We’ve all been there – staring at our reflection with that familiar pre-night-out panic, wondering how to transform our everyday hair into something spectacular. Whether you’re heading to a dinner date, dancing the night away, or attending a special event, your hairstyle can make or break your entire look.
The right going-out hairstyle doesn’t just complement your outfit – it boosts your confidence and helps you feel like the best version of yourself. From sleek updos that scream sophistication to tousled waves that whisper effortless glamour, we’ve discovered that the perfect hairstyle is the secret weapon every woman needs in her beauty arsenal.
We’re here to share the most stunning going-out hairstyles that’ll have you turning heads wherever you go. These looks aren’t just Instagram-worthy – they’re achievable, versatile, and designed to make you feel absolutely unstoppable.
Sleek and Straight Going Out Hairstyles
Sleek straight hairstyles create an effortlessly chic foundation that transforms any outfit into red carpet worthy elegance. These polished looks offer versatility and sophistication that works beautifully for dinner dates, cocktail parties, or formal events.
Classic Center Part Straight Hair
Center parted straight hair delivers timeless glamour that never goes out of style. We love this look because it creates perfect symmetry while showcasing facial features beautifully. Start by applying heat protectant spray from mid length to ends, then blow dry hair completely straight using a paddle brush. Create a precise center part using a rat tail comb, ensuring the line runs straight from your forehead to the crown. Finish with a flat iron on medium heat, working in small sections to achieve that mirror like shine. Apply a lightweight serum to seal the cuticles and eliminate any remaining frizz.
Professional styling tip: Pull the iron slowly through each section to create maximum smoothness without causing heat damage.
Side-Swept Straight Style
Side swept straight hair adds instant drama and old Hollywood sophistication to your evening look. This style works particularly well for those with round or square face shapes, as it creates asymmetrical balance. Begin with damp hair and apply volumizing mousse at the roots for subtle lift. Blow dry using a round brush, directing hair away from your chosen part. Create a deep side part approximately two inches from your natural part line. Use a flat iron to straighten sections while sweeping them in the direction of your part. Finish with shine spray for that glossy, camera ready finish.
Styling variation: Tuck one side behind your ear and secure with a decorative bobby pin for added elegance.
Pin Straight with Face Framing Layers
Pin straight hair with face framing layers combines sleek sophistication with subtle movement around the face. These layers add dimension while maintaining the overall straight silhouette that defines this classic going out style. Start with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup that could weigh down your layers. Apply smoothing cream to damp hair, focusing on the layered sections around your face. Use a flat iron with ceramic plates to straighten each layer individually, curving slightly inward at the ends. The face framing pieces should hit just below your cheekbones to create the most flattering effect. Complete the look with anti humidity spray to maintain that perfectly straight finish throughout your evening.
Layer maintenance: Regular trims every 6-8 weeks keep face framing layers looking sharp and well defined.
Voluminous Curly Going Out Hairstyles
Curly hairstyles bring natural texture and stunning volume that transforms any going out look. We’re showcasing three show stopping curly styles that’ll make you the center of attention.
Hollywood Glam Curls
Hollywood glam curls deliver sleek, polished perfection for formal events and upscale occasions. We achieve this sophisticated look by applying curl defining creams and gels to damp hair before styling. Styling tools like large barrel curling irons create uniform, lustrous curls that exude old school glamour.
Setting the style with light hold hairspray ensures your curls maintain their polished appearance throughout the evening. Professional stylists recommend brushing through the curls gently with a paddle brush to create seamless waves. This classic technique creates red carpet worthy volume that pairs beautifully with elegant outfits and statement jewelry.
Bouncy Beach Waves
Bouncy beach waves offer effortless charm that’s perfect for casual nights out and relaxed gatherings. We create this carefree style by applying texturizing spray to damp hair for that coveted beachy texture. Scrunching the hair while air drying or using a diffuser attachment helps enhance natural wave patterns.
Mermaid waves provide a longer, looser variation that delivers relaxed sophistication with minimal effort. These flowing waves work exceptionally well for outdoor events, dinner dates, and casual parties. Salt spray products enhance the natural texture while maintaining the light, airy feel that makes beach waves so appealing.
