(Beauty)

The Right Way To Do Your Hair For A Big Night Out

by Kristi Mikesky

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.

Photo: Getty Images

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.

Photo: Getty Images

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.

Photo: Getty Images

Amy Adams' Brushed-Out Waves

A hairstyle spotted regularly on the red carpet, soft, brushed-out waves add easy elegance to an evening ensemble.

Photo: Getty Images

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.

Photo: Getty Images

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.

Photo: Getty Images

Kate Hudson's Donut Bun

Channel your inner ballerina and rock a simple, low bun that mimics the shape of a donut.

Photo: Getty Images

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.

Photo: Getty Images

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