.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to set the style while maintaining natural movement and bounce.
Celebrities Who Rock This Iconic Look
- Emma Stone frequently showcases classic Hollywood waves, particularly at major events like the Oscars. Her signature approach pairs these glamorous waves with a middle parting and radiant skin, creating a harmonious balance between modern and vintage aesthetics.
- Rihanna transforms the traditional style with her sultry loose waves, as demonstrated at the Clara Lionel Foundation event. Her dark tresses styled in relaxed curls offer a contemporary interpretation of Hollywood glamour while maintaining the style’s inherent sophistication.
- Anya Taylor-Joy leverages her impressive hip-grazing layers to create stunning soft waves for red carpet appearances. Her blonde Hollywood waves frame her distinctive features perfectly, resulting in a chic and elegant red carpet presence that photographers consistently capture.
Hollywood waves work exceptionally well for special occasions, offering versatility across different face shapes and hair lengths. The style’s enduring popularity stems from its ability to convey sophistication while flattering facial features and complementing formal attire.
Sleek High Ponytails: The Modern Statement
The sleek high ponytail has become a red carpet staple, offering a striking balance between sophistication and boldness. This versatile style makes a modern statement while keeping the focus on facial features and outfit details.
Elevating Your Ponytail for Formal Events
Transforming a casual ponytail into a red carpet-worthy style requires attention to key details that celebrities like Lisa showcase on the red carpet. Adding volume at the roots creates dimension and prevents the style from looking flat against the head. Ensure your ponytail maintains a smooth, polished finish by using a boar bristle brush to eliminate bumps and flyaways for that camera-ready look. Statement accessories such as decorative hairpins or an elegant hair clip can instantly elevate this style for formal occasions. For a look inspired by Lisa’s 2025 Oscars appearance, pair your voluminous high ponytail with structured outfits and consider adding fluffy bangs for a softer frame around the face.
Best Face Shapes for This Bold Style
Heart-shaped faces benefit tremendously from high ponytails as they naturally balance the wider forehead and temple areas, creating a harmonious proportion throughout the face. Oval faces have the versatility to pull off virtually any hairstyle, including sleek high ponytails that beautifully accentuate their naturally balanced features and proportions. Square-faced individuals will find that this upward-drawing style softens their angular jawlines by creating a vertical visual line that elongates the face. Round faces may need slight modifications to make this style most flattering—adding extra volume at the crown and incorporating a side part can help create the illusion of length. For anyone with a round face shape attempting this look, consider taking inspiration from celebrities who masterfully adapt the high ponytail to complement their features.
Sophisticated Updo Buns: Effortless Elegance
Red carpet events consistently showcase elegant updo buns that combine sophistication with seemingly effortless style. Celebrities like Julia Roberts, Adele, and Emily Blunt have all stunned with their interpretations of this timeless look.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Updo
Creating a red carpet-worthy updo doesn’t require a professional stylist if you follow these key steps. First, prep your hair with clean, dry strands and apply heat protectant plus a light hold hairspray for the perfect foundation. Next, smooth out your hair using a quality comb or brush to create that sleek base essential for a polished look. Gather all your hair together and secure it firmly with an elastic band or bobby pins positioned strategically for maximum hold. Twist the gathered hair carefully and pin it in place—for a chignon-style look, form a bun shape and secure with additional bobby pins crossing over each other for stability. Finally, set your updo with a strong hold hairspray, ensuring it remains intact throughout your event without appearing stiff or unnatural.
Accessorizing Your Bun for Extra Glamour
Elevating your updo from elegant to extraordinary happens through thoughtful accessorizing. Decorative hair pins and brooches instantly add glamour to any bun—choose metallics for formal events or rhinestones for extra sparkle. Floral accents create a romantic or bohemian feel, with small arrangements or a single statement flower offering versatile styling options. Thin headbands provide a sleek, polished complement to your updo while keeping stray hairs in place. Decorative hair combs not only secure loose strands but also introduce an elegant vintage element to your look. Statement earrings or a striking necklace complete your red carpet-inspired style by drawing attention to your face and neckline, balancing the sophisticated updo with the perfect finishing touch.
Braided Crowns: Bohemian Luxury
Braided crowns have become a red carpet staple, blending bohemian charm with high-fashion elegance. This versatile style wraps braids around the head like a halo, creating a look that’s both ethereal and sophisticated.
