Your school formal is one of the most photographed nights of the year, and the hair appointment is usually the first thing to book out. Most Brisbane formals fall in October and November, so if yours is coming up, now is the time to lock in a spot.
This guide covers when to book, whether a trial is worth it, the styles we are asked for most and what to bring on the day.
Book as soon as you have your formal date. Friday afternoons in formal season fill weeks ahead, and several schools in the same area often share the same night.
We are closed on Saturdays. If your formal is on a Saturday, call us and we can recommend someone for the day.
A simple timeline works well:
Allow 60 minutes for your style on the day, and book your hair before your makeup. Formal styles start from $150.
We do not normally book a trial for formal hair, but we can if you would like one. A trial is a 45 minute appointment and costs $75. It helps if you are unsure what suits you, have very thick, fine or curly hair, or want an updo you have never worn before. It lets you see the style from every angle, test it against your dress neckline and find out how well your hair holds a curl.
If you already know you want soft waves or a simple half-up style, a clear photo and a quick chat at the start of your appointment are usually enough.
Soft Hollywood waves: smooth, brushed-out waves swept to one side. They suit strapless and one-shoulder dresses.
Half up, half down: the top section is pinned or twisted back and the lengths are curled. It keeps hair off your face and still shows length.
Low bun or chignon: neat and secure, and a good match for a high neckline or a detailed back.
Sleek ponytail: a high or low ponytail with a smooth finish. It lasts well on the dance floor.
Braided details: a braid worked into an updo or along one side adds interest without accessories.
See the full range on our hair styling and blowouts page.
If you want extra length or thickness for one event, tape extensions are often the best fit. They sit flat against the head and blend well in both updos and loose styles. Every set starts with a free consultation, where we match your colour and talk through length.
Each set is customised, so book the consultation at least 2 weeks before your formal. If you are under 18, a parent needs to be there to sign the consent form. You can read what to expect in things you should know before your hair extensions appointment, or visit our hair extensions page.
If you are planning foils or a colour change, do it 2 to 3 weeks before, not the same week. If it is your first colour with us, you will need a skin test at least 48 hours beforehand. Our colour and foils page explains the options, and our guide to keeping blonde hair looking fresh covers aftercare.
We style formal hair for students from Ashgrove, The Gap, Bardon and across Brisbane’s inner north-west. Book online or call 07 3366 3385. If you are booking as a group, phone us so we can line up your appointments together.
