11+ Prom Hair Ideas and Tips You’ll Love
Prom is one of the most exciting nights of the year, and everything about it needs to be perfect, from your dress to your shoes and, of course, your hair. The right hairstyle can make all the difference, helping you feel confident and beautiful as you walk into the event. If you’re looking for a prom hairdo that will have everyone talking, you’re in the right place. Let me show you how I make the most of these stunning looks and offer tips on making them your own.
From my own personal experience, trying out a new hairstyle for prom can be a bit overwhelming with so many options available. But don’t worry, I’ve put together TOP of the most popular prom hair ideas to make your decision easier. These styles are trendy, versatile, and sure to impress. What ever you need, even if you’re going for soft waves, sleek and straight locks, or an elegant updo, there’s something here for everyone. And the best part? You can tweak each of these looks to suit your personality and vibe.
So, grab a mirror, maybe your best friend’s help, and let’s jump into the top prom hairstyles that will make you feel like a queen.
1. Soft, Beachy Waves
If you’re looking for something effortless yet chic, beachy waves are the way to go. This hairstyle exudes a relaxed, carefree vibe while still being polished enough for a formal event like prom. It’s perfect for those who want to achieve a balance between natural texture and glam.
What makes this style unique:
Beachy waves are all about texture. The key is to have that perfectly undone look without being too messy. You want the waves to be soft and voluminous, giving your hair movement and bounce. It’s one of the most versatile hairstyles because it works for all hair types, whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of prom dresses, from simple to ornate.
How to style it:
Start by applying a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse to damp hair. This will help create that beachy texture and give you the volume you need. Then, use a curling iron with a larger barrel (around 1 to 1.5 inches) to create loose waves. Wrap sections of hair around the barrel, leaving the ends out for a more relaxed finish. For added volume, flip your head upside down and give your roots a little lift with a blow dryer or by gently backcombing the roots.
Finish off with a light hairspray to hold the waves in place without making them stiff. Don’t overdo it, remember, this style should look effortlessly chic. If you want some extra shine, apply a light hair serum to your strands.
Styling tip:
For a bit of extra drama, you can add a cute hair accessory like a sparkly clip or headband to elevate your look. Something subtle but glamorous can really make the waves pop.
Why you’ll love it:
Soft beachy waves are perfect for anyone who wants a more laid-back yet beautiful style. It’s easy to create and works for nearly any prom theme or outfit. Plus, it’s one of those styles that will last all night long, so you won’t have to worry about touch-ups.
2. Sleek and Straight
For those who want a polished and modern look, a sleek and straight hairstyle is a timeless choice. This smooth and shiny style brings out your facial features and adds a sophisticated touch to your overall look.
What makes this style unique:
Straight hair may seem simple, but when styled correctly, it has a powerful impact. It’s the definition of elegance and chicness, perfect for a clean, minimalist look. The key to making this style prom-worthy is creating mirror-like shine and keeping the hair super smooth and frizz-free. A sleek, straight hairstyle can complement a bold, statement-making dress and still be effortlessly gorgeous.
How to style it:
Start by washing and conditioning your hair with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner. Apply a heat protectant to shield your strands from heat damage. Use a flat iron to straighten your hair in small sections, making sure to go slowly to achieve a super sleek finish. If you want to add some volume at the roots, use a volumizing mousse or a dry shampoo before straightening.
Once your hair is straightened, add some shine with a lightweight serum or glossing spray. Focus on the ends of your hair to avoid making your roots look greasy. This step will give you that polished, shiny finish you’re looking for.
Styling tip:
If you want to add a little extra drama, you can part your hair down the middle for a clean, symmetrical look or go for a deep side part for a bit of edge. A side part can add volume to one side of your hair, giving it a more dynamic shape.
Why you’ll love it:
This hairstyle works for all hair types, whether you have thick or fine hair, and it will look great with any prom dress. The sleekness of the hair contrasts beautifully with more intricate, embellished dresses, creating a balanced and polished look.
3. Elegant Updo
If you’re aiming for a more formal, sophisticated look, an elegant updo is always a great choice. This style is perfect for anyone looking for a more structured, refined appearance while still feeling glamorous. Updos are classic and can be modified to suit any prom theme, whether you’re going for a vintage look or something modern and edgy.
