23 Red Carpet Inspired Hairstyles Glam
Looking for a glamorous makeover or need inspiration for your next big event? Red carpet hairstyles are the epitome of elegance and sophistication, and they can bring out your inner celebrity.
Whether you’re attending a formal event, a wedding, or simply want to indulge in a luxurious look, these hairstyles will make you feel like you’re walking down the red carpet.
From sleek and chic to voluminous waves, we’ve curated 23 red carpet-inspired hairstyles that will give you the glam factor you need. Get ready to turn heads and step into the spotlight with these stunning looks!
1. Hollywood Glam Waves

Hollywood glam waves are timeless and always exude an air of sophistication. These soft, voluminous curls create a luxurious look that’s perfect for any elegant occasion.
For a flawless red carpet look, start by curling your hair with a large barrel curling iron, then gently brush through to create smooth, flowing waves. Finish the look with a shiny hairspray to keep those curls intact all night.
This hairstyle is ideal for both short and long hair and pairs beautifully with bold makeup looks, such as a classic red lip.
Whether you’re attending a formal event or a party, Hollywood glam waves will make you feel like a movie star. They work especially well with a deep side part, adding a touch of drama and refinement.
2. Sleek Low Bun

The sleek low bun is the epitome of elegance, a hairstyle often seen on red carpets and at high-end events. To create this look, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, smooth it out with a comb, and twist it into a low, tight bun. Use a generous amount of hairspray to keep everything in place, and tuck any loose strands neatly.
This hairstyle is perfect for showcasing statement earrings or a dramatic neckline. It’s ideal for a sophisticated event or even a glamorous wedding, giving off a polished and chic vibe. You can also add a decorative hairpin or small accessory to give the bun an extra touch of glamour.
3. Soft Beach Waves

Soft beach waves are a fantastic option if you’re looking for something effortlessly chic and relaxed. This hairstyle is all about creating natural-looking waves with a subtle, carefree vibe.
Use a curling iron with a smaller barrel to add texture, and finish with a salt spray to enhance the beachy, tousled look.
Perfect for more casual red carpet events or a glamorous night out, soft beach waves suit every hair length and work well for any occasion.
This style complements a light makeup look and can be paired with a flowy dress or a chic cocktail outfit, giving you a laid-back yet elegant vibe.
4. Braided Crown

