How to Choose a Prom Hair Style That Perfectly Matches Your Dress
The ultimate guide to the most popular looks according to your personal style
Never underestimate the planning, prepping and primping for prom. Choosing the perfect look - hair, makeup, dress - is an undertaking that can take months. The dress, shoes and purse are all part of the style that will ultimately dictate one of the most important decisions of all: Your hair.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which hairstyle to go for. That's why it's always a good idea to consult with a professional stylist before the big day. A stylist will be able to offer insight into the best hairstyle to suit your dress and your preferred level of maintenance. This is our guide to choosing the best hairstyle for prom night and what must-have items you should have on hand to keep that do looking great all night.
Any great stylist will offer a few key tips before starting on the planning of your perfect prom hair:
- Wear a button-down shirt so that you won’t ruin your hair when you are changing into your dress.
- Make sure that your hair has not been washed in 1-2 days. Natural oils help to assist in the hold of the style.
- Bring your own hair accessories (if using any).
- Give that hairstyle a good, solid shake test before you leave the salon so that you can ensure that the stylist does everything possible to make that hair dance and party-proof.
- Bring the right products and tools with you along to prom so you can fix any fallen tendrils or frizzy locks.
Here are some of the best prom hairstyles that are sure to make you look and feel your best:
Loose Waves
Photo by Tilly Jensen on Unsplash
Loose waves are a timeless and effortless look that never goes out of style. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a relaxed and natural look that still looks put-together. A professional stylist can help you achieve the perfect balance between loose and defined waves, depending on your hair texture and length.
The Dress
Loose waves are perfect for an off-the-shoulder dress that makes the collar bones stand out, a strapless gown or a gown with a plunging neckline. Alternatively, pair loose waves with a boho-style flowy maxi dress.
The Goods
You’ll want to have hairspray, a small comb and even hair ties for this style. If you are rocking the dance floor, make sure that you are prepared for a quick and cute ponytail or take the time for a gentle comb and spray to put the look back together.
Try Kevin Murphy’s Fresh Hair for a light hold and anti-frizz benefits:
Braided Updo
Photo by Miley Moore on Unsplash
A braided updo is a chic and sophisticated look perfect for formal events. This hairstyle involves weaving braids into an elegant updo, creating a romantic and feminine style. A stylist can help you choose the right type of braids and accessories to complement your dress.
The Dress
Showing off the dress is what braided updos are all about. Halter style, one-shoulder and high-neck dresses match beautifully with a chic braided updo and allow you to display the lines of your gown.
The Goods
Extra bobby pins and some hairspray are generally sufficient to keep a braided updo intact. The big benefit of this look is that they tend to be as durable as they are versatile.
Try Anti Gravity Spray by Kevin Murphy for a firm hold without residue:
Half-Up, Half-Down
Photo by Bailey Burton on Unsplash
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a classic that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This look involves pulling half of your hair up and leaving the rest down, creating a flattering and versatile style that works for almost any hair length and texture. A stylist can help you choose the right accessories to make your half-up, half-down hairstyle stand out.
The Dress
Dramatic A-line dresses are great with a half-up, half-down hair style. The mermaid style and empire waist are also perfect matches with this look as it gives a vintage feel. Strapless gowns can be another great option for this look.
The Goods
A comb, bobby pins and hairspray are the best things to keep in your purse on prom night when you have a half-up, half-down hairstyle. You’ll want to keep the bottom half of your hair sleek with a comb and styling spray while maintaining the look and hold of the upper half with bobby pins.
Session Spray Flex by Kevin Murphy is the perfect balance between hold and bounce:
Sleek Ponytail
A sleek ponytail is a simple and elegant look that is perfect for those who want a polished and effortless style. This hairstyle involves pulling your hair back into a tight ponytail and smoothing out any flyaways or frizz. A stylist can help you add volume and texture to your sleek ponytail to create a more glamorous look.
The Dress
A sheath dress or an off-the-shoulder dress are simple and elegant options that can pair well with a sleek ponytail. Additionally, pairing a two-piece dress with a pony is a fun prom look for a modern feel.
The Goods
You’ll want a comb and hairspray or anti-static spray to keep your perfect pony looking flawless.
Try Session Spray by Kevin Murphy for this look:
Curly Updo
Photo by Bailey Burton on Unsplash
A curly updo is a romantic and feminine hairstyle that is perfect for formal events like prom. This hairstyle involves creating loose curls and weaving them into an elegant updo, creating a soft and romantic look. A stylist can help you choose the right type of curls and accessories to complement your dress and overall style.
The Dress
A curly updo is timeless, classic and can pretty much go with any dress.
The Goods
Bobby pins and hairspray are a serious necessity to keep your up do looking its best.
Try AG’s Dynamics Extra Firm Finishing Spray to maintain your incredible style all night long: Ultradynamic
While these are some of the best prom hairstyles, it's important to remember that not all hairstyles work for everyone. That's why it's important to consult with a professional stylist before the big day.
A stylist can help you choose a hairstyle that complements your face shape, hair texture, and overall style. They can also help you choose the right accessories, such as hair clips, headbands, and tiaras, to complete your look.
In addition, a stylist can help you prepare your hair for the big day by recommending hair care products and treatments that will keep your hair healthy and shiny. They can also provide tips on how to maintain your hairstyle throughout the night, so you can dance the night away without worrying about your hair falling out of place.