Tight Spiral Curls
Tight spiral curls create dramatic definition that adds bold personality to any going out ensemble. We form these structured curls using spiral curlers or small barrel curling irons for maximum curl definition. Each section requires careful wrapping technique to achieve uniform spiral patterns throughout the hair.
Securing the finished style with light hold hairspray maintains the curls’ shape and bounce during extended wear. These defined curls work beautifully for dancing, parties, and events where you want to make a statement. The structured nature of spiral curls provides lasting hold that keeps your hairstyle looking fresh from evening start to finish.
Elegant Updo Going Out Hairstyles
When we want to elevate our going out look with sophisticated elegance, updos offer the perfect solution that combines timeless style with modern glamour.
Low Chignon Bun
Low chignon buns create a classic foundation for any formal evening event. We gather our hair smoothly at the base of the neck, securing it into a sleek bun that adds instant sophistication to any outfit. This timeless style works beautifully with statement earrings since it keeps the neckline completely clear.
Styling this look requires smooth, brushed hair that we twist into a low ponytail before wrapping into a bun. We secure the chignon with bobby pins that match our hair color, ensuring they stay hidden throughout the night. Professional stylists recommend using a light hold hairspray to maintain the sleek finish without creating stiffness.
High Ballerina Bun
High ballerina buns position the hair higher on the head, creating a polished look that’s ideal for formal occasions. We smooth our hair into a high ponytail before twisting it into a tight, secure bun that sits at the crown. This elevated style pairs perfectly with sleek hairstyling techniques that emphasize the face.
Creating this sophisticated updo starts with applying smoothing serum to damp hair before blow drying it straight. We then gather all the hair into a high ponytail, twist it tightly, and wrap it around the base to form the bun. Multiple bobby pins ensure the style stays secure, while a finishing spray adds lasting hold and shine.
Twisted Side Updo
Twisted side updos involve twisting the hair to one side and securing it with bobby pins for a romantic, sophisticated appearance. We create this elegant style by parting our hair dramatically to one side before twisting sections away from the face. This technique adds visual interest while maintaining the refined elegance perfect for evening events.
Building this look requires sectioning our hair into manageable pieces that we twist individually before pinning them in place. We start with the front sections, twisting them back and securing them with bobby pins, then continue working through the remaining hair. Touch of romance comes from allowing a few soft pieces to frame the face while keeping the overall style polished and secure.
Braided Going Out Hairstyles
Braided hairstyles offer the perfect balance of intricate detail and effortless elegance for any night out. These versatile styles work beautifully for everything from casual dinner dates to formal celebrations.
Dutch Crown Braid
Dutch crown braids create stunning visual impact by crossing hair strands under instead of over during the braiding process. This technique produces a more textured and dimensional appearance that stands out beautifully under evening lighting. We love how this style adds instant sophistication to any outfit while keeping hair securely in place throughout the night.
Creating this look requires sectioning hair from ear to ear and working around the head in a circular pattern. The raised effect makes the braid appear to sit on top of the head like an elegant crown. This style works exceptionally well for special occasions where you want to make a memorable impression.
Side Fishtail Braid
Side fishtail braids deliver a wavy, fishbone pattern that appears intricate while remaining surprisingly simple to achieve. This technique involves crossing small sections of hair over each other repeatedly to create the signature texture. We find this style perfect for casual yet stylish nights out when you want something more interesting than a basic braid.
Starting the braid at one side of the head creates an asymmetrical look that adds visual interest and frames the face beautifully. The loose, romantic texture of fishtail braids photographs wonderfully and maintains its shape throughout long evenings. This versatile style transitions seamlessly from dinner reservations to late night dancing.
Braided Half-Up Style
Braided half up styles combine the best of both worlds by securing the top section while leaving the remaining hair loose and flowing. This approach creates beautiful contrast between the structured braided element and the free flowing lower portion. We recommend this style for its incredible versatility across different occasion types and outfit choices.
