Prom is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable events in a high school girl’s journey. The dress, the shoes, the date, and of course the hair must be just right! Why not consider saving a few dollars and styling your hair yourself? Here are some simple prom hairstyles that are easy to achieve yet offer plenty of style and elegance. A fantastic hairstyle can be the ideal finishing touch to the overall prom look!
Hopefully, these styles will provide you with an abundance of prom hair inspiration. Whether you opt for a timeless classic or something a bit more trendy and modern, your hairstyle can perfectly complement a beautiful dress and eye-catching accessories. And remember, just because it appears glamorous doesn’t mean it has to consume hours of your time. Here’s to a prom where you capture everyone’s attention in the room!
Casual Chic Bun
Simplicity shines through with this elegant knot hairstyle, ideal for medium to long hair. Allow some wavy strands to frame your face for a truly romantic look at prom.
Chic Braided Updo
Pin your beautiful and textured waves up into a tousled knot accented by a charming side braid. This effortless prom hairstyle is ideal for the carefree, laid-back girls and pairs beautifully with lace-y dresses.
Timeless & Graceful
I would describe this easy prom look as timeless and graceful. It’s a basic chignon which can be so versatile and, in my opinion, looks good on everyone. If you like low maintenance hair, this is the perfect look for you. The hair is pulled up off your neck and face, and everything is tucked away neatly so you don’t have to worry about hair coming out or falling flat. This updo can be done with or without curling the hair first.
My favorite way to style this look is with some teased volume at the crown and the front twisted or swept back into the knot. You can decide if you want hairline pieces framing the face, and then add a good layer of hairspray to finish. You could also add a braid, as shown in the picture above.
Wavy Lilac Texture
Q&A with stylist, Chloe
Salon Manager @ Blow Your Top Hair Designers in Christies Beach, SA
How would you characterize this look and what do you love most about it?
These are wavy textures. I appreciate how the depth of the color is highlighted by the waves, along with the beautiful lilac shade throughout.
What advice or products do you suggest to achieve this style?
To achieve the look, apply mousse on damp hair, dry, and then curl using a hair straightener. To complete, utilize a texture spray/powder to separate the curls, and then finish with hairspray.
What type of individual would you suggest this look for?
I would suggest this look for anyone seeking a quick and simple style that appears effortless. Most hair types can embrace this style, depending on their hair length.
Half-Up Braided Style with Waves
Try this half-up braided style featuring waves to achieve a mermaid-like appearance. This voluminous wavy hairstyle complements blondes and redheads beautifully.
Elegant Braided Bun
I always appreciate styles that combine braids and buns. Because it’s on both sides of your head, I refer to it as a Double Dutch braided updo. I love that the braid is truly the focal point of your hair on both sides while becoming more understated from the back. For me, braids and blonde tones create the ideal combination, or even darker hair with subtle color variations like a balayage. It’s all about depth and highlights. For this, I suggest using a texture spray to achieve a more relaxed boho vibe in your hair. My all-time favorite is Alterna Haircare’s Caviar Perfect Texture Spray.
Chic Ponytail Updo
Insightful Q&A with style creator, Candace Foley
Senior Stylist @ Simonson’s Salon and Spa in Plymouth, MN
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would call this a really fun ponytail updo with a nod to the braid trend that’s been going on for a while now. My favorite thing about this look is that it has a classic feel while still remaining youthful!
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
I recommend setting the hair in curls first. The curls will give you volume and longevity to the style. I like to use Keratin Complex Flex Flow working spray on each section as I curl. Backcomb and pin the height you would like for the crown.
For my fine-haired clients, I will also use Unite Texturiza spray for added volume and hold. Section the hair at the ears, clipping the front out of the way. Then just pin crisscross sections down the back until you reach the desired placement of your ponytail and secure with your binder. Wrap the front sections around the pony to hide your pins and give a finished look, and you’re done!
I usually refresh the curls with an iron and then finish with Kevin Murphy Session Spray to hold.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is great for medium length hair and is perfect for almost any face shape!
Bouncy Half Up Half Down Hairstyle
This hairstyle is my favorite half up half down prom option. Big, bouncy waves have received a lot of attention in the bridal and prom scene recently. For those who prefer their hair down but desire a more refined look, this style is ideal. It’s both beachy and elegant while remaining modern and aligned with current trends. You can opt for braids or a classy twist as shown here.
When aiming for a style like this, it’s best to have hair that falls below your shoulders and is on the thicker or coarser side. For those with finer or softer hair, consider adding extensions to help maintain the style. I’m a huge fan of Luxy extensions and often recommend them to my brides looking to elevate their appearance.
