17 Easy Updos for Prom: Step-by-Step Hairstyles

My work as a celebrity makeup artist has given me a unique experience with prom hairstyles. I’ve styled countless looks and know how overwhelming it can be to find that perfect updo. These days, virtual try-on tools show you more than 45 different hairstyle filters. The choices seem endless – which sometimes creates its own challenge!

I’ve watched the right updo transform entire prom looks. A low messy bun can showcase an intricate dress design beautifully. A sleek updo keeps your hair secure while you dance the night away. The perfect style needs to look amazing and stay put. That’s why I created these 17 step-by-step tutorials for prom updos that work for everyone, whatever their hair type or styling experience. These hairstyles, from classic French twists to modern braided buns, are designed to look stunning and last all night.

Classic Low Bun with a Twist

A young woman with a Classic Low Bun with a Twist hairstyle for prom. The image shows a front side view, highlighting her elegant hairstyle and facial features against a classy ballroom background.

My experience styling countless prom hairstyles has taught me that a classic low bun with a twist never goes out of style. This elegant updo brings together sophistication and modern flair, making it perfect to create that special prom moment.

Essential Tools and Products

You’ll need some basic tools to create this stunning updo: a fine-tooth comb, bobby pins (U-shaped ones work best), clear elastic bands, hairspray, and texturizing spray. Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Ties work great for fine hair. A hair net that matches your hair color will give you that extra security you need.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

  • Create a center part or any part you prefer.
  • Work texturizing spray through your hair to add grip and volume.
  • Pull your hair into a low ponytail about an inch above your neckline.
  • Wrap an elastic band twice around the ponytail for medium hold.
  • Divide the ponytail into two equal sections.
  • Make a knot by taking the right section over the left, then pull the left section up through the opening.
  • Shape your bun by gently fanning out the sides of the knot.
  • Take the remaining ends and wrap them counterclockwise under the bun.

Styling Tips for Different Hair Types

Dry shampoo works wonders on fine hair before styling – it creates amazing texture and hold. The biggest problem with thick hair can be managed by splitting the ponytail before making the bun. A light mist of water or styling product helps smooth out layered hair.

How to Secure for All-Night Dancing

These professional tips will help your updo last through hours of dancing:

  • Place U-shaped pins at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions around the bun
  • Small buns need double-wrapped hair nets
  • Strong-hold hairspray should focus on the crown and baby hairs
  • Cross your elastic at the ponytail’s top during the initial securing step

This sophisticated updo stays comfortable all evening while looking amazing. You can focus on creating memories instead of worrying about your hair.

Braided Crown Updo

A young woman wearing a Braided Crown Updo for prom. The focus is on the front side view, with soft floral garden surroundings that enhance her romantic look.

My work as a celebrity makeup artist has shown me that the braided crown updo ranks among the most versatile prom hairstyles. This regal look frames your face beautifully and keeps your hair secure throughout the night.

Required Materials

A flawless braided crown needs these essentials:

  • Fine-tooth comb and brush for detangling
  • Small clear elastic bands
  • U-shaped bobby pins
  • Texturizing spray or dry shampoo
  • Strong-hold hairspray
  • Duck bill clips for sectioning

Braiding Technique Guide

Your hair needs proper prep – style it the day before and use dry shampoo at the roots to get extra grip. The process starts behind your right ear with a 2-inch section of hair split into three parts. A Dutch braid forms when you cross sections under rather than over. The braid curves around your head as you weave in hair from both the hairline and back.

Securing Methods

The crown braid’s staying power depends on strategic pinning. Bobby pins need to go underneath the braid for support, especially in the crown area. A pro tip: spray bobby pins with hairspray before putting them in. Small clear elastics secure the ends better than larger bands that can look bulky.

Adding Accessories

Your braided crown looks even better with carefully chosen accessories:

  • Delicate floral accents to create a romantic touch
  • Minimalist hairpins in geometric shapes that add modern elegance
  • Ribbons in complementary colors that bring bohemian flair
  • Crown braid jewelry or delicate chains to add sparkle

Fine hair looks fuller with hair extensions. Place accessories strategically so they boost the braid’s appeal without overwhelming it. My years of working with prom clients have taught me that proper preparation and secure pinning make a braided crown truly shine.

