Prom night is all about looking and feeling your best, and the right hairstyle can bring your whole look together. Your dress sets the tone, but your hair adds the final touch.
Whether you love soft curls, sleek updos, or trendy braids, there’s a perfect style to match your outfit and highlight your features. The key is choosing a hairstyle that flatters your face shape and complements your dress.
With so many gorgeous options, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve rounded up 18+ prom hairstyles that will perfectly match your dress and enhance your natural beauty!
1. Braided Bun with Face Framing Tendrils
The braided bun with face-framing tendrils is a fantastic choice for prom! It’s chic and adds a touch of romance. Start by braiding your hair into a bun, leaving some strands to frame your face.
Pair this look with a gorgeous ballgown and classic makeup. Don’t forget pearl accessories to complete the outfit. This hairstyle is sure to make you feel fabulous all night long!
2. Silky, Smooth Bun Updo
The silky, smooth bun updo is super chic for prom! Prep your hair with texturizing spray for extra grip. Gather it into a sleek ponytail, then twist it into a bun.
Secure it with bobby pins and set it with hairspray. Pair this look with a floor-length gown, classic makeup, and pearl accessories for a timeless vibe. It’s perfect for any prom hairstyle!
3. Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is your go-to hairstyle if you want edgy vibes without the commitment of a full mohawk. It’s bold yet versatile, perfect for prom or everyday flair.
For a sleek version, twist and pin sections of hair toward the center, creating height at the crown. Pair it with a bodycon dress, smoky makeup, and statement earrings for a daring look.
4. Classic Half Updo
The classic half updo is a timeless prom hairstyle that’s both elegant and effortless. Simply pull back the top half of your hair, secure it with a clip or pins, and let the rest flow freely.
Add soft curls for extra charm. Pair it with a flowy dress, natural makeup, and delicate earrings for a dreamy vibe. It’s perfect for when you can’t decide between an updo or loose locks!
5. Vintage-Inspired Hollywood Waves
Vintage-inspired Hollywood waves are a classic prom choice. Curl your hair with a wide-barrel curling wand, then gently brush out the curls to form smooth waves.
Secure it with hairspray. Pair this look with a floor-length gown, classic makeup, and pearl accessories. It’s perfect for a glamorous entrance at prom! This style is timeless and always in fashion.
6. Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun is a chic and effortless prom hairstyle that’s perfect for a relaxed yet stylish look. To create this style, start by pulling your hair into a ponytail and then twisting it into a bun. Leave some ends loose for a messy effect.
Pair this look with a flowy dress, natural makeup, and minimal accessories for a laid-back yet elegant vibe. It’s great for those who want a quick, easy style that still looks fabulous!
7. Low Ponytail
The low ponytail is super elegant for prom! Smooth your hair with texturizing spray or serum. Gather it at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic.
Add some loose waves for a soft touch, or keep it sleek for a polished look. Pair it with a sleek gown, bold earrings, and natural makeup for a classy vibe. It’s timeless and easy to style!
8. Classic Low Chignon with Hair Wrap
The classic low chignon with a hair wrap is a timeless prom hairstyle that exudes elegance. Start by gathering your hair into a low ponytail, twisting it into a bun, and securing it with pins.
Wrap a small section of hair around the base for a polished finish. Pair it with a mermaid dress, smoky eyes, and a diamond necklace for a sophisticated vibe. It’s simple yet effortlessly classy!
9. Curly Ponytail
The curly ponytail is a versatile and stylish choice for prom. It’s perfect for those with naturally curly or wavy hair who want to showcase their texture.
To create this look, gather your curls into a ponytail at your desired height. For extra volume, gently tug at the crown. Pair this style with a backless dress and statement earrings for a chic vibe.
10. Dutch Braid Crown with Loose Curls
The Dutch braid crown with loose curls is a dreamy prom hairstyle that blends elegance with a touch of boho charm. Start by weaving two Dutch braids along the sides of your head and pin them at the back to form a crown.
Let the rest of your hair fall into soft, defined curls. Pair this look with a lace midi dress, dewy makeup, and a floral hairpin for a romantic vibe.
11. Soft Braid with Real Flowers
The soft braid with real flowers is a romantic prom choice. Create a loose braid and add fresh flowers like a baby’s breath for a whimsical touch.
Pair it with a flowy chiffon gown and rosy makeup. Add delicate gold bracelets for a fairytale vibe. It’s a dreamy look that’s both elegant and effortless, perfect for a memorable prom night!
12. Modern Textured Low Bun
The modern, textured, low bun is the perfect mix of chic and relaxed for prom. Start by adding a texturizing spray to your hair for volume, then gather it into a low ponytail.
