27 Pretty Prom Hairstyles That'll Have Everyone Talking

Whether you’re going with a date or plan to dance the night away with friends, prom is one of the last big hurrahs before graduation—and in our eyes, that’s a great reason to get glammed up. Selecting the right outfit and makeup is part of the equation, but don’t forget your prom hairstyle: it’s what ties the whole look together. Fortunately, whether you choose to wear it up or let your hair down (pun intended) there is no shortage of options to choose from.

To help you find the right prom hairstyle for you, we’ve rounded up 27 looks we love. From playful puff ponytails to slicked back strands and beachy waves, there’s a cute prom hairstyle to complement any ‘fit. Keep scrolling for all the prom hair inspo you need, plus a look at the products you’ll need to secure your look.

Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair

Having short hair doesn’t mean you don’t get to embrace a special prom hairstyle—you just have to find the right look (and technique) for your strands. Below, find five beautiful looks for shorter lengths.

1. Pixie cut with side bangs

Upgrade your classic pixie haircut by adding in choppy bangs to frame your face. Rock your natural color, or add a pop of color by spritzing a temporary dye onto your fringe. We recommend using the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray to try out different colors and find your favorite.

2. Faux hawk

If you’re seeking an edgy hairstyle to wear to prom, consider the faux hawk. Not only is a faux mohawk always attention-grabbing, but it can also give your prom beauty look the perfect combination of glam and rocker chic vibes. Plus, this edgy look is easily achievable on short hair—all you need are some bobby pins and plenty of strong-hold gel.

3. Wavy bob

A sassy, wavy bob is great for a classic prom look. Rub a small amount of the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In throughout your strands to smooth out any flyaways. If you plan on using hot tools, be sure to use a frizz-taming heat protectant, like the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Heat Slayer Leave In, before you start styling. It has a lightweight formula that protects against heat and helps reduce frizz.

4. Heatless waves

You don’t have to break out the curling iron to embrace a curly hairstyle for prom. Simply wash and condition your strands as usual, then scrunch L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Leave-in Conditioner throughout your mane to add definition. Be sure to lay your edges using an edge brush and a bit of gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel.

5. Slicked back hair

When you have shorter strands that don’t fit into an updo, it can be a challenge trying to keep your hair out of your face—a necessity when you’re planning to dance all night. Fortunately, there’s a solution. Sweep your hair back, then spritz your mane with the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray. It applies evenly, delivering lightweight, brushable hold with a shiny (and crunch-free) finish.

Prom Hairstyles for Medium Hair

With a bit more length to work with, you can create stunning braided hairstyles, twists, and curls. Check out these favorites below to start planning your hair look for prom.

1. Spiral curls

Tight, spiral-shaped ringlets are among the best prom hairstyles since your curls will bounce with your every move throughout the night. If you have wavy or curly hair, wash and condition it as usual, then work a heat protectant like L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Weightless Blow Dry Primer, Heat Protectant throughout your strands before diffusing with a blow dryer.

2. Braided messy bun

Give your go-to messy bun an upgrade with a party-ready braided accent. Start by parting your hair on one side, then create three thin Dutch braids on the other side. Secure the braids with clear elastics, then gather all of your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Twist the pony into a loose messy bun (tucking away any unruly strands with bobby pins), then secure your look in place with hairspray.

3. Puff ponytail

The puff ponytail is among our favorite prom hairstyles for those with medium-to-long coils. The style is fun, but classic—plus there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on the look. You can do a high puff on top of your head, gather your hair into a low puff at the nape of your neck, or even rock double puffs for a fun play on pigtails.

4. Crystal-embellished bun

A classic chignon makes for an elegant prom hairstyle, especially when paired with chic accessories. Try securing mini pearl or rhinestone clips into your bun to play up your classic look.

Prom Hairstyles for Long Hair

Up, down, or both—with long hair, you can rock nearly any prom hairstyle that tickles your fancy. Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Knotless box braids

If protective styles are your forté, then you’ve likely tried out knotless box braids. If not, now’s a great time to embrace the look. Wear them down or pull your braids back into a low bun at the nape of your neck for a simple prom hairdo that’ll keep your natural texture protected.

2. Voluminous blowout

Show off your face-framing layers with a bouncy blowout fit for the red carpet. Part your hair in the middle for a more classic look, or embrace a deep side part for a sophisticated prom hairstyle that pairs perfectly with gowns and LBDs alike.

3. Faux lob

If you want to try a shorter look for prom but can’t commit to chopping your strands, try a faux lob. Use a large-barrel curling iron to curl your hair, then work L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty throughout your strands to add texture and grip. Grab a one-inch section of hair and fold it inward, securing the ends at the nape of your neck with a bobby pin. Continue the process until all your hair is secured for a short hair look, sans the commitment.

4. Half-up top knot

Get the best of both updos and flowing tresses by putting your mane into a half-up braided top knot. This is the perfect style for those who can’t decide if they should wear their hair up or down for prom. It’s cute, it’s fun, and it’s easy to do on your own—all you need is an elastic and some bobby pins (though a few glitzy hair accessories don’t hurt, either).

5. Double Dutch crown braid

If ever there was an occasion that called for a regal beauty look, it’s prom night. Give your mane a hairstyle worthy of royalty with a beautiful braided crown. We recommend checking out some online tutorials on creating a double Dutch crown braid if you plan to get the look at home.

6. Slicked-back ponytail

For those looking for a sleek prom hairstyle that won’t take a ton of time to execute, we suggest a slicked-back pony. The glam look will keep your hair off your face so you can dance the night away without having to duck into the bathroom for touch-ups.

Boho Chic Braided Prom Hairstyles

If you’re going for a more relaxed, laid-back vibe with your prom hairstyle, consider braids. They’re easy to achieve, yet glam enough for your big night—plus, plaits lend any look a free-spirited flair. Find a few ways to rock boho braids for prom below.

1. Braided ponytail mohawk

Make a fashion statement like no other with another take on the faux hawk. This braided ponytail version is equal parts girly and edgy. Gather your mane into a high ponytail and braid it all the way down, then secure it at the ends with a clear elastic. Gently pull your braid apart to add effortless-looking volume and spritz it with hairspray to keep your strands in place.

2. Stacked braid

For a unique prom hairstyle that you’ll come back to long after the big night, try a stacked braid. The style, as the name implies, involves stacking a thinner braid over a thicker one for a layered, dimensional look. Give it a carefree, boho vibe with face-framing tendrils or by leaving some strands out at the nape of your neck.

3. Waterfall braid

There’s something incredibly romantic about a waterfall braid, which makes it the perfect look for prom night. Keep in mind, however, that this style—which involves French braiding your hair sideways and letting the lengths hang loose—requires finesse to nail. If you’re not confident with your braiding skills, we suggest visiting an experienced hairstylist to execute the look for you.

4. Fishtail braid

Embrace romantic, bohemian vibes by twisting your mane into a beautiful fishtail braid. This simple yet elegant look is a great way to give thinner, finer strands a little bit of oomph, but it’s beautiful on thicker, more textured strands, too.

5. Tucked fishtail braid updo

Sometimes, the perfect prom hairstyle is just a simple twist on your everyday look. If fishtail braids are already in your style rotation, try upgrading them for prom by turning them into a refined updo. Start by working the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse through damp hair, then dry as usual. Then, tease your hair at the crown of your head to create lift and weave your lengths into a fishtail braid. Complete the look by tucking the end of the braid under and securing it at the nape of your neck for a low-key looped braided bun.

Vintage-Inspired Prom Hairstyles

Channel old Hollywood glam by pairing a simple gown with one of the vintage-inspired prom hairstyles below (red lip optional, but definitely recommended).

1. Sleek ponytail with ‘60s flip

Consider rocking a sleek ponytail with flipped ends for prom. This trendy ’60s-inspired hairstyle has taken over our social feeds and we’re obsessed—especially because it’s so easy to execute. Simply wash and dry your hair as usual, then gather your hair into an ultra-high pony and use a flat iron to flip the ends out.

2. Old Hollywood waves

In case some of your favorite A-listers haven’t already inspired you with their Golden Age glam, we’re here to throw Old Hollywood waves into the hairstyle pool. Not only can you get this look at home in just five steps (check out our tutorial linked above), but it’s a hairstyle that can be paired with almost any makeup look and still be the star of the show.

3. Pin curls

If you’re after a heat-free prom hairstyle, pin curls are a great option. Apply an anti-frizz serum such as L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In to damp strands after washing your hair. Part your hair how you like it and section off a one-inch strand. Roll the strand around your fingers until you reach the base of your head and secure it in place with a bobby pin or hair clip.

Now repeat until you’ve pinned up all your hair. If you plan on wearing this hairstyle in the evening, do this in the morning so that your hair has time to dry. The longer the better. Once dry, remove the pins and shake them out—you’ll be left with luscious, voluminous curls.

Trendy and Playful Prom Hairstyles

With the Y2K resurgence in full swing, these four hairstyles are an on-trend way to get glam for your big night.

1. Bubble ponytail

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. Then, tie clear elastics down the length of your ponytail, leaving an inch or two between each section. Gently tug at each “bubble” to add volume, then mist your hair with hairspray to lock the look in place.

2. Colorful buzz cut

If you’re currently sporting a buzz cut, high fade, or low fade, most traditional prom hairstyles are out of the question. But that doesn’t mean you can’t update your look for the big night.

Grab the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray for a bright, bold hue that you can wash out the day after prom, or L’Oréal Paris Colorista Semi-Permanent Hair Color if you want something that will last a bit longer. Both collections come in a range of vibrant colors to complement any prom ensemble.

3. Stacked mini buns

With three buns delicately spun and stacked on top of your head, you’ll be able to make a major hair statement while keeping your strands up and out of your face. Start by dividing your hair into three equal sections—one at the top of your head, one at the center, and one towards the nape of your neck. Twist each section into a miniature bun and secure with hair elastics for a stacked bun look straight out of a ‘90s magazine.

4. Space buns

If you don’t want to go the traditional route with your prom hairstyle, consider space buns. This cute prom hairstyle is equal parts spunky and whimsical, and it takes just a few minutes to throw together. Part your hair down the middle and tie each section off into a high pigtail. Then, twist each pigtail into a mini bun and secure both with elastics. You can end here, or pull out two ultra-thin pieces at the front to frame your face—it’ll give your look a nostalgic (but endlessly cool) ‘90s vibe.

Creative Hair Accessories and Embellishments

The above ideas are just a starting point—you can make your prom hairstyle your own by adding accessories that showcase your unique sense of style. Here are a few ideas to use as inspiration:

• Butterfly clips: These playful clips are the perfect complement to playful styles—especially those with ‘90s flair.
• Elegant pins: Give your sleek bun a glam finishing touch with an embellished pin or rhinestone-adorned clip.
• Statement hair jewelry: Headbands or metal flower clips can make a simple style feel extra special.
• Flower crowns: Floral adornments are a beautiful addition to boho styles (you can even coordinate it with your corsage for an extra-sweet touch).
• Bows, bows, bows: Add a coquettish touch to your romantic prom hairstyle with bows or ribbons woven throughout your mane.

Final Touches and Preparation Tips for Prom Night

Once you’ve settled on your prom hairstyle, here are a few things to keep in mind in order to make sure it all goes to plan.

• Don’t wait until it’s time to get ready for prom to test it out: If you’re doing your hair at home, you’ll want to make sure you’re able to successfully achieve that look yourself. Remember, practice is the key to nailing any hairstyle. Also, you want to make sure you like it!
• Consider your hair texture and length when picking your ideal prom hairstyle: If you have short hair, high space buns might not be for you. Or, if you know your hair refuses to hold a curl no matter how much hairspray you use, then you might want to consider going with another hairstyle for prom.
• Know what your prep will entail: Some hairstyles, (especially more intricate updos) hold best on slightly lived-in hair. If you’re going for a look that requires lots of hold, consider scheduling your wash day for a day or two before prom.
• Be generous with the hairspray: When you plan to be dancing all night, you need a look that’ll last. Whichever prom hairstyle you choose, we recommend setting it with plenty of hair spray so you can spend more time mingling with friends—and less time tucking away stray strands.

Next Up: 4 Updo Hairstyles That Prove Hair Pins Are This Season’s Chicest Accessory

Photo Courtesy of L'Oréal Paris