27 Classy Formal Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair With Bangs

Finding the perfect formal hairstyle can transform your entire look, especially when you’re working with medium-length hair and bangs.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, gala, corporate event, or special evening out, the right hairstyle elevates your confidence and complements your formal attire beautifully.

Medium-length hair with bangs offers a sweet spot of versatility—long enough to create elegant updos and intricate styles, yet manageable enough to style without overwhelming effort.

This comprehensive guide to 27 Classy Formal Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair With Bangs will walk you through stunning options ranging from romantic curls and sophisticated updos to sleek modern styles and vintage-inspired looks.

Each hairstyle has been carefully selected to work harmoniously with bangs while maintaining that polished, formal aesthetic you’re seeking.

You’ll discover step-by-step approaches, styling tips, and creative variations that suit different face shapes, hair textures, and personal preferences.

Whether your bangs are blunt, side-swept, curtain-style, or wispy, you’ll find multiple elegant solutions that showcase your facial features while keeping your hair beautifully styled throughout your event.

1. Classic French Twist with Side-Swept Bangs

The timeless French twist remains one of the most sophisticated formal hairstyles, offering effortless elegance that works beautifully with medium-length hair.

When paired with side-swept bangs, this style creates a balanced asymmetry that’s both modern and classic.

• This hairstyle works by gathering all your hair to one side and twisting it upward into a vertical roll that sits at the back of your head.
• The side-swept bangs add softness to the structured updo, preventing the look from appearing too severe or dated.
• Medium-length hair is ideal for this style because it provides enough length to create a substantial twist without excess bulk.
• Secure the twist with bobby pins placed vertically along the seam, ensuring they catch both the twist and the hair underneath.
• Apply a smoothing serum before styling to eliminate frizz and create that polished, red-carpet-ready finish.
• This style suits oval, heart-shaped, and square face shapes particularly well by drawing attention upward and elongating the neck.
• For added glamour, incorporate a decorative hair comb or jeweled pins along the twist.

2. Romantic Low Bun with Curtain Bangs

The romantic low bun creates a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic perfect for weddings, proms, and garden parties. Curtain bangs frame the face beautifully while maintaining the soft, romantic vibe.

• Begin by creating loose waves throughout your hair using a large-barrel curling iron to add texture and volume.
• Part your curtain bangs naturally in the center, allowing them to fall gently on either side of your face.
• Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, leaving a few face-framing pieces loose for a softer effect.
• Twist the gathered hair loosely and wrap it into a low bun, securing with pins while maintaining the relaxed, undone quality.
• Pull out small sections around the bun to create dimension and a slightly messy, romantic texture.
• This style works exceptionally well for round and square face shapes as the curtain bangs create vertical lines that elongate.
• Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the style in place while preserving movement.

3. Sleek Low Ponytail with Blunt Bangs

The sleek low ponytail offers modern sophistication with a minimalist edge, particularly striking when combined with sharp, blunt bangs.

• This contemporary style emphasizes clean lines and polished finish, making it perfect for corporate galas and modern formal events.
• Start with straightened hair using a flat iron to achieve maximum sleekness and shine.
• Apply a smoothing cream from roots to ends, focusing on eliminating any flyaways or texture.
• Brush hair straight back or create a deep side part, then secure at the nape with a covered elastic.
• Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it and elevate the polished appearance.
• Blunt bangs should be styled pin-straight across the forehead, creating a bold, fashion-forward statement.
• This style is ideal for those with thick hair as it showcases the hair’s density and healthy appearance.

4. Half-Up Twisted Crown with Wispy Bangs

The half-up twisted crown combines the elegance of an updo with the youthful appeal of flowing hair, creating a balanced formal look.

