The perfect hairstyle frames your face and shows off the best part of your dress. Before booking the hairdresser or practising at home, look at the neckline: it tells you how much space your hair should take up.
The five classic evening styles
- Updo: elegant and formal; ideal for galas and black-tie events.
- Low bun: soft, romantic and timeless; works with almost every dress.
- Hollywood waves: glamorous, glossy waves swept to one side.
- Sleek ponytail: modern and polished, especially with minimal dresses.
- Half-up: keeps hair off the face while showing length; a lovely choice for weddings.
Strapless and off-the-shoulder
These necklines show off the shoulders and collarbones, so both up and down work. Loose waves or a half-up style soften a structured strapless bodice, while a low, textured bun highlights an off-the-shoulder neckline beautifully. Avoid very flat, straight hair over bare shoulders, which can look unfinished.
Halter and one-shoulder
A halter neck draws attention to the neck and shoulders. Choose a high bun, a sleek ponytail or an updo to keep the lines clean. Loose hair hides the cut and gets caught in the tie. With a one-shoulder dress, balance the asymmetry by sweeping your hair to the opposite side of the strap, either with waves or a side-swept low bun.
Open back and high neck
If the back is the highlight, show it off. An updo, chignon or sleek low bun is the best choice. If you prefer hair down, keep it shorter or pull it over one shoulder.
A high neckline looks wonderful with an updo or a high ponytail that elongates the neck. Soft waves also work if they fall behind the shoulders. Pair it with statement earrings: see our jewellery by neckline guide.
Modest and hijab styling
If you wear a hijab, the same principle applies to your scarf: with a busy neckline or embellished dress, choose a plain hijab in a matching or soft neutral tone, and with a simple dress, a satin or chiffon hijab with a subtle sheen can add festivity. A volumising scrunchie under the scarf gives a neat shape. Our modest dress styling guide has more tips, and our modest dresses offer elegant covered options.
Do and avoid
- Do: test your style with the dress on, and use a flexible hairspray for long events.
- Avoid: heavy hair accessories with heavily embellished dresses.
Complete looks
- Wedding: an off-shoulder midi, a half-up style with soft curls and pearl drops.
- Gala: an open-back gown, a sleek chignon and diamanté earrings.
- Party: a halter mini, a high sleek ponytail and gold hoops.
Browse our party and evening dresses to find your neckline.