What makes this style unique:
The beauty of an updo lies in its versatility. You can opt for a sleek, structured bun, a soft, romantic chignon, or even a playful high ponytail. The key is to keep everything tight and well-positioned, while still allowing for some movement and softness. The right updo can elevate any dress, especially when paired with delicate hairpins, pearls, or a beautiful headband.
How to style it:
Start by curling your hair into soft waves or pin curls, depending on the texture you want for your updo. Once your hair is styled, create a base by gently teasing the crown to add some volume. Gather your hair into a low or high ponytail, depending on the style you’re going for. Twist the ponytail into a bun or chignon and secure it with bobby pins.
For a romantic touch, leave a few strands of hair loose around your face and curl them for a soft, flowing look. You can also add hair accessories like jeweled pins or flowers for added glamour.
Styling tip:
If you want to keep the updo from feeling too heavy, you can incorporate a braid into the style. Braids can be a fun and unexpected addition to an updo, adding texture and visual interest.
Why you’ll love it:
An updo is timeless and will never go out of style. It’s the perfect option for anyone who wants to feel elegant and poised. Plus, with so many variations, you can create a look that fits your personality and makes you feel special on your big night.
4. Voluminous Curls
Curls have a way of making any look feel glamorous, and for prom night, voluminous curls can truly steal the show. If you’re aiming for a dramatic yet timeless look, this hairstyle is perfect. Full-bodied curls bring plenty of personality to your look and allow you to experiment with different textures and finishes.
What makes this style unique:
The key to voluminous curls is volume. You want the curls to be big and bouncy without looking frizzy. These curls add a playful, fun vibe to your prom look while maintaining a sense of elegance. Plus, voluminous curls can give the illusion of thicker hair, which is a bonus for those with fine or flat hair.
How to style it:
Begin by applying a volumizing mousse or a texturizing spray to damp hair. This will help you achieve those full, bouncy curls. Next, use a curling iron or wand with a medium-sized barrel to curl your hair in sections. Make sure to curl the hair away from your face for a more flattering look.
Once the curls are set, lightly run your fingers through them to break them up and create more volume. You can also backcomb the roots a little bit for added height. Finish off with a medium-hold hairspray to keep everything in place without making your curls too stiff.
Styling tip:
For added flair, you can combine the curls with a half-up, half-down style. Pull back the top portion of your hair and secure it with a small, elegant clip or tie. This gives you a balanced look of volume and softness while still showing off your curls.
Why you’ll love it:
Voluminous curls are versatile and can be adapted to suit various prom looks. Whether you’re wearing a sleek, modern dress or something more whimsical, voluminous curls will add drama and sophistication to your outfit. Plus, you don’t have to worry about your hair looking flat halfway through the night, curls will hold up well with the right products.
5. Braided Crown
The braided crown is a romantic and regal hairstyle that’s perfect for prom. It gives off a fairy-tale vibe, making you feel like royalty for the night. If you love braids and want something different from the usual ponytail or bun, a braided crown is the way to go.
What makes this style unique:
The braided crown is striking because it frames your face beautifully and adds texture to your hair without being overly complicated. This style can be made with a variety of braids, such as Dutch, French, or simple three-strand braids. It’s a fun twist on a traditional updo and works wonders for adding a touch of elegance.
How to style it:
To create this look, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Begin by braiding one side of your hair from the front near your ear, working your way around the back of your head. Repeat the process on the other side. Once both braids are finished, bring them to the front and crisscross them over your forehead to form the “crown.” Secure the braids with bobby pins at the nape of your neck.
For a looser, more boho feel, gently pull on the braids to make them fuller and softer. This will give your hair that relaxed, laid-back look. If you prefer something more structured, you can keep the braids tighter and more defined.
Styling tip:
Adding delicate accessories like small floral clips or sparkling pins will make the braided crown feel even more special. Just a few little embellishments can elevate this look, making it perfect for prom.
Why you’ll love it:
A braided crown works well with almost any dress style, from vintage-inspired gowns to more modern, sleek options. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the idea of a timeless, romantic style, and it will keep your hair out of your face throughout the night. Plus, it’s a unique alternative to the typical updos you see at prom.
Have you tried the braided crown look? Let me know in the comments.