• This versatile style works beautifully for both daytime and evening formal events, offering romantic sophistication.
• Take two-inch sections from each side of your head at temple level, twist them backward toward the crown.
• Secure the twists together at the back of your head with bobby pins, creating a crown effect.
• Leave wispy bangs soft and piece-y across your forehead for a delicate, feminine touch.
• The remaining hair flows freely down your back, which can be styled with loose curls or waves for added elegance.
• This style suits all face shapes and is particularly flattering for those wanting to showcase facial features while maintaining hair presence.
• Add small floral pins or pearl accessories along the twisted sections for enhanced formal appeal.

5. Vintage Victory Rolls with Side Bangs

Victory rolls bring Old Hollywood glamour to modern formal occasions, creating a distinctive retro-inspired statement with undeniable elegance.

• This 1940s-inspired style works beautifully for themed events, vintage weddings, or anyone wanting to make a memorable impression.
• Section off the front portions of hair on each side, leaving your side bangs separate and swept to one side.
• Roll each front section upward and inward toward the crown, creating the characteristic roll shape.
• Secure each roll with bobby pins and hairspray, ensuring they’re symmetrical and firmly in place.
• The remaining medium-length hair can be styled in waves, curls, or even incorporated into an updo at the back.
• Side bangs should be styled in a smooth, sweeping curve that complements the vintage aesthetic.
• This bold style suits confident individuals and works particularly well with bold red lips and winged eyeliner for complete vintage glamour.

6. Braided Low Chignon with Face-Framing Bangs

The braided low chignon adds textural interest to a classic updo, combining intricate detail with timeless elegance.

• This sophisticated style is perfect for formal weddings, black-tie events, and occasions requiring refined polish.
• Create a three-strand braid or fishtail braid with your medium-length hair, leaving your bangs free to frame your face.
• Coil the completed braid into a low bun at the nape of your neck, tucking the end underneath.
• Secure the chignon with bobby pins placed strategically throughout to ensure stability.
• Face-framing bangs should be styled with gentle curves or waves that soften the structured updo.
• This style showcases the nape of the neck beautifully, making it ideal for displaying statement earrings or necklaces.
• Pull gently at the braid sections before coiling to create a fuller, more dimensional appearance.

7. Side-Swept Waves with Pinned Bangs

Side-swept waves create dramatic asymmetry and Old Hollywood appeal, while pinned bangs add a unique decorative element.

• This glamorous style works beautifully for red carpet events, galas, and formal evenings where you want to make a statement.
• Create deep waves throughout your medium-length hair using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers.
• Sweep all hair dramatically to one side, securing behind the ear with decorative pins or bobby pins.
• Style your bangs by creating a smooth wave or curl, then pin them back with jeweled or pearl bobby pins.
• The pinned-back bangs reveal your forehead while adding a decorative element that catches light beautifully.
• This style is particularly flattering for those with strong cheekbones or angular features you want to showcase.
• Use a strong-hold hairspray on the pinned side to prevent hair from falling forward throughout the evening.

8. Textured Updo with Swept-Back Bangs

The textured updo offers contemporary sophistication with deliberately imperfect styling that feels fresh and modern.

• This fashion-forward style works perfectly for art gallery openings, modern weddings, and creative formal events.
• Tease your medium-length hair at the crown to create volume and lift before gathering it back.
• Create loose sections and twist them randomly, pinning them into a loosely structured updo at the back of the head.
• Sweep your bangs back and incorporate them into the updo or pin them smoothly to one side.
• The key to this style is embracing texture—don’t aim for perfection but rather artful, intentional messiness.
• Pull out small wispy pieces around the hairline to soften the look and create a lived-in, effortless appearance.
• This style suits all hair types but works particularly well for those with naturally wavy or textured hair.

9. Low Twisted Ponytail with Middle-Part Bangs

The low twisted ponytail adds dimension to a simple silhouette, while middle-part bangs create symmetry and modern appeal.

