Prom Hair Inspiration: Trending Styles + Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Look
Prom night is one of the most exciting and memorable events of your high school years. From the perfect dress to stunning makeup, every detail matters—and your hair is no exception! Whether you’re going for a classic, romantic, or trendy look, the right hairstyle can take your entire ensemble to the next level.
To help you out, we’ve rounded up five of the hottest prom hairstyles along with expert tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide to achieving a flawless look. Let’s dive in!
Trending Prom Hairstyles for 2024
Elegant Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves are a timeless, red-carpet-inspired look that never goes out of style. This hairstyle exudes elegance and works well with almost any prom dress.
How to Achieve This Look:
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Start by curling your hair using a 1-inch curling iron or hot rollers.
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Brush through the curls gently to create soft waves.
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Apply a lightweight hairspray to keep the waves in place while maintaining movement.
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Tuck one side behind your ear and secure it with a glamorous hair clip or pin for an added touch of elegance.
Pro Tip: For long-lasting waves, use a heat protectant spray before curling and allow the curls to cool before brushing them out.
Chic High Ponytail
A high ponytail is sleek, stylish, and perfect for showcasing your neckline and dress details. This look is loved by celebrities and adds a modern, sophisticated touch to your prom outfit.
How to Achieve This Look:
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Brush your hair and apply a smoothing serum to eliminate frizz.
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Secure your hair into a high ponytail using a strong elastic band.
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Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the hair tie.
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For extra volume, tease the top section of the ponytail.
Pro Tip: Use hair extensions if you want extra length and volume for a more dramatic effect.
Romantic Boho Braids
Boho braids are a soft and whimsical option that looks dreamy and effortless. Perfect for those who love a natural, ethereal vibe, this style complements flowy prom dresses beautifully.
How to Achieve This Look:
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Start by creating loose waves with a curling wand.
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Take two small sections from the front and loosely braid them towards the back.
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Secure the braids with a bobby pin or a delicate hair accessory.
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Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a relaxed, effortless finish.
Pro Tip: Add small pearl or floral hairpins to enhance the boho aesthetic.
Sleek & Straight with a Middle Part
Minimalistic yet striking, this hairstyle is all about shine and smoothness. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a modern, edgy look while keeping it effortlessly chic.
How to Achieve This Look:
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Apply a heat protectant spray and straighten your hair with a high-quality flat iron.
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Part your hair perfectly in the middle.
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Apply a serum or shine spray to give your hair a glossy, polished finish.
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Tuck the front sections behind your ears for a sleek, red-carpet-worthy look.
Pro Tip: Use a boar bristle brush to smooth out flyaways for a glass-like finish.
Classic Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
If you’re looking for an elegant updo, a low bun is a sophisticated and timeless choice. It works especially well with dresses that have intricate details on the back.
How to Achieve This Look:
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Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
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Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
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Leave out a few loose strands in the front to softly frame your face.
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Set the style with a light-hold hairspray to keep it in place without looking stiff.
Pro Tip: For extra volume, tease the crown section of your hair before creating the bun.
Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Prom Hairstyle
✨ Start with Clean, Prepped Hair
Wash your hair the night before prom instead of the same day. Freshly washed hair can be too soft, making it harder to style.
✨ Use the Right Hair Products
For curls that hold, use a lightweight mousse before styling. For sleek styles, opt for serum and smoothing spray.
✨ Test Your Hairstyle Before Prom Night
Do a trial run at least a week before prom to ensure your chosen style works with your dress and accessories.
✨ Secure Your Style with the Right Hair Accessories
Use decorative hairpins, clips, or tiaras to elevate your look and add a personalized touch.
✨ Bring an Emergency Hair Kit
Pack extra bobby pins, a mini hairspray, and a small brush for quick touch-ups throughout the night.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect prom hairstyle is just as important as picking the right dress. Whether you opt for glamorous waves, a chic ponytail, or a dreamy braided look, the key is to select a style that complements your dress and makes you feel confident.
Try out your chosen hairstyle in advance, use the right products, and don’t forget to have fun with your look! After all, prom is a night to remember, and your hair should be just as stunning as the memories you’ll make.
Need more inspo? Save your favorite styles, experiment with different looks, and most importantly—rock your prom night with confidence! ✨
