68 Gorgeous Prom Hairstyles For Every Hair Length

How should I wear my hair for prom?

We get it; choosing prom hairstyles can be daunting. The good news? There are so many cute, on-trend prom hairstyles (and they won’t be super cringey when you look back on them in 10 years). If you want to stick to the classics, opt for an updo or curls and waves. For those who want to step outside of the box a bit, add some braids or accessories to your prom hairstyle.

Should I put my hair up or 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. When in doubt, an expert stylist can guide you in the right direction.

How much is a prom hairstyle?

For those deciding to book a salon appointment for their prom hairstyle, the price will depend on your salon’s location and the look you’re trying to achieve. Prices can range anywhere from $30 to $300.

Ready for some inspiration? Keep scrolling for 68 prom hairstyles for every hair length.

The Best Prom Hairstyles For Long Hair

Good hair day by @jessicascotthair.

Curled Ends

If you have fine hair, curling only your ends can give your mane style while ensuring your strands don’t fall flat throughout the night.

Since this look will require the help of a curling wand, be sure to prep strands with a good heat protectant beforehand. We love Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner, which acts as a heat protectant, anti-frizz balm, detangler, and so much more for hair that is silky-soft.

Good hair day by @mr_alexandrycosta.

Sleek Half-Tucked

Dress up long, pin-straight hair by weaving three sleek sections over and on top of one another and lock them into place with bobby pins and a firm-hold hairspray like Matrix Vavoom Freezing Spray Extra Hold. This spray gives hair grip so strands don’t slip out of place, no matter how much you move around.

Voluminous Glam Curls

Want to create your own glam curls for prom? Watch stylist and TikTok star Cynthia Dhimdis demonstrate how to achieve voluminous curls at home. 

Good hair day by @hairbymandielynn.

Side-Swept Fishtail Braid

Gather all of your hair on the left or right side of your head and secure in a loose ponytail to start a fishtail braid. Next, divide the ponytail tail into two equal ponytails. To create the fishtail effect, take a half-inch section of hair from the outside of the left ponytail and cross it over the left ponytail to the right ponytail. Repeat on the opposite side, taking a section from the outside of the right ponytail across the right ponytail over to the left.

Continue crossing over the opposite sections of the hair until you reach the end of the braid. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic or a small clear rubber band. Once the braid is secure, remove the elastic from the nape of the next to give the braid a seamless look. For a final touch, pancake the braid for a voluminous effect.

Good hair day by @jamiewileyhair.

Embellished Fishtail Braid

Accentuate your fishtail braid with floral accents to make your hairstyle really strand out. 

Bombshell Curls

Want a prom ‘do with extra volume? Watch Cynthia Dhimdis create big bombshell curls using L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Volumetry Anti-Gravity Effect Volume Spray, Matrix Style Link Miss Mess Dry Texturizing Spray, and Matrix Total Results High Amplify Anti-Frizz Hairspray. 

Good hair day by @dremalczewska .

Pinned Back

You may be used to hiding your bobby pins within your hairstyles, but this prom look is all about showing them off. Pull the top half of your mane towards the back of your head and hold it in place with multiple bobby pins. Placing them beside each other makes the go-to styling tools look dressed up—which makes this easy hairstyle perfect for prom night!

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

French Twist

All about the classics? Us, too! That’s why we’re recommending this French twist hairstyle. This ‘do works for any special occasion, including prom! Add texture to your hair if you want a more laid back style. You can even pop in a simple three-strand braid for extra flair. 

Good hair day by @hairofthegirl.

French Roll Ponytail

If you love the idea of a French twist but want to let out some of that princess-like length, opt for this French roll ponytail.

Good hair day by @pirania_ya.

Blowout

While we’re discussing the classics, who could forget about the blowout? This one can be done at home easily or left to the hands of a seasoned pro. If you’re thinking of blowing out your hair, use a heat protectant like Kérastase Resistane Ciment Thermique Blow Dry Primer. This primer not only preps protects hair from heat up to 450 degrees so damaged hair doesn't get worse, it repairs breakage as well, so strands become stronger.

Good hair day by @jessiestylist.

Half-Up Bouffant Ponytail

Dress up your half-up hairstyle by teasing your crown for extra volume and wrapping a 2-inch section of hair around your hair tie. 

Pin Straight Hair

If smooth, sleek hair is the vibe you’re going for, Cynthia Dhimdis breaks down how to get the look using the L'Oréal Professionnel Steampod.