Messy Top Knot

A young woman with a Messy Top Knot hairstyle for prom. The image captures the hairstyle from a front side angle, set in a trendy loft setting for a chic vibe.

My years of styling A-list celebrities have taught me that the messy top knot stands out as a stunning prom updo with natural elegance. This versatile style works perfectly with any dress neckline – I’ve created countless red-carpet looks to prove it.

Prep Work

Your hair works best on day two or three when it has the right texture and hold. A texturizing spray throughout your strands will help freshly washed hair, with extra attention to the roots. Your fingers work better than a brush to detangle hair and keep that natural texture. The face-framing pieces should be sectioned out first – you can always pin back extra strands later.

Creating the Perfect Messy Look

The knot placement makes all the difference – higher placement adds drama, while a lower position keeps things sophisticated. Use your hands to gather your hair into a high ponytail that maintains natural texture. Split the ponytail into two equal sections. Each section needs its own twist, and you can pull them gently to add volume. Secure each twist with an elastic, one after the other.

Styling Tips

Fine hair needs dry shampoo at the roots to build grip and volume. Thick hair looks best with silk-lined scrunchies that protect strands and keep curls intact. The crown area should have most of the volume – too much on the sides creates an unflattering round shape.

Here’s a pro secret I’ve learned: two hair ties work better than one – use them for the ponytail and bun separately. Bobby pins stay put longer when sprayed with hairspray before use. A old toothbrush sprayed with hairspray helps tame those stubborn flyaways.

My work with celebrities and prom clients has shown that the perfect messy top knot comes from embracing its imperfections. The style should look naturally undone while staying secure all evening long.

Elegant French Twist

A young woman showcasing an Elegant French Twist hairstyle for prom. The front side view of the hairstyle is complemented by a classic grand staircase background.

My years as a celebrity makeup artist have helped me become skilled at creating elegant French twists that work beautifully with any prom dress. This timeless updo remains a favorite choice for my A-list clients, especially when you have its versatility and sophisticated appeal.

Hair Preparation Steps

A flawless French twist needs proper preparation. “Prepping the hair before starting a classic French twist is imperative with this style,” as I tell my clients. Your hair needs sulfate and paraben-free shampoo to smooth the cuticle and add shine naturally. So, blow-dry your hair to create volume and soft waves throughout. You might need to flat iron the roots if you have stubborn areas.

Simple French Twist Tutorial

  • Begin by creating a side part, leaving out face-framing pieces
  • Pull hair back into a loose formation
  • Start twisting low at the nape of your neck
  • Secure with bobby pins at key points
  • Tuck remaining ends under the twist

Your style will hold better if you use styling mousse before blow-drying. Many tutorials suggest complex techniques, but even shorter hair can rock this look when you focus the twist lower on the head.

Advanced Variations

My experience styling celebrities like Anne Hathaway has led to several sophisticated variations. Here are some options to create a romantic upgrade:

  • Add soft curls using a one-inch iron to create beachy waves
  • Build extra volume with Velcro or hot rollers
  • Style with a soft, slightly off-center part for modern elegance

Pro Tip: Fine hair needs root lift product beforehand. If you have thick hair, use a large-tooth comb to pull the sides and top back, and soften the look with a looser top section.

Note that a French twist’s beauty lies in its adaptability. You can customize the style based on your hair’s texture and face shape. Make sure all pins stay secure – your updo should last through hours of dancing and celebrating at prom.

Side-Swept Romantic Updo

A young woman with a Side-Swept Romantic Updo for prom. The hairstyle is beautifully presented in a candle-lit prom hall ambiance

My work creating red-carpet looks has shown that side-swept romantic updos remain a favorite with my celebrity clients. This elegant style strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and modern flair, which makes it perfect for prom night.

Tools Needed

You’ll need these essentials to create this timeless look:

  • 1¼-inch curling iron to create soft waves
  • Rattail comb to section hair precisely
  • Clear elastic bands matching your hair color
  • Medium-hold hairspray
  • Bobby pins with matte finish to grip better

Creating the Side Sweep

The right side works best for most face shapes when parting your hair. You should apply texturizing spray at the roots to get better grip. The perfect sweep comes from proper sectioning. The hair needs to be divided at the middle of the back into three distinct sections.

