Prom hairstyles for short hair are attainable with a bit of creativity, product, and the right tools. You can design adorable styles such as updos, half updos, braids, and more. Short hair is often perceived as lacking versatility, particularly when it comes to fun formal styles. Challenge the norm and elevate your short haircut to an entirely new level with one of these stunning short hairstyles for prom. By simply incorporating a few curls, flips, accessories, or touches of color, you can transform your short cut into an incredibly stylish masterpiece. Your prom day is the perfect occasion to enhance your look and make a statement. Find inspiration in some of these beautiful short prom hairstyles showcased below!
#1 Chic Dip-Dyed Hair with Tiny Twists and Soft Waves
This style is the ultimate blend of relaxed elegance and playful charm! First, incorporate some soft waves for movement to achieve this quick and easy look. Then add tiny topsy loops to your short locks and a braid for added depth. Finally, enrich the style with a few mini floral accessories for a delicate touch. I recommend using a strong-hold hairspray to keep your curls intact throughout the day. To prevent the hair pieces from sliding, secure the ends of the loops and use a few bobby pins to hold them in place.
#2 Elegant Wrapped Bun with Gentle Side Bangs
The elegant wrapped bun with gentle side bangs is a fantastic look for straight, thick hair. To achieve the style, begin by blow-drying your hair straight to create a smooth foundation. Then take your hair, place it in a low ponytail, and secure it with an elastic band. Pull some of the hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band, ensuring that it is covered. Next, take the end of the ponytail, roll it under, and secure it with bobby pins. To finish, spritz some hairspray on the style to keep it secure. For an added boost of shine, you can also use an oil or shine spray to enhance your hair’s healthy and glossy appearance.
#3 Elegant Side-Swept Twist Updo
A side-swept twist updo is definitely worth considering if you have short hair and seek a sophisticated look ideal for prom. This gorgeous updo adds a refined touch to your tresses without the inconvenience of requiring more length. To recreate this style, begin by spritzing your strands with sea salt spray for texture and hold. My go-to is the Ouai Texturizing Spray. It provides just the right amount of hold and has a wonderful scent. Next, brush all your hair towards one side and divide your hair into two distinct twists. Secure them together just below one ear using small elastics in alternating directions. Continue twisting until you reach the end length before securing it with elastic or bobby pins.
#4 Charming Waterfall Braid with Decorative Gems
Elevate your short hair with a delightful waterfall braid adorned with gems. This trendy hairstyle is an ideal choice for prom! You can create two thick ribbon braids that frame your face, adding a stylish touch. Incorporating tiny gems preserves a soft and romantic vibe, without making it overly polished. Keep your hair voluminous with Redken Satinwear 04 Blow Dry Lotion, which enhances body and smoothness, giving your overall style a radiant shine.
#5 Textured Half-Up Hairstyle Adorned with Pearl Pins
A stylish option for short hair is the textured half-up hairstyle adorned with pearl pins. This look is ideal for helping you step out confidently on your special evening. It’s bound to leave a lasting impression. Customize your style by incorporating small decorative pins like the Freshwater Pearl “barrette set” from Etsy.
#6 Elegant Side Braid with Relaxed Waves
Add effortless waves and braiding into one style if you want a prom hairstyle that enhances your short hair. An elegant side braid with relaxed waves is one of the favorites this season. When styled to perfection, it promises sophistication without a lot of fuss or time. First, use your favorite curling iron to create loose curls throughout your strands. Do this to roots. Then, clip half of your hair to the side while focusing on creating an exaggerated side braid. Leave several curls unbraided and comb after they have cooled to complete your look.
#7 Retro Glamour
Gorgeous lustrous hair in a classic style like this makes your overall retro appearance flawless. The tight curls at the ends combined with the simple finger wave on top with incredibly shiny hair are inspired by the original Hollywood icons. You can’t go wrong with this one!
You don’t have to spend much to get a great holding gel. Try Salon Care Super Firm Styling Gel. It doesn’t flake and will hold your hair in place. Oval, heart, and some round or square faces. It is ideal for fine to thick density with a little bit of natural texture. Use small plastic rollers for the ends after setting the top in a finger wave while your hair is damp. You can mimic the style with dry hair, but you won’t get the same feel.
#8 Elegant Airy Curls Adorned with a Headband
Embrace a classic style featuring airy curls accented with a headband! That’s right; you can enjoy this timeless look without compromising comfort. Start by using an elastic to divide your hair into four sections. Clip two of these sections away and focus on the other two first. Apply curl-enhancing crème for a stronger hold, then use a curling iron or hot rollers. Gently comb out those locks until they are light and fluffy. Secure each section loosely at the side of your head with bobby pins near the crown. To finish, don’t forget to add some sparkle with Glitterati Jewellery’s Celestial Headband. It’s sure to radiate glimmer and shine in every direction!