Twist and pin sections loosely to create a soft, textured bun. Pair this look with a satin slip dress, glossy lips, and a pair of statement earrings for a trendy yet effortless vibe.
13. Voluminous Side Ponytail
The voluminous side ponytail is a bold and playful choice for prom. Sweep your hair to one side, add loose curls, and tease the crown for extra height.
Secure it with a stylish hair tie or ribbon for flair. Pair this look with a one-shoulder gown, shimmery eyeshadow, and dangly earrings for a glamorous vibe. It’s perfect for turning heads while keeping things fun and flirty!
14. Wavy Half Up Half Down
The wavy half-up, half-down hairstyle is a great choice for prom. Start by using a large curling wand to create soft waves. Then, pin back the top sections loosely, leaving some strands to frame your face.
Pair this look with a strapless satin dress, glossy makeup, and a delicate silver hairpin for an elegant touch. It’s perfect for dancing while keeping your hair stylish and out of your face!
15. Romantic Waterfall Braid
The romantic waterfall braid is a dreamy prom choice. Create cascading braids by weaving sections of hair horizontally, letting strands fall like a waterfall.
Add soft curls for extra texture. Pair this look with a flowy tulle gown and soft pink makeup. Finish with delicate pearl hairpins for a fairytale vibe. It’s perfect for adding whimsy to your prom night!
16. Crown Braid Prom Hairstyle
The crown braid is a beautiful and elegant prom hairstyle that gives a regal touch. Start by parting your hair and creating a Dutch or French braid around the perimeter of your head.
Secure the ends with an elastic and tuck them under the braid for a seamless finish. Pair this look with a beaded A-line dress, bold red lipstick, and a pair of crystal stud earrings for a sophisticated vibe.
17. Volume French Twist
The voluminous French twist is a classic prom choice with a modern twist. Add volume with a texturizing spray, then gather your hair into a low ponytail.
Twist it upward and secure it with pins. Pair this look with a velvet off-shoulder dress, winged eyeliner, and a diamond hair comb for a chic vibe. It’s perfect for adding sophistication to your prom night!
18. Double Twisted Half-Up Bun
The double twisted half-up bun is a fun and elegant prom choice. Divide your hair into two sections, twist them, and secure them into small buns.
Leave the rest loose for a soft look. Pair it with a two-piece prom dress, peachy makeup, and gemstone-encrusted pins. It’s perfect for a modern and whimsical vibe that’s great for prom!
19. Textured Bun
The textured bun is a chic prom choice. Add volume with a texturizing spray, then gather your hair into a low ponytail. Twist the sections loosely and pin them to create a soft bun.
Pair this look with a high-neck embellished gown, bronzed makeup, and a crystal hair comb. It’s perfect for a modern and elegant vibe that’s easy to style!
20. Tousled Side-Swept Waves
The tousled side-swept waves are a great prom choice. Create a deep side part and add loose waves with a curling wand. Finish with a texturizing spray for extra texture.
Pair this look with a ruffled organza dress, sun-kissed makeup, and pearl drop earrings. It’s perfect for a relaxed yet elegant vibe that’s easy to style and looks amazing all night!
21. Full Glam Brunette Bun
The Full Glam Brunette Bun is perfect for prom. Start by adding volume with a spray, then secure your bun high on the head. Finish with strong-hold hairspray for a lasting look.
Pair it with a ballgown-style dress, smoky eye makeup, and chandelier earrings. It’s a classic combo that’s sure to make you feel like a queen at the prom!
Conclusion
Some prom hairstyles truly stand out, and a few are absolute must-tries. The braided bun with face-framing tendrils is a perfect mix of elegance and romance. The vintage-inspired Hollywood waves bring that old-Hollywood charm, making it a red-carpet favorite. Celebrities like Zendaya and Blake Lively have rocked both styles, proving they’re timeless. No matter your choice, these hairstyles will make you feel unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose the perfect prom hairstyle?
Consider your dress style, face shape, hair length, and texture. Updos complement high-neck dresses, while loose waves suit strapless gowns. Comfort and durability matter for a long night.
2. Which prom hairstyles work best for short hair?
Textured waves, sleek bob, finger waves, braided crown, and accessorized pixie cuts suit short hair. Adding hair accessories enhances elegance and complements different dress styles.
3. How can I make my prom hairstyle last all night?
Use a strong hold hairspray, apply heat protectant before styling, secure updos with bobby pins, and avoid touching your hair frequently. Dry shampoo adds volume and prevents oil buildup.
4. Are there prom hairstyles that don’t require heat styling?
Yes, heat-free options include no-heat curls, braided updos, twisted buns, and sleek ponytails. Overnight braids or rollers create natural waves without heat damage.
