Cute formal hairstyles for shoulder length

[Laurenji]

My sister-in-law is "graduating" from 8th grade and she wants me to do her hair for her. Her hair is just barely shoulder length.

I'm not quite sure what to try. My hair hasn't been that short in ages, and I'm used to doing my (much longer) hair. I was thinking of doing a few twists and pinning them back (like the picture on my profile page), but I'm looking for a few other styles too, so I can give her a few options.

So, I'm turning to you. What hairstyles are there for not-quite-shoulder length hair that look cute and formal-ish? I'm really good at braiding, so intricacy isn't a problem.

[reneemichelle]

My hair is currently back to being barely shoulder length and I like to braid my hair like this: http://keenanevans.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/1113ade6cd94e865_nicole-richie-braids.jpg?w=490&h=333

It may be harder if her hair has short layers in it though. If she wants to be even fancier, it looks really pretty with flowers placed in the braids.

[spitfire511]

I love the braid reneemichelle suggested. A gibson tuck or peacock twist both usually work with SL hair. I am also having good success with something I learned from Lianna.

Her article is here (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/vbjournal.php?do=article&articleid=205). Oftentimes I just use one stick and pull one part of the loop to each side and secure with the stick that way.

I am also able to do a pretty nice sock bun using Loepsie's method - although be prepared to use a few bobby pins to tack down strays! There's a pic of it on this page of the shoulder to apl thread. (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=33961&page=145)

Good luck! Hope you find something cute for your sister! It's so cool that she wants you to do it. :D

[torrilin]

French braids usually work even on quite short hair, and they can be really pretty.

My general take on formal hairstyles is that hair accessories do the lion's share of the work. A jeweled comb, fancy pins or other hair ornaments go a long way towards making a style look fancy. Leave off the jewelry, and even the most intricate and complex style will look pretty bland. And if her hair is as dark as yours, that goes double.

[pepperminttea]

What about something like this, from Dreamweaver Braiding (http://www.dreamweaverbraiding.com/braid_examples/braid_examples_classics.htm)?

http://i53.tinypic.com/zlvqkl.jpg