#9 Effortless Pull-Through Braids with Soft Waves
Consider trying pull-through braids partnered with loose waves for your upcoming formal event. These trendy braids create the perfect illusion of intricacy. This style is an excellent choice for short hair prom looks, allowing you to add texture while keeping your hair flowing freely.
#10 Enchanting Half Twisted Updo for Shoulder-Length Hair
An enchanting half-twisted updo for shoulder-length hair is a stunning style for prom. This short hairstyle can pack a significant punch and give any short-haired lady the look of her dreams. Ideally, prep work is the most essential part of an updo. Cleansing your hair beforehand with a clarifying shampoo and blow drying a mousse is a great way to do so. I recommend Paul Mitchell’s Shampoo Two for a strong clarifier. Use Paul Mitchell’s Awapuhi Wild Ginger HydroCream Whip Mousse for a soft styling mousse.
#11 Half-Up Hairstyle with Middle Part
These lush waves combined with a middle part half-up hairstyle create a beautiful and enchanting appearance. There are numerous ways to achieve this look, whether by incorporating curls or designing braids or twists. You can effortlessly style for prom night with the right tools and products. It can be breathtaking and will endure throughout the evening! For additional hold, apply hairspray to ensure your hair stays in place. Complete the style with a chic hair accessory for an added touch of elegance.
#12 Elegant Side-Braided Short Prom Hairstyle
Short hair doesn’t imply you can’t make a statement at your prom! A bob length is versatile enough to inspire an elegant side-braided short prom style. Shorter lengths also accentuate the face and add lovely depth and contrast. Create a romantic vibe. Work with thin plaits on one side of the head. Then smooth them back into a semi-loose ponytail. Make sure to secure each section with plenty of reliable hairspray or pins to keep it all in place! Leave delicate tendrils around the front to frame your face and crown yourself Prom Queen!
#13 Elegant Reverse French Braid Bun
For the girl with short hair seeking a dainty hairstyle, I suggest the reverse french braid bun. This look is stylish yet uncomplicated and ideal for any event. To create this updo, roll your hair to one side, pushing the ends into the roll as you progress. To secure this, use multiple pins in the roll at the fold where the hair meets. Once you reach the bottom, fold the ends under and pin it in. Finish off with a fine mist of hairspray to hold it all in place!
#14 Sleek Low Bun with Side-Braid on a Jaw-Length Bob
If you have jaw-length bob hair and are in search of an ideal hairstyle, the sleek low bun with a side braid is the perfect choice. To achieve this look, start by parting your hair slightly off-center. Create a small Dutch braid on each side of your head at your temple. Be sure to secure each braid as you go, so it doesn’t come undone during styling. Once you reach the back of your neck, you can blend the braids and pin them into place with bobby pins. Spray generously with a medium-hold hairspray, and you can add accessories if desired.
#15 The Elegant French Twist
This classic updo is sure to impress. It features delicate curls and a romantic vibe, perfect for an evening of dancing. To create this hairstyle, begin by forming a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure it with an elastic band or a decorative ribbon. Take sections of hair from the sides near your temples. Twist them back through mid-strand into the base of your ponytail. Continue this process until both sides converge in the center, being careful not to flatten any curls in the process. Lightly pulling on each twisted section enhances that desired textured appearance.
#16 Elegant Low Bouffant Updo with Framing Layers
An elegant low bouffant updo with framing layers offers a soft and classy appearance. To accomplish this look, make sure to secure a base first. My preferred method is a bun, for instance. Begin with a low bun at the nape of the neck. After that, you can secure loose strands to create a soft, tousled finish. Complete the style with a light-hold hairspray.
#17 Long Bob with a Half-Wrapped Braid and Soft Waves
A long bob featuring a half-wrapped braid and delicate floral accents is a wonderful way to introduce a romantic and feminine flair. This classic look stands out as one of the trendiest prom hairstyles of the season. Begin by curling your hair with a curling wand to achieve this bohemian effect. Make sure to leave the tips of the hair uncurled to form a gentle wave. Next, gather your hair back and utilize an elastic to form a half-braid. Secure it with a few bobby pins, and embellish with small floral accessories to complete the look. To maintain the curls’ volume, apply a light hairspray to keep everything in place.
#18 Chic Braided Hairstyle with Curled Tips
This effortless ‘do is perfect for adding texture and dimension to shorter tresses. Start by spritzing damp hair with sea salt spray to achieve that tousled, beachy vibe. Then create your 3-strand braid from one temple to the other. Once done, loosely wrap sections of your braid around a 1″ curling iron for defined spiral curls at the ends. Finish off this look with a light-hold hairspray like FaveFAV’s Argan Oil Hairspray. It will keep everything in place without weighing down your strands!
#19 Chic Short-Length Soft Tousled Waves with Twists and Pins
Are you in search of a classic, sophisticated hairstyle to impress? Try crafting soft tousled waves and twists secured with pins. Begin by curling sections of hair with a 1″ iron. Subsequently, gently finger-comb the curls to relax them for a more effortless appearance. Fasten sections of hair against the scalp in discreet locations near your part or temple. Gold or silver bobby pins add a touch of elegance. Apply a medium-hold hairspray to maintain everything in place without a stiff feel. Bumble & Bumble Brilliantine is perfect for this! The outcome is a stunning style that will captivate all night long!
#20 Gentle Tousled Waves with a Side Braid
A gentle tousled wave with a side braid is a fantastic choice for a lob cut! I suggest using a wand curling iron to create these waves for the ideal appearance. Then, softly brush them out with a boar bristle brush. To maintain the look, apply a lightweight hairspray. Use a sea salt spray or a light mousse to increase volume for a more textured effect. Lastly, to ensure the side braid stays intact throughout the day, use a light-hold hairspray or gel to secure the twist.
#21 Chic Side Parted Blunt Cut with Hair Accessories
This prom season, elevate your short hair with a side-parted blunt cut adorned with chic hair accessories. Channel your inner pin-up girl. Keep the attention on this timeless cut without detracting from the polished look. To achieve a sleek appearance that remains intact during a night of celebration, use O&M Queenie Firm Hold Hair Spray. Apply generously to secure each section firmly. Complete your style with small gold or silver barrettes placed along one side of your head for a stylish touch.
#22 Elegant Pinned Prom Updo
Taking a timeless approach to short hair prom styling can be stunning and enchanting. This updo is a perfect illustration. Strands are pulled back into a high bun with bobby pins providing additional structure. Achieving that flawless poise requires time and preparation. So begin the process at least an hour before the special evening. Use setting spray or mousse on dry hair for a more enduring hold. Ensure to secure each strand firmly as you proceed. To complete the look, choose a radiant shine serum. Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream will have your beautiful locks shimmering all night long!
#23: Pearl Headpiece on Shoulder-Length Wavy Hair
Enhance a simple hairstyle with a pearl headpiece on shoulder-length wavy hair. Pearl accessories are classic and essential in sophistication. Short hair presents fewer styling choices than long hair, so adding accessories is key to drawing attention and adding flair to your formal hairstyles for shorter locks. Be sure to secure your accessories in place using a cross-pin technique to ensure they stay put while you enjoy the night.
#24 Chic Twisted Half-Updo with Short Voluminous Curls
For a playful and charming style, consider a chic twisted half-updo with short voluminous curls for women with thicker hair. To achieve this adorable and simple updo, begin by curling your hair with a curling iron or wand for enhanced texture. Then, create a deep side part. Take a small section of the hair on the larger side to twist around the crown area and secure it with bobby pins. Be sure to apply a light hairspray to maintain the style throughout the evening. This updo for short hair is a carefree option that will last all night, perfect for both thick and fine hair.
#25 Effortless Half-Up Twist for Angled Bob
This chic updo for short hair is ideal for prom styles. This effortless half-up twist at the center of an angled bob will create a distinctive look sure to impress. Start by spraying your locks with mousse and blow-drying until there’s some lift in the crown area. Oway &ldquo Glossy Nectar &ldquo adds great shine while keeping moisture inside each strand. Divide the top section into two parts and twist both sections away from each other. Go toward the back of your head before fastening them with bobby pins. Or crisscross them to secure them in place. This helps maintain volume throughout, even after you’ve added extra accessories.
#26 Charming Blonde Smooth Bob
Elegant and stylish. I appreciate this look for a very simple yet impactful reason – it’s versatile and easy to manage. Due to its color, it doesn’t need extensive upkeep or frequent trips to the salon, and we all desire that! This is an excellent option for girls who love a feminine touch and women who cherish their gracefulness and charm but also seek practical hair solutions.
In designing this style, I always emphasize that it should be styled, so I recommend using a thermal protection product, particularly One United from Redken, for its numerous advantages. In terms of color, you should have healthy hair for the color to stick, so I suggest investing in a premium shampoo or mask to keep it vibrant.
