1. Introduction
Prom night is one of the most anticipated events of high school, and while the dress steals the spotlight, the perfect hairstyle ties the whole look together. The right hairdo can elevate your outfit, highlight your best features, and make you feel like the star of the night.
Medium-length hair is incredibly versatile—long enough for elegant updos yet short enough for trendy, playful styles. Whether you want romantic waves, a sleek ponytail, or a chic bun, there’s a stunning option that complements your vibe.
When choosing a prom hairstyle, consider your face shape, dress neckline, and personal aesthetic. A high-neck gown pairs beautifully with an updo, while an off-shoulder dress shines with cascading curls. If you love a modern, edgy look, try a sleek style; for a timeless touch, go for soft, vintage waves.
From classic glamour to trendy twists, here are 10 stunning prom hairstyles to inspire your perfect look!
2. Romantic Loose Curls
Soft, bouncy curls are a timeless choice for prom, striking the perfect balance between elegance and effortlessness. They add volume, movement, and a touch of romance to any look, making them an ideal option for medium-length hair. Whether paired with a flowy gown or a sleek dress, loose curls enhance your natural beauty and create a red-carpet-worthy vibe.
Best Curling Techniques for Medium-Length Hair
Curling Wand: For soft, natural-looking waves, wrap small sections of hair around a 1-inch wand, leaving the ends slightly out for a relaxed finish.
Hot Rollers: If you want long-lasting curls with extra bounce, hot rollers are your best friend. Roll them in while doing your makeup and release them for voluminous, heat-free curls.
Flat Iron Waves: For a more modern, effortless take, twist sections of hair with a flat iron and gently pull the ends downward as you release.
Pro Tip: Long-Lasting Curls Without Stiffness
To keep your curls soft yet long-lasting, apply a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray before curling. After styling, let curls cool completely before gently brushing them out with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain bounce without stiffness.
Romantic loose curls are a fail-proof prom hairstyle that exudes confidence, charm, and timeless beauty!
3. Chic Half-Up, Half-Down with Twists
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is the perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it a go-to choice for prom. It allows you to showcase the length and volume of your hair while keeping some strands pulled back for a polished touch. Adding twists or braids takes this classic style to the next level, creating a soft, romantic look that works with any dress style.
How to Create a Twisted or Braided Half-Up Style
1. Prep Your Hair: Start with soft curls or waves to give the style more texture and dimension. A curling wand or large-barrel curling iron works best.
2. Section and Twist: Take two small sections from each side of your face and twist them toward the back of your head. Secure the twists together with a small clear elastic.
3. Braided Option: Instead of twists, create two small braids on each side and secure them at the back for a boho-chic feel.
4. Secure and Set: Use bobby pins to hold the style in place, then spritz with a light hairspray to keep it looking fresh all night.
The Best Accessories to Elevate the Look
· Pearls: For a classic, sophisticated touch, weave pearl pins or clips into the twists.
· Rhinestones: Add sparkle with small crystal pins or a delicate rhinestone barrette.
· Florals: Tiny baby’s breath flowers or small silk blooms create a dreamy, fairy-tale effect.
Who This Style Suits Best
This hairstyle is especially flattering for round and heart-shaped faces because it elongates the face and adds height at the crown. It also works well for thicker hair, as the volume helps the twists or braids stand out beautifully.
Whether you're aiming for a soft, romantic vibe or a modern, polished look, a chic half-up, half-down style with twists is a stunning and versatile prom choice!
4. Classic Hollywood Waves
Nothing says vintage glamour quite like Classic Hollywood Waves—structured, polished, and undeniably elegant. This timeless style, often seen on the red carpet, features smooth, uniform waves that cascade beautifully to frame the face. The best part? It pairs perfectly with medium-length hair, giving it the perfect balance of sophistication and softness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect Hollywood Waves
1. Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair and apply a heat protectant to prevent damage. If your hair is fine, use a volumizing mousse for extra body.
2. Create a Deep Side Part: This is a signature feature of Hollywood waves, giving the style its dramatic, vintage appeal.
3. Curl in One Direction: Use a 1 to 1.25-inch curling iron and wrap sections of hair away from your face, ensuring all curls are curled in the same direction for that signature wave effect.
4. Pin and Cool: After curling each section, clip the curl in place with a pin while it cools. This helps maintain the structure of the wave.
5. Brush Out the Curls: Once all curls are cool, gently brush through them with a boar bristle brush to blend them into soft, flowing waves.
6. Set with Hairspray: A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray will keep your waves in place without making them stiff.
How to Add Extra Shine for a Red-Carpet Finish
Apply a few drops of lightweight hair oil or shine spray to enhance the sleek, glossy look.
Use a soft bristle brush to smooth flyaways and distribute shine evenly.
If you want an ultra-polished look, finish with a tiny amount of pomade to define the waves and keep them sleek.
5. Textured Low Bun
The textured low bun is the epitome of effortless elegance, making it a perfect choice for prom night. This style strikes the perfect balance between polished and relaxed, with soft, face-framing strands that add a romantic touch. Whether you’re wearing an off-the-shoulder gown or a backless dress, this hairstyle complements your look without stealing the spotlight.
How to Achieve a Voluminous Yet Effortless Look
1. Prep Your Hair for Texture: Start with second-day hair or use a texturizing spray to add grip and volume. If your hair is freshly washed, a little dry shampoo can help create that effortless, undone effect.