Creative Variations of the Braided Crown
The classic braided crown can be reinvented in many ways for a red carpet-worthy appearance. Loose, tousled braids create a more relaxed, bohemian vibe perfect for daytime events, while tight, sleek braids offer a more polished look for evening galas. Adding small flowers or delicate pins between the braids elevates the style with a romantic touch. Many celebrities opt for a mixed-texture approach, combining smooth sections with intricate plaits for dimension and visual interest. Incorporating different braiding techniques—such as French, Dutch, or fishtail—into the crown adds complexity and uniqueness to this sophisticated style.
Red Carpet Stars Who Love This Look
Blake Lively stands as the ultimate braided crown icon, having revitalized the boho braid trend at the 2011 premiere of The Green Lantern. Her signature rumpled mixed-braid adorned with a flower pin transformed into an instantly recognizable red carpet moment that fashion magazines still reference today. Emma Roberts has been spotted embracing variations of this style, expertly pairing her occasional braided looks with her naturally fiery red curls for stunning contrast and dimension. While Anya Taylor-Joy is renowned for her striking hip-grazing layers, her versatility on the red carpet includes experimenting with braided elements that showcase her fashion-forward approach. These celebrity interpretations demonstrate how the braided crown transcends simple bohemian aesthetics to become a sophisticated choice for prestigious events, proving that this hairstyle continues to evolve while maintaining its romantic appeal.
Vintage-Inspired Finger Waves: Old Hollywood Charm
Finger waves represent one of the most iconic hairstyles from the 1920s and 1930s, bringing timeless Old Hollywood glamour to modern red carpets. These elegant S-shaped waves have been revitalized by celebrities like Charlize Theron, who famously incorporated 1920s waves into her 2004 red carpet appearance, creating a stunning vintage aesthetic that still inspires today.
Modernizing Finger Waves for Today’s Events
Traditional finger waves can be transformed into contemporary masterpieces with a few strategic techniques. Stylists often blend classic wave-setting methods with modern tools like flat irons or curling irons to create more defined and sleek wave patterns. Adding depth through contemporary hair colors brings a fresh dimension to this historic style. Many celebrities opt for looser interpretations of finger waves, maintaining the signature S-curve pattern while allowing for more movement and texture. The placement of waves can also be customized to flatter different face shapes, with asymmetrical patterns creating visual interest for formal events. Combining finger waves with modern updos or partial styling creates a perfect balance between vintage charm and current trends.
Products That Help Maintain This Structured Style
Achieving picture-perfect finger waves requires the right arsenal of styling products. Strong-hold styling gel or pomade serves as the foundation for creating and securing the distinctive S-shaped waves in place throughout your event. Quality hairspray with maximum hold becomes essential for freezing the waves without creating a stiff or unnatural appearance. Heat styling tools including flat irons, curling irons, or professional Marcel irons help set and define the waves with precision and consistency. Finishing hair serum or lightweight oil adds the characteristic glossy sheen that makes finger waves appear so luxurious on the red carpet. Wave clips or specialized finger waving combs assist in forming the perfect undulations while the styling products set. Texturizing spray can help add grip to fine hair that might otherwise struggle to hold this structured style. Remember that finger waves require patience and practice, but with these professional-grade products, you’ll be channeling Charlize Theron’s red carpet elegance at your next special occasion.
Sleek Bob Cuts: Chic Minimalism
Sleek bob cuts have become a red carpet staple, offering both sophistication and versatility for glamorous events. These chic, minimalist styles make a powerful statement while requiring relatively low maintenance.
Styling Your Bob for Maximum Impact
Creating a red carpet-worthy bob starts with precision cutting that frames your face beautifully. For a sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum to damp hair before blow-drying with a round brush to create volume and shape. Try using flat irons to achieve that perfect glass-like shine seen on celebrities, working in small sections for uniform results. Adding subtle waves can transform your bob from daytime casual to evening elegance in minutes. Remember to finish with a light-hold hairspray that won’t weigh down your hair but will keep it looking polished throughout the event.
