Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

My hair is nearly below my butt, so when I say very long, I mean very long. It's slightly wavy and looks full when I wear it down, but it actually doesn't have an excess of volume. I don't want to cut it or do anything else that will (semi-)permanently change it. I'd like to avoid dying it or using overly harsh chemicals. Simple yet elegant would be nice, but I'm open to other styles as well. I'd really appreciate it if you could provide pictures. Thanks!

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

messy buns

french braids

ponytail with side bangs

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

Here's an idea, but it may take little time:

http://www.hairboutique.com/tips/tip1014...

Here's a nice pony tail for a formal dress:

http://www.totalhair.net/hairstyles-long...

I hope these help - just don't cut it!!!!

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

I've always thought that the style where women have a pony tail where it's basically tied in a knot at the back of her head, and falls from there, looks very elegant and nice. I'm sorry I don't have a picture, but it's pretty simple.

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

I have the exact same issues with formal events because I'm 5'6 and my hair is well below my butt, along with the full-looking/thickness-lacking deal, too.

I tried a million things, but I had the most luck with twisty/wrapped/or braided up-dos with side swept bangs put together with rhinestone bobby pins %26amp;%26amp; such.

You may be able to get away with a "high class" ponytai, but the actual tail part could get in the way. I remember when I wore one to homecoming of 10th grade and my hair got caught in the car door. It was utterly embarassing.

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

http://www.latest-hairstyles.com/prom/lo...

Here is a link for Long Prom Hairstyles. It may not be prom, but it is a formal event.

Your hair sounds beautiful and I hope you don't have any trouble!!

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

With long hair and classic hair styles, I've always liked the classic sleek and curly look. The style where some hair is left down, enabling it to be left curled and hanging down over one shoulder.

Pep.

Hairstyles for a formal evening, but for very, very long hair?

My favorite:

Do a regular french braid down your back. Tie it off with a clear elastic (goody works great and won't eat your hair.) Wrap it into a bun at the base of the braid, skewer with a couple of hairsticks, and you're done. I always get tons of complements on this style. You can also use bobby pins instead, and add a headband- very Grecian!