25 Prettiest Prom Hairstyles for Black Girls in 2025

Cindy Marcus
Cindy Marcus Hairstylist, Editor-in-Chief

Prom is a moment when all young ladies wish to look and feel extraordinary, and it all starts with stunning hair. There are numerous prom hairstyles for black girls to select from that are bold, elegant, or straightforward.

Whether you prefer updos, braids, or styles with playful hues, keep in mind that prom is a memorable occasion, so ensure your hair celebrates the event!

These prom hairstyle suggestions will motivate you to flaunt your hair for your special day. Remember, you can combine styles to achieve the look you desire. The key is to choose what makes you feel at ease and beautiful.

This is a night to treasure, so experiment with something distinctive and let your individuality shine. Have a fantastic time!

Photos

#1: Elegant Braided Updo

This charming updo featuring braids creates stylish prom hairstyles for black hair. Use EcoStyler brand gel, spritz, and edge control for black prom hairstyles that remain flawless throughout the evening. You can also achieve this ponytail look with a weave.

elegant comb over with curls
Style by ERMA STEPHENS, Head’s Above, Crestview, FL

#2: Elegant Comb Over

This hairstyle showcases a combover adorned with beautiful curls.

Stylish Complete Sew-In with Body Waves hairstyle for a black girl
Instagram @socheyhair

#3: Complete Sew-In with Body Waves

This look is a full sew-in with body waves. I love these hairstyles for prom, especially when they appear natural. This look is a fantastic option for clients who wish to protect their hair from overheating while also adding length and thickness. Or color their hair. It’s also perfect for those looking to take a break from their natural hair.

Chic Sleek Side Part Bob
Instagram @bobbiboss_hair

#4: Chic Sleek Side Part Bob

Look stylish and trendy with this straight and glossy caramel brown hair paired with a classic bob cut. Simple yet elegant!

glamorous waves long style
Style by MARCUS DOSS, Marcus Doss Salon, Fayetteville, NC

#5: Glamorous Waves

Stunning waves enhance this long style for a prom queen appearance. Use a holding spray to maintain your curls’ freshness. You can also attain this long look with extensions.

A black girl with an effortless and unique hairstyle
Instagram @beaute_royale05

#6: Effortless & Unique

This is a straightforward and quick look to achieve because it is both effortless and unique. What I appreciate the most about this look is that it preserves breaks, protects brittle hair, and helps regrow it. I highly recommend these braided black girl prom hairstyles to on-the-go clients because it is easy to maintain with simple products like olive oil, coconut oil, or gel.

Elegant Oversized Bun Updo
Instagram @opaglamz

#7: Elegant Oversized Bun Updo

This sophisticated style demonstrates how natural hair can be beautifully styled for a polished appearance. Complete with a crystal accessory for extra elegance. These stunning black girl hairstyles are perfect not only for prom but for any formal occasion.

first lady sophisticated bob hairstyle for black girls
Style by Tanisha Higgins, A Heavenly Place In Hair, Walton Beach, FL

#8: Chic Side Swept Bangs

This elegant bob style will ensure you stand out as the most sophisticated girl at the prom! Utilize holding spray and heat protectant for a flawless look.

#9: Stunning Naturally Curly Down Hairstyle

Save your time styling your hair with this beautiful curly high ponytail. You deserve to feel free and extraordinary on your special evening with natural hairstyles.

Elegant Side Braids Updo
Instagram @klipshaircare

#10: Elegant Side Braids Updo

Cornrows and flowers create a stunning combination for an exquisite updo. Showcase your natural hair for prom with assurance in a delicate, romantic style!

lovely soft curly bob
Style by Alfonso Hart, Dudle Beauty College, Charlotte, NC

#11: Lovely Soft Curls

This hairstyle showcases a delightful curly texture on short to medium-length hair. To achieve this look, utilize a heat protectant to reduce heat damage and incorporate a curling hold product for enduring curls. Rollers can also be used to create this style.

ombre queen curls
Style by MARCUS DOSS, Marcus Doss Salon, Fayetteville, NC

#12: Queen of Ombre

The ombre hairstyle is trending this season and makes for an ideal spring prom style. Apply heat protectant and edge control for an exquisite finish. For a more natural choice, consider using a herbal hair dye.

goddess beehive half and half style
Crafted by Karen Chavez, Lady of Grace, Peoria, AZ

#13: Goddess Beehive Hairstyle

This half-up and half-down hairstyle with a hump is a prom staple that any young lady can easily pull off! Remember to apply heat protectant for thermal safety.