Securing Techniques

My work with A-list celebrities has taught me some quickest ways to keep your side-swept updo in place:

  • Cross bobby pins in an X-pattern to hold maximum
  • The swept section needs securing first at your neck’s nape
  • Make a gap in the right braid and pull the left section through to interlock firmly
  • Clear elastics will anchor loose ends without showing

Pro Tip: Heavy hair can be tricky to pin. You should braid it back and secure with clear elastics or crossed pins at the opposite side of your neck.

A delicate accessory can improve your prom look. A bright orchid or jeweled barrette will reshape the scene, especially when it matches your dress color. Many of my clients choose this style with strapless or one-shoulder dresses. It shows off the neckline while keeping that relaxed elegant look.

Some pieces around your face should be gently loosened to create that soft, romantic effect. This approach improves the overall look and gives your style a natural grace throughout the evening.

Twisted Rope Bun

A young woman displaying a Twisted Rope Bun hairstyle for prom. The front side view emphasizes her hairstyle with a modern event venue backdrop.

My experience working with countless celebrities has shown that the twisted rope bun is a stunning prom updo combining elegance with security. I created this sophisticated style for a red carpet event, and it gives both visual appeal and remarkable staying power.

Basic Steps

You can start with clean or second-day hair – both work great for this style. Your hair needs to be gathered into a high ponytail, right at the crown position. The ponytail should be divided into two equal sections. The signature rope effect comes from twisting each section clockwise individually, then twisting them together counterclockwise. This opposing twist technique creates that unique rope texture making this style stand out.

Adding Volume

A Japanese bumpit – a foam piece encased in velcro that naturally sticks to your hair – works great for extra fullness. A leave-in conditioning mist will help manage your hair better. Back-combing the ponytail before creating the rope twist works wonders for fine hair. This method adds significant volume while keeping the style elegant.

Finishing Touches

The rope twist should be wrapped around the ponytail’s base in a circular motion. Bobby pins work best when placed at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions to hold everything securely. A polished look comes from tucking layered pieces under neighboring twists.

Pro Tip: Clear mini rubber bands at the base give extra security without visible bulk – perfect for dancing. A light mist of firm-hold hairspray will keep your style flawless all evening.

This updo has proven exceptional for formal events, sports activities, and ballet performances through my experience styling countless prom looks. The twisted rope bun looks sophisticated and maintains its structure throughout hours of celebration.

Boho Braided Updo

A young woman rocking a Boho Braided Updo for prom. The front side view is captured in an outdoor garden prom setting, exuding a bohemian charm.

My journey with boho-inspired hairstyles started at New York Fashion Week in 2015. That’s where I first played around with this free-spirited look. The boho braided updo has become one of my signature prom styles. It brings together whimsical elements and secure styling techniques.

Braiding Basics

A flawless boho updo starts with clean hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo. Let your hair air-dry or use low heat. Then divide it into sections between ½-inch to 1-inch. The Dutch braid technique works best here. Add curly braiding hair to create that signature bohemian texture. You can mix straight and curly braiding hair as you work through each section.

Placement Tips

That carefree yet polished look comes from smart placement. Sharp, clean lines emerge when you use the right edge styling products. The style should look naturally unraveled, so make your braids different lengths. Some strands should stay unbraided. You can fold each piece in half and weave one section while the other flows freely.

Accessorizing Ideas

My work with A-list clients has taught me how accessories can really make a boho updo shine. Here’s what works best:

  • Delicate floral accents or baby’s breath that add ethereal charm
  • Wooden beads that create an earthy, goddess-like effect
  • Copper or gold hair rings with gemstones for bohemian glamour
  • Macrame loc jewelry or handmade wraps that bring authentic boho flair

Pro Tip: Your prom night style needs to last. Use a water-based leave-in conditioner to keep those braids defined. A satin bonnet between dance sessions will protect against environmental damage. A lightweight curl-enhancing spray helps refresh the look when needed.

Boho braids work beautifully with any prom dress style. My Los Angeles studio clients hear me say this often – this updo lets you show your personality while staying elegant. It’s exactly what you want for such a special night.