The braided section can be customized with various techniques including Dutch braids, regular three strand braids, or even small accent braids depending on your preference. Securing the style with decorative clips or hair ties adds extra glamour for evening events. This flexible approach allows you to dress the look up or down based on your exact plans for the night.
Half-Up Going Out Hairstyles
Half-up styles offer the perfect balance between polished elegance and relaxed charm, making them ideal choices for your next night out.
Half-Up Top Knot
This versatile style secures the top portion of your hair into a chic knot while leaving the remaining length to flow freely. We love how this look works beautifully for both casual dinner dates and formal evening events.
Creating this effortless style starts with sectioning hair from the crown to the top of your head. Secure this upper portion with a small elastic band, then loop the ponytail partially through to form a compact bun. Adjusting the bun by gently fanning it out creates a softer, more romantic appearance that flatters most face shapes.
Twisted Half-Up Style
Twisted sections add visual interest and texture to the classic half-up foundation, creating dimension that catches light beautifully. This sophisticated variation elevates your look without requiring advanced styling skills.
Gathering the top section of your hair provides the base for this elegant style. Twisting this section before securing it with a hair tie creates the signature spiral effect that makes this hairstyle stand out. Leave the remaining hair loose and styled according to your preference, whether straight, wavy, or naturally textured.
Half-Up with Curled Ends
Combining a structured half-up base with carefully curled ends delivers maximum sophistication for special occasions. This polished approach works exceptionally well for weddings, proms, or upscale evening events where you want to make a memorable impression.
Following the basic half-up technique creates your foundation, then using a curling iron on the loose ends adds that extra touch of glamour. Curling the ends in uniform sections ensures consistent bounce and movement throughout your hair. This refined finish transforms a simple half-up style into red-carpet worthy elegance that photographs beautifully under evening lighting.
Textured and Tousled Going Out Hairstyles
Sometimes we crave that effortlessly chic look that appears naturally undone yet perfectly styled. These textured and tousled hairstyles deliver exactly that relaxed sophistication.
Messy Lob with Texture
Messy lob with texture transforms your long bob into a voluminous masterpiece that’s perfect for casual outings. This low maintenance style adds instant dimension to flat hair while creating that coveted “I woke up like this” aesthetic. We love how the textured layers frame your face naturally without requiring hours of styling time.
Creating this look requires just a few key products and techniques. Start with texturizing spray on damp hair to build foundation volume. Apply the product from mid length to ends, avoiding your roots to prevent weighing down your hair. Scrunch sections while blow drying to enhance your hair’s natural movement and create those perfectly imperfect waves.
Finishing touches make all the difference for long lasting texture. Gently tousle your hair with your fingers once it’s completely dry. Add texturizing powder at your roots for extra lift and separation. This creates that effortless bounce that makes the messy lob so irresistibly stylish.
Tousled Pixie Cut
Tousled pixie cuts bring rebellious flair to short hair while maintaining sophisticated charm. The artfully disheveled layers create dimension and movement that elevates this classic cut beyond basic styling. We find this look particularly stunning because it combines edginess with undeniable elegance.
Styling your tousled pixie requires the right products for hold without stiffness. Apply light hold styling product to slightly damp hair, focusing on the ends and any layers that need definition. Work the product through with your fingers rather than a brush to maintain that naturally messy texture. This technique prevents the over styled appearance that can make pixie cuts look too rigid.
Creating the perfect amount of dishevelment takes practice but delivers incredible results. Use your fingers to lift sections at the roots while the product sets. Twist small pieces randomly to create that piecey, undone finish that makes tousled pixies so captivating. The key lies in strategic imperfection that looks intentional yet effortless.
Shaggy Layers with Movement
Shaggy layers with movement frame your face beautifully while creating ever-changing texture throughout your hair. This cut features graduated layers that add bounce and body, making it ideal for achieving that coveted beachy or boho vibe. We appreciate how this style works with various hair lengths and face shapes.
Improving your shaggy layers starts with the right styling approach. Spray texture improving product throughout damp hair, concentrating on the mid lengths where your layers create the most movement. Scrunch sections while air drying or use a diffuser to maintain the natural wave pattern your layers create.