Chic Overlap Half-Updo with Gentle Curls
A chic overlap half-updo with gentle curls is an accessible style to attempt at home or in the salon. This look is ideal for prom or any other memorable event. The overlap half-updo, being soft and romantic, appears delightful when enhanced with crystal hair accessories or blooms.
Elegant Low Ponytail with Face-Framing Strands
An elegant low ponytail with pieces of hair framing the face can be dressed up for any occasion. By wrapping some hair around the base and incorporating a few strands around the face, you can transform a simple ponytail into something remarkable.
Elegant Updo Featuring Loose Curls
Elevate your warm brown locks with stunning blonde highlights that beautifully contrast throughout a gracefully styled curly updo.
Delicate & Romantic Bun
I would describe this look as delicate and romantic. My favorite thing about this look is its versatility for any special occasion. Whether it’s prom, a wedding, or a work holiday party, this updo shines! Proper hair prep is crucial in achieving this look. Prior to creating this updo, I curled all of the hair using a 1-inch curling iron and curled all the strands away from the face. I created volume at the crown by using Powder Play and backcombed after application. To add extra texture, I used Dry Texture spray by Kenra. I finished off the look with an Extra Hold Hairspray by Kenra.
This look can be achieved with shoulder-length hair or beyond. Remember that the shorter the hair, the smaller your bun will be. This style is particularly effective with medium to thick hair. To achieve an even softer appearance, you can pull out a few strands to frame the face and curl them.
Elegant Dutch Braid
This one’s truly straightforward yet deserving of royalty! Craft a basic plait as a headband, twist those front sections for a playful touch, and gather them all into a delightful messy bun at the back.
Elegant Half Updo with Gentle Curls
Q&A with style creator, Cristina Whelan
Hairstylist @ Headmasters in Hawk Green, UK
How would you characterize this look?
I would characterize this look as a relaxed yet refined half updo for prom featuring gentle curls.
I love that from the front it appears effortless with not too much detail, but from the back, it’s softly pinned to create a cascade of gentle curls. It’s a look that works for any occasion without it being overly tidy or too perfect.
Any tips for someone thinking about it?
This hairstyle is very easy to achieve with longer hair, although it is certainly feasible to create on shorter hair as well. I recommend doing this style on hair that isn’t freshly washed because it tends to hold better.
Part the hair straight down the middle, then take medium-sized sections and curl the hair away from the face on both sides. Once you’ve curled it all, run a brush through to soften the curl. I suggest using a large paddle brush with a little serum to smooth out any flyaway hairs, then lightly mist with a medium hold hairspray.
Everyone’s face shape is unique, and some people prefer more hair framing the face while others do not. It all depends on your personal style. Do a bit of backcombing, then loosely pin hair back from the sides, maintaining your natural parting to achieve that relaxed look. It’s that easy!
I would say this look is fantastic for proms, weddings, job interviews, or just about any occasion! It’s a versatile, effortless style. If you’re someone who appreciates a more laid-back (yet still stylish) updo, then this one is perfect for you.
Elegant Bobby Pins
Q&A with style creator, Kellie Williamson
Master Stylist @ La Bella Hair Salon in Newton, MA
How would you describe this look?
I was excited to try a hairstyle with bobby pins as an accent instead of trying to hide them. I was inspired by @maggiemh on Instagram.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style is best if you have long hair past your shoulders. If a client is thinking about this look, definitely Google images to find ideas of what you want and show your stylist.
Effortlessly Chic
I would describe this easy prom updo for long hair as effortlessly chic. These loose, undone updos for long hair are the latest trend for this upcoming prom season. This style is amazing and my go-to updo because it is easy, quick, and so much fun to create. It is a very versatile look that complements any dress!
I advise setting up a trial with your stylist before your big day to ensure your stylist has the ability to achieve this look with your hair type. This style is perfect for ladies who have medium to long-length hair with a fine to medium density. It may be more difficult to recreate this updo on someone with super short hair or someone with thick/coarse hair. Your trial will allow your stylist to personalize the style to your hair type.
Elegant Fishtail Braid
Choose a chic fishtail braid for your special day. The most charming aspect of this look is how beautifully it highlights her hair’s length while exuding an aura of effortless style.
Begin with sleek waves and divide the hair into three sections. Utilize the back section to craft a pulled-out fishtail braid, occasionally incorporating sections from the front to create a gentle sweep back. For added intrigue, place an elastic toward the end to distinguish and enhance texture before completing the braid.