Good hair day by @miloszhairstylist.

Braided Pigtails

Working with protective braids? Split your mane into two and craft two matching high ponytails on each side of your head. This style is absolutely stunning paired with waist-length  braids. 

Good hair day by @aaashleee.

Soft Waves

If you want your dress to be the focal point of your prom photos, choose a simple hairstyle. These soft waves are easy-to-do and pair perfectly with any outfit. Apply a few spritzes of hairspray like Redken Triple Pure 32 Neutral Fragrance Hairspray to lock your waves in place with high-hold and frizz protection. 

Good hair day by @thegoldenponytail.

Half-Up Rosette

Add a touch of spring to your prom hairstyle with a rosette braid. To begin, loosely braid small sections at the side of your head starting at your ear, stopping at the middle. Take the loose hair and both braids to the center, bringing them together with a hair tie.

To create the rosette shape, create a three-strand braid with the remaining hair from the half ponytail and secure it. Roll the braid towards the top elastic to shape the rosette. Pin down the edges with bobby pins and complete the look with medium hold hairspray like Biolage Professional Complete Control Hairspray.

Good hair day by @samirasjewelry.

Mini Rosette Buns

Can’t get enough of rosette braids? Ask your stylist to craft multiple mini rosette buns throughout your look. 

Good hair day by @pekelariley.

Embellished Texture

Show off that gorgeous texture but add a little bit of flair to your ‘do by placing bedazzled hair barrettes throughout your crown. This look allows you to embrace your coils and curls while keeping your strands out of your face while dancing the night away.

Good hair day by @jasmeannnn.

Half-Up High Ponytail

When paired with voluminous coils, this everyday hairstyle gives us serious prom vibes. 

Good hair day by @nas_thestylist.

Stitch Braids

Take your protective prom style up a notch with these stunning stitch braids demonstrated by stylist Nastacia Crooks-Brady. 

Good hair day by @rsantana1.

Face-Framing Bouffant Half-Up Ponytail

Inspired by all-things vintage? Take a page out of the ‘70s style handbook and ask your stylist for this gorgeous face-framing bouffant ponytail.

Good hair day by @dontemitchellhair.

Half-Up Wavy Ponytail

If you love the look of a ponytail but want to show off some of your length, opt for the half-up version of this ‘do. The half-up pony will keep your hair out of your face while you dance all night long and your long locks are destined to be the talk of the party.

Good hair day by @thegoldenponytail.

Messy Updo

If you have a prom dress with stunning detail on the back, pair it with an updo to make sure your hair is out of the way. When it comes to updo prom hairstyles, we’re obsessed with this messy, textured ‘do on long hair. 

Good hair day by @lamajbackwards.

Side Braid Embellished Blowout

This style is the perfect way to take your basic blowout from drab to fab. After you’ve blown out your hair, section off a 3-inch segment of hair on the left or right side of your head. Create three small cornrows with the sections. Secure the cornrows at the end of the segment and allow the rest of your hair to hang loose. Use hair glitter to finish your show stopping party ‘do.

Good hair day by @dontemitchellhair.

Wet Look Waves

Take your wash and go from everyday to slay by creating a deep side part and tucking the hair opposite of where your part falls behind your ear. Use a hair gel like Matrix Total Results Curl Please Super Defrizzer Gel to keep your waves shapely while making sure frizz doesn’t ruin your ‘do. 

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Banded Low Ponytail

Want to DIY your low ponytail? Check out this step-by-step banded low ponytail tutorial.

Good hair day by @evgenikastylist.

Voluminous Waves

Did someone say volume? These bouncy, voluminous waves are sure to be the talk of the party. 

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Boho Ponytail

If your prom vibe is desert-esque, you’ll want your stylist to recreate this boho-style ponytail. It’s all about piec-ey texture and finished off with a floral embellishment. 

Good hair day by @kaelamishae.

Undone Braid With Beach Waves

Speaking of bohemian hairstyles, these beach waves paired with an undone braid scream boho vibes. Need a texture boost? Apply a few spritzes of Pureology Style + Protect Beach Waves Sugar Spray. This non-drying texture spray creates soft, tousled waves while protecting color-treated hair from fading. 

Upside Down Braided Ponytail

If you’re looking for a fun way to dress up your prom ponytail, look no further than this upside down braided pony. To create this look, flip your head over and section off a 1-inch segment of hair down the middle of your head. While your head is still flipped over, use the hair from the section to craft a cornrow from the nape of your neck to the crown of your head. 