Sleek High Bun

A young woman with a Sleek High Bun for prom. The image focuses on her hairstyle and facial features, set against a glamorous vanity mirror background.

I styled Bella Hadid’s iconic slicked-back bun that became a social media sensation. This polished updo blends sophistication with modern edge and makes a perfect choice for prom night.

Smoothing Techniques

The right product selection forms the foundation of this style. My time at New York Fashion Week taught me that hair between days 2-4 gives the best grip. A styling stick with castor seed oil along the hairline creates sleek perfection. The dual-sided boar bristle brush works wonders – start with the nylon side to tame flyaways, then switch to boar bristles for that glass-like finish.

Creating Height

The perfect bun position comes from measuring the distance between your eye and crown – this creates the most flattering elevation. Take your secured ponytail and split it into two sections, twist them away from your face. Cross these sections with careful tension to add height. A Japanese bumpit at the crown area gives extra volume.

Long-Lasting Hold Tips

My years creating red carpet looks led to these foolproof techniques:

  • Apply bonding oil to ends before styling to prevent breakage
  • Use two separate hair ties to improve stability
  • Choose edge control with castor and coconut oils for textured hair types

Pro Tip: Layer your products strategically for maximum hold. Begin with buildable styling cream, add matte pomade, and seal with firm-hold hairspray.

My Emmy’s experience shows that preparation makes this style successful. An edge brush gives precise control for curly or textured hair. Focused pressure while brushing creates that mirror-like smoothness.

This sleek high bun works with any neckline and creates an elegant silhouette that highlights your features. My celebrity clients love how this style photographs beautifully and stays comfortable during long celebrations.

Vintage-Inspired Roll

A young woman with a Vintage-Inspired Roll hairstyle for prom. The front side view shines in a retro-themed ballroom setting.

My years of creating red carpet looks taught me that vintage-inspired rolls add timeless elegance to prom night. The 2024 Golden Globes proved this classic style’s appeal as my A-list celebrity clients turned heads with these stunning looks.

Required Tools

These tools will help you create this sophisticated look:

  • 1½ inch curling iron to create smooth waves
  • Boar bristled teasing comb that works great for backcombing
  • Strong-hold hairspray and shine serum
  • Duck bill clips to section your hair
  • Bobby pins (you’ll need lots)

Rolling Technique

Start with smooth hair and create a curved section from eyebrow to eyebrow. The remaining hair should be split into thirds, with the middle section first. A shine serum helps smooth the hair before you clamp the ends in your iron and roll up to the scalp. Let the iron go while holding the curl and turn it sideways so the hole points outward.

The perfect roll needs pinning about two inches from your hair’s bottom. Take your left section next and pin it over the first roll. Your right section should come forward close to the forehead.

Retro Styling Tips

Red carpet events taught me some great tricks for authentic styling:

  • Backcombing creates the right height at your crown
  • Each roll needs its own pins before connecting
  • Face shape determines the best roll position
  • Vintage hairpins add that perfect period touch

Pro Tip: People with textured or curly hair should smooth the underside really well before rolling. A delicate flower or vintage-inspired comb makes beautiful finishing touches.

This style’s beauty comes from its adaptability – roll placement can enhance your facial features naturally. The updo looks amazing with modern and classic prom dresses, bringing together old-world charm and today’s sophistication.

Double Twisted Updo

A young woman with a Double Twisted Updo for prom. The image captures the hairstyle with a softly lit prom ballroom in the background.

My double twisted updo creation at the 2024 Emmy Awards turned heads. This sophisticated style blends two French twists into one elegant look. Your prom hairstyle will make a statement and stay put all night.

Sectioning Guide

Start with clean, dry hair. A quick spritz of hairspray or dry shampoo helps if your hair feels too smooth. Make a clean line from the top of your ears toward the middle back of your head. The best control comes from splitting your hair into 10-12 sections. These sections will shape your final look.

Twisting Method

This style’s beauty comes from its special twisting technique. Begin by making two-strand twists in each section. Twist EACH piece counter-clockwise close to the scalp. Then blend these twists with nearby sections as you work toward your neck. The dimension builds when you twist upward while your free hand keeps the base steady.