The braided crown is a romantic and regal hairstyle, often spotted on the red carpet. This look features two braids, one on each side of the head, that are wrapped around to meet at the top, creating a crown-like effect. You can opt for a loose, messy braid or a sleek, neat version depending on the desired level of glamour.
This hairstyle is perfect for events like weddings, galas, or any occasion where you want to feel like royalty. It’s elegant, sophisticated, and versatile, working well with any type of dress. A few loose tendrils around the face can soften the look, adding a delicate touch of femininity.
5. Side Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are both seductive and glamorous, offering a bold, yet elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for red carpet events.
To create this look, curl your hair in loose waves, then sweep the hair to one side, securing it with a bobby pin behind the ear. Let the curls flow freely, offering a mix of volume and movement.
This hairstyle is ideal for showing off bold jewelry, especially earrings, and complements a more dramatic makeup look. It works perfectly with a strapless or off-the-shoulder dress, creating a classic Hollywood glam vibe.
The beauty of side-swept curls is their versatility; they can be styled for both casual and formal occasions.
6. Chic Top Knot
The chic top knot is a trendy, high-fashion hairstyle that gives off an effortlessly chic vibe. To achieve this red carpet-inspired look, gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins. Make sure to smooth the hairline for a polished finish, and leave a few strands loose for a softer appearance.
This style is ideal for a sleek, sophisticated look at any event. It’s perfect for highlighting your features, especially when paired with bold makeup and statement accessories. The chic top knot can be worn with any dress, from a sleek gown to a fun cocktail dress, and is sure to make you stand out.
7. Loose Romantic Updo
A loose romantic updo combines elegance with a touch of effortlessness, making it a popular choice for red carpet events. This hairstyle involves gathering your hair loosely at the back of your head, adding volume at the crown, and securing it with pins. Let a few curls fall softly around the face for that effortless, romantic appeal.
The loose updo is perfect for showcasing a bold makeup look or a standout necklace. It works especially well for formal events or a wedding, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed appearance. This versatile hairstyle can be personalized with decorative clips or flowers for an added touch of glam.
8. Modern Fishtail Braid
A modern fishtail braid adds a stylish and edgy touch to any red carpet look. This intricate braid is created by weaving two sections of hair together in a crisscross fashion, resulting in a delicate, textured look. You can opt for a neat fishtail for a polished vibe or a loose one for a more casual, boho effect.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who want something unique and different from the traditional updo. Whether you wear it as a side braid or incorporate it into an updo, the fishtail braid adds texture and volume to your look, making it ideal for glamorous events and red carpet occasions.
9. Classic French Twist
The French twist is a timeless, sophisticated updo that’s ideal for formal red carpet events. To achieve this look, twist the hair from the nape of your neck upwards and secure it at the top with bobby pins. The hair should be smooth and sleek, giving a clean, polished finish.
This elegant hairstyle is perfect for showing off your dress and accessories, as it keeps the hair neat and out of the way. The French twist pairs beautifully with elegant gowns and high-fashion looks, creating a timeless and refined appearance.
10. Tousled Lob
The tousled lob (long bob) is a versatile and chic hairstyle that exudes effortless glamour. With a few loose waves and textured layers, this hairstyle offers a relaxed vibe while still looking polished. To achieve the tousled lob, style your hair with a curling wand and use a texturizing spray for added volume and movement.
This hairstyle works beautifully for red carpet events where you want to look polished yet laid-back. The tousled lob pairs well with both casual and formal outfits, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.
11. Voluminous Curls
Voluminous curls are a red carpet classic, bringing instant drama and volume to your hair. This glamorous look involves curling the hair in large sections to create full, bouncy curls. After curling, brush through the hair gently to create softer, more defined curls. Use a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the shape and volume throughout the night.
Perfect for long or medium-length hair, voluminous curls make a statement and work well with a glamorous, full-face makeup look. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with gowns or evening dresses, adding a touch of femininity and elegance.
12. Pompadour with a Twist
The pompadour with a twist is a bold hairstyle that combines classic sophistication with modern flair. This look involves sweeping the hair upwards and back for volume, while adding twists on the sides for added detail. Secure the twists with pins for a refined finish, leaving the top of the hair voluminous and smooth.
This hairstyle is perfect for someone looking to make a statement with their hair, especially at a high-fashion event. The pompadour with a twist adds a regal, polished look and works well with a dramatic makeup look and a stylish gown.
13. Elegant Chignon
The elegant chignon is a timeless red carpet hairstyle that offers a classic, sophisticated appeal. This style features a low, twisted bun that’s elegantly pinned in place. It’s ideal for showcasing your neck and earrings while keeping your hair out of your face for a polished look. To create the perfect chignon, twist your hair loosely and secure it at the nape of your neck with bobby pins.
The elegant chignon is perfect for formal events such as galas or weddings. It pairs wonderfully with high-neck dresses and can be customized with decorative hairpins or subtle accessories for added glamour.
14. Half-Up Braided Crown
The half-up braided crown is a blend of elegance and fun, offering a romantic, boho-inspired look. To achieve this style, braid a section of hair on each side of your head and pin them across the top to form a crown. Let the rest of your hair cascade in soft waves down your back.
This hairstyle is ideal for events that combine glamour with a laid-back vibe, such as outdoor weddings or cocktail parties. The half-up braided crown gives you a regal look without being too formal.
15. Slicked Back Ponytail
A slicked-back ponytail is a high-fashion, red carpet hairstyle that offers a polished and sophisticated appeal. To achieve this look, smooth your hair back using a brush and a generous amount of gel or styling cream. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic.
This hairstyle is ideal for a clean, sharp look and is perfect for showcasing bold makeup and statement earrings. The slicked-back ponytail pairs beautifully with both formal and edgy outfits.
16. Vintage Finger Waves
Vintage finger waves are a nod to the glamorous Hollywood style of the 1920s, creating soft, smooth curls that add a retro flair to your look. To create this hairstyle, use a curling iron to form small, defined waves in the hair. Once the curls are set, use your fingers to shape them into a finger wave pattern, ensuring the waves look smooth and elegant.
This hairstyle is perfect for a classic, elegant red carpet look. It works best with medium to long hair and can be paired with a vintage-inspired dress or modern chic outfit. Finger waves are ideal for formal events, bringing a timeless, refined elegance to your look.
17. Messy Low Bun
The messy low bun is perfect for a more laid-back, red carpet-inspired look that still offers elegance. This style involves gathering your hair at the nape of your neck and twisting it loosely into a low bun, allowing for some natural volume and texture. Leave a few strands loose around your face to soften the overall look.
Ideal for events where a casual yet chic appearance is required, the messy low bun works beautifully with both formal and semi-formal dresses. It’s a versatile hairstyle that can be paired with minimal makeup or a bold lip, depending on your personal style.
18. Curly Updo
The curly updo is a playful and glamorous style that adds volume and texture to your hair. This hairstyle involves curling your hair in small sections and then pinning it up into a messy yet structured bun at the back of your head. Let a few curls fall freely around your face to create a soft, romantic appearance.
This hairstyle is perfect for weddings, proms, or any event that requires a bit of extra glam. The curly updo works well with both simple and elaborate gowns, adding a touch of drama to your ensemble.
19. Voluminous Ponytail
A voluminous ponytail is a show-stopping red carpet hairstyle that adds height and drama to your look. This style involves curling your hair to add volume, then gathering it into a high ponytail, securing it tightly with an elastic. Use a texturizing spray to ensure the ponytail has plenty of bounce and body.
This bold and striking hairstyle pairs beautifully with sleek, modern dresses or a bold evening gown. The voluminous ponytail gives you an instantly elevated look, perfect for a night of glamour. It’s the ideal choice for those who want a powerful, chic, and timeless red carpet appearance.
20. Tousled Messy Waves
Tousled messy waves are perfect for anyone looking for a red carpet hairstyle with a bit of attitude. This style gives off a more relaxed, effortless vibe while still looking put-together. Create this look by curling your hair loosely and then running your fingers through to loosen the curls and create a more natural wave. Add a bit of texturizing spray to enhance the messy texture.
This look is ideal for events where a chic yet laid-back appearance is required. It works beautifully for both short and long hair, and pairs perfectly with a more casual dress or chic cocktail outfit. Tousled messy waves are an excellent choice for a modern, red carpet-inspired look that doesn’t try too hard.