Once the braid reaches the crown of your head, gather the rest of your hair at the crown of your head and use a hair elastic to secure a ponytail. If your prom style needs a little more embellishment, place several metallic bobby pins on the side of your head for a futuristic visual element.

Good hair day by @biolage.

Simple Side Part

Switching up your part is a simple change, but one that can make all the difference for your prom style. If your strands tend to fall flat, opt for a deep side part to create instant long-lasting volume at your root. 

Good hair day by @jenatkinhairxchloeandisabel.

Ballerina Bun

Who says you can’t wear a bun to the prom? This slicked-back ballerina bun, wrapped in a metallic gold hair tie, is simple and elegant. 

Good hair day by @alstyling.

Glamour Ponytail

Hollywood waves are a staple at just about any special event, but you don’t have to wear your hair loose to give some seriously glamorous vibes. Have your stylist create Hollywood waves and when they’re done, ask them to secure your hair into a high ponytail. 

Hairline Braid Ponytail

Ponytails are anything but boring—especially if you know how to dress them up the right way. This simple braid accent is a quick and easy way to take your braid from plain to prom in no time!

Braided Headband Bun

Can’t settle on the right accessory for your prom hairstyle? Why not use your own strands to accessorize your look? This braided headband bun proves you don’t need anything but the hair on your head to create an amazing prom-worthy style.

Good hair day by @mr_alexandrycosta.

Bubble Ponytail

First, apply a medium hold styling pomade like Mizani Edge Trimming Hair Gel to your hairline and brush it through your hair to ensure you won’t have any flyaways. Then, brush your hair straight back and use a clear elastic to secure your hair in a ponytail at the nape of your neck. Work a dime-sized amount of texturizing paste throughout your ponytail and backcomb to create maximum volume.

Add another clear elastic several inches from the base of your ponytail. Continue fastening clear hair elastics in the same way until you run out of hair. To create the bubble effect, gently use your fingers to tug on the hair in between each elastic. Set your look with a medium-hold hairspray.

Pineapple Updo

A pineapple updo will take you less than 10 minutes to create and will look amazing all night long. This simple look only requires a medium hold styling pomade, a brush, a hair pick, and an elastic. Using the hair pick, comb your hair at the roots to create volume all over your head.

Once you’ve achieved your desired volume, apply a generous amount of the medium hold styling pomade all over your edges. Don’t forget to apply the pomade to the edges on the back of your head as the back of your hair will be visible once your hair is up, then brush the pomade through your hair until your edges lie completely flat. Next, gather all of your curls at the top of your head near your hairline and secure them with an elastic.

Pull Through Ponytail

To start, gather the top half of your hair in a ponytail and secure it with a hair elastic. Then, create a second ponytail with the bottom half of your hair. Use a second hair elastic to tie the first ponytail and create a “bubble.” Next, pull the bottom ponytail through the top “bubble.” Continue repeating these steps until you reach the end of the ponytail. Secure the finished ponytail with a clear hair elastic.

Space Buns

If you’re looking for a hairstyle that has just a little more out of the box, space buns are for you. Begin by parting your hair down the middle with a comb and securing each section with an elastic. Working on one bun at a time, remove the elastic and apply a medium hold pomade to your edges, front and back, and brush through. Then, gather your hair in the desired location of your bun and secure the pigtail with an elastic. Backcomb or fluff the pigtail before wrapping it around into a bun shape. Secure with bobby pins and repeat steps on the opposite side.

Good hair day by @annette_updo_artist.

Mohawk Bun

Contrary to popular belief, buns are super versatile. Case in point: This low bun incorporates a mohawk-like braid down the center of the head. The cuff accessory is just the cherry on top of this standout look.

The Best Prom Hairstyles For Medium Length Hair

Y2K-Inspired Looks

When it comes to hair trends, what goes around comes back around. Why not take a cue from the ‘90s and early 2000s by accenting medium-length hair with mini bubble ponytails with butterfly hair clips?

Speaking of Y2K trends, scrunched hair is also having a moment. Before your mind flashes back to images of crunchy hair and stick-straight bangs (eek!), think again. A good mousse like Matrix Total Results High Amplify Foam Volumizer Mousse is the secret to scrunched curls that are volumized, feather-light, and defined, never crispy.

Watch the video above from Matrix ambassador Sharon Spellman for a quick and easy tutorial on both these looks!

Good hair day by @mr_alexandrycosta.

