Prom Hairstyles 2025: 25+ Stunning Ideas for All Hair Types

Prom night is one of the biggest events of the year, and figuring out your look is half the fun. Whether you're hunting for prom hair inspo to DIY or just need cute and simple ideas to show your stylist, we’ve got you covered. From effortless waves to chic updos, this guide is packed with easy prom hairstyles for every hair type and length.

The right prom hairstyle shouldn’t cost a fortune. Whether you have short hair, curly waves or need a look that holds up all night, we’ve rounded up dozens of the best prom hairstyles for 2025 that feel fresh, stylish and fun.

Looking for a specific prom hairstyle? Jump to the look you need:

• Hair down prom hairstyles
• Half-up, half-down prom hairstyles
• Half-up curly prom hairstyles
• Updo prom hair ideas
• Prom hairstyles for short hair
• Medium-length prom hairstyles
• Prom hairstyles for long hair
• Prom hairstyles for curly hair
• Cute and fun prom hairstyles
• Prom Hair FAQs

Hair down prom hairstyles

Soft, tousled waves

Source: Pinterest

Soft, touchable waves always work. Curl big sections of hair, then brush them out for that effortless, undone vibe. A quick spritz of Strong Finishing Hairspray keeps them from falling flat while still feeling natural.

Sleek, straight hair with a center part

Source: Pinterest

This look is all about shine. Apply Glossy Shine Spray throughout hair before heat styling–it has 450 °F heat protection–then blow dry and smooth things out with a flat iron for that extra glass-like finish. Easy, polished and totally timeless.

Retro-inspired deep waves

Source: Pinterest

For that Old Hollywood glam, grab a large barrel curling iron and set your waves in place. Brush them out for a soft, sculpted look and finish with a mist of Strong Finishing Hairspray to keep them smooth all night.

Half-up, half-down prom hairstyles

Twisted half-up style with volume

Source: Pinterest

Take two front sections, twist them back and pin them for a super romantic vibe. Tease the crown a bit before pinning for a little extra volume, then set everything with a quick mist of Strong Finishing Hairspray.

Half-up high ponytail

Source: Pinterest

Sleek on top, flowy and voluminous on the bottom—this prom hair look is a classic. Pull the top half into a ponytail and wrap a small section of hair around the base for a polished look. A spritz of Glossy Shine Spray keeps it sleek and frizz-free.

Half-up bubble braid

Source: Pinterest

This one’s for those of us who love a little fun. Pull the top half into a ponytail, then secure sections with elastics and gently pull them apart for a bubble effect. A little Volume Spray at the roots gives extra lift.

Half-up curly prom hairstyles

Half-up braided crown

Source: Pinterest

A half-up style with a little extra detail. Braid two sections from each side and pin them at the back to create a crown effect. If your curls need a boost, smooth in some Curl Cream before styling, then finish with a mist of Ghost Flexible Hairspray.

Half-up bun(s) with loose waves

Source: Pinterest

A funky yet polished style. Pull the top half into a messy bun (or two) while leaving soft waves down. Spritz on a bit of Volume Dry Texture Spray for volume and hold, keeping it effortlessly chic.

Twisted and pulled back prom hair

Source: Pinterest

Soft twists are the perfect way to add elegance to any hair texture. Twist two sections from the front, secure them at the back and leave the rest flowing. A little Ghost™ Oil adds shine without weighing things down.

Updo prom hair ideas

Elegant low chignon 

Source: Pinterest

A timeless style that works with nearly every prom dress. Smooth your hair back into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun and pin securely. Bring out the texture with Ghost™ Air Dry Whip, then finish with Strong Finishing Hairspray for a polished look that lasts.

Messy twisted updo

Source: Pinterest

This style is soft, romantic and so easy to do. Twist sections of hair, pin them at the nape and leave a few pieces out for a wispy effect. A light mist of our Strong Finishing Hairspray keeps everything in place while maintaining movement.

Super sleek bun

Source: Pinterest

For a clean and sophisticated updo, brush your hair into a ponytail, twist into a tight bun and secure. Use Ghost™ Primer for smoothness and heat protection before styling, then set everything with Strong Finishing Hairspray to resist frizz and humidity.

Prom hairstyles for short hair

Soft finger waves

Source: Pinterest

A vintage-inspired classic, finger waves add elegant definition to short hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to sculpt the waves, then set with Strong Finishing Hairspray for long-lasting hold.

Slicked-back bob

Source: Pinterest

An edgy but elegant look. Smooth back your bob with a little Glossy Shine Spray for shine and a polished finish.

Textured pixie with volume

Source: Pinterest

Give a modern edge to your pixie cut with added texture and lift. Apply Sculpting Clay for control, then tousle with your fingers for a chic, effortless look.