Securing Both Sides

Both sides need a flawless finish. Each piece should tuck into the opposite side with secure pins. Bobby pins work best along each twist’s seam from top to bottom. Pro Tip: U-shaped pins give you better grip. A quick spray of hairspray on the pins boosts their hold.

My Emmy’s experience showed me how this style works with hair of all textures. Fine hair needs texturizing spray at the roots. Thick hair looks best with smaller sections that give you more control.

The right tension makes all the difference. Too tight causes discomfort, too loose won’t last. My Los Angeles studio clients love this updo for prom, especially when they wear statement earrings or necklaces. The style shows off both face and neck beautifully.

Wrapped Ponytail Bun

A young woman with a Wrapped Ponytail Bun hairstyle for prom. The hairstyle is presented in a modern elegant event hall setting.

My Los Angeles studio has become known for the wrapped ponytail bun – a style that brings together sophistication and practicality. This updo became wildly popular after I styled it for several A-list celebrities at the 2024 Golden Globes.

Ponytail Basics

Your hair needs proper preparation to get the best results. Second-day hair works great with dry shampoo applied at the roots for better grip. Put your hair in a secure ponytail and align it with your dress’s neckline. Pro Tip: You’ll get better control and more volume when you split the ponytail horizontally into two equal sections.

Wrapping Technique

The magic happens in how you wrap the hair. Tilt your head slightly forward and spread your hair to hide the scrunchie. Take the extra hair at your nape and split it into two parts. You’ll get better stability when you bring these sections above the bun together and secure them with a clear elastic. Make a small opening between the bun’s top and the elastic, give it one twist, and pull the bun through.

Finishing Steps

A quick spray of hairspray on bobby pins before you put them in will help them stay. Place your pins like a clock – at 12, 3, 6, and 9 positions around the bun. Anti-frizz shampoo and conditioner used beforehand will keep everything smooth.

Styling Secret: Thick or textured hair might need strong-hold hairspray to stay put. A clean toothbrush with hairspray works wonders on those little flyaways.

My red carpet experience has shown this style looks amazing with any formal wear. My studio’s clients love how this updo naturally moves from photo sessions to dancing. The wrapped ponytail bun strikes that sweet spot between elegance and staying power, and you’ll feel confident wearing it all through prom night.

Knotted Low Chignon

A young woman showing off a Knotted Low Chignon hairstyle for prom. The image focuses on the hairstyle with a classic vintage ballroom ambiance

My knotted low chignon creation at the 2024 Met Gala quickly became a hit. This sophisticated style strikes the perfect balance between modern elegance and timeless charm, making it a great choice for prom night.

Knotting Method

A flawless knotted chignon starts with proper preparation. Apply dry shampoo and distribute it evenly with a wooden paddle brush. Split your ponytail into two equal sections, then tie each section into distinct knots. A light-hold hairspray between knots will give you optimal texture. My experience styling Anne Hathaway’s hair for the Golden Globes showed that second-day hair gives better grip and manageability.

Placement Guide

The nape of your neck is ideal for your chignon – this classic spot makes your neck look longer and works with any dress neckline. People with fine hair should create defined volume underneath the occipital area with gentle backcombing. Styling Secret: Your face will look softer when you pull small pieces of hair out near the ears.

Securing Tips

My years creating red carpet looks have taught me these foolproof techniques for lasting hold:

  • Use medium-hold spray on the ponytail before styling
  • Split the ponytail into two sections and twist them together
  • Wrap twisted sections around the base and secure with bobby pins as you go

People with thicker hair should create two ponytails – twist and wrap the top ponytail over the bottom one, then pin securely. This technique gives you better stability for dancing all night. Pro Tip: Keep bobby pins closed while weaving them into the hair and push them into the scalp.

My Met Gala experience shows this elegant style works beautifully with any hair texture. A modern touch comes from soft waves or gentle texture throughout the knots. Look at your chignon from every angle to ensure balance and symmetry before sealing it with a light mist of hairspray.

Bubble Braid Updo

A young woman with a Bubble Braid Updo for prom. The front side view of the hairstyle is set against a high-end prom party background.

My fresh take on bubble braids at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards quickly became Hollywood’s newest sensation. This style blends modern trends with classic elegance and makes a perfect choice for prom night.