Finger styling brings out the best in shaggy layered cuts. Once your hair is dry, run your fingers through the layers to separate and define them. This creates that relaxed, tousled effect that makes shaggy layers so appealing. Avoid brushing once styled, as this can flatten the texture and reduce the ever-changing movement that makes this cut so striking.
Retro-Inspired Going Out Hairstyles
Vintage charm meets modern sophistication in these timeless hairstyles that’ll make you stand out at any event. Classic looks from past decades offer endless inspiration for creating stunning going out styles that never go out of fashion.
1960s Bouffant Style
Dramatic volume defines this iconic 1960s look that creates sky high glamour perfect for formal occasions. The bouffant features teased roots and impressive height that commands attention while maintaining elegant sophistication.
Creating the perfect bouffant starts with adding volume at the crown using clip in extensions or a halo extension for instant lift. Backcomb your roots gently to create texture and height before securing the extensions seamlessly into your natural hair.
Professional styling techniques ensure your bouffant stays picture perfect throughout the entire evening. Smooth the top layer over the teased sections and finish with strong hold hairspray to lock in the dramatic volume that makes this style so captivating.
Pin-Up Victory Rolls
Victory rolls bring classic pin up glamour to any going out look with their distinctive rolled sections that frame the face beautifully. This vintage favorite adds instant retro flair while keeping your hair elegantly styled and secure.
Achieving flawless victory rolls requires sectioning your hair strategically into manageable pieces before rolling each section into tight cylindrical shapes. Roll the hair away from your face and secure each roll with bobby pins placed strategically to maintain the shape.
Finishing touches make your victory rolls camera ready for any special occasion. Light hold hairspray preserves the rolls without making them stiff while allowing for natural movement that keeps the style looking effortlessly chic.
1970s Feathered Hair
Feathered hair channels the iconic style popularized by Farrah Fawcett with its layered texture and wispy movement that creates stunning dimension. This timeless look combines volume with natural flow for a sophisticated yet carefree appearance.
Layered cuts form the foundation of authentic feathered hair that captures the essence of 1970s glamour. The strategic layers create natural movement and texture that gives hair its signature feathery appearance without requiring excessive styling.
Volumizing products enhance the feathered effect by adding lift and definition to each layer. Apply volumizing spray or mousse to damp hair before blow drying with a round brush to achieve the textured movement that makes this retro style so captivating for modern going out looks.
Accessorized Going Out Hairstyles
Transform your evening look with strategically chosen accessories that elevate any hairstyle from ordinary to extraordinary. These accessorized styles combine classic techniques with eye-catching elements to create unforgettable going-out looks.
Headband Glamour Styles
Padded headbands create a bold and slightly regal appearance that’s perfect for making a statement at upscale events. This accessory trend draws inspiration from early 2000s runways and vintage 1960s influence, offering a timeless yet contemporary feel. We recommend pairing these dramatic headbands with sleek updos or loose waves to achieve maximum impact.
Classic preppy headbands work beautifully with streamlined outfits like well-cut dresses or simple jeans and tees. Fashion experts suggest letting the headband take center stage by keeping your outfit minimal and polished. The key is balance – when your headband makes a statement, your clothing should provide a clean backdrop.
Vintage-inspired headbands channel sophisticated elegance while maintaining modern appeal. These accessories pair seamlessly with both casual and formal hairstyles, making them incredibly versatile for various occasions. Position them slightly back from your hairline to create flattering lift and dimension around your face.
Hair Clip Accent Looks
Flip clips and barrettes add instant texture and visual interest to any hairstyle. These versatile accessories secure half-up styles beautifully while adding sparkle to ponytails and adorning elegant buns. Choose clips that complement your outfit’s theme to create a cohesive, polished appearance.
Decorative bobby pins transform simple styles into sophisticated looks when strategically placed throughout your hair. We suggest using them to secure loose pieces in updos or create geometric patterns along the side of sleek styles. Metallic finishes work particularly well for evening events.