Medium-length prom hairstyles

Pinned-back glam waves

Source: Pinterest

Give medium-length hair a red-carpet touch with soft waves pinned back on one side. Curl your hair with a 1-inch barrel iron, then tuck one side behind your ear and secure with a chic clip. Finish with our Strong Finishing Hairspray for a polished, long-lasting hold.

Soft braided side sweep

Source: Pinterest

A delicate, feminine look, this style features a loose side braid blended into soft waves. Start with a deep side part, create a relaxed braid along the front and pin it behind the ear. Use Ghost™ Air Dry Whip for touchable texture and Strong Finishing Hairspray for hold.

Textured layered lob

Source: Pinterest

A layered lob with tousled waves gives the perfect mix of sophistication and movement. Start by working in a bit of Ghost™ Air Dry Whip then use a curling wand to add loose waves for natural-looking volume and hold.

Prom hairstyles for long hair

Loose waves with a braided side

Source: Pinterest

Perfect for a natural, but minimal vibe. Twist two sections from either side of your head and pin them at the back, leaving the rest flowing. Spritz on some Volume Spray to add lightweight lift and keep your style from falling flat.

Romantic loose braid

Source: Pinterest

Soft, effortless and totally timeless. Loosely braid your hair over one shoulder (or down the middle), keeping it relaxed for a natural look. Gently tug on the braid at different sections to add volume, then set everything with a light mist of Strong Finishing Hairspray to hold the style without stiffness.

Blown-out layers with movement

Source: Pinterest

For a sleek but voluminous style, blow dry your hair with a round brush to enhance layers. Make sure to prep your hair with a hydrating heat protectant spray like our Glossy Shine Spray.

Prom hairstyles for curly hair

Loose waves pulled back with braids

Source: Pinterest

A soft, ethereal look that works on a variety of types of waves and curls. Start with some of our Curl Leave-In Conditioner to hydrate and prep your curls. Braid a small section from one side, pin it back, repeat on the other side and join them in the middle. Let the rest flow for a romantic finish. Hit it with a few sprays of our Strong Finishing Hairspray to keep it locked in all night!

Curly updo with side fringe

Source: Pinterest

This style is perfect for curls, coils and everything in between. Gather your hair into a loose bun, leaving out a few face-framing curls for softness. Apply a bit of Curl Foaming Gel to define and hold curls in place without crunch.

Low curly ponytail

Source: Pinterest

A sleek yet voluminous ponytail that highlights your curl pattern. Smooth your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a silk scrunchie. Scrunch in some Curl Cream for moisture and definition, then finish with a light mist of Hydrate Oil for shine.

Cute and fun prom hairstyles

Space buns with curls

Source: Pinterest

Playful and trendy, this style is perfect for a fun prom night. Section your hair into two high buns, leaving a few curls loose around your face. Add some Volume Dry Texture Spray for extra texture and hold.

High ponytail with silk bow

Source: Pinterest

A sleek ponytail with a girly bow is effortlessly chic. Smooth your hair into a ponytail, high, low, wherever you’d like! Once secured, clip in a matching bow at the base, then finish with a mist of Glossy Shine Spray for extra polish.

Claw clip twist

Source: Pinterest

The ultimate easy prom hairstyle. Twist your hair up and secure it with a claw clip. A spritz of Strong Finishing Hairspray will keep everything looking fresh and effortless all night.

Prom Hair FAQs

How do you do your hair for prom?

There are many ways to do your hair for prom! You can book a salon appointment, get ready with the help of friends or style it yourself. If you’re getting ready away from home, pack some travel-size Glossy Shine Spray or Volume Dry Texture Spray. Which will also be the perfect size to tuck into your clutch for quick touch-ups during the night!

Is prom hair up or down?

It depends on your style and theme! If you're channeling Old Hollywood glamour, an elegant updo might be perfect. If your vibe is more relaxed, a loose, boho-inspired look fits right in. The best prom hair is the one that makes you feel amazing.

Should I go hair up or hair down for prom?

When considering wearing your hair up or down on prom night, you’ll want to think about: 

• Your personal style: do you feel more comfortable with hair up or down?
• Your dress: certain necklines pair better with specific hairstyles.
• Your prom plans: if you’ll be dancing all night, an updo might last longer.
• The weather: humidity can impact curls and sleek styles.
• But at the end of the day, wear your hair however makes you feel your best!

Should I do my hair or makeup first for prom?

Hair first, then makeup, then get dressed. Styling tools generate heat and can cause makeup to smudge, so it’s best to finish hair before applying foundation and mascara. Wear a robe or button-down shirt while getting ready so you can change easily without messing up your look.

Find Your Best Prom Hair Products

Now that you’ve got all the prom hair inspo you need, it’s time to find the right products to make your style last all night. Take our free hair quiz to get personalized product recommendations based on your hair type and goals: