32 Gorgeous Prom Hairstyles to Elevate Your Look

Picture this: It’s two days to prom night. You’ve secured a date with one of the hottest boys in school. You’ve also gotten the perfect dress from your favourite designer. But one thing is left—you haven’t decided what to do with your hair. Prom hairstyles are as crucial as your dress. But all the styles you’ve seen don’t catch your fancy. So, what do you do? 

Don’t sweat it. We know that feeling is all too familiar. You need the perfect hairdo that complements your prom dress, transforming you into the Queen of prom, or perhaps the Diamond of the season, as Bridgerton calls it, even without the title bestowed yet.

We’ve scoured the web to curate the best prom hairstyles to help you slay effortlessly on your big night. That’s not all. We’ll also consider essential factors to help you nail your prom hairdo. With an adept hairstylist and a huge dose of your unique personality, you’ll create a beautiful prom look that truly complements you and helps you shine.

Crucial Factors to Help You Nail Your Prom Hairstyle

Here are the factors you need to take into consideration to help you get the perfect prom hairstyle:

Your Dress 

Your dress sets the stage, and your hairstyle should be the perfect supporting act. Here are some dresses that will help you achieve harmony with your ‘do:

Ball Gown Dreams

Ball dresses evoke an image of a fairytale. Romantic updos with braids or soft curls cascading down your shoulders will add a touch of elegance to dresses like this, while a sophisticated chignon creates a timeless, regal look.

Mermaid Magic

This dress style demands drama. So, opt for a sleek ponytail that accentuates your silhouette, or go for a dramatic side braid that adds a touch of whimsy. Also, Hollywood waves with a touch of volume create that glamorous and unforgettable look. 

A-Line Allure

This versatile dress style allows you to play with different hairstyles. A messy bun with loose tendrils adds a touch of effortless beauty, while Dutch braids create a more playful vibe. Similarly, half-up, half-down styles also offer the perfect balance of elegance and fun.

Face Shape 

Now, let’s personalize it. Your shape face plays a key role in finding a hairstyle that flatters your features:

• Oval:  Oval faces are considered the most versatile, meaning you can rock almost any hairstyle. Experiment with updos, braids, or flowing waves – the choice is yours!
• Round: Opt for hairstyles with height and volume to elongate your face and accentuate your cheekbones. Think of high ponytails, voluminous buns, or loose waves with added texture at the crown.
• Square: Soften your jawline with hairstyles that add curves and texture. Loose waves, wispy curls, or side-swept styles will create a more balanced and harmonious look.
• Heart-shaped: Balance a wider forehead by adding volume to the sides of your face. For example, loose waves flowing around your cheekbones or a side braid with cascading curls will do the trick.
• Long: You have a whole playground of options. So, experiment with braids, updos, or sleek, straight styles that elongate your face.

Hair Type

Your hair’s natural texture is your secret weapon! Here’s how to make it work for you:

• Thin Hair, Big Impact: Texturizing sprays and volumizing techniques are your best friends. Updos with strategically placed braids or curls can add body, while half-up, and half-down styles with teased roots create a dimensional look.
• Thick Hair, Effortless Elegance: Waterfall braids are a stunning way to showcase your thick locks, while half-up, half-down styles with voluminous waves offer a more relaxed vibe. Similarly, sleek ponytails with a polished finish exude sophistication.
• Curly Hair, Embrace Your Crown: Don’t fight your natural texture. Loose buns with tendrils framing your face highlight your beautiful curls, while side braids with cascading waves add a touch of whimsy. Embrace your natural volume and create a hairstyle that’s uniquely you.

ALSO READ: Hair Color Ideas: 29 Brilliant Shades for Stylish Women

How to Create Prom Hairstyles—DIY or Salon Visit?

Now, you’ve seen how to tailor prom hairstyles to suit your needs. But the question remains: should you do it yourself or entrust it to the magic touch of a professional stylist? Your answer depends on the following factors:

The Kind of Hairstyle

If the hairdo you plan to wear is simple with little to no intricacies, do it yourself. But if it is complex, let a hairstylist get the job done for you. So think about the kind of hairstyle you want and let it govern your decision.

Time

If you’re too busy or you’d rather spend time doing other things than styling your hair, then DIY hairstyling isn’t for you. Just go to the salon instead.