This style is ideal for someone who appreciates a unique updo and is at ease with a more relaxed and soft appearance. It’s also perfect for anyone desiring a lovely hairstyle yet prefers wearing their hair down.
This look works best for individuals with long, voluminous hair, but with the aid of texture spray, the braid can be loosened to mimic fullness.
Classic Ponytail
This style is wonderfully uncomplicated. It’s essentially a ponytail with a few thoughtful tweaks that can elevate it for special events. What I appreciate most about this style is that it allows you to “be yourself” rather than mimic someone else. It’s youthful, charming, slightly captivating, and versatile enough for a range of occasions.
This look suits many, but it’s especially flattering if you have longer hair since it minimizes the need for extensions. Given that this style is popular during summer or on warmer days, ensure you apply a heat-resistant product prior to styling it with waves or straightening. This not only safeguards your hair but also contributes to the longevity of the style. I recommend Sleek Mystique by Catwalk TIGI. Creating this look is quite straightforward. If your style leans towards the formal, you might opt to forgo the loose bangs and go for a sleek ponytail. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed vibe or possess curly hair for prom, it pairs beautifully with voluminous waves.
Effortless Low Bun Hairstyle with a Framing Effect
An effortless low bun is a classic hairstyle with a framing effect that beautifully softens the overall appearance. Low buns embody simple, stunning grace and are renowned for their touch of romantic softness. To effectively frame the face, ensure to pull pieces that fall where you’d prefer them, while avoiding those that obstruct your view and need to be brushed out of the way, as that could disrupt the curls and detract from the aesthetic. An easy low bun is a perfect way to express lived-in elegance, showcasing that it doesn’t have to appear flawless and refined.
Classic & Adaptable
Q&A with stylist, Anessa Espana-Reid
Owner / Stylist @ Elevate Salon in Griffin, GA
How would you characterize this look?
This easy prom style is both classic and adaptable. The smooth, shiny curls are set and brushed out so they are soft and bouncy.
From glam to natural and boho to chic, one of the best things about this style is that it works for so many different personalities. You just can’t go wrong with beautiful curls cascading softly around your face!
Any tips for someone considering it?
This look is easiest to achieve with thicker hair for easy volume and fullness. If you’re working with fine hair, using volumizing products like a root lifter and dry shampoo will help to plump the hair and yield longer lasting results.
One question I always ask is what the neckline of the dress looks like. You want the focal point to be your face. As a general guideline, if the dress is strapless or shows a lot of skin, you would want to wear your hair all down or half up half down. A dress with a high neckline or longer sleeves would call for hair to be swept up to ensure your face is not overwhelmed by too much going on.
However, to me hair is art, so it’s also fun to break the norms!
Effortless Romantic Low Updo
This chic and stylish bun works well for all face shapes and body sizes. If you enjoy having some hair framing your face, feel free to leave a few strands down.
Effortless Waves
Quick and styled in no time! Scrunch up your hair for some messy waves then grab some strands and put them in braids for a charming prom hairstyle that’s simple to create!
Casual Bun
Do you appreciate a carefree and slightly tousled textured bun updo for prom? Then this one’s definitely for you!
Effortlessly Bohemian Elegance
Q&A with style creator, Allison Moerke
Owner @ Shearsordye LLC in Chandler, AZ
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This look is effortlessly romantic and bohemian elegance. My favorite thing about it is the pulled apart braid that gives her a polished look without being overdone.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
Use a good working hairspray such as Outer Space and a frizz fighting spray like Foil from R+Co. Curl hair with a big iron (1 1/2-inch barrel) and clip the curls when done. Spray everything with hairspray again to make sure it lasts all night.
Have fun with this look and don’t overthink it!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look works best for clients with medium to long, wavy hair that’s on the thick side and holds a loose curl. It can work on any face shape. This style is perfect for the girl who wants to be the next version of herself on prom night!
Elevated High Ponytail Updo
Insights from style creator, Candice Marie
Owner @ Southern Belle Hair and Makeup Studio in Covington, LA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
This is a half up half down upstyle. The ponytail is high on the crown of the head and the crown was teased to add volume. The rest of the hair was left down and curled with a 1-inch barrel curling iron.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
I created this look with Kenra Thermal Hairspray to prep the hair. I then sprayed each section with Kenra Design Spray to set the curls. I added some dry shampoo at the crown for texture and volume. I finished off the look with a little Kenra Shine Spray.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This style is perfect for any party or special occasion. It’s great for homecoming, prom or bridesmaids, and it is also flattering on most face shapes.
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