Celebrity-Inspired Bob Variations
Florence Pugh showcased a stunning side-parted bob with tousled waves at the Oscars, demonstrating how versatile short crops can be for formal events. Her effortless style combines structure with playful movement, making it perfect for those wanting a sophisticated yet approachable look. Emma Stone’s middle-parted, soft sleek waves offer another take on the bob aesthetic, even though her cut isn’t traditionally defined as a bob. The polished finish and sleek styling technique can easily translate to shorter lengths for a refined appearance. Charlize Theron’s wet-look updo provides inspiration for bob-wearers looking to create texture and dimension without length. These celebrity interpretations prove that bob cuts aren’t limited to one style but can be adapted for various red carpet moments.
Half-Up, Half-Down Styles: Versatile Glamour
The half-up, half-down hairstyle combines the best of both worlds – the elegance of an updo with the flowing beauty of loose locks. This versatile style has graced countless red carpets, offering a perfect balance between sophistication and effortless charm.
Adding Volume and Texture to This Hybrid Look
Volume and texture are crucial elements that elevate half-up, half-down styles from everyday looks to red carpet worthy creations. Celebrity stylists often tease the crown section before securing it back to create height and dimension. For added texture, consider using sea salt spray on damp hair before blow-drying, creating that coveted lived-in finish that stars like Lily Gladstone showcase on the red carpet. Her long, voluminous hair paired with radiant skin and a berry lip demonstrates how texture can transform this style into something truly special.
Creating waves or curls in the loose section adds another layer of sophistication to this hybrid style. Alternating the direction of your curls will produce a more natural, red carpet-ready finish that photographs beautifully from every angle. Remember to use a heat protectant before styling and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray that maintains movement while keeping everything in place throughout the event.
Red Carpet Inspirations for Every Hair Length
Blake Lively’s boho-inspired look at the 2011 premiere of The Green Lantern remains a perfect example of this versatile style. Her rumpled mixed-braid adorned with a flower pin created a romantic yet polished appearance that works beautifully for medium to long hair. This particular style balances sophistication with approachable charm, making it suitable for both formal events and elegant daytime affairs.
Emma Stone’s Oscar appearance featured a refined take on the half-up style with a middle parting and soft, sleek waves. The top section was styled up with subtle volume, creating a timeless look that flatters her face shape while maintaining a modern edge. Her approach works wonderfully for those with shorter to medium-length hair who want structure without sacrificing movement.
Florence Pugh demonstrates that even shorter hair can rock this half-up trend. Her tousled waves and side-parted bob bring fresh texture to the traditional half-up style, proving that this versatile look isn’t exclusive to those with longer locks. The key to Pugh’s success lies in creating separation and texture throughout the style, allowing the secured top section to create height while the loose pieces frame her face beautifully.
For those with longer hair like Anya Taylor-Joy, the half-up style offers endless possibilities. Her hip-grazing layers can be partially secured at the crown while allowing the remaining length to cascade down, creating dramatic contrast between the structured top and flowing bottom sections. This approach works particularly well for formal events where you want to showcase both length and facial features.
Side-Swept Dramatic Curls: Romantic Allure
Side-swept dramatic curls exude romantic allure and have graced countless red carpets, most notably on celebrities like Rihanna with her sultry loose waves and Emma Roberts with her fiery copper curls. This versatile style works beautifully for special occasions, adding volume and dimension while framing the face in a flattering way.
Achieving Long-Lasting Curls for Special Events
Creating red carpet-worthy curls that last throughout your special event requires strategic preparation and technique. Start with curl-improving shampoo and conditioner to build a strong foundation for your style. Apply a heat protectant spray generously before using any hot tools to prevent damage and maintain hair health. When styling, work with smaller sections of hair for more defined and longer-lasting curls. Allow each curl to cool completely before gently running your fingers through them, which helps set the shape without disrupting the pattern. Pinning each curl while it cools can significantly extend the longevity of your style. Finish with a light-hold hairspray that keeps the curls in place without making them stiff or crunchy – a technique often used to create Rihanna’s effortlessly glamorous waves that maintain their bounce throughout events.
Best Hair Products for This Voluminous Style
The secret to achieving voluminous side-swept curls worthy of the red carpet lies in using the right combination of products. Curl-improving shampoos and conditioners rich in moisturizers create the perfect base for this romantic style. Volume-improving root lift products applied at the crown add height and drama, mimicking the impressive volume seen in Emma Stone’s classic waves with middle parting. Thermal protection sprays are essential before using curling irons or wands, preventing damage while ensuring your curls remain healthy and shiny. Curl activating mousses or gels help define each wave without weighing down the hair – crucial for achieving Florence Pugh’s tousled, bouncy waves. Light-hold hairsprays seal the style without stiffness, allowing for natural movement similar to Anya Taylor-Joy’s flowing locks. Texturizing sprays add dimension and that coveted lived-in finish, perfect for creating Emma Roberts’ fiery curls that turned heads at the Vanity Fair Oscar party.