Faux Bob

Pin shoulder-skimming hair into an illusion bob if you want to debut a new look at prom. You might even like it enough to go totally short for the rest of the summer!

To get the look, pull hair into a loose, low bun with just the ends of your hair. Pull it under toward the base of your neck and pin it there with bobby pins. Adjust the remaining folded mane until you’ve created a passable bob shape. Finish with a generous spritz of Matrix Vavoom Freezing Spray Extra Hold all over your hair. By adding volume and texture, it’ll give strands grip when creating this updo so nothing slips out of place.

Good hair day by @kayseen.

Fishtail Accent Braid

Want to keep it simple? Opt for an accent fishtail braid. This ‘do will take you five minutes to create, which makes it perfect if you’re a last-minute planner. 

Half-Up Fishtail Halo Braid

This half-up fishtail halo is the perfect fit for medium-length hair that isn’t super long but too short to fit into an intricate ponytail or updo.

The video above from Pureology’s global artistic director Jamie Wiley demonstrates a step-by-step of how to re-create a casual yet romantic half-up fishtail braid.

Twisted Low Bun

DIY queens will obsess over this twisted low bun. All you’ll need is hair elastics, bobby pins, and a few sprays of Pureology Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray to make the style yours. 

Good hair day by @alstyling.

Disco Curls

If you have curl types three through five in your mane, you can recreate this look with a few hair tools and products. Gather up a fine tooth comb for teasing and a medium hold hair spray to set your look in place.

Starting at the back of your head, tease 2-inch sections of hair starting at the root and working your way down to the ends gently. This will create an all-over voluminous style that still puts your curls on display. Once you’ve teased your entire head, sweep one side of your hair up and use several bobby pins to pin the hair in place.

Good hair day by @sarakoonar.

Swept To The Side

To give your prom hairstyle a romantic vibe, sweep your hair all to one side and pin it in the back to keep it in place. 

Good hair day by @jennyreyhair.

Wet Look

If you want to feel like a Hollywood starlet on prom night, this red carpet-inspired wet look should do the trick. We recommend leaving this one to the pros to ensure the best possible results for such a big event but feel free to try your hand at it for a sexy summer look.

Good hair day by @pekelariley.

Curly Bun

For those with naturally curly hair, creating this bun at home will be effortless. Just be sure to prep your mane with Mizani True Textures Twist And Coil Jelly to enhance your ringlets and protect against frizz. 

Good hair day by @darycetolliver.

Pin Curl Updo

To begin, prime the hair with a heat protectant like Biolage’s Thermal Active Heat Protectant Spray.  Starting at the back of your head, wrap small sections of hair around a 1-inch curling iron until the section is just heated through. Once a curl has formed, maintain the curls shape and use a styling clip to secure the coil to your head—we call that a pin curl.

Once you’ve curled your entire head, allow your hair to cool completely before removing the pins and letting your curls hang loose. Gently rake your fingers through your hair to loosen your curls before you begin to craft your updo.

Part your hair down the middle to the crown of your head, and create two soft swoops on either side of the part. Secure the S-shaped swoops on either side of your part with several bobby pins. Then, pin the rest of your curls to the back of your head to create an effortless updo. Set your look in place with a firm-hold hairspray.

Double Dutch Braid Ponytails

To begin, part your hair straight down the middle from your hairline to the nape of your neck. Working with one section at a time, craft a Dutch braid on each. Once the braid reaches the nape of your neck, secure it with a clear elastic and allow the remainder of your hair to hang loose in a pigtail. Repeat the same steps with the other section. Once both braids have been crafted, pancake each braid for a voluminous final look.

Double Chignon Buns

If you love the look of space buns but need a ‘do that’s a little more low key, double chignon buns are just the style. Begin by applying a medium-hold styling cream like Shu Uemura Art of Hair Netsu Design Blow Dry Cream to your hairline and brush it through your hair to ensure you won’t have any flyaways. Then, part your hair straight down the middle from your hairline to the nape of your neck. Use hair elastics to secure two ponytails near the nape of your neck.

Work with one ponytail at a time, crafting a three-strand braid and securing the end with a clear hair elastic. Repeat the same steps on the remaining ponytail. Work with one braid at a time and wrap the braid around itself to form a bun, securing the bun with several bobby pins. Repeat the same steps on the remaining braid.

Tucked Behind Ears

This classic look will make your casual waves look instantly elegant. Begin at the back of your head, working with 2-inch sections of clean, dry hair. Spray each one with heat protectant before wrapping it around a 2-inch barrel curling iron. Hold or clamp the curl until just heated through and continue curling your hair until you’ve completed your entire head. Once you’ve curled all of your hair, brush your curls out until they are just slightly waved.

To complete the look, part your hair down the middle and spray with a strong hold hairspray. Take two 1-inch sections at the front of your head on either side of your part and brush them both behind your ears. After you’ve tucked both pieces behind your ears, secure both pieces under your hair with a clear elastic.

Embellished Afro

Spruce up your regular natural style with some sparkly hair accessories and major volume. For this simple but glamorous look, all you’ll need is a sparkly headband. After you’ve washed and dried your curls, place the glittering headband on top of your curls near your hairline. Allow a few curly tendrils to escape your headband to frame your face.  

Rosette Accent

If you’re obsessed with rosette braids, we’re happy to tell you that they look just as great on shorter hair. Follow the instructions we shared above or save this photo to show your stylist.

The Best Prom Hairstyles For Short Hair

Good hair day by @alimyers.ol.

Statement Accessory

You don’t need to be the prom queen to slay this bedazzled statement hair clip. Pro tip: Spray your slip with a dry shampoo like Kérastase Fresh Affair Refreshing Dry Shampoo before inserting it into your hair to help keep it in place.

Flippy Ends

Looking to go vintage without the pin curls and Old Hollywood waves? Opt for ‘70s-inspired flippy ends. When it comes to short prom hairstyles, this look is top-notch. 

Good hair day by @marissacydya.

Classic Blunt Bob

If you’re sporting a classic blunt bob with bangs, it doesn’t take much to get your mane prom-ready. Simply apply a smoothing formula like Matrix Style Link Smooth Setter Smoothing Cream throughout your hair to tame frizz and flyaways. 

Good hair day by @jamiedanahairstylist.

Voluminous Half-Up Bun

Suppose you don’t have enough hair to create a full bun, not to worry! A half-up bun is just as stunning for those with short hair.

Good hair day by @curlpop.

Curls With Side Braids

Searching for a simple way to amp up your short curly hair? Ask your stylist to craft three or four braids on one side of your head while letting the rest of your mane flow freely.

Good hair day by @theindiahoward.

Mini Puffs

If you’re looking for an easy way to style your natural hair at home for prom, these mini puffs are simple and adorable. 

Good hair day by @gregoryrussellhair.

Polished Low Bun

Paired with a shimmery dress and a smokey eyeshadow look, this sleek low bun screams Hollywood glam. 

Good hair day by @queengagne.hair.

Colorful Buzzcut

Fact: You don’t need to have a lot of hair (or any at all) to draw attention to your crown. Ask your colorist to create a pop of color on your buzzcut for a look that will be the talk of the event. Don’t want to commit to salon color? Pick up temporary hair color and start playing! Biolage has a line of Color-Depositing Conditioners that can get you started.

Good hair day by @zunnyhair.

Stacked Accessories

When it comes to accessorizing prom hair, placement is critical. Stack clips and barrettes of different colors and shapes throughout your hair to add a stunning visual element to your prom ‘do.

Jumbo Crimps

Start at the back of your head, working with 2-inch sections of clean, dry hair. Spray each one with a heat protectant before clamping the base of the section with your flat iron. Once clamped, flip the flat iron down and hold it for 15 seconds. Then, move your flat iron down the section of hair, flip the flat iron up, and hold it. Continue twisting the flat iron up and down until you reach the bottom of the section. Once you’ve crimped your whole head, set your look with a flexible hold hairspray.

Good hair day by @bluntvicki.

Bubble Pony Side Accent

Don’t let length stop you from rocking a chic bubble ponytail! While it might be hard to make a ponytail the main event for short hair, creating one as a side accent is a perfect way to take advantage of the trend when hair is above your shoulders.

Good hair day by @sorayahstyles.

Curled Pixie

Having short hair doesn’t mean you can’t score big bouncy curls, and these spirals don’t even require heat! The key to this style is to rely on small foam rollers and a curl-defining pudding to set the look in place. We love the tried-and-true Mizani Curl Define Pudding.

Good hair day by @hairbymisskellyo.

Twisted Half-Up Bow

Be the belle of the prom ball by topping off your bob with a half-up bow! For those wanting to take the look up a notch, rainbow-colored tresses will guarantee your classmates reminisce on this ‘do for years to come.

Interested in one of these prom hairstyles? Head over to Hair.com for all of the salon-grade products that will make these hairdos come to life.