Statement hair clips serve as functional jewelry that elevates everyday hairstyles into special occasion looks. These pieces work especially well in wavy half-up styles where they can catch light and create movement. Select clips with crystals or pearls for formal events, or choose colorful enamel pieces for casual nights out.
Statement Hair Jewelry Styles
Ornate hair pins create dramatic focal points in updo hairstyles and intricate braids. These pieces feature beaded details, metallic accents, or crystal embellishments that catch light beautifully. We recommend clustering multiple pins together for maximum visual impact, especially in low chignons or twisted side updos.
Beaded hair strands weave seamlessly through loose locks and braided styles to add texture and glamour. These delicate accessories work particularly well in bohemian-inspired looks or when you want to add subtle sparkle without overwhelming your overall style. Thread them through Dutch crown braids or fishtail braids for stunning results.
Metallic hair bands offer a bold alternative to traditional headbands with their sculptural appeal. These statement pieces work beautifully with sleek low buns or high ballerina buns, creating an editorial look that’s perfect for fashion-forward events. Choose gold tones for warm skin undertones or silver for cooler complexions.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything from sleek straight styles to voluminous curls retro-inspired looks and accessorized glamour. Each hairstyle we’ve shared offers its own unique way to transform your everyday look into something truly special for your next night out.
The key is finding styles that match both your hair type and the occasion you’re attending. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of an updo the playful charm of braided styles or the effortless appeal of tousled textures there’s a perfect look waiting for you.
Remember that the best going-out hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. With these techniques and tips at your fingertips you’re ready to create stunning looks that’ll have you stepping out with complete confidence every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best sleek and straight hairstyles for going out?
The top sleek and straight styles include the classic center part straight hair for timeless glamour, side-swept straight hair for added drama, and pin straight hair with face framing layers. These styles work well for dinner dates and cocktail parties, offering sophistication and elegance while being relatively easy to achieve at home.
How can I create voluminous curly hairstyles for special occasions?
Three standout curly styles are Hollywood glam curls for formal events, bouncy beach waves for casual nights, and tight spiral curls for bold personality. Use specific styling products, curling tools, and techniques like scrunching to achieve lasting hold and definition. Each style brings natural texture and stunning volume to your look.
What are the most elegant updo hairstyles for formal events?
The best elegant updos include the low chignon bun for classic formal events, the high ballerina bun for polished occasions, and the twisted side updo for romantic elegance. These styles combine timeless appeal with modern glamour, keeping your hair secure while creating a sophisticated appearance perfect for special occasions.
How do I create beautiful braided hairstyles for nights out?
Popular braided styles include the Dutch crown braid for stunning visual impact, the side fishtail braid with its distinctive fishbone pattern, and the braided half-up style for versatility. These hairstyles blend intricate detail with effortless elegance, offering both security and style while being achievable for most skill levels.
What are the best half-up hairstyles for going out?
Top half-up styles include the half-up top knot for chic versatility, the twisted half-up for added texture, and half-up with curled ends for glamour. These hairstyles strike the perfect balance between polished elegance and relaxed charm, working well for both casual and formal events while enhancing your confidence.
How can I achieve effortlessly chic textured hairstyles?
Key textured styles include the messy lob with volume, tousled pixie cuts with rebellious flair, and shaggy layers with movement. Use texturizing spray, scrunching techniques, and finger styling to create that perfectly imperfect look. These styles deliver an effortlessly chic appearance that’s both sophisticated and relaxed.
What retro-inspired hairstyles work well for modern going-out looks?
Popular retro styles include the dramatic 1960s bouffant with impressive height, classic pin-up victory rolls for elegant face framing, and 1970s feathered hair for layered texture. These vintage-inspired looks blend nostalgic charm with modern sophistication, creating unique styles that stand out at any event.
How can hair accessories enhance my going-out hairstyle?
Strategic accessories like padded headbands make bold statements, while classic preppy headbands streamline outfits. Hair clip accents, decorative bobby pins, and statement hair jewelry like ornate pins and beaded strands add texture and visual interest. These accessories can transform simple hairstyles into glamorous, eye-catching looks.
