Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (2024)

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (1)

Looking flawless for prom is an absolute must. You have to pick the best dress or prom suit that nails your personal style, a makeup look that'll make your date swoon, and ofc, a glam hairdo. When it comes to prom hairstyles, there's something for every hair length, type, and texture. Short curly hair can be accented with adorable clips or headbands, while vintage updos serve as a clutch look for love curly locks. You can even add dazzling barrettes for a little extra bling if you want to elevate go-to prom hairstyles like ponytails and buns.

The best prom hairstyles are super easy to style, too. You can use everyday clothing items like leggings to transform straight strands into voluminous heatless curls overnight. Or if it's a sophisticated vibe that you're looking to serve, a ballet core-inspired top knot is a classic. Just be sure to grab your fave brush and hairspray to banish flyaways.

Get ready to find the perfect prom hairstyle. It just may anchor your entire aethetic. Oh, and if you're still hunting for the perfect prom look, check out these stylish steals under $100.

1

Slicked- Back Bob with Tucked Ends

Emma McIntyre//Getty Images

So, you're wearing a suit to prom and can't figure out what to do with your hair. Zendaya is all the inspo you need because this slicked-back faux bob with tucked ends serves a major look.

2

Gatsby Wave Updo

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Say hello to the Roaring Twenties with textured. pin-tucked waves and curls. Just like The Great Gatsby, this updo is a classic.

3

Cornrows with Distressed Wool

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (4)

Serve major goth vibes by intertwining distressed wool into cornrows.

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4

Faux Wet Hair

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (5)

If your outfit is already extra AF, opt for a sleek and chic 'do. Slick down flyaways to ensure this pop punk-inspired look doesn't budge.

5

Sleek Half Up, Half Down

You can't ever go wrong with a half-up hairstyle. If you'd like to add a little extra drama, toss in a few clip-in extensions for volume and length.

6

Pearl Accented French Braid Ponytail

Valentina Frugiuele//Getty Images

This show-stopping look is a hybrid of several styles that reign supreme during prom season. Does it get any better than a ponytail meets French braid, braided bun, and pearl accented 'do? We think not.

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7

Messy Fishtail Ponytail

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (8)

Can we get a little commotion for the back of this hairstyle? Complement a messy look with a fishtail braid ponytail.

8

Cropped Cut

Mike Marsland//Getty Images

This one is for the besties with short hair who want to let their prom 'fit and jewelry stand out the most. A cropped haircut keeps hair out of your face, and the style is so minimal that it gives you room to go bigger with accessories.

9

Pretty Waves

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When it doubt, wave it out. Soft, subtle waves are a minimalist's dream.

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10

Bubble Ponytail

Y2K trends are making a massive comeback. Use vibrant colored string to transport your ponytail to the early 2000s.

11

High Ponytail with Flipped Ends and Slicked Bangs

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Stand out in a room full of updos with this throwback look.

12

Bombshell Curls

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If old Hollywood glam is the look you're going for, bombshell curls are a must. Layering helps the soft tendrils frame the face and highlight your prom makeup look.

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13

Glitter Ponytails

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Prom, but make it Euphoria. Chunky hair glitter is the perfect prop to highlight your look.

14

Braided Ponytail

Matt Winkelmeyer//Getty Images

No matter if you're rocking straight strands or protective styles like knotless braids and goddess locs, you can elevate your 'do by simply adding a braid.

15

Flower Crown

Tristan Fewings//Getty Images

Let your fave hair accessory have its moment with this simple and chic updo.

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16

Disco Curls

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Transform into a 1970's era diva with gravity-defying curls. There's no such thing as too much when you're rocking this look, so feel free to go all out with your makeup and accessories, too.

17

Low Bun with Curtain Bangs

Rodin Eckenroth//Getty Images

Calling all Wednesday Addams stans. If you're ready to put a unique spin on the hit Netflix character, opt for curtain bangs and a low bun like Jenna Ortega.

18

Sparkly Pins

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Let your hair accessories do all the talking this prom. Dazzling hair pins and clips can turn the most minimal hairstyle into full glam.

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19

Mermaid Braid Crown and Bangs

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If you want to look like you came straight out of a fairytale go for brow-shielding bangs and a low mermaid braid crown. Don't forget to pull out tendrils by your ear for an added whimsical touch.

20

Messy Space Buns

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (21)

Deliver an effortless slay with laidback messy buns.

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (22)

Jasmine Washington

Assistant Editor

Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.

Stunning Prom Hairstyles That Will Elevate Your Whole Entire Look (2024)

FAQs

What hairstyle is good for prom? ›

For a simple prom hairstyle that will complement more dramatic makeup, opt for a bubble ponytail. It's a look you can actually easily do at home. Start by pulling your mane into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.

How should I wear my hair for prom? ›

Factor in the vibe of your gown when planning your prom hair. For example: If you're wearing a flowy boho gown, try a messier, undone 'do. If your prom dress is sleek and fitted, consider a slick ponytail. If you're wearing your hair down, try a deep side part for an elegant evening-ready look.

How much does an updo for prom cost? ›

Generally speaking, prom hairstyles cost from $30 to $100. The best way to determine how much you're likely to spend on prom hair, call your salon of choice and ask! Makeup costs can vary as well, but you're unlikely to spend over $60 for a simple application.

What is a hair up style? ›

An updo is a women's hairstyle that involves "sweeping the hair" or arranging the hair into a "upstyle", usually for a special or formal occasion. There are many different styles for updos including some sleek, romantic, or "imperfectly messy" look updos.

How can I look prettiest at prom? ›

We all feel stressed getting ready for any big occasion, so take care of a few things early and prep a week ahead of time.
  1. Get glowing skin. ...
  2. Whiten your smile. ...
  3. Clean up your brows. ...
  4. Hydrate your hair. ...
  5. Use a good deodorant or antiperspirant product. ...
  6. Add a pop of color to the eyes. ...
  7. Change up your hair.
Apr 17, 2014

What is the easiest hair for prom? ›

If you're short on getting-ready time, then a bun is a super quick and easy option. You don't even need to wash your hair beforehand, as second-day hair can give your style more texture.

Should my hair be up or down for prom? ›

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut or strapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan. "For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry, try an updo.

How do you stand out at prom? ›

Be unique: Obviously your personal style, accessorizing talents, and inner confidence will make your prom look completely one-of-a-kind. Plus, with so many combinations of style customizations and color options, it'll be pretty hard to have a “who wore it best” moment on the dance floor.

Should I wear my hair down for prom? ›

With its elegant feel, a chic, slicked back hairstyle is perfect for a formal occasion like prom. Plus, if you need some extra bling you can add some glitter to your hair like Florence Pugh.

How long does prom hair usually take? ›

A: Hair styling usually takes around 30-45 minutes for heat styling only (waves, curls, smooth styles) and 1-1.5 hours for an updo style. Note: Hair styling appointments may not be available on certain prom dates due to high numbers of requests for makeup application appointments.

How much is a simple updo? ›

Guide to Average Hair Salon Prices in the U.S.
Hair salon serviceAverage price range
Updos$50 and $130
Bridal hair$60 to $400
Blowout$20 to $100
Perm$30 to $800
21 more rows
Aug 15, 2022

What should I charge for an updo? ›

Standard updo: $120. Updos for extra thick or extra long hair: $130–$140. Updos with intricate braiding or detail: $150–$160.

What is a peekaboo hairstyle? ›

Peekaboo highlights are some hidden dyed hair under the top layer of strands. Introducing them into your style gives you a quirky and unique look. Such dyed strands can work in all types of haircuts. You can now go to work without getting anxious if your hair dye is allowed in the office.

What are the three classic Updo styles? ›

From the pompadour to the chignon, these three classic weddings updos are always in style.
  • Pompadour. This style describing the top of the hair can be applied to your choice of braid, bun, or ponytail. ...
  • Chignon. A low, bun or bun-like style that sits at the nape of the neck.
  • Bouffant.
Mar 12, 2019

Should I wear my hair up or down for prom? ›

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut or strapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan. "For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry, try an updo. When you spend $300 on a dress, you want to be able to see the details."

Can I wear my hair down for prom? ›

If you're trying to decide whether you want your hair up or down for prom, we recommend trying different styles with your dress and accessories. You'll be able to determine what looks best with your full ensemble.

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