Prom is easily one of the most memorable occasions in a high school girl’s life. The dress, the shoes, the date, and of course the hair have to be just right! Why not try saving a few bucks and doing your hair yourself? Here are a few easy prom hairstyles that are simple in method but leave nothing to be desired in the style and elegance department. A great hairstyle can be the perfect finishing touch to the total prom package!
Hopefully these styles will give you a plethora of prom hair ideas. Whether you select a timeless classic look or something a little bit more funky and modern, your hairstyle can be the perfect match for a lovely dress and stunning accessories. And hopefully you’ve realized that just because it looks fancy doesn’t mean it has to take hours to do. Here’s to a prom where you turn every head in the room!
#1: Bouncy Half Up Half Down
This look is my go-to half up half down prom style. Big, bouncy waves have been huge in the bridal and prom world lately. For those who want their hair down but need a more dressed up look, this is the perfect option. It’s beachy yet elegant, all while staying modern and in line with today’s trends. You can braid it back or go for a classy twist like you see here.
When it comes to doing an look like this you are going to want hair that is below your shoulders and on the thicker/coarser side. If you have finer/softer hair, add extensions to help hold the style. I’m obsessed with Luxy extensions and recommend them to all of my brides who are looking to take their look to the next level.
#2: Easy Romantic Low Updo
This simple and elegant bun suits any face shape or body size. If you like having some hair framing your face, you can leave a few strands loose.
#3: Overlap Half-Updo with Soft Curls
An overlap half-updo with soft curls is an easy updo to try at home or in the salon. This style is perfect for prom or any other special occasion. The overlap half-updo, being soft and romantic, looks lovely when adorned with crystal hair accessories or flowers.
#4: Low Pony with Face-Framing Pieces
A low ponytail accented with strands of hair around the face can be enhanced for any event. By wrapping some hair around the base and adding a few strands around the face, you can make a regular ponytail look extraordinary.
#5: Classic & Elegant
I would describe this easy prom look as classic and elegant. 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.
#6: Braided Half-Up with Waves
Try this braided half-up style with waves to look like a mermaid. This wavy hairstyle with volume suits blondes and redheads.
#7: Simple Yet Elegant
I would describe this easy prom updo for long hair as simple yet elegant. 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.
#8: Simple Ponytail
This is a very simple look. It’s basically a ponytail but with some small changes to can turn it into an event look. The thing I love the most about it is that this ponytail makes you “look like you” and not as if you are trying to be someone else. It’s young, sweet, a little bit alluring, and you can wear it for many occasions.
Many people can wear this look, but it works better if you have long hair so that you don’t have to add extensions. Since it’s a look many people choose for summer or a hot day, make sure you use a heatproof product before you create the waves or straighten it. Along with protecting your hair, it is also going to help the style last longer. I used Sleek Mystique by Catwalk TIGI. This is not a difficult look to create. If you are more of a formal girl, you can eliminate the loose bangs and straighten the ponytail. If you are a more laid back girl or even have curly hair for prom, it looks even better with big waves.
#9: Updo with Loose Curls
Animate your warm brown hair with striking sweet blonde highlights that would pop all throughout an elegantly made curly upstyle.
#10: Dutch Braid
This one’s real uncomplicated yet royal-worthy! Create a simple plait for a head band, twists those front pieces for a flirty look, and put them all together into a fun tousled bun at the back.
#11: Braided Bun
I always like braids that are going into buns. Because it’s on both sides of your head, I called it a Double Dutch braided updo. I love that the braid is really the center of your hair on both sides and becomes more subtle from the back. For me, braids and blondes are the perfect combo, or darker hair but with some color difference like a balayage. It’s all about depth and highlights. For this, I recommend using a texture spray to get more of a boho feeling in your hair. My ultimate favorite one is Alterna Haircare’s Caviar Perfect Texture Spray.
#12: Loose Low Bun Hairstyle with a Face Frame
A loose low bun is a staple hairstyle with a face frame that perfectly softens the overall look. Low buns are a symbol of simple, stunning elegance and are widely known for their air of romantic softness. To perfectly frame the face, make sure to pull pieces that fall where you’ll want them, but won’t be in your way and need to be brushed out of the face as that will break down the curls and take away from the look. A low loose bun is a perfect way to have lived in elegance, meaning it doesn’t need to look perfect and polished.
#13: Braided Updo
Pin your luscious and textured waves up into a messy knot accented by a sweet side braid. This easy prom hair is for the carefree, easy-going gals and is best worn with lace-y dresses.
#14: Loose Bun
Less is more when you style your hair in a simple yet elegant knot like this that’s perfect for medium to long hair. Leave some wavy pieces in front for a real romantic prom touch.
#15: Messy Bun
Do you like such a natural and a little bit messy textured bun updo for prom? Then this one’s surely for you!
#16: Fishtail Braid
Opt for a boho fishtail braid at your big event. The loveliest thing about this look is how well it shows off the length of her hair and gives off a vibe of effortlessness.
Start with smooth waves and separate the hair into 3 sections. Use the back section to create a pulled-out fishtail braid, occasionally adding sections from the front to create a soft sweep back. For interest add an elastic toward the bottom to separate and create texture before finishing the braid.
The person who would suit this style enjoys a non-traditional updo and is comfortable with the look being loose and soft-looking. Also perfect for someone who wants a pretty style but is more comfortable with their hair down.
This look is best suited to someone with long and thick hair, but as long as texture spray is used the braid can be pulled apart to emulate thickness.
#17: Half Updo with a Soft Curl
Q&A with style creator, Cristina Whelan
Hairstylist @ Headmasters in Hawk Green, UK
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as a relaxed but elegant half updo for prom with a soft curl.
I love that from the front it looks natural with not too much fuss going on, but from the back, it’s softly pinned to create a waterfall of soft curls. It’s a look that suits any occasion without it being too neat or too perfect.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This hairstyle is super easy to create with longer hair, although it is definitely possible to create on shorter hair as well. I prefer to do this style on hair that isn’t freshly washed because it tends to stay better.
Part the hair right down the middle, then take medium-sized sections and curl the hair so it’s going away from the face on both sides. Once you’ve curled it all, run a brush through to make the soft curl. I would use a large paddle brush with a little serum to smooth out any flyaway hairs, then lightly spray with a medium hold hairspray.
Everyone’s face is different and some people like a lot of hair down around the face and others don’t. It all depends on your preference. Create a little backcombing, then loosely pin hair back from the sides, leaving it in your natural parting to create that relaxed look. It’s as simple as that!
I would say this look is great for proms, weddings, job interviews, or pretty much any occasion! It’s an all-around effortless look. If you’re the type of person who likes a more relaxed (but still glamorous) updo, then this is the one for you.
#18: Timeless & Versatile
Q&A with style creator, Anessa Espana-Reid
Owner / Stylist @ Elevate Salon in Griffin, GA
How would you describe this look?
This easy prom style is both timeless and versatile. The smooth, shiny curls are set and brushed out so they are soft and bouncy.
From glam to natural and boho to classic, 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 advice 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 give 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 rule of thumb, 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 make sure your face is not overwhelmed by too much going on.
However, to me hair is art, so it’s also fun to break the rules!
#19: Formal 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 considering this look, definitely Google images to find ideas of what you want and show your stylist.
#20: Soft & Romantic Bun
I would describe this look as soft and romantic. My favorite thing about this look is its suitability for any nice occasion. Whether it’s prom, a wedding, or a work holiday party, this updo works! Proper hair prep is essential in creating this look. Prior to creating this updo, I curled all of the hair using a 1-inch curling iron and curled all the hair going away from the face. I created volume at the crown by using Powder Play and backcombed after application. To create 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 created with shoulder-length hair or below. Remember that the shorter the hair, the smaller your bun will be. This style also works best with medium to thick hair. To create an even softer look, you can pull out a few hairs to frame the face and curl them.
#21: Effortlessly Boho Chic
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 boho chic. My favorite thing about it is the pulled apart braid that gives her a polished look without being over done.
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 last s 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!
#22: Textured Lilac Waves
Q&A with style creator, Chloe
Salon Manager @ Blow Your Top Hair Designers in Christies Beach, SA
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
These are textured waves. I love how the dimension of the color is showcased by the waves, as well as the pretty lilac tone to the overall color.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
To recreate the style, use mousse to prep damp hair, dry, and then curl with a hair straightener. To finish, use a texture spray/powder to help break up the curls, then apply hairspray.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I recommend this look for someone that wants a quick easy style that looks effortless. Most hair types would suit this style, depending on their length hair.
#23: High Pony Upstyle
Q&A with 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.
#24: Fun Ponytail Updo
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!
#25: Loose Waves
Quick and done in a flash! Scrunch up your hair for some messy waves then grab some strands and put them in braids for a cute prom hairstyle that’s easy to style!
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