23 Romantic Bun Hairstyles for Prom That Are Simple to Create

Cindy Marcus
Cindy Marcus Hairstylist, Editor-in-Chief

Prom bun hairstyles are classic updos, where tresses are twisted and secured at the back of the head. This design offers a sophisticated, romantic vibe that complements young ladies’ evening gowns.

A bun updo requires minimal effort to create. It remains eternally fashionable—thanks to its adaptability. It suits any hair texture, whether you have straight, wavy, or curly locks.

For a more elegant and refined appearance, use hair gel or setting spray to tame the strands. Apply a shine spray for a radiant finish.

If desiring a soft and effortless look, a messy updo is ideal. Apply a textured mousse to damp hair and mist some dry shampoo when it’s no longer wet. Twist the hair, secure it into a bun, then gently pull the strands out to create a relaxed effect.

Ladies with long and thick hair can achieve the look quickly. However, for short to medium lengths, this may be more challenging. Fortunately—faux buns and extensions are available options.

Make your high school prom night enjoyable and unforgettable. Complete your look by gathering stunning ideas from these images of trendy prom bun hairstyles!

Photos
Chic Side Bun with a Pearl Vine Headband
Instagram @fodraszinfo

#1: Chic Side Bun with a Pearl Vine Headband

Women who want a chic fashion look should try a stylish side bun with a pearl vine headband. Prom side bun hairstyles may not always be regarded as “high-fashion,” but the blend of ultra sleek roots with the richly textured bun will have any woman feeling runway-ready.

#2: Textured Low Bun with Twists

Length isn’t a requirement for a textured low bun with twists! Effortless bun hairstyles for medium hair are entirely achievable with a touch of texture and a few pins. Keeping the bun low will also help to enhance your texture and volume up top, while still maintaining the look of a full updo.

#3: Smooth and Elegant Low Bun

If a chic bun hairstyle is what you seek, choose a smooth and elegant low bun. This updo works especially well with straight hair as it highlights its natural sleekness. For an added touch of radiance before you head out, spritz your style with a shine spray- like Paul Mitchell’s Awapuhi Wild Ginger Shine Spray.

Chic Wrapped Braided Bun
Instagram @monagloria

#4: Chic Wrapped Braided Bun

A chic braided bun is perfect for women with blonde hair, or for proms. This stylish updo showcases color dimension while keeping lengths secure so you can dance the night away.

Elegant Soft High Bun Updo for Prom
Instagram @hairdo.byvera

#5: Elegant Soft High Volume Updo

If you know how to use a hair tie, you can create this stylish, graceful bun. Adding curls with a curling iron or hot rollers for additional body and texture is helpful when doing up styles. Hot rollers are great to set; you can do your makeup while they cool down. You will want to separate your top crown area from the back while creating a high twisted bun. Once the bun is in place, separate the fringe from the rest. Then, twist the remaining hair into the bun. This creates a lovely wavy fall through the crown and side of the hair.

#6: Elegant Large Low Bun

Women with thick hair should consider an elegant large low bun. This captivating upstyle leaves ample space for each and every strand to be curled, coiled, and pinned. As an added advantage, a low bun style will relieve pressure off the crown of the head, which is vital in styling exceptionally thick hair lengths.

Simplistic High Twist Bun for Prom
Instagram @rjstylesco

#7: Simplistic High Twist Elegance

This hairstyle offers a simple and graceful high twist option. Here are a few styling tips for thick-haired girls aiming for a high bun for prom. Smooth hair with a round brush and either a flat iron or a curling iron before styling. Then, amplify the height and width of your bun. Tuck any additional hair in with a large twist. Use a pin to secure the twist. Let a fringe piece and some tendrils cascade from the bun. This will create a romantic, effortless vibe.

#8: Charming Bun Updo Adorned with Floral Pins

Women seeking elegant bun hairstyles should consider a charming bun updo adorned with floral pins. This delicate, romantic style is an effortless choice and complements any hair type.

#9: Elegant Low Pinned Bun for Longer Tresses

If you are searching for a dance party hairstyle, a low-textured bun can elevate your look. It’s a charming and sophisticated style that can be tailored to suit the occasion. To achieve this look, begin by brushing your hair back and then utilize bobby pins to secure the bun at the nape of the neck. Gently pull out a few strands around the face and introduce waves for a softer finish. To complete the style, incorporate a floral hair accessory for a delicate touch. For added hold, apply hairspray. Prom low bun hairstyles are an effortless way to enhance any ensemble.

#10: Stylish Textured Top Bun

Women who enjoy sporting a topknot should opt for a stylish textured top bun. This rendition of prom high bun hairstyles introduces a modern flair with its intentionally tousled texture and added hair accessories.

