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33 Prom Hair Ideas You’ll Love in 2020
Make your prom a night to remember and get inspired with these stunning prom hairstyles.
All Things Hair | July 25, 2019
We know that prom hair is almost as important as the outfit you decide to wear to the dance. As it’s the biggest event in your school calendar, you’re probably looking for stylish and easy ways to wear your hair and you’re in luck as we’ve shortlisted the most versatile homecoming and prom hair ideas for all hair lengths and types.
From red carpet-inspired waves to chic updos and beautiful braids, the prettiest prom hairstyles for your big night are just a scroll away.
Old Hollywood Waves

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Prom season is here which can only mean one thing: old Hollywood waves. With an exaggerated side parting and deep waves, you’ll exude film star vibes.
Editor’s tip: To give your glamorous Hollywood waves a luxe, glossy shine, set them in place with the TRESemmé Ultimate Shine Hold Hairspray.
Chignon

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Looking for an updo? Look no further than the classic chignon to give your look an air of elegance.
French Twist

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
No vintage-inspired prom look is complete without a retro hairstyle to match and this French twist ticks all the boxes.
Crown Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
This romantic, floral crown braid will ensure everyone knows who the real prom queen is (hint: it’s you!).
Editor’s tip: Worried your braids won’t last the whole night? Give your hair more grip by applying some dry shampoo, like the Love Beauty And Planet Volume & Bounty Dry Shampoo before styling to give your braids more holding power.
Curly Ponytail

Credit: Rupert Laycock
If overly fussy, traditional prom looks aren’t your style, this swishy curly ponytail is a more low-key alternative.
French Braid Updo

Credit: Verity Jane Smith
This beautiful French braided bun is the look to try if you’re a fan of elegant updos.
Half-up Half-down Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
A half-up ponytail is a prom hair staple for a reason. To glam up this simple style, pair with curled lengths for extra style points.
Curly Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
There’s no better time than prom to pull out all the stops with big, voluminous curls.
Prom Hair Down

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Add some prom night glitz to beachy waves with some sparkling star hair accessories.
Short Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Feel like your hair is too short to do anything with? Fear not! This feminine side-swept pixie is a great choice for shorter hair.
Half-up Prom Hair

Credit: Verity Jane Smith
This ethereal braided half-updo works on a variety of different lengths and will make you feel like a real-life Disney princess.
Braided Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Add a touch of high-fashion to your prom night look with this runway-inspired upside-down braid.
Prom Hair Clips

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Soft waves and a pearl hair clip make this an utterly dreamy prom hairstyle.
Straight Prom Hair

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If your dress is a showstopper, you might prefer to keep your hair simple with 90s style poker-straight strands
Editor’s tip: If you’re using straighteners, remember to protect your strands from the heat with a heat defence spray like the TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray. Not only does it offer protection up to 230 degrees, but the the keratin and marula oil-enriched formula also helps to keep your hair frizz-free and photo-ready.
Long Prom Hair

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
Make the most of your long lengths with this half-up bouffant, perfect for showing off your Rapunzel locks.
Editor’s tip: TIGI Bed Head Oh Bee Hive! Dry Shampoo is a must for recreating this sixties-inspired style. Simply spray into your roots before backcombing for Bardot-worthy volume.
Prom Hair Bun

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Teasing your roots for extra lift and curling loose strands around your face will give a regular bun a prom-worthy upgrade.
Black Girl Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Make your hair your best accessory by adding flowers to a braided updo.
Crystal Hair Pins For Prom

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Shine bright with the help of crystal hairpins. Use them to secure your hair away from your face.
Ponytail Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Transform a simple ponytail into something more prom friendly with this looped updo.
Prom Hair For Medium Length Hair

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
What’s better than a Rosie Huntington-Whiteley approved updo? Nothing that’s what. Wear your medium length tresses in a sleek wrapped bun for an A-list glamour prom hairstyle.
Editor’s tip: Give our updo 24-hour hold and a slick wet look finish with the VO5 Wet Look Styling Gel.
Prom Hair For Thin Hair

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
If you don’t want fine or thin hair running your night, try a polished ballerina bun like Kate Bosworth. By adding a delicate strip of ribbon you’ll give your tresses a more formal finish.
Prom Hair Plait

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
Don’t overlook the styling possibilities of a plait hairstyle for prom. Try this whimsical milkmaid braid for a stylish boho look.
Prom Hair With Bobby Pins

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Bobby pins have come a long way and can now be used to dress up even the most casual of hairstyles.
Loose Curls

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
Big and bouncy curls are always a popular choice when it comes to prom hairstyles. So, if you have shoulder-length hair or longer, give this a try.
Waterfall Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Waterfall braids are a great alternative to traditional plaits and look amazing when teamed with loose curls.
Red Carpet-inspired Hair

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
Wet look swept back hair is the red carpet look to be spotted wearing at prom. Whether you have short or long hair, channel your inner celebrity with this easy prom hairstyle.
Side Part Prom Hair

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Devoted to your middle parting? Give your hair the easiest makeover for prom by switching your parting to the side.
Loose Waves

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Carefree and casual loose waves are perfect for girls who don’t like to do too much with their hair but still wants to look put together
Dutch Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Get the Pinterest look with this statement Dutch braid. Don’t forget to pancake your braid for a fuller and thicker appearance.
Editor’s tip: Make styling your hair easy with the TONI&GUY Flexible Hold Braid Balm. Apply to damp or dry hair before styling or use on the go to rework and uphold your look.
French Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
If you need a prom hairstyle that’ll last the night and give you beautiful heatless curls the next morning, look no further than this French braid updo.
Side Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
A headband twist with a side plait is a perfect way to wear your tresses for prom – especially if you’re growing out bangs.
Loose Braid

Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
Keep things casual with a loose side braid. Pull out a few strands for an effortless finish.
Fishtail Braid

Credit: Rupert Laycock
Elevate your fishtail braid by using a statement clip to secure the ends.
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