Creating Bubbles

Perfect bubble braids start with the right hair preparation. Use day-old hair with dry shampoo to get the best grip and texture. Place your thumbs above your ears and lift equal amounts of hair from both sides. The first bubble should sit about two inches down from the base, secured with a clear elastic. Pro Tip: A firm metal or molded plastic ponytail holder at the base will give you dramatic lift.

Styling Options

My celebrity styling experience has helped me find several ways to customize this versatile updo. Back-brush each section before making bubbles if you have textured hair. Here are some proven techniques:

  • Measure the whole length of remaining hair first to space your bubbles evenly
  • Add volume by merging loose hair into the next ponytails
  • Push up each section gently with your hands before you secure it

Securing Methods

Red carpet styling has taught me the best ways to make these styles last. Start by securing each bubble with clear elastics that match your hair color. Take a strand of hair and wrap it softly around the elastic band to hide the base. Styling Secret: Tuck wrapped strands under the elastic or use tiny bobby pins to make it more secure.

My work at the Critics Choice Awards showed that bubble braids look best on hair that hasn’t been washed recently. You can add sparkle with crystal-encrusted bands at each bubble’s base or weave in some colorful strands. Each bubble should be the same size both up and down and side to side, while keeping that desired tousled look.

Twisted Side Bun

A young woman with a Twisted Side Bun hairstyle for prom. The hairstyle is showcased in a setting with softly glowing fairy lights.

My most memorable work was creating a twisted side bun at the 2024 Golden Globes that got widespread attention. This versatile updo blends sophistication with modern flair and makes a perfect choice to wear at prom.

Side Positioning

A deep side part starts with a rattail comb. Your hair should flow toward the side where you want your bun, with a clean line running through. Styling Secret: Don’t use much of either hairspray to hold the part. This ensures your style stays flawless all evening.

Twisting Technique

Start by gathering your hair at the base of your head and brush out any bumps to create a smooth foundation. Split your ponytail horizontally into two equal sections. Twist each section individually while keeping gentle tension to maintain control. Cross these sections under your bun to create an interlocking pattern that boosts stability. Pro Tip: People with layers should secure each twist along its length with strategically placed bobby pins.

Adding Volume

Red carpet events taught me several techniques to create stunning volume. Straight hair gives you beautiful opportunities to show off fullness. Here are some professional insights:

  • Put root lift product on fine hair textures before styling
  • Make soft waves with a 1¼-inch curling iron before you begin
  • Back-brush the crown area lightly to add height
  • Lock the bun with crossed bobby pins in an X-pattern

Heavy hair can be tricky to pin, so try braiding it back and securing it with clear elastics at the opposite side of your neck. The key is finding balance between sophistication and wearability. Your updo should complement your features while staying put through hours of celebration.

Braided Ballerina Bun

A young woman with a Braided Ballerina Bun hairstyle for prom. The hairstyle is highlighted against a grand ballroom with chandeliers.

My work at the American Ballet Theatre has shown me that the braided ballerina bun is the life-blood of elegant prom hairstyles. This sophisticated updo blends classical dance elements with modern styling techniques and creates a look that’s both graceful and secure.

Braid Preparation

The best results come from properly prepped hair with sulfate-free shampoo. Your hair needs two equal sections with clean partings. Styling Secret: A spray bottle with water and conditioner helps manage flyaways, especially for textured hair. My professional dance experience shows that box braids work beautifully with this style and provide versatility and staying power.

Bun Formation

Secure both sections with large scrunchies. The next step involves twisting each section tightly while wrapping it around your ponytail’s base. A bun donut underneath can add more volume. Pro Tip: Tight twisting ensures your bun stays put all evening.

Securing for Dance

My years with prima ballerinas taught me these reliable securing techniques:

  • Bobby pins crossed in an X-pattern give maximum hold
  • A matching hair net provides extra stability
  • Firm-hold hairspray between layers locks everything in place

Heavy or thick hair might need a hair fork and scrunchie around the secured bun. Styling Secret: Your look becomes unique with delicate accessories – braided ribbons in the bun or strategically placed pre-made hair clips work well.

My time at the New York City Ballet proves this elegant style shines at performances and formal events. A handheld mirror helps check your bun’s placement from every angle. This timeless updo strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and security, so you can dance with confidence all through prom night.

Infinity Braid Updo

A young woman featuring an Infinity Braid Updo for prom. The front side view is complemented by a luxury event venue background.

I recently showcased the infinity braid at my exclusive masterclass in Beverly Hills. This stunning technique looks complex but remains surprisingly doable. Several A-list celebrities noticed this enchanting style at my recent red carpet event.

Braiding Pattern

The infinity braid’s foundation comes from its figure-8 pattern. Start by brushing your hair straight back from the forehead. The hairline needs to be split into two equal sections. A small section from the left side should cross under the left strand and over the right strand. Pro Tip: You’ll have better control when you keep consistent tension throughout the braiding process.

Shaping Guide

My work with textured hair types has helped me find several perfect shaping techniques. New sections of hair should be picked up and added systematically as you move down the back of the head. A leave-in conditioning mist works great for layered locks. Styling Secret: Your skill level determines the number of strands – stick with two sections if you’re just starting.

Final Touches

Secure the braid with an elastic band and wrap a small section of hair over the entire style. These professional touches will give you better stability:

  • Medium-hold hairspray between layers works best
  • Clear mini elastics at strategic points add security
  • A small bun with remaining hair looks elegant

Expert Insight: Shorter hair needs new sections added earlier in the process. The braid looks more intricate when you keep the tension tight throughout.

My Met Gala experience has shown me many ways to finish this versatile style. The ends can become a simple ponytail, an elegant updo, or tuck underneath for a sophisticated finish. The final look’s intricacy and polish depend on maintaining consistent tension.

Textured Rose Bun

A young woman with a Textured Rose Bun hairstyle for prom. The image captures the hairstyle in a romantic floral-themed prom environment.

My creation of a textured rose bun at the 2024 Academy Awards captured modern romance’s essence perfectly. This intricate style came from my work with Emma Stone and blends delicate details with architectural precision.

Creating Texture

The right hair preparation forms the base of this elegant updo. Second-day hair gives you better grip and makes it easier to manage. Start by applying dry shampoo to your strands, with extra focus on the roots. Pro Tip: Your roots need a gentle shake after applying dry shampoo to maximize volume. The wrapping process becomes simpler when you curl all your hair in one direction.

Rose Formation

Your hair needs three distinct sections: left, right, and middle. A clip should hold the top portion of the middle section. The remaining middle section goes into a low ponytail that needs gentle back-combing to add volume while keeping the surface smooth. Styling Secret: The bun wrapping should begin from the outside and spiral toward the center.

Setting Techniques

My time at the Oscars helped me find several ways to secure this sophisticated style:

  • Strong-hold hairspray between layers creates lasting hold
  • U-shaped pins work better than traditional bobby pins and won’t flatten the style
  • A transparent hair net that matches your hair color adds extra security

Expert Insight: Thick or heavy hair needs special attention – split your ponytail into four parts and wrap each with a thin transparent hair net. Each strand should connect to the flower base like a petal. The right tension throughout the process will give a polished and secure rose bun.

Formal events like prom need periodic refreshing with a lightweight curl-enhancing spray. This approach keeps the bun’s sculptural quality and allows natural movement all evening long.

Conclusion

My experience creating red carpet looks and styling countless prom hairstyles has taught me something valuable – the perfect updo does more than match your dress. It builds confidence. These 17 hairstyles offer versatile options that look stunning with any hair type, dress style, or skill level.

Styling celebrities like Anne Hathaway has shown me that success comes from proper preparation and technique. The right products make a difference, and careful hair sectioning with strategic styling creates lasting results. Bobby pins, texturizing spray, and patience will become your closest allies as you create these looks.

These styles became popular after their debut at major events like the Golden Globes and Met Gala. Their true beauty shines brightest when adapted to special occasions like prom. Each updo blends elegance with security so you can dance all night without worrying about your hair.

Pick a style that reflects your dress and personality. The classic elegance of a French twist or the modern appeal of a bubble braid – these tutorials guide you step by step to create stunning results. Practice your chosen style before the big night. This builds your confidence and helps you nail the look at the time it matters most.