• This elegant yet understated style is perfect for business formal events, dinner parties, and sophisticated occasions.
• Part your hair down the middle, allowing your bangs to fall naturally on each side.
• Divide your hair into two equal sections and twist each section loosely toward the back.
• Combine both twisted sections at the nape and secure with an elastic, allowing the twists to maintain their shape.
• The twisted texture adds visual interest without requiring complex braiding techniques.
• This style works well for fine to medium hair density, as the twisting creates the illusion of fuller, thicker hair.
• Accessorize with a silk ribbon tied around the elastic for added elegance and a touch of color.

10. Vintage Finger Waves with Short Bangs

Finger waves deliver pure vintage glamour with sculptural beauty that turns heads at any formal gathering.

• This 1920s-inspired style requires patience and technique but creates an unforgettable formal look that’s truly show-stopping.
• Apply generous styling gel to damp hair and create S-shaped waves using your fingers and a fine-tooth comb.
• Form each wave deliberately, pinning them in place with metal clips until completely dry.
• Style short bangs into the wave pattern, creating a seamless flow from bangs to the rest of the hair.
• This style works best on medium-length hair that’s all one length or has minimal layers.
• The sculptural nature of finger waves makes this ideal for Gatsby-themed events, vintage proms, or retro weddings.
• Once dry and set, brush through very gently or leave the waves defined for maximum vintage impact.

11. Elegant Gibson Tuck with Side Bangs

The Gibson tuck creates a romantic, Edwardian-inspired updo that’s surprisingly easy to achieve with medium-length hair.

• This timeless style has been favored for over a century, offering vintage elegance that’s perfect for traditional formal events.
• Create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, leaving side bangs free to sweep across your forehead.
• Tease the ponytail slightly to add volume, then roll it upward and tuck it into a horizontal pocket created above the elastic.
• Secure the tuck with bobby pins inserted horizontally through the fold, catching the hair underneath.
• Side bangs should be styled with a gentle wave or curve that flows naturally with the romantic updo.
• This style beautifully showcases the neck and shoulders, making it ideal for wearing with statement necklaces or backless gowns.
• Add small flowers, pearls, or vintage hair combs along the tuck for enhanced Victorian-inspired elegance.

12. Sleek High Ponytail with Blunt Micro Bangs

The high ponytail exudes modern confidence and sophistication, especially when paired with fashion-forward micro bangs.

• This bold contemporary style makes a strong statement at fashion-forward formal events and modern celebrations.
• Straighten all hair completely using a flat iron, including your micro bangs styled blunt across the forehead.
• Brush hair upward to the crown, pulling tightly to create a sleek, lifted ponytail.
• Secure with a strong elastic, then wrap a small section of hair around it to conceal the elastic.
• Apply shine serum throughout the length of the ponytail to maximize glossy, healthy appearance.
• Micro bangs should be cut and styled straight across, typically hitting mid-forehead for that bold, editorial look.
• This style suits those with strong bone structure and confidence to carry such a distinctive, high-fashion statement.

13. Romantic Braided Crown with Curtain Bangs

The braided crown creates a bohemian-meets-formal aesthetic that’s both ethereal and elegant for special occasions.

• This whimsical style works beautifully for outdoor weddings, garden parties, and romantic formal celebrations.
• Part your curtain bangs naturally in the center, allowing them to frame your face softly.
• Create two braids starting from behind each ear, working your way around the crown of your head.
• Meet the braids at the back and secure them together, tucking the ends underneath for a seamless finish.
• The braided crown sits like a natural halo, creating a feminine, goddess-like appearance.
• Pull gently at the braided sections to create a fuller, more voluminous crown effect.
• This style suits medium-length hair perfectly as it provides enough length to create substantial braids without excess weight.

14. Asymmetrical Updo with Side-Swept Bangs

The asymmetrical updo offers modern sophistication with artistic flair, creating visual interest through deliberate imbalance.

• This contemporary style is perfect for fashion-forward individuals attending modern formal events and creative celebrations.
• Sweep all your hair dramatically to one side, incorporating your side-swept bangs into the asymmetrical design.
• Create loose twists, loops, and tucks on the favored side, building an organic, sculptural shape.
• Secure each element with bobby pins, ensuring the structure feels secure yet maintains its artfully imperfect appearance.
• The exposed side showcases your neck and ear, making this ideal for displaying statement earrings.
• This style works particularly well for those with strong jawlines or distinctive facial features worth highlighting.
• Balance the asymmetry with makeup by keeping one side more dramatic to complement the off-center hairstyle.

15. Voluminous Curls with Pinned-Back Bangs

Voluminous curls create classic Hollywood glamour while pinned-back bangs add a fresh, face-opening twist to traditional styling.

• This timeless style works for virtually any formal occasion, from proms to weddings to black-tie galas.
• Create large, bouncy curls throughout your medium-length hair using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers.
• Allow curls to cool completely before gently separating them with your fingers for maximum volume.
• Take your bangs section and create a smooth wave or roll, then pin it back with decorative bobby pins.
• The pinned-back bangs open up your face while the voluminous curls create dramatic, glamorous presence.
• This style suits all face shapes and is particularly flattering for those wanting to emphasize their eyes and cheekbones.
• Use volumizing mousse at the roots before curling to ensure lasting lift and body throughout the evening.

16. Low Braided Bun with Wispy Bangs

The low braided bun combines intricate detail with understated elegance, creating a refined look perfect for sophisticated formal affairs.

• This versatile style works beautifully for weddings, formal dinners, and any occasion requiring polished sophistication.
• Create one or multiple braids with your medium-length hair, leaving wispy bangs free to frame your face delicately.
• Coil the braids into a low bun positioned at the nape of your neck, securing with bobby pins.
• The braided texture adds dimension and interest to what might otherwise be a simple bun.
• Style wispy bangs with light, piece-y texture that softens your forehead without overwhelming your features.
• This style sits low and secure, making it comfortable for long events and active celebrations like dancing.
• Add small pearl or crystal pins throughout the bun for subtle sparkle that catches light beautifully.

17. Retro Beehive with Side Bangs

The beehive delivers maximum vintage drama with towering height and undeniable retro glamour perfect for making a statement.

• This iconic 1960s style has experienced numerous comebacks and remains a bold choice for theme events and confident fashionistas.
• Tease your medium-length hair extensively at the crown and throughout, creating the volume foundation for the beehive shape.
• Smooth the outer layer of hair over the teased foundation, creating a dome shape that sits high on the head.
• Secure the structure with bobby pins placed vertically throughout, ensuring stability for extended wear.
• Style side bangs in a smooth sweep that complements the retro aesthetic and frames one side of your face.
• This dramatic style pairs beautifully with cat-eye makeup and bold lip colors for complete 1960s glamour.
• The beehive works best on medium to thick hair density that can support the dramatic height and structure.

18. Elegant Chignon with Middle-Part Bangs

The classic chignon epitomizes timeless sophistication, offering refined elegance that never goes out of style for formal occasions.

• This traditional updo works for the most formal events, including black-tie galas, traditional weddings, and corporate celebrations.
• Part your hair down the middle, allowing your bangs to fall naturally and symmetrically on each side.
• Gather your medium-length hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a compact, neat bun.
• Smooth every strand into place using a fine-tooth comb and strong-hold gel for maximum polish.
• Secure the chignon with bobby pins placed strategically throughout to ensure it stays perfect all evening.
• Middle-part bangs create perfect symmetry that emphasizes balanced beauty and classical proportions.
• This style showcases elegant simplicity, allowing your dress, jewelry, and natural beauty to take center stage.

19. Textured Side Braid with Face-Framing Bangs

The textured side braid offers bohemian elegance with relaxed sophistication that feels fresh and modern for formal events.

• This romantic style works wonderfully for outdoor weddings, beach formal events, and celebrations with natural, organic themes.
• Create a loose side part, allowing face-framing bangs to fall naturally around your features.
• Sweep all hair to one side and create a loose, textured braid incorporating different braiding techniques.
• Pull gently at each section of the braid to create dimension, fullness, and that deliberately undone appearance.
• The braid drapes over one shoulder, creating an asymmetrical, romantic silhouette.
• Face-framing bangs should be styled with soft waves or gentle curves that complement the relaxed aesthetic.
• This style suits all hair types but is particularly beautiful on naturally wavy or textured medium-length hair.

20. Polished Top Knot with Blunt Bangs

The top knot offers modern minimalism with ballet-inspired elegance, creating a clean, contemporary formal look.

• This sophisticated style works beautifully for modern weddings, art gallery events, and minimalist formal occasions.
• Style your blunt bangs straight across your forehead with precision and clean lines.
• Gather your medium-length hair into a high ponytail positioned at the crown of your head.
• Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around its base, creating a compact, neat knot.
• Secure the top knot with bobby pins and apply strong-hold hairspray to maintain its polished appearance.
• This style emphasizes your neck, shoulders, and facial features, making it ideal for showcasing statement earrings.
• The combination of sleek top knot and blunt bangs creates a fashion-forward, editorial aesthetic perfect for modern formal wear.

21. Romantic Waterfall Braid with Curtain Bangs

The waterfall braid creates cascading beauty with intricate detail that’s both romantic and eye-catching for special occasions.

• This stunning style works perfectly for outdoor weddings, proms, and any romantic formal celebration requiring show-stopping hair.
• Part your curtain bangs naturally in the center, styling them to frame your face beautifully.
• Begin a waterfall braid on one side by creating a regular braid but dropping the bottom strand with each cross-over.
• Pick up new sections as you work around your head, creating the characteristic waterfall effect with cascading strands.
• The dropped strands can be curled or left natural, flowing through the braid like a waterfall.
• This intricate style showcases your hairstyling skills while maintaining a soft, feminine appearance.
• Complete the look with flowers or small jeweled pins woven through the braid for enhanced romantic appeal.

22. Sleek Wrap-Around Ponytail with Side Bangs

The wrap-around ponytail adds sophistication to a classic silhouette with the elegant detail of hair concealing the elastic.

• This polished style offers refined simplicity perfect for corporate formal events, sophisticated dinners, and elegant celebrations.
• Create a side part and style your side bangs in a smooth curve across your forehead.
• Gather your medium-length hair into a low or mid-height ponytail, securing it with a strong elastic.
• Take a small section from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic, securing the end underneath with a bobby pin.
• This simple detail elevates the ponytail from casual to formal instantly.
• Apply smoothing cream throughout to eliminate flyaways and create a sleek, polished finish.
• This style works well for all hair types and is particularly practical for long events requiring reliable, comfortable styling.

23. Twisted Halo Updo with Wispy Bangs

The twisted halo updo creates an angelic, romantic appearance with ethereal beauty perfect for enchanting formal occasions.

• This heavenly style works wonderfully for weddings, garden parties, and any celebration where you want to channel goddess-like elegance.
• Leave your wispy bangs free to create soft, delicate framing around your face.
• Section your medium-length hair and create multiple twisted sections working around your head like a halo.
• Pin each twisted section securely, building the halo shape that crowns your head beautifully.
• Tuck any remaining ends underneath the halo for a seamless, finished appearance.
• This style sits high on the head, creating an elongating effect that’s flattering for most face shapes.
• Add baby’s breath, small flowers, or pearl pins throughout the halo for enhanced romantic, bridal-inspired beauty.

24. Vintage Pin Curls with Blunt Bangs

Pin curls deliver authentic vintage glamour with retro sophistication that creates a distinctive formal look full of Old Hollywood charm.

• This 1940s-inspired style requires dedication but creates stunning results perfect for vintage-themed formal events and retro celebrations.
• Style your blunt bangs sleek and straight across your forehead for bold, period-appropriate framing.
• Create tight pin curls throughout your medium-length hair, securing each curl flat against your head with bobby pins.
• Allow the pin curls to set completely (ideally overnight) before carefully removing the pins.
• Gently brush through the curls or leave them more defined depending on your desired vintage intensity.
• The resulting waves and curls have a distinctive sculptural quality that’s unmistakably retro and glamorous.
• Pair this style with red lipstick, winged eyeliner, and vintage-inspired formal wear for complete period authenticity.

25. Messy Low Bun with Middle-Part Bangs

The messy low bun offers effortless elegance with deliberately undone styling that feels current and casually sophisticated.

• This popular modern style works for both formal and semi-formal occasions, offering versatility and contemporary appeal.
• Part your hair down the middle, allowing your bangs to fall naturally and symmetrically.
• Gather your medium-length hair loosely at the nape without smoothing it perfectly.
• Twist and wrap the hair into a loose, textured bun, leaving pieces intentionally escaping for that messy aesthetic.
• Pull out face-framing pieces and gently loosen the bun to create that sought-after undone appearance.
• This style embraces texture and imperfection, making it ideal for those with naturally wavy or textured hair.
• The casual elegance works beautifully for modern weddings, informal galas, and fashion-forward formal events.

26. Elegant Side Chignon with Face-Framing Bangs

The side chignon creates asymmetrical elegance with romantic sophistication perfect for formal celebrations and special evenings.

• This graceful style offers a fresh twist on the traditional chignon by positioning it to one side for contemporary appeal.
• Style your face-framing bangs with soft waves or curls that complement the romantic side-swept aesthetic.
• Sweep all your medium-length hair to one side, gathering it near or behind your ear.
• Twist the gathered hair and coil it into a neat bun, securing with bobby pins placed strategically throughout.
• The asymmetrical placement creates visual interest and showcases one side of your neck beautifully.
• This style works wonderfully for displaying statement earrings on the exposed side.
• Add a decorative hair comb, fresh flowers, or vintage brooch to the chignon for enhanced elegance.

27. Braided Updo with Swept-Back Bangs

The braided updo combines intricate braiding with elegant structure, creating a complex formal style that’s truly show-stopping.

• This elaborate style is perfect for the most formal occasions including weddings, galas, and events where you want maximum impact.
• Sweep your bangs back smoothly, incorporating them into the overall braided design or pinning them sleekly to one side.
• Create multiple braids of varying sizes throughout your medium-length hair, working with different braiding techniques.
• Pin the braids into an updo structure at the back of your head, creating layers and dimension with the interwoven braids.
• The complexity of multiple braids creates incredible texture and visual interest that photographs beautifully.
• This style showcases advanced hairstyling skills and may require professional assistance for best results.
• The intricate detail means minimal jewelry is needed, as the hairstyle itself becomes a statement piece.

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Conclusion

Throughout this comprehensive guide to 27 Classy Formal Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair With Bangs, you’ve discovered an extensive range of elegant styling options that prove medium-length hair with bangs offers remarkable versatility for formal occasions.

From timeless classics like the French twist and chignon to contemporary favorites like messy buns and textured updos, each hairstyle brings its own unique charm and sophisticated appeal.

Whether you gravitate toward vintage glamour with victory rolls and finger waves, romantic aesthetics with braided crowns and waterfall braids, or modern minimalism with sleek ponytails and top knots, there’s a perfect formal hairstyle waiting to complement your personal style, face shape, and the specific event you’re attending.

The key to achieving these looks successfully lies in understanding your hair’s texture, practicing the techniques beforehand, and using quality styling products to ensure your hairstyle remains flawless throughout your event.

Your bangs—whether blunt, side-swept, curtain-style, or wispy—add personality and distinction to each style while beautifully framing your face.

Remember that the most elegant formal hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and authentically yourself.

With these twenty-seven options and the styling guidance provided, you’re now equipped to create stunning formal looks that will turn heads and leave lasting impressions at your next special occasion.