Image of a black girl showcasing waves with a dramatic side part
Instagram @tarynmarinhair

#14: Waves with a Dramatic Side Part

No need for an elaborate updo if you’re confident in flaunting your gorgeous hair when it flows free. The wavy layers combined with a dramatic side part create an impressive and full appearance.

#15: Elegant Braided Updo

It’s a twisted-puffs, chic updo. What I like most about it is that I have taken our two strands twists, which most of us probably wore as a child growing up, and paired them with beautiful puffs to create this sophisticated look—plus paired with the unique diamond partings.

Flowing Curls with a Center Part
Instagram @sw33tlypss

#16: Flowing Curls with a Center Part

Perfect for individuals with shorter and rounder faces, these centrally parted locks appear tidy and stunning, especially when styled in long waves! It’s a chic, sophisticated, and simple-to-create hairstyle!

adorable mohawk side cornrows for prom
Style by Shontelise Crutch, FabStylez Hair and Braid Studio, Columbia, SC

#17: Charming Natural Mohawk

This charming style features a curly mohawk and side cornrows. To style, try incorporating extensions for a fuller look. This look suits almond and heart face shapes.

Elegant Naturalista Updo hairstyle
Instagram @loveleyshair

#18: Elegant Naturalista Updo

I would describe this look as an “Elegant Naturalista Updo.” It is a very low-maintenance but sophisticated style for a girl with natural hair. It’s also considered a protective style, which is my favorite. This low-upkeep style is amazing because you can wear this look without damaging the hair while still feeling beautiful. I advise anyone considering this look to make sure the style is done on moisturized hair so that when the look is taken out, your hair will still feel very amazing. I recommend doing the style on wet hair, using a moisturizing mousse or a curling cream.

Chic Lemonade Braids hairstyle for prom
Instagram @lesbene_styles

#19: Chic Lemonade Braids

This look is known as “lemonade braids.” These are freestyle cornrows that call for imagination and a considerable amount of time. It’s a type of style that has been popular for a while, and the cost varies based on the length and size a client may desire. My favorite aspect of these braided hairstyles for black girls is the distinctive design. With this style, I have to ensure the pattern I create is tidy and presentable. I enjoy doing this style because clients are always pleased with the designs I come up with. Even though it takes up to six to eight hours to complete, the satisfaction it brings is worth it!

elegant poetic justice hair for black girls

#20 Stylish Poetic Justice Braids

Long braids are highly sought after these days and create a bold look for prom. This prom hairstyle is best executed by an experienced braider.

ladybug updo prom style
Instagram @adannamadueke

#21: Ladybug Updo

Chic buns and graceful swoops create a classic prom aesthetic. Use EcoStyler brand gel, spritz, and edge control for a flawless look that lasts throughout the evening.

Bold, Playful and Chic hairstyle
Instagram @raina.bee

#22: Bold, Playful, and Chic

If I had to choose three adjectives that come to mind when creating this style, bold, playful, and chic. My favorite thing about this style has to be the lightly layered fringe. To recreate/maintain this style, I would suggest using a lightweight oil to provide shine and a product with a medium hold to provide longer staying power. I recommend this look for the slightly edgy woman with at least 30 minutes daily dedicated to refreshing/styling her hair. In my opinion, this style best suits women with an oval head shape.

charming sunrise updo with flower
Style by TIFFANY CUNNINGHAM, Pucci’s Salon, Decatur, GA

#23: Charming Sunrise

A delightful updo featuring a long side bang and floral accessory. You can add extensions if you require additional length for this style.

#24: Adorable Crochet Updo

This elegant, gentle updo is the perfect style if you want to draw attention and enhance your features. For natural hair, prom hairstyles adorned with a white floral barrette create a tidy and polished look that’s sure to turn heads!

Effortless Braids with a Touch of Elegance hairstyle
Instagram @braidqueen_

#25: Effortless Braids with a Touch of Elegance

The one word I can use to describe this style is effortless. If this style is braided correctly, it can frame any shape face beautifully. My favorite thing about this hairstyle is that everyone and anyone can wear it. It does not matter what age you are, your hair texture, or your profession. Anyone can rock this style while exuding elegance without being overly complicated.