6. Messy Low Bun
For those who want a more laid-back but still elegant vibe, the messy low bun is a perfect option. This hairstyle offers an effortless charm, with just the right amount of sophistication. It’s a go-to for those who want something relaxed but don’t want to sacrifice style.
What makes this style unique:
The beauty of the messy low bun is that it gives off a carefree, relaxed feel while still looking polished enough for prom. It’s one of the best ways to balance elegance and ease. You can add as much or as little volume as you want, and it still looks effortlessly chic.
How to style it:
Begin by curling your hair loosely with a curling iron. This adds volume and texture to the hair, making the bun look fuller and more interesting. Then, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and loosely twist it into a low bun. Secure it with bobby pins, making sure not to make it too tight. Leave a few strands loose around your face for a softer look. You can also tease the crown of your hair to add volume for a more dramatic effect.
For extra flair, add a small hair accessory like a vintage-inspired hairpin or a few sparkling clips to the side of your bun. This will add a subtle touch of glamour without overpowering the overall look.
Styling tip:
If you want to make your low bun even more unique, try adding a braid to the side before twisting your hair into the bun. This adds some texture and visual interest to the style, making it more intricate but still simple enough for a relaxed vibe.
Why you’ll love it:
This hairstyle is perfect for someone who wants to feel comfortable while still looking chic. It works especially well for prom dresses that have more detail at the top, like halter necklines or dresses with intricate straps. Plus, it’s a great option for girls who don’t want to spend too much time on their hair but still want to look put together.
7. Half-Up, Half-Down with Twists
If you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down for prom, the half-up, half-down hairstyle with twists is a perfect compromise. This look is both casual and elegant, offering a balance of volume and style.
What makes this style unique:
The half-up, half-down style is ideal for showing off your natural hair texture while still keeping some of it off your face. Adding twists makes it look more intricate and stylish, giving the hair a beautiful, sophisticated shape. It’s an excellent choice if you want something that feels elegant but still has a relaxed vibe.
How to style it:
Start by curling your hair into soft waves. This will give it volume and texture. Next, section off the top portion of your hair and twist both sides toward the back, securing them with bobby pins. Leave the bottom half of your hair loose so you can show off those beautiful curls. You can also add a cute accessory, like a small comb or clip, to keep everything in place.
Styling tip:
For a bit more glam, you can turn your twists into braids. This gives your hair even more texture and adds a fun element to the half-up, half-down look.
Why you’ll love it:
This hairstyle is perfect for anyone who wants a little bit of everything: the elegance of an updo and the relaxed beauty of wearing your hair down. It’s simple to create but looks stunning, especially when paired with the right accessories.
8. Sleek Low Ponytail
If you want a clean and polished look for prom, the sleek low ponytail is a fantastic choice. It’s a classic hairstyle that never goes out of style and works well with virtually any dress type, from chic gowns to more modern, fashion-forward pieces. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with accessories or leave as is for a minimalist, elegant vibe.
What makes this style unique:
The sleek low ponytail is all about smoothness and shine. Unlike a messy ponytail, this style is designed to look flawless and controlled. The beauty lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for those who prefer a more understated look but still want to look polished and put together.
How to style it:
Start by straightening your hair with a flat iron for a super sleek, glossy finish. Then, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. For a little extra detail, wrap a small section of your hair around the hair tie to hide it and secure it with a bobby pin. This will make your ponytail look even more refined.
To keep the look flawless all night, apply a smoothing serum or hair gel to tame any flyaways and add shine. If you want more volume, you can tease the crown of your hair slightly before pulling it into a ponytail.
Styling tip:
For a bit of sparkle, add a jeweled hair clip or a small barrette just above the ponytail to give it an extra touch of glam. This accessory can transform the look from simple to stunning.
Why you’ll love it:
This sleek ponytail is ideal for anyone who wants an easy, chic style without too much fuss. It keeps your hair in place all night, so you won’t have to worry about touch-ups. Plus, it complements both formal and semi-formal dresses perfectly, making it a versatile choice for prom.
9. Soft Waves with Side Part
For a softer, more romantic look, soft waves with a side part are a great choice for prom. This hairstyle has a bit of a vintage feel to it, giving off that effortlessly glamorous vibe. It’s perfect for anyone who wants their hair to look natural but still have an elegant, refined finish.