2. Create Loose Waves: Use a curling wand to create soft, loose waves throughout your hair. This will add dimension and prevent the bun from looking too sleek or flat.
3. Gather Hair at the Nape: Pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, leaving a few strands out in the front to frame your face. Secure with a hair tie.
4. Twist and Pin: Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins as you go. Keep it slightly undone for that effortless, textured look.
5. Pull and Tease for Volume: Gently pull apart sections of the bun to add volume and give it a more natural, carefree feel. If you have fine hair, lightly tease the crown before pinning for extra lift.
6. Lock It in Place: Finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray to keep everything in place while maintaining movement.
Adding a Touch of Glamour with Accessories
· A sparkly hairpin, jeweled comb, or pearl clip can instantly elevate the look.
· A delicate gold or silver accessory adds a modern, elegant feel.
· If you love a boho vibe, opt for a floral or leafy hairpiece for a soft, dreamy finish.
Best for Off-the-Shoulder and Backless Dresses
This hairstyle is a perfect match for off-the-shoulder or backless dresses because it keeps the focus on the neckline and back details. The soft, undone texture adds a romantic touch without competing with your dress, making it an ideal choice for prom night.
6. Braided Crown Updo
If you’re dreaming of an ethereal, princess-like hairstyle for prom, the braided crown updo is the perfect choice. This romantic style wraps around your head like a delicate halo, making you look straight out of a fairy tale. Whether you want a polished look or a soft, bohemian vibe, this updo is surprisingly versatile—even for medium-length hair.
How to Create This Look with Medium-Length Hair
1. Start with Texture: If your hair is freshly washed, apply a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add grip. This helps the braid stay in place and gives it a natural, effortless look.
2. Create Two Braids: Part your hair down the middle and divide it into two sections. Braid each section into a loose three-strand or Dutch braid (whichever you prefer), securing the ends with clear elastics.
3. Wrap the Braids: Take one braid and cross it over the top of your head, securing it with bobby pins. Repeat with the other braid, tucking the ends underneath for a seamless look.
4. Loosen the Braid for a Softer Feel: Gently pull apart the braid loops to make them look fuller and more relaxed. This creates a softer, bohemian effect instead of a tight, structured braid.
5. Frame Your Face: Pull out a few wispy strands around your face for a dreamy, romantic touch.
6. Set It in Place: Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything secure without making it stiff.
Pro Tip: Loosening the Braid for a Bohemian Feel
To get that effortless, whimsical look, gently pancake the braid by pulling each loop outward. This makes the braid appear thicker and softer, perfect for achieving a romantic, boho-chic style.
Celebrity Inspiration: Taylor Swift’s Whimsical Braided Updos
Taylor Swift has rocked braided crown updos at several red carpet events, often pairing them with soft curls and delicate accessories. Her styles range from sleek and elegant to loose and undone, proving that this look can be adapted for any prom aesthetic.
With the braided crown updo, you’ll look effortlessly regal all night long—like a true prom queen!
7. Sleek and Straight with a Deep Side Part
For a modern, edgy, and ultra-polished prom look, nothing beats sleek, straight hair with a deep side part. This style exudes confidence and sophistication, making it perfect for those who love a minimalist yet striking aesthetic. Plus, it pairs beautifully with bold makeup and statement accessories, allowing your entire look to shine.
How to Get Frizz-Free, Glass-Like Straight Hair
1. Start with a Smooth Base: Wash your hair with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner to eliminate frizz and create a silky foundation. Follow up with a heat protectant to prevent damage.
2. Blow Dry for a Sleek Finish: Use a round or paddle brush to blow dry your hair straight, directing the nozzle downward to minimize flyaways.
3. Flat Iron for a Glass-Like Effect: Run a high-quality flat iron over small sections of hair, making sure to pass through each section slowly for maximum sleekness.
4. Define the Deep Side Part: Use a rat-tail comb to create a precise side part, choosing the side that best flatters your face shape.
5. Tame Flyaways: Apply a tiny amount of hair serum or lightweight oil to smooth down any stubborn frizz without weighing hair down. A quick pass with a toothbrush sprayed with hairspray can also help tame baby hairs.
6. Lock It in Place: Finish with a light-hold, anti-humidity hairspray to maintain the sleek effect all night.
Best Paired with Bold Makeup and Statement Earrings
Since this hairstyle is sleek and simple, it creates the perfect canvas for dramatic makeup—think bold red lips, winged eyeliner, or shimmering eyeshadow. Statement earrings, like chandelier or geometric designs, can further elevate the look, adding a glamorous touch.
If you're looking for a chic, timeless, and effortlessly cool prom hairstyle, sleek and straight with a deep side part is the way to go!
8. Voluminous Ponytail with Curls
A high ponytail isn’t just for casual days—it can be just as glamorous and sophisticated as an updo when styled correctly. Adding soft curls and volume turns this classic style into a red-carpet-worthy prom look. Plus, it’s practical—keeping hair off your face while still looking effortlessly chic.
Why a High Ponytail Can Be Just as Glamorous as an Updo
Think Ariana Grande’s signature ponytail or Beyoncé’s high-glam styles—a voluminous, curled ponytail gives off major confidence and drama. It’s perfect for showcasing bold earrings, a statement dress, or dramatic makeup, making it a standout option for prom night.
How to Add Waves or Curls for Extra Drama
1. Prep Your Hair for Volume: Use a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray before blow-drying to create lift.
2. Curl Your Hair Before Tying It Up: Using a 