Slicked-Back Wet Look: Edgy Sophistication
The slicked-back wet look combines sophisticated elegance with edgy modernism, creating a statement style that turns heads on any red carpet. While not the dominant trend at the 2025 Oscars, several celebrities showcased variations of this sleek, high-shine aesthetic that exudes confidence and glamour.
How to Get the Wet Look Without Damaging Your Hair
Achieving the perfect wet look requires proper technique to prevent hair damage. Start with hydrating shampoo and conditioner to create a moisturized base for your style. Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner or hair serum before styling to protect your strands from potential product buildup. Use styling products specifically designed for wet looks, such as lightweight hair gels or pomades, working them through damp hair from roots to ends.
Comb your hair backward with a wide-tooth comb for an even distribution of product. Avoid excessive heat styling when creating this look; instead, opt for cool settings on your blow dryer or allow your hair to air dry naturally. Incorporate weekly hair masks into your routine to maintain moisture balance and prevent brittleness from styling products.
Red Carpet Examples That Perfected This Trend
Selena Gomez demonstrated a sophisticated take on the wet-look aesthetic at the 2025 Oscars with her sleek, glossy bob. Celebrity hairstylist Renato Campora created her polished finish using Joico products and Dyson tools, achieving a high-shine effect that beautifully framed her face while maintaining movement and body.
Demi Moore’s waist-length waves, though not traditionally slicked-back, featured a stunning high-gloss finish that captured the essence of the wet look trend. Her red carpet appearance showcased how master stylist Dimitris Giannetos used Moroccanoil® styling products and Dyson tools to create a glamorous, glass-like shine that extended from roots to tips.
Several celebrities opted for variations of the slicked-back style, incorporating elements of the wet look into more structured hairstyles. Lupita Nyong’o’s pearl-adorned updo by Vernon Francois using OLAPLEX products maintained a sleek base while adding decorative elements for a personalized touch. Lisa’s voluminous high ponytail featured slicked sides with dramatic volume on top, demonstrating how the wet look can be incorporated into statement styles for maximum impact.
Pixie Cut Styling: Bold Elegance
Pixie cuts have become a stunning red carpet staple, offering both sophistication and drama for formal events. These short styles make a powerful statement while showcasing facial features in ways longer hairstyles cannot.
Creative Ways to Style Short Hair for Formal Events
Short hair offers remarkable versatility for formal occasions, even though many believing it limits styling options. Florence Pugh demonstrated this perfectly at the Oscars with her tousled waves and side-parted bob, creating a fresh, elegant look that proved short styles can be incredibly ever-changing. Textured pixies add dimension and visual interest through strategic product placement and finger styling, making them ideal for special events. Slicked-back short styles create a sleek, sophisticated appearance that pairs beautifully with statement jewelry and dramatic makeup. Adding accessories like jeweled pins, thin headbands, or delicate clips elevates short hairstyles instantly, bringing red carpet glamour to any look. For those growing out their pixie, incorporating braided elements or twisted sections adds unexpected detail and structure to shorter styles.
Celebrities Who Redefined Pixie Cut Glamour
Barbara Streisand pioneered elegant short hair on the red carpet with her blunt bob at the 1969 Oscars, creating a timeless look that continues to influence modern styles. Halle Berry transformed the pixie cut into a red carpet essential with her signature short styles, often incorporating sleek, polished looks or adding strategic volume for dramatic effect. Michelle Williams frequently showcases short hair versatility at prestigious events, favoring sleek side-parted styles or adding texture for edgier appearances. Charlize Theron has experimented with shorter hairstyles throughout her career, demonstrating how pixie cuts can evolve from casual to formal with the right styling techniques. Emma Watson, though not mentioned in our source materials, has famously worn her pixie cut to various high-profile events, proving that short hair can be both sophisticated and feminine. These celebrities have transformed the pixie cut from a practical style to a bold fashion statement worthy of the most prestigious red carpet events.
Textured Low Buns: Effortless Chic
The textured low bun has emerged as a sophisticated yet relaxed option for formal occasions, combining polish with artful imperfection. While not specifically highlighted in the 2025 Oscars lineup, elements of this style were evident in several red carpet looks that embraced the balance between elegance and effortless charm.
Creating Intentional Messiness in Formal Hairstyles
Intentional messiness elevates formal hairstyles by adding dimension and a contemporary edge to traditional looks. Many celebrities showcased this technique through tousled finishes that appeared polished yet undone. To achieve this balance, lightly teasing sections of hair creates essential volume while maintaining structure. Loosening a few strategic strands around the face frames features beautifully and softens the overall appearance, as demonstrated by Lily-Rose Depp’s red carpet style. Applying texturizing products before styling introduces the perfect amount of grit and hold; try working a dry shampoo or texturizing spray through mid-lengths for instant lived-in texture. The key lies in controlling the messiness—your style should appear deliberately undone rather than simply unkempt.
Accessorizing Options for Low Buns
Accessorizing transforms a simple low bun into a statement-making look worthy of the red carpet. Pearl embellishments offer a timeless elegance, as brilliantly showcased in Lupita Nyong’o’s pearl-adorned updo by Vernon Francois at the 2025 Oscars. Decorative hair pins strategically placed throughout the bun add sparkle while helping secure any loose sections. Sleek hair slides or barrettes positioned at the sides create visual interest and architectural detail to an otherwise minimalist style. Floral accents introduce a romantic, feminine touch that works beautifully for formal occasions—consider a single statement bloom or several delicate flowers woven throughout the bun. The positioning of accessories matters significantly; placing them asymmetrically often creates a more modern, ever-changing appearance that catches light from multiple angles.
Long, Straight and Sleek: Minimalist Statement
Sometimes the most striking red carpet looks are the simplest ones. Long, straight, and sleek hairstyles have become a minimalist statement that radiates sophistication and timeless elegance.
Achieving Glass-Like Shine for Your Hair
Creating that enviable glass-like shine seen on celebrities requires exact techniques and products. Stars like Rihanna showcase this perfectly with her sultry loose waves enhanced by a dark hue and relaxed finish, giving her hair that coveted shiny and healthy appearance. To achieve this look at home, we recommend using high-gloss hair products that smooth the cuticle and reflect light. Start with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner, followed by a heat protectant before styling. After straightening your hair, apply a small amount of shine serum to the lengths and ends, being careful to avoid the roots. Finish with a light mist of shine spray held at least 12 inches away from your hair for that red carpet worthy gleam.
Stars Who Made Simple Styles Unforgettable
Emma Stone has mastered the art of minimalist hair statements with her signature middle-parted, sleek waves that exude elegance and simplicity. Her classic look proves that sometimes less truly is more on the red carpet. Anya Taylor-Joy transforms the simple straight style into a statement with her hip-grazing layers and XL lengths, creating a chic look that frames her face beautifully. Florence Pugh offers a fresh take on sleek styling with her tousled waves and side-parted bob, demonstrating how even shorter cuts can embrace this minimalist trend. Lily Gladstone captivates with her long, voluminous hair paired with radiant skin and a berry lip, showing how straight styles can still have dimension and movement. Cynthia Erivo complements her bold smokey eye and nude lip with sleek hair, creating a striking balance that lets her facial features take center stage. Each of these celebrities has proven that simple, straight styles can make just as much impact as elaborate updos when executed with precision and confidence.
Voluminous Curly Updos: Celebrating Natural Texture
Natural curls have become a stunning statement on red carpets, with celebrities embracing their voluminous textures in elegant updos that celebrate rather than conceal natural patterns. These sophisticated styles highlight the versatility of curly hair while maintaining the classic glamour associated with prestigious award ceremonies.
Preparing Natural Hair for Red Carpet Events
Proper preparation forms the foundation of any successful curly updo for high-profile events. Hydration serves as the most critical first step, ensuring curls remain defined and frizz-free throughout the evening. Deep conditioning treatments applied 1-2 days before styling will provide the necessary moisture balance for optimal curl definition.
Creating the perfect canvas requires gentle detangling with wide-tooth combs or fingers to maintain curl integrity while removing knots. Professional stylists often recommend section-by-section preparation, working from the nape upward to ensure even product distribution and styling.
Heat protection becomes essential when using any hot tools to shape or define certain sections. Many celebrity hairstylists, like Vernon Francois who created Lupita Nyong’o’s stunning pearl-adorned updo, emphasize the importance of protective products before styling. Setting the foundation with appropriate styling creams or mousses ensures curls maintain their shape throughout long award ceremonies.
Strategic planning makes all the difference when working with natural texture—stylists typically allocate extra time for curl preparation compared to straight hair styles. Preserving natural curl patterns while creating structured updos requires patience and specialized techniques that work with, not against, the hair’s natural movement.
Products That Enhance Natural Curl Patterns
Professional-grade products play a crucial role in achieving red carpet-worthy curly updos that last. OLAPLEX stands out as a key preparation product, with its revolutionary bond-building technology that strengthens hair structure before styling. Vernon Francois famously used OLAPLEX products to create Lupita Nyong’o’s pearl-adorned updo, demonstrating its effectiveness for elaborate natural hair styling.
Moroccanoil® offers exceptional moisture-rich formulations that provide definition without weighing down curls. Celebrity stylist Dimitris Giannetos relied on Moroccanoil® products to achieve Demi Moore’s stunning waist-length waves, highlighting the brand’s versatility for various textures and styles. These argan oil-infused products deliver the perfect balance of hold and movement necessary for structured yet natural-looking updos.
Joico’s styling line provides the hold factor essential for maintaining voluminous curly styles throughout long evenings. Renato Campora, who created Selena Gomez’s sleek bob for recent award shows, trusts Joico products for their reliable performance under camera lights and throughout hours-long events. Their curl-improving formulas help define natural texture while providing the structure needed for formal styles.
When creating voluminous curly updos, professional stylists layer multiple products strategically—typically starting with a moisturizing cream, followed by a defining gel or mousse, and finishing with a flexible-hold hairspray. This layering technique ensures curls remain defined and the updo maintains its shape without appearing stiff or unnatural.
Proper tools complement quality products in achieving red carpet perfection. High-quality implements from brands like Dyson and Olivia Garden have become industry standards for styling natural hair without causing damage or disrupting curl patterns. These professional-grade tools provide the precision necessary for creating structurally sound updos that celebrate rather than compromise natural texture.
Asymmetrical Styles: Architectural Beauty
Asymmetrical haircuts have become a red carpet staple, praised for their architectural beauty and visual interest. These striking styles feature intentionally uneven ends, dramatic parts, and choppy bangs that create an eye-catching look that’s both edgy and sophisticated.
Balancing Asymmetry for Different Face Shapes
Asymmetrical cuts offer remarkable versatility across various face shapes, making them accessible to everyone seeking a bold statement. Oval faces benefit tremendously from asymmetrical bobs or pixie cuts that accentuate their natural balance while maintaining versatility, as demonstrated by Emma Stone’s chin-length asymmetrical bob. Round faces gain definition and length from asymmetrical styles with shorter sides and longer tops, perfectly exemplified by Florence Pugh’s edgy asymmetrical pixie enhanced with platinum highlights. Square faces appear softer with choppy, asymmetrical layers that diminish angular features, as seen in Zendaya’s shoulder-grazing cut with subtle balayage that creates dimension and movement.
How Celebrities Push Boundaries with Asymmetrical Looks
Celebrities consistently lead the charge in popularizing asymmetrical haircuts, transforming them from alternative styles to red carpet favorites. Emma Stone has embraced a striking chin-length asymmetrical bob with one side dramatically shorter, creating a perfect awards-season statement piece. Florence Pugh continues to rock her edgy asymmetrical pixie, now elevated with platinum highlights that accentuate the dramatic angles of her bold cut. Zendaya recently unveiled a shoulder-grazing asymmetrical style with subtle balayage, improving the dimensional effect of her perfectly crafted layers. Jada Pinkett Smith demonstrates how asymmetrical cuts can be both elegant and edgy, sporting sleek red carpet-worthy looks that have become her signature style.
These celebrity-inspired asymmetrical styles offer practical benefits beyond their fashion-forward appearance. Asymmetrical cuts create personalized looks that work with natural hair movement while adding visual interest and highlighting facial features. They’re particularly beneficial for those with thinning hair concerns, as strategically placed layers add volume to areas that need it most. Even though their edgy appearance, these cuts can be surprisingly easy to maintain, especially for medium-length hair, making them both striking and practical for special occasions.