What makes this style unique:
Soft waves with a side part exude a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. The side part adds asymmetry, drawing attention to one side of your face, while the waves provide volume and texture. This style is great for adding some movement to your hair, making it look both voluminous and light.
How to style it:
To achieve soft waves, use a large barrel curling iron to curl sections of your hair. You don’t want the curls to be too tight, so take larger sections and hold the curling iron for only a few seconds. Once the curls are done, run your fingers through them or use a wide-tooth comb to break them up, creating loose waves.
For the side part, simply comb your hair to one side, making sure it’s deep enough to give that asymmetrical look. Apply some light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place, but be careful not to use too much, it should still feel soft and movable.
Styling tip:
To take this look to the next level, add a delicate hair accessory like a vintage-inspired clip or a crystal hairpin. This will complement the soft waves and add a little sparkle.
Why you’ll love it: Soft waves with a side part give you that perfect “I woke up like this” vibe, but with a polished finish. It’s a great option for anyone who loves vintage-inspired hairstyles but wants something that still feels modern and fresh. It works well with almost any dress style, making it a foolproof choice for prom.
10. Glamorous Updo with Curls
For a truly timeless and elegant prom look, a glamorous updo with curls is hard to beat. This sophisticated hairstyle is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to channel old Hollywood glamour on their big night. The combination of curls and an elegant updo makes this style a showstopper, adding a touch of drama and elegance to any dress.
What makes this style unique:
The glamorous updo with curls stands out because it combines two elements that elevate any hairstyle: intricate styling and voluminous curls. It’s a beautiful mix of vintage elegance and modern chic. This style also works well with accessories like tiaras, pins, or sparkly clips to make your look even more extravagant.
How to style it:
Start by curling your hair into soft, voluminous curls using a curling iron. Once your curls are set, gently comb through them with your fingers to create a soft, romantic texture. Next, begin pinning the curls into an elegant updo. You can create a low chignon or a more intricate, twisted updo depending on your preference.
To secure the look, use bobby pins to hold everything in place, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the curls and updo intact throughout the night. You can also leave a few curls loose around your face for a softer, more youthful feel.
Styling tip:
Add a statement hair accessory, like a sparkling tiara or a flower crown, to elevate the look. This can make your glamorous updo even more eye-catching, adding a personal touch to your prom hairstyle.
Why you’ll love it:
A glamorous updo with curls is one of those styles that will never go out of fashion. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a formal, elegant look for prom. The curls give the updo texture and dimension, while the updo itself keeps everything neat and polished.
11. Textured Bob
For those who want something modern and a little bit edgy, the textured bob is an excellent choice. This hairstyle is perfect for those with shorter hair or anyone who wants a bold, fresh look that’s still chic and stylish. The textured bob works for all face shapes and adds an element of fun to your prom night.
What makes this style unique:
The textured bob combines the sharpness of a bob cut with soft, voluminous texture. The layers and movement in the hair give it a carefree, modern vibe. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to show off their shorter locks while still keeping the look polished and put together.
How to style it:
To get that textured look, start by applying a texturizing mousse or salt spray to damp hair. Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to add volume and movement. Once dry, use a curling wand to add a few waves or curls for extra texture. If you prefer a more edgy style, you can add more curl, or for a more laid-back look, keep it relaxed with soft waves.
Finish the look with a light hairspray to ensure it stays in place but still feels natural and voluminous.
Styling tip:
Add some shine serum to give your bob a glossy, sleek finish. It will make the texture pop and keep your hair looking polished without weighing it down.
Why you’ll love it:
The textured bob is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their hair short but still stand out. It’s an edgy, fashionable option that works well with modern prom dresses, and it’s ideal for girls who want a little less fuss with their hair but still want to look polished and stylish.
Have you ever tried a textured bob? I’d love to hear how it turned out.Share your thoughts in the comments, and let me know if you paired it with any accessories or a bold prom look.
Final words
Prom night is a celebration, and your hairstyle should make you feel as confident and beautiful as you are. Whether you go for voluminous curls, a sleek ponytail, or a textured bob, there’s no wrong way to style your hair. The most important thing is that you feel like yourself and enjoy the night! Which hairstyle do you think stole the spotlight? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments, don’t forget to add your name and location so I can easily find your comment.
