Prom night is one of those magical moments you remember for a lifetime. I still get butterflies thinking about the energy in the room when someone walks in with their hair perfectly done, looking like an absolute vision. As a makeup artist and beauty educator, I’ve had the privilege of helping so many young women prepare for their big nights, and I can tell you this with full confidence — your hairstyle can completely transform how you feel the moment you step into that venue. When you love what you see in the mirror, that confidence radiates through every laugh, every photo, and every slow dance.
Long hair is genuinely one of the most versatile gifts when it comes to prom styling. You have so many options to work with — volume, length, texture, layers — and the best part? You don’t have to spend hours at a salon or be a professional to achieve something stunning. Over the years, I’ve collected and refined my favorite go-to styles that are equal parts beautiful and manageable. Whether you’re someone who loves a romantic, flowing look or you want something sleek and polished, this guide has something special waiting for you.
I’ve broken everything down into fourteen gorgeous styles, each with clear explanations of what the look is, who it suits best, and my personal tips on how to pull it off. So grab your brush, your bobby pins, and your favorite hair spray, and let’s get into it.
Classic Half-Up Half-Down
There’s a reason this hairstyle never goes out of style — it’s because it works every single time. I’ve used this look on clients of all ages, and the half-up half-down is always a crowd favorite at prom. It gives you the elegance of an updo while still letting your beautiful long hair flow freely, and that balance is simply irresistible.
What is the classic half-up half-down hairstyle
The classic half-up half-down hairstyle is exactly what it sounds like — you take the top half of your hair, typically from around your temples back, and secure it up while leaving the rest of your hair down in its natural flow. It’s a timeless style that sits beautifully between casual and formal. What makes it special is that it frames your face perfectly while still showcasing the length and body of your hair. You can dress it up with accessories like pearl pins or floral clips to add a prom-appropriate touch of glam, or keep it simple and sweet with a satin ribbon. Either way, it photographs beautifully and holds up well throughout the night.
Best for girls with natural waves or voluminous hair
This hairstyle genuinely shines on girls with natural waves or thick, voluminous hair. The bottom section has room to breathe and show off all that gorgeous texture, while the top section stays neat and polished. If you have layers in your hair, this style is especially flattering because those layers cascade beautifully around your face and shoulders. It’s also a wonderful choice if you’re wearing a statement neckline or earrings, since the hair is pulled back just enough to show off those details without covering them completely. Girls with straight hair can absolutely rock this style too — just add a few waves with a curling wand before styling and you’re good to go.
How to create it with simple tips
Start by curling your entire hair in loose waves and letting them cool completely. Then use a wide-tooth comb to gently separate the top section of your hair from just above your ears, gathering it toward the crown of your head. Secure it with a clear elastic band or a decorative hair tie. If you want extra volume, backcomb the section slightly at the crown before securing. Finish with a shine-enhancing spray and pull a few face-framing strands out at the front to keep it soft and romantic. A light-hold hairspray will keep everything in place all night without making your hair feel stiff.
Braided Crown
I remember the first time I created a braided crown on a client — she literally gasped when she saw herself in the mirror. There’s something almost fairytale-like about this hairstyle, and for prom, that’s exactly the energy you want to bring.
What is a braided crown hairstyle
A braided crown is a style where two braids are created along the sides of the head and then wrapped up and over the crown, pinned in place to form a circular crown-like shape across the top of your head. It has a deeply romantic, almost ethereal quality that works incredibly well for formal occasions like prom. Depending on how loosely or tightly you braid, you can achieve a bohemian, garden-party feel or something more structured and elegant. You can also use different braid types — a simple three-strand braid, a Dutch braid, or even a fishtail — to change the overall texture and look of the crown.
Best for romantic and nature-inspired prom themes
If your prom theme leans toward romantic, enchanted, or garden-inspired aesthetics, this is hands-down your hairstyle. It’s also incredibly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces because the width of the crown across the head adds beautiful balance. Girls who love a soft, dreamy aesthetic will absolutely feel at home in this style. It pairs beautifully with flowy, A-line gowns and floral accessories. If you want to take it a step further, you can weave small flowers or pearl pins into the braids for an extra magical touch that photographs unbelievably well.