Layered Bun Updo
Instagram @maeganadamczyk

#11: Layered Bun Updo

The ultimate “chill” style is the layered bun updo. When it comes to prom, low bun hairstyles are quite popular, but this relaxed interpretation is sure to attract attention.

Elegant Prom Bun with Framing Strands
Instagram @rjstylesco

#12: Elegant Bun with Framing Strands

Start by creating an elegant bun with framing strands. A low bun works well if you have medium-length hair and want a style that suits less hair. If you need a fuller look, put a hair donut around the ponytail to increase bun volume. Put your hair in a low ponytail, then split it into two parts. Twist these in opposite directions to create a smooth bun. If you don’t want a sleek look, leave some tendrils loose around your face. Use a curling iron for additional texture.

Relaxed Mid Bun with Framing Locks
Instagram @morganhairco

#13: Relaxed Mid Bun with Framing Locks

Ladies with fine hair might want to experiment with a relaxed mid-bun that features framing locks. Simple prom bun hairstyles can add significant volume to fine tresses. Why is this? Mid-buns enable stylists to elevate the hair at your crown, enhancing volume and securing everything beautifully.

Boho French Twist Bun with Textured Waves for Prom
Instagram @updos.by.jocelyn

#14: Boho French Twist with Textured Waves

When you think of boho style, you might envision loose, sultry, and textured hairstyles. Now, create your version. Start by separating a few inches of your fringe from the rest of your hair to create an effortless updo. Next, make a loose French twist and hold it firmly. Then, gently tug the French twist and other parts of the hair to add more volume. Finally, blend the hair strands at the front into the twist, letting a few loose pieces stick out to nail the soft boho look.

#15: Twisted Bun Updo with Hair Jewelry

Transform formal bun hairstyles into something exciting with a twisted bun updo featuring hair jewelry! The simple addition of hair accessories can elevate a classic bun to a more stylish level.

Related: Fabulous prom styles for curly hair.

#16: Relaxed French Braid with a Petite Bun

Get ready for prom with a relaxed french braid and a petite bun! As french braids come back into fashion, pairing them with an updo has become increasingly trendy. Braided upstyles are also much simpler to wear as they don’t place as much stress on the head. Bonus Points: Your hair will appear stunning at the end of the evening, even after all the pins are taken out.

Boho-Inspired Messy Bun with a Stylish Side Braid
Instagram @alyceparis

#17: Boho-Inspired Messy Bun with a Stylish Side Braid

Women looking for a whimsical style should experiment with a messy bun paired with an accent side braid. Prom messy bun hairstyles are a universally flattering choice for every woman.

#18: Casual Twisted Updo

The casual twisted updo is an easy braided updo for long hair. An intricate prom style is simple to wear as the braids help distribute the weight of your lengths across your whole scalp, rather than focusing a multitude of hairpins in one area. Women looking for a lasting bun hairstyle for prom should certainly try a casual twisted updo.

Related: Easy prom hairstyles for long hair.

#19: Messy Bun with a Side Fishtail Braid

Those seeking an “undone” updo might want to consider a messy bun paired with a side fishtail braid. The messy hairstyle has gained popularity as “undone” styles are quite trendy, yet buns can still complement a prom hairstyle beautifully. There’s no right or wrong approach to achieving it!

#20: Elegant Low Bun Featuring Double Dutch Braids

An elegant low bun with double dutch braids offers a modern twist on classic prom braid hairstyles. This softer, boho style merges the structured pattern of braids with a more relaxed feel. The secret to achieving a fancy updo that appears effortless is to gently pull the braids out slightly before fastening the bun at the nape.

Charming Low Loose Bun with Pearl Accessories for Prom Night
Instagram @zoandcoleah

#21: Charming Low Loose Bun

Searching for a look that’s effortless yet elegant? Choose a charming low loose bun. This simple yet stylish bun hairstyle is always in vogue and complements any shade.

Elegant Chignon Adorned with a Pearl Hair Vine
Instagram @beautybyashley

#22: Elegant Chignon Adorned with a Pearl Hair Vine

Try a timeless full chignon with a pearl hair vine. Incorporating hair accessories is a wonderful way to refresh a traditional look like the chignon.

Bun with Twists and Feathered Hair Accessory
Instagram @evihairsalon

#23: Bun with Twists and Feathered Hair Accessory

Enhance your prom hairstyle with a touch of elegance! Request a bun with twists along with a feathered hair accessory. Prom hairstyles like this are perfect for dark hair as the voluminous twists will bring a captivating flair to your lengths, while the feathered accessory, or any embellishment, will stand out beautifully against a darker backdrop.