Budget

A slim budget for your prom means you may have to adjust your needs. So, if you don’t have enough money to get an elaborate hairstyle that would require going to the salon, opt for something easier you can pull off by yourself.

ALSO READ: Prom Outfits for Men: What to Wear to Your School Prom

10 Prom Hairstyle Ideas to Slay the Night

Prom night is your chance to shine, and your hairstyle is the crowning touch! Here are 10 stunning prom hairstyle ideas to inspire you:

Half-Up, Half-Down with Textured Waves

This timeless and versatile style adds a touch of romance to your look. Braid or twist sections on either side and then bring them together at the back. Leave the rest of your hair in loose, textured waves for a relaxed yet elegant look.

Messy Bun with Pearl Accents

This chic and effortless style is perfect for all hair types. Gather your hair in a high or low bun and loosen some strands around the face. Also, add a touch of elegance with pearl bobby pins or hair clips.

Waterfall Braid Crown

This unique and eye-catching style is perfect for long hair. Start a braid near your temple and weave sections of hair down as you go around your head, creating a cascading waterfall effect. Finish with a braid or secure with bobby pins.

High Ponytail Prom Hairstyles

Modern and sophisticated, this high ponytail adds a touch of drama. Wrap a ribbon or hair tie around the base of the ponytail for a polished look. Add a statement bow for a touch of personality.

Dutch Braided Prom Hairstyles

This playful style is gorgeous for all the right reasons. Start a Dutch braid on one side, weaving hair down towards the back of your head. Continue braiding across the crown and secure the end with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side to create a braided headband effect.

Voluminous Ponytail Prom Hairstyles

Add instant volume and drama to your hairstyle with clip-in extensions. Create a high ponytail and secure it with bobby pins. Gently tease the crown area for extra volume and curl the ends of the hair for added oomph.

French Twist with Cascading Curls

This elegant and sophisticated style is perfect for a formal gown. To achieve it, gather your hair on one side and twist it upwards while securing it with bobby pins. Then, leave some loose curls cascading down the opposite shoulder for a touch of softness.

Floral Fishtail Braid Prom Hairstyles

Who says you can’t spice up your braids? No one. For a romantic touch, braid your hair down the center or to one side in a fishtail braid and weave in small flowers throughout the braid.

ALSO READ: 36 Gorgeous Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Any Wedding

French Braid with Ribbon Accents

This regal style is perfect for a ball gown. Wear a gorgeous French braid and weave a ribbon throughout the braid for a touch of color and added dimension. It gives a unique vibe and helps you stand out.

Chignon with Face-Framing Tendrils

This classic and elegant style is perfect for any face shape. To achieve it, gather your hair in a bun and twist it to create a chignon. Then, leave some loose strands around your face to soften the look.

Tips for a Flawless Prom Night

Now that you’ve seen ideas for your dream prom hairstyle, follow these pro tips to ensure your hairdo stays flawless all night long:

Pre-Prom Hair Prep

Healthy hair is the foundation for a stunning hairstyle. In the weeks leading up to prom, pamper your locks with:

• Deep Conditioning Treatments: Give your hair a boost of moisture and manageability with a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
• Minimize Heat Styling: Limit your use of hot tools like straighteners and curling irons to prevent heat damage.
• Healthy Diet and Hydration: Nourish your hair from the inside out with a balanced diet and plenty of water.

Get these Product 

 Stock up on these hairstyling essentials:

• Hairspray: Choose a strong-hold hairspray that will keep your style in place without leaving a sticky residue.
• Mousse: Add volume and texture to your hair with a lightweight mousse, which is especially helpful for updos and braids.
• Bobby Pins: These handy tools are your secret weapon for securing flyaways and keeping styles intact. Opt for different sizes to accommodate various hair sections.

Read More: 26 Long Bob Haircut Ideas for the Stylish Woman

Dance Through the Night With Flawless Prom Hairstyles

Choosing the perfect prom hairstyle is about feeling confident and beautiful on your special night. With the right combination of style, preparation, and pro tips, your hair will stay flawless no matter how much you dance the night away.

So, find gorgeous prom hairstyles and go turn heads on your prom night! If you need more inspos, check out the photos below: