Prom has come a long way since, say, the ruffled, puffy-sleeved affair that we—and Molly Ringwald—remember fondly. How could we forget the thick fragrance of Aqua Net combining with Drakkar Noir? From permed to feathered, what the prom hairstyles lacked in style they more than made up for in volume. We now accept it as our personal charge to make sure our loved ones don’t suffer from that forever-documented fate. These prom hair ideas give every young Southern lady what she needs to top off her gorgeous gown and matching corsage. With romantic braids, elegant updos, stylish ponytails, and cascading curls, these prom hairstyles go from taking pictures before the occasion all the way to taking the stage to accept the crown. Prom is a battlefield, let’s admit; but consider these cute prom hair ideas just a piece of the armor.
Romantic Dutch Braid
This braid is nothing if not extremely photogenic for prom photos that will last forever. It’ll go with any style dress and stay in place all night. Get the tutorial here at The Beauty Department.
Reverse Headband
This modern style gives an edgy finishing touch to any prom look. You can pair it with an airy romantic gown for some juxtaposition or with a sleek sheath gown for cohesion. Get the tutorial here at The Beauty Department.
Side Braid for Short Hair
While this braid also works on long hair, we love it on a bob. You might not have quite as many options with short hair, but sometimes simple really is the best way to go for formal functions. It’s easy and low maintenance. Get the tutorial here from Lauren Conrad.
Rope Braid Half Up
This half-up style is another great option for short and long-haired ladies alike. Rope braids come together from each side and form a single braid. Get the tutorial here at Confessions of a Hairstylist.
Faux Lob
For ladies with long, curly hair, this half lob lets you walk on the more tame side by pinning your locks into an elegant lob-length style. Letting the hair rest all on one side gives it a little old Hollywood glamour. Get the tutorial here at Refinery29.
Twisted Crown Braid
This braid detail looks great on beachy flat-iron waves for a finishing touch that pulls it together. It looks natural and effortless. Get the tutorial here at Twist Me Pretty.
Brigitte Bardot-Inspired Half Up
For the classic and preppy girl, this bow-topped half-up style looks sassy and feminine. You can wear this look without the bow or go with a skinnier ribbon to add a subtler pop of personality. Get the tutorial here from Lauren Conrad.
Loose Side Braid
We can’t get over the pop of color in this loose side braid, thanks to electric purple flowers. It’s the perfect spring touch for prom, which is, after all, a spring affair. A loose braid headband gives a romantic detail. Get the tutorial here at Hair Romance.
Vintage Bob
This ultra-chic look takes us back to the 1920s when stylish bobs like these ruled supreme. This style works amazingly on tight curls. Simply pin one side of your part just at the top of the ear and allow the heavier parted side to show off your full volume.
Chic Chignon
A classic chignon is perfectly put-together and elegant, a style fit for any gown. Get the tutorial here from Twist Me Pretty.
Old Hollywood Curls
You can’t beat these glamorous curls, and we’d pretty much fall head over heels if you paired this style with a romantic white gown. (Just saying.) We know it can be scary to comb out fresh, time-intensive curls, but it’s worth it! Get the tutorial here at The Golden Girl.
Double Crown Braids
This style is another quick fix that looks great with loose, beachy curls. Two braids from each side of the face are pinned into the opposite side for a unified look.
Twist Braid Updo
This simple updo looks elegant and works great for medium length hair. All you need is a small clear elastic and a few bobby pins, and you’ll be set in no time! Get the tutorial here at Hair Romance
Bouffant
Go a little mod and a lot glam with this sleek version of a bouffant half-up style. This look works for any length and pumps up the volume in a simple way. Get the tutorial here from Cosmopolitan.
Fishtail Bun
A high bun always adds a little sass and style to any look, especially for an event such as prom. Dance the night away in this pretty fishtail-wrapped bun! Get the tutorial here at Hair and Makeup By Steph.
Bobby Pin Details
Go fun and flirty by accessorizing your tight curls with creatively placed bobby pins. Create geometric designs or pick pretty pins to really grab attention!
Hair Bow
For the minimalist girl who wants a small, eye-catching detail to do the talking—this hair bow half-up style is perfect. Get the tutorial here at Hair and Makeup By Steph.
Twisted Low Ponytail
This most simple pick is all about giving a little oomph to a low ponytail, while still letting the prom dress shine. It’s an understated, but chic look! Get the tutorial here at Twist Me Pretty.
Messy Low Chignon
This classic style can go a little more laidback when done in this manner. Texturizing powder and hairspray are two key ingredients in this look. Get the tutorial here at The Small Things.
