Forget the so-shellacked-it’s-crunchy updo or dated, prom-esque styles of days past—there are so many new and improved waves to wear your hair for a major occasion. Whether you prefer to keep your locks long and flowing or perfectly secured in place, these standout celebrity looks will inspire your next night-out ‘do. Get ready to knock ’em dead you smoke show you.
Rihanna's Rapunzel Braid
Rock a Rapunzel-style side braid (with cascading plaits framing your face if you feel so inclined) with dazzling statement earrings.
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Emily Blunt's French-Twist Updo
Create two French braids on either side of a middle part and fashion into a low bun at the nape of the neck.
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Cara Delevingne's Undercut Braid
For an edgy-meets-romantic look, start with a deep side-part and create a tight braid with half of your hair. Curl the remaining loose locks for a cascading effect.
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Amy Adams' Brushed-Out Waves
A hairstyle spotted regularly on the red carpet, soft, brushed-out waves add easy elegance to an evening ensemble.
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Blake Lively's Retro Curls
Defined, retro-inspired waves swept to one side lend Veronica Lake-esque glamour to your look.
Photo: Getty Images
Diane Kruger's Bohemian Updo
To channel your inner flower child, leave a curled, front section of hair loose and sweep the rest into a low bun or ponytail. Finish with a floral headpiece or—if you're feeling ambitious—a real bundle of fresh blossoms.
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Kerry Washington's High Bun
Gather hair into a high bun that peeks just over the top of your head. The key is to keep it sleek but not stiff.
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Kate Hudson's Donut Bun
Channel your inner ballerina and rock a simple, low bun that mimics the shape of a donut.
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Anne V's Milkmaid Bun
Rather than going for a full milkmaid braid, feign the effect by sporting a coiled updo. To soften the look, leave a few face-framing layers loose at the front.
Photo: Getty Images
Charlize Theron's Side-Swept Bangs
Pretty pin-curled bangs (or layers) are elegant and timeless. Try the style with a deep side-part, and up the glam factor by adding your favorite sparkly studs.
Photo: Courtesy of Dior
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's Wraparound Bun
Add a modern twist to a super-sleek low bun by wrapping a section of hair around the base (this also conceals any visible pins or elastics). Fasten loose ends under the bun to clean up the look.
Photo: Ryan Kobane/BFAnyc.com
Lucy Hale's Teased Ponytail
After curling hair, add volume to a low ponytail by teasing at the crown and throughout the layers. Word to the wise: Texture spray is your friend here.
Photo: Getty Images
Reese Witherspoon's Romantic Ponytail
You can't go wrong with a classic, sleek ponytail. Curl the ends and wrap a small section of hair around the base to add a little nighttime zhush.
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Dakota Johnson's Bombshell Bangs
Play up chic, full fringe by sweeping the rest of your hair into a high ponytail. When paired with a beautiful evening gown, the look is easy and effortless.
Photo: Getty Images
Ashley Olsen's Half-Updo
Can't decide to go up or down with your hairstyle? Get the best of both worlds with a modern half-updo style.
Photo: Getty Images
Reese Witherspoon's Simple & Sleek Locks
No one ever said you had to wear your hair up or in curls for a big event. When teamed with a standout ensemble that's heavy on jewelry, sleek locks do the trick—no additional bells and whistles necessary.
Photo: Getty Images
Diane Kruger's Twisted Curls
Twist and secure random sections of curled hair away from the face for a sweet, romantic and easy-to-achieve hairstyle. (Note: It does not have to look perfect.)
Photo: Getty Images