How to Make Your Red Carpet Hairstyle Last All Night
Ready to turn heads with your celebrity-inspired hairstyle? These 15 red carpet looks offer something for everyone – from classic Hollywood waves to edgy wet looks and natural curly updos.
With the right tools products and techniques you’ll be able to recreate these glamorous styles at home. Don’t forget that preparation is key! Proper hydration heat protection and quality styling products will ensure your look stays camera-ready throughout your special event.
Whether you prefer sophisticated updos dramatic asymmetrical cuts or voluminous curls we’ve provided the insider tips you need to achieve salon-worthy results. Remember to personalize your chosen style with accessories that complement your outfit and enhance your features.
Now you’re ready to walk your own red carpet with confidence and star-quality style!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I achieve red carpet-worthy waves at home?
Create Classic Hollywood Waves by using a large curling iron (1.5-inch barrel), curling sections away from your face. Let curls cool completely before gently brushing through with a paddle brush. Finish with light-hold hairspray for all-night hold. This style works best on oval and heart-shaped faces, but can be adapted for all face shapes with proper technique.
Which glamorous hairstyle works best for round faces?
The Sleek High Ponytail creates length and draws the eye upward, complementing round faces beautifully. For more flattering results, add volume at the crown and leave some face-framing pieces loose. Alternatively, try Side-Swept Dramatic Curls, which create asymmetry that elongates round face shapes. Both styles create visual length while maintaining glamorous appeal.
Are updo hairstyles difficult to create at home?
While updos may look complex, many can be simplified for at-home styling. Start with Textured Low Buns or Half-Up styles, which are more forgiving. Use day-old hair for better grip, apply texturizing spray, and secure with bobby pins matched to your hair color. Practice before your event and don’t aim for perfection—some intentional messiness adds modern appeal.
What products do I need for the Slicked-Back Wet Look?
Create the Slicked-Back Wet Look using hydrating products rather than traditional gel. Start with heat protectant, then apply a combination of hair oil and styling cream to damp hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to direct hair backward, and finish with a medium-hold gel or gloss serum concentrated at the roots. Set with cool air from your dryer for longer-lasting hold.
How can I make my pixie cut formal enough for special occasions?
Elevate your pixie cut by adding texture with pomade or wax, focusing on creating definition rather than stiffness. Consider incorporating small braids or twists for added interest. Accessorize with delicate jeweled pins or minimalist metal clips to instantly transform your short style. A sleek, side-parted variation with high-shine products creates Hollywood-inspired elegance perfect for formal events.
What’s the best way to make curly hair look elegant for events?
Embrace your natural texture by starting with well-hydrated curls using deep conditioning treatments. Define curls with curl-specific creams, then create an updo that showcases your texture while maintaining structure. Consider a high puff, asymmetrical updo, or half-up crown style. Use decorative pins to secure and elevate the look, as demonstrated by celebrities like Lupita Nyong’o.
How do I choose the right red carpet hairstyle for my face shape?
Select styles that enhance your natural features: oval faces work with nearly everything; heart-shaped faces benefit from styles with fullness at the jawline; round faces look best with height at the crown and asymmetrical styles; square faces are complemented by soft waves and side parts; and long faces pair well with styles that add width rather than height.
What hairstyle trends are currently popular on red carpets?
Current red carpet trends include textured updos with intentional “messiness,” asymmetrical cuts and styles, slicked-back wet looks, accessorized simple styles, and natural curly textures. Classic styles with modern twists—like updated finger waves and reimagined victory rolls—are also making appearances. The most consistent trend is personalization: celebrities are embracing styles that reflect their personality while complementing their overall look.
How can I make my hairstyle last throughout a special event?
Prep hair properly by washing the day before (not day-of) for natural oils that provide grip. Use products specifically designed for hold, like mousse for volume and medium-to-strong hold hairspray for finished styles. Set curls and waves completely before brushing out, and carry travel-sized hairspray and bobby pins for quick touch-ups. Consider your environment—humid conditions require stronger-hold products.
What hair accessories work best for formal occasions?
Choose accessories that complement your outfit without competing. Minimal metal clips or pins work for modern looks, while pearl or crystal embellishments add classic elegance. Fresh flowers create romantic appeal, and statement headbands add sophistication to simple styles. Position accessories strategically—use them to highlight your face shape or to serve a practical purpose by securing challenging sections of your style.