How to create it with simple tips
Divide your hair into two sections — one on each side. Braid each section starting from just behind the ear, keeping the braid loose and slightly messy for a romantic finish. Gently pull at the edges of the braid to widen it and give it more volume. Once both braids are done, bring one across the back of your head and pin it down with bobby pins, then bring the second braid over from the opposite side, layering it on top of or beside the first. Tuck the ends under and secure with pins. Spritz with a flexible hold spray and don’t be afraid to let some loose strands fall around your face — that’s what gives this style its magic.
Loose Romantic Waves
If you want to look like you walked straight out of a dream, loose romantic waves are the hairstyle for you. This is one I recommend constantly because it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum impact.
What are loose romantic waves
Loose romantic waves are soft, flowing waves that cascade down your shoulders and back without looking overly styled or stiff. Unlike tight curls or highly structured waves, romantic waves have a natural, effortless quality to them — they look like you were born with them. The waves typically start around mid-shaft or below the ear, leaving the roots smooth and sleek, which adds a sense of polish without losing that organic beauty. For prom, they can be worn fully down or incorporated into other styles as a base texture.
Best for girls who want effortless glam
This style is perfect for someone who wants to look glamorous without looking like they tried too hard — and believe me, that is an art form in itself. It works beautifully on all face shapes and suits every gown style from sleek fitted dresses to big, dramatic ball gowns. If you have naturally straight hair that holds curls well, this style is made for you. It’s also a great choice if you’re wearing a heavily embellished or detailed dress, since the softness of the waves complements rather than competes with your outfit.
How to create it with simple tips
Apply a heat protectant spray before you begin. Use a large-barrel curling iron — one-and-a-half to two inches — and curl sections of your hair by wrapping them loosely around the barrel, holding for just a few seconds before releasing. Once all sections are curled, let them cool completely, then gently run your fingers through them or use a wide paddle brush to brush them out into waves. Flip your head upside down and scrunch lightly to add volume. Finish with a light-hold flexible spray and a few drops of hair serum for that beautiful shine. The key is not to over-curl — loose is always better than tight for this look.
Sleek High Ponytail
Some styles are classic for a reason, and the sleek high ponytail is one of the most stunning choices you can make for prom — especially if you want to look powerful, polished, and completely put-together.
What is a sleek high ponytail
A sleek high ponytail is a style where all of your hair is combed smooth and gathered at the very top of your head, secured tightly with a hair tie. The beauty of this style is in its clean lines and sharp edges — there are no flyaways, no frizz, and no loose strands. The ponytail itself can be straight and smooth or lightly curled at the ends for added elegance. It’s a bold, confident look that draws attention to your face and your neckline, making it ideal when you’re wearing statement earrings or a beautiful back detail on your gown.
Best for bold, confident personalities
This is a hairstyle for the girl who walks into a room and owns it. It has a high-fashion, editorial quality that looks incredible in photos and makes a real statement. It’s particularly flattering for those with defined bone structure, prominent cheekbones, and strong jawlines. If you’re going for a sleek, modern look rather than a romantic or bohemian one, this is your answer. It also works beautifully with strapless or off-shoulder gowns since it completely clears your neck and shoulders.
How to create it with simple tips
Start with clean, blow-dried hair. Apply a smoothing serum throughout your hair to eliminate frizz. Use a fine-tooth comb to gather all your hair toward the crown of your head, combing each section upward and back until completely smooth. Secure with a strong elastic band. For extra polish, take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it, securing the end with a bobby pin. Apply an edge control or a strong-hold gel around your hairline to smooth any flyaways. Finish with a shine spray and you’ll look absolutely flawless.
Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is one of my personal favorites to create because it’s one of those styles that looks incredibly intricate but is actually very achievable once you understand the technique. Every time I do this on a client, someone in the room asks “how did you do that?”
What is a waterfall braid
A waterfall braid is a variation of a French braid where instead of adding hair strands continuously into the braid, you drop one strand down with each pass — letting it “fall” like a waterfall — while picking up a new strand from above. This creates a beautiful cascading effect where loose strands of hair flow downward through the braid, giving it that dreamy, flowing appearance. The braid usually runs horizontally across the side or back of the head, and the rest of the hair is left down to flow freely beneath it.
Best for those who love a boho-chic aesthetic
This style is absolutely made for the girl who loves bohemian, festival-inspired beauty with a formal twist. It pairs perfectly with flowy, romantic gowns and looks especially beautiful with floral or nature-inspired accessories. Girls with highlighted or multi-tonal hair will love this style because the waterfall effect shows off all those beautiful dimension and color variations in their hair. It’s also a wonderful option for someone who wants something unique and conversation-worthy without going overboard.
How to create it with simple tips
Start on one side of your head, picking up a section of hair near your temple. Begin a regular French braid by crossing three strands once. On your second pass, instead of adding the dropped strand back into the braid, let it fall straight down and pick up a new strand from the hair above instead. Continue across the back of your head, always letting one strand fall and picking up a new one from above. Once you reach the other side, secure the end with a small clear elastic. Leave the rest of your hair in waves or soft curls underneath for a stunning finish.
Twisted Rope Updo
I’ve done this hairstyle on so many clients who come to me saying they want something elegant but not too fussy — and this is exactly that. The twisted rope updo has a handcrafted, artisanal quality that looks beautiful and intentional.
What is a twisted rope updo
A twisted rope updo is created by dividing the hair into sections, twisting each section tightly in one direction, and then wrapping those twisted sections together and around each other to form an updo. The result looks like a beautifully coiled rope-inspired bun or knot at the back of the head. It has a textured, dimensional quality that sets it apart from a regular bun and gives it that special, elevated appearance. It works especially well with hair that has some texture or wave to it, as that added grip makes the twists hold better.
Best for girls who want something elegant and unique
If you want a style that people will remember and ask about, this is the one. It sits in that perfect sweet spot between structured and artistic. It’s a wonderful choice for someone attending a black-tie or ultra-formal prom event and pairs beautifully with statement earrings since the neck and ears are completely on display. Girls who prefer not to have hair in their face all night will love this style — it’s secure, sophisticated, and stays in place beautifully.
How to create it with simple tips
Begin by sectioning your hair into two large sections, dividing from ear to ear horizontally. Take the back section and divide it into two equal parts. Twist each part individually in the same direction — let’s say clockwise — then wrap both twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction, counterclockwise, creating the rope effect. Coil the rope into a bun and pin it securely. Repeat with the top section, twisting and wrapping it around the existing bun. Pull gently at the twists to loosen and add softness. Pin any loose ends and finish with a medium-hold spray.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is one of those hairstyles that looks like it belongs in a high-fashion editorial spread, yet once you get the hang of it, it’s surprisingly simple. I always tell my students — the fishtail is your friend.
What is a fishtail braid
A fishtail braid is a two-strand braid created by alternately crossing small sections of hair from the outside of one strand to the outside of the other. Unlike a regular three-strand braid, the fishtail uses only two main sections, and the thinner the pieces you cross over each time, the more detailed and intricate the finished braid looks. The result is a beautifully textured, woven braid that has an almost feathery, herringbone-pattern appearance. For prom, a fishtail braid can be worn as a side braid, a low ponytail braid, or incorporated into an updo.
Best for girls with thick or naturally textured hair
Thick hair truly comes alive in a fishtail braid. The more hair you have, the more impressive and full the braid looks. Girls with naturally wavy or textured hair will find that their hair grips itself beautifully, making the braid easier to maintain throughout the night. If you have fine hair, you can tease and texturize before braiding to get more volume and grip. The fishtail is also a stunning choice if you want a look that photographs beautifully from behind, making it perfect for formal settings where your back will be on display.
How to create it with simple tips
Divide your hair into two equal sections. From the outside edge of the left section, take a small, thin piece of hair and cross it over to join the right section. Then take a small piece from the outside of the right section and cross it over to join the left section. Continue alternating this pattern all the way down to the ends. The smaller the pieces you take each time, the more detailed the braid will look. Secure the end with a small elastic and then gently tug at both sides of the braid to loosen and widen it for that full, voluminous finish. Don’t overthink it — the looseness is what makes it look amazing.
Soft Low Chignon
The chignon is the definition of timeless sophistication. I have a deep love for this hairstyle because it never, ever fails. If you want to look like you’ve stepped out of a classic beauty era, this is the one.
What is a soft low chignon
A soft low chignon is a gently gathered bun or twist positioned at the nape of the neck. Unlike a tight, formal ballerina bun, the chignon has a relaxed, slightly undone quality — soft pieces are allowed to frame the face, and the bun itself has a gentle, textured appearance rather than looking overly sculpted. It’s an understated style that carries enormous elegance, and its low position at the neck makes it incredibly wearable and comfortable for long events.
Best for classic, vintage-inspired looks
If your prom aesthetic leans toward classic, vintage, old Hollywood, or timeless elegance, the chignon is your perfect match. It works particularly well with gowns that have beautiful back details — open backs, lace backs, or heavily adorned backs — because the low position of the bun draws the eye directly to those features. It’s also a wonderful choice for girls with finer hair because the chignon can be built up with pins and teasing to look full even on thinner hair types.
How to create it with simple tips
Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it loosely with a hair tie. Twist the ponytail until it naturally begins to coil on itself, then wrap it around the base of the ponytail to form the bun shape. Pin it in place with bobby pins, tucking the ends underneath. Gently pull strands loose around your face and at the temples for that soft, romantic framing. For extra hold, use a bit of texturizing paste before forming the bun to give the hair grip and prevent slipping. Finish with a fine-mist hairspray.
Dutch Braid Ponytail
This hairstyle is one of my absolute go-tos when I want something that looks high-effort but takes minimal time. The Dutch braid ponytail has that sporty-meets-chic quality that is incredibly modern and fresh.
What is a Dutch braid ponytail
A Dutch braid ponytail starts with a Dutch braid — also called an inside-out French braid — at the top of the head, which then flows seamlessly into a ponytail at the back or nape of the neck. In a Dutch braid, instead of crossing strands over each other, you cross them underneath, which causes the braid to sit on top of the hair rather than sinking into it. This gives the braid a raised, three-dimensional appearance that looks stunning. The transition from the braid into the ponytail creates a sleek, continuous line that’s both polished and modern.
Best for sporty-chic or contemporary looks
If your prom style is edgy, contemporary, or fashion-forward, this hairstyle delivers. It’s clean, graphic, and has that high-fashion energy that really stands out in a crowd. It pairs beautifully with minimalist gowns, sleek silhouettes, and bold jewelry. It’s also incredibly practical — since most of your hair is secured and controlled, it’s a great option if you know you’ll be dancing all night and want a style that stays in place.
How to create it with simple tips
Start at the very top of your head and divide a section of hair into three strands. Begin braiding by crossing the right strand under the center, then the left strand under the center — always crossing under rather than over. As you continue down, add sections of hair from each side before crossing under. Work your way down to the nape of your neck, then gather the remaining loose hair together with the braid and secure everything into a ponytail. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and secure with a pin. Smooth the ponytail with a serum for a polished finish.
Cascading Side Braid
There is something undeniably cinematic about a cascading side braid. It’s the kind of hairstyle that photographs beautifully from every angle and makes you feel like the main character — which, on prom night, you absolutely are.
What is a cascading side braid
A cascading side braid is a braid that flows over one shoulder, starting from the crown or side of the head and draping all the way down to the tips of your hair. It can be a simple three-strand braid, a fishtail, or a loose French braid — the key characteristic is its dramatic side-swept position and the way it frames the front of your body. The style often includes loose, romantic waves in any unbraided sections and is finished with the braid pulled and loosened for maximum volume.
Best for asymmetrical or dramatic gown styles
If your gown has an asymmetrical neckline, one-shoulder design, or dramatic draping on one side, a cascading side braid is the perfect complement. It adds movement and visual interest to your look while keeping everything harmonized. It’s also ideal for girls with very long hair, since the length of the braid can really make a statement when it stretches beautifully over the shoulder.
How to create it with simple tips
Part your hair deeply to one side and gather all of your hair to the heavier side. Begin braiding just behind your ear, using whichever braid technique you prefer — a loose three-strand braid works beautifully here. Work the braid all the way to the end of your hair and secure with a small elastic. Then go back and gently tug on each loop of the braid to widen and loosen it, giving it that full, romantic volume. Pull a few face-framing pieces loose at the front and finish with a light spray. Let the braid rest over your shoulder for that stunning cascading effect.
Messy Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
I truly believe the messy bun has been underestimated for way too long as a prom hairstyle. Done right, it is absolutely breathtaking, and I’ve seen it steal the show more times than I can count.
What is a messy bun with face-framing tendrils
This style is an intentionally undone, voluminous bun positioned at the crown or back of the head, with soft, curled tendrils carefully pulled out to frame the face. The word “messy” doesn’t mean careless — it means artfully relaxed. The bun should look full and dimensional, with pieces that have been deliberately loosened and texturized. The tendrils at the face add softness and romance, drawing attention to your features and giving the overall look a very feminine, dreamy quality.
Best for those who want romance with a relaxed edge
If you love romantic hairstyles but don’t want something that feels too stiff or overly formal, this is your answer. It works beautifully on girls who have natural waves or curly hair, since the texture adds so much dimension to the bun. It’s also a wonderful option if you’re wearing a bold, embellished gown — the looseness of the style balances out the drama of the dress without competing with it. And it’s endlessly flattering on all face shapes when those tendrils are placed correctly.
How to create it with simple tips
Start by curling your hair in loose waves. Pull everything into a high or mid-height ponytail and secure it loosely. Divide the ponytail into a few sections and twist each one loosely before wrapping it around the base of the ponytail. Pin each section as you go, tucking the ends in. Once the bun is formed, use your fingers to gently tug pieces loose, creating dimension and volume. Use a curling wand to curl the face-framing tendrils you’ve left out, wrapping them loosely and letting them fall softly. Spritz with flexible hold spray and resist the urge to smooth everything — the texture is the whole point.
Knotted Low Bun
The knotted low bun is one of those hidden gems in the world of formal hairstyling. It’s unexpected, architectural, and absolutely gorgeous — and most people have never even considered it as an option for prom.
What is a knotted low bun
A knotted low bun is created by dividing the hair into sections, tying them into actual knots, and then tucking and pinning those knots together to form a bun at the nape of the neck. The knot structure gives the bun a unique, three-dimensional surface that catches the light beautifully and looks unlike any standard bun. It has an almost sculptural quality that makes it feel very editorial and artistic while still being deeply elegant.
Best for fashion-forward individuals who love unique looks
This hairstyle is made for the girl who wants to do something different and isn’t afraid to stand out. If you love art, architecture, and fashion-forward aesthetics, this bun will speak directly to your soul. It pairs beautifully with sleek, minimalist gowns as well as highly structured, couture-inspired designs. Since the hair is fully secured, it’s also a practical option for someone who wants to spend the whole night dancing without worrying about their hair.
How to create it with simple tips
Divide your hair into two large sections horizontally — top and bottom. Take the bottom section and divide it into two equal parts. Tie these two parts together in a simple overhand knot, keeping the knot loose and a little large. Pin the knot down at the nape of your neck. Now take the top section, divide it similarly, and tie another knot on top of or beside the first one. Tuck in all ends and pin everything securely. Smooth the surface gently and finish with a strong-hold spray. The result is something that looks incredibly curated and intentional.
Rope Braid Updo
I love recommending the rope braid updo because it sits in that perfect intersection between classic and modern. It’s a style that feels fresh and current while having a timeless elegance at its core.
What is a rope braid updo
A rope braid updo involves creating rope twists — sections of hair twisted tightly in one direction and then wrapped together in the opposite direction — and using those twisted sections to build a structured updo pinned at the back of the head. The rope braids give the updo visible texture and a woven, intricate appearance without requiring traditional braiding skills. The finished look is full, dimensional, and deeply elegant.
Best for those with medium to thick hair
This style really thrives on hair that has some density and body. The rope twists need substance to look full and defined, and thicker hair naturally delivers that. Girls with medium or thick hair who want an updo that looks complex and carefully crafted without requiring salon-level technical skill will absolutely love this option. It pairs beautifully with formal gowns of all styles and is especially striking with off-shoulder designs.
How to create it with simple tips
Divide your hair into four or five equal sections from front to back. Take each section individually and twist it in one direction — let’s say to the right — until it becomes tight. Then wrap each twisted section around the others going in the opposite direction, building the updo from the nape of your neck upward. As you wrap and coil, pin each section into place. Continue until all sections have been incorporated and you have a full, dimensional bun or updo at the back. Tuck all ends underneath and secure firmly. Finish with hairspray and a few strategically placed pins for extra security.
Flower Braid Crown
I saved this one for last because it’s truly one of the most breathtaking prom hairstyles I’ve ever created. When someone wears a flower braid crown, they don’t just look beautiful — they look otherworldly.
What is a flower braid crown
A flower braid crown combines the structure of a braided crown with small, looped sections of hair that have been pinned in a way that creates the appearance of floral rosettes woven throughout the crown. It’s an elevated version of the braided crown that incorporates these delicate petal-like loops to give the hairstyle an almost organic, floral quality. The result looks like you have flowers blooming directly from your braids — it’s ethereal, intricate, and utterly stunning.
Best for prom royalty and those who love maximalist beauty
If you’re the type of person who loves going all out, who appreciates every detail, and who wants to make an entrance that people talk about for weeks, this is your hairstyle. It’s also an absolutely magical choice if your prom theme has any nature, garden, or fairytale elements. The flower braid crown photographs unbelievably well in natural light and looks beautiful both from the front and from above.
How to create it with simple tips
Begin as you would with a braided crown, creating two braids on either side of your head. As you braid, periodically take a small loop of hair and let it form a small circle, pinning the base of the loop against the braid to create a petal-like shape. Do this every few inches along both braids. Once both braids are complete, wrap them across the crown of your head as you would with a standard braided crown, pinning them in place. Adjust the loops so they face upward and outward, creating the floral rosette effect. Secure everything with plenty of pins and a strong-hold flexible spray. For extra magic, tuck real or faux flower petals between the loops.
Conclusion
Prom night is one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments that deserves every bit of love and attention you pour into it. I’ve spent years working with women of all ages, helping them feel confident and radiant for the most important moments of their lives, and I can tell you with my whole heart that prom holds a very special place in that story. There is nothing quite like watching someone see themselves in the mirror and genuinely light up from within.
Long hair is one of the most beautiful canvases you can work with. The fourteen styles I’ve shared with you today were chosen not just for their beauty, but for their accessibility. I wanted you to feel empowered reading through this guide, not overwhelmed. Whether you fell in love with the dreamy softness of the waterfall braid, the bold sophistication of the sleek high ponytail, the romantic charm of the braided crown, or the one-of-a-kind artistry of the flower braid crown, every single one of these styles was designed with you in mind.
Please don’t wait until the morning of prom to try your chosen style for the first time. Practice it at least two or three times beforehand. Get comfortable with the steps, figure out which products work best with your hair type, and give yourself the gift of confidence on the big day. A heat protectant, a good flexible hold hairspray, bobby pins, and a shine serum are really all you need in your toolkit.
Growing up watching my mother get ready for special occasions taught me something I’ve carried with me my entire career — beauty is not about achieving perfection. It never has been. It’s about showing up fully as yourself, celebrating your features, your personality, and your energy. Your hairstyle is simply an extension of that expression.
So on prom night, when you’re standing in front of that mirror with your hair done and your gown on, I want you to look yourself in the eyes and recognize the incredible young woman looking back at you. Walk into that venue like you own it. Dance every song. Laugh loudly. Make memories that last a lifetime.
As I always believe and always say — beauty is not about perfection. It’s about confidence, creativity, and feeling empowered to express yourself however you choose. And tonight, that choice is entirely and beautifully yours.