#27 Elegant Low French Style Side Bun
An elegant low French-style side bun is the perfect way to make a fashion statement for a sophisticated prom appearance. This timeless hairdo exudes romantic vibes while requiring minimal effort. It’s ideal for ladies with shorter hair on their special evening. To achieve this look, brush your locks into a half ponytail. It should be secured firmly at the nape of your neck. Then take small sections of hair and twirl them around each other. Next, pin them discreetly around the ponytail. After that, take the ponytail and the pinned ends. Roll them up and bobby-pin everything using multiple pins for a polished bun. Finish with a medium-hold hairspray such as Redken’s Control Hairspray 28.
#28 Effortless Twisted Bun
An effortless twisted bun in the back is a chic, uncomplicated style. It’s a timeless updo that’s ideal for short hair. It offers you all the elegance and charm of a detailed hairdo, without being complicated or taking too much time. To create it, section off your hair into four large even parts. Grab these segments one at a time and twist them away from your face. Do this until all four twists come together at the back center of your head. Secure by crisscrossing bobby pins. Finish off with some hairspray. Try Tigi Catwalk Session Series Finishing Spray. It will keep everything in place and provide extra hold.
#29 Elegant French Twist Bouffant Updo
If you’re searching for a stylish updo to showcase at your prom, consider trying an elegant French twist bouffant. It’s ideal for short hair needing volume and durability throughout the night. This hairdo can effortlessly withstand dancing all evening. Begin by creating two buns at the nape of the neck. Ensure they’re snug against your scalp so they won’t shift as you style them. Tease each section from root to tip before twisting it back into a knot. A teasing comb is essential here because it will assist in lifting your strands for maximum bounce and body at the roots.
#30 Stylish Half-Down Twist for Short Choppy Hair
Pump up the volume for prom with a choppy, half-down twist. Short hair can feel quite flat if you don’t put in extra effort to glam it up, and this style is just what you need. It’s perfect for making a statement without going overboard about prom. After all, your special event should be about having fun. To get started, curl or backcomb the roots of your hair from the front edges backward. Do this before tying it back into two sections near the crown of your head. Twist both sides until they meet at the bottom of your neck, and secure with kirby grips. Try Wet Brush Shine & Finish Hair Clips. Gently pull out some tendrils on either side during styling. Use a wand or curling iron to put a band in your front tendrils, overdirecting away from your face.
#31 Half-Up Braid on a Wavy Blunt Bob
A half-up braid on a wavy blunt bob is a fantastic way to highlight your texture and volume! You can start by giving your hair a wavy texture with a curling iron. Then create a deep side part to define your face shape. Use a texturizing product to give your hair more grip and hold for this braided look perfect for prom night. Braiding the hair half up and pinning it back with bobby pins will complete this style. For a lasting hold, finish with flexible hairspray.
#32 Effortlessly Chic Half-Up Boho Style on a Balayage Bob
The half-up boho style on a balayage bob offers a stylish yet relaxed look that is ideal for any occasion. It’s simple to achieve, requires minimal preparation time, and is perfect for hectic days. The gentle waves introduce texture and movement that accentuate the face. The delicate highlights of the balayage merge for a naturally sun-kissed effect. You can create this stunning and short formal hairstyle in a flash with just a few easy steps!
#33 Bold Textured Short Hairstyle with a Dramatic Side Part
Short hair with a dramatic side part style and waves is an edgy look that can make a style impact. To get this look, use your fingers to comb your hair to one side to create a strong deep part. Use a blow dryer to create volume. With short layers, use a curling iron to create waves. Then run your fingers through your curls to make them look more fresh and voluminous. Use a flexible hold hairspray that will give your hair hold and keep it looking full of life.
#34 Elegant Half Updo with Soft Curls
An elegant half updo with soft curls and rose hair accessories is the ideal way to enhance any prom appearance. This style is simple to achieve. Start by creating your half-updo. Gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a hair tie or clip. To introduce some texture, curl the lower half of your hair. Finally, incorporate the rose hair accessories for an accent and an additional touch of glam. For lasting hold and texture, use light hairspray. Finish off with a product like a shine serum for a glossy finish. Don’t forget to use some bobby pins to ensure everything stays in place!
#35 Charming Short Wavy Prom Hairstyle
This is a textured bob featuring waves throughout the strands. When it comes to short hairstyles, bobs are the most adaptable for styling at formal occasions, proms, and galas. My favorite aspect of this cut is the internal layers that we provided. Not only did the internal layers add texture and eliminate excess weight, but she can also wear this cut sleek or straight without revealing lines from texturing shears (which many stylists still utilize).
Additionally, if you are pondering this cut, you should consider the seasons. If you’re thinking about going super short, I recommend that you wait until the humidity decreases in the air. The more weight you have, the better you can manage frizz with a product.
Enter your email and get this picture and description straight to your inbox, and you'll also get new hair ideas ❤️
🔒 We don't spam or sell emails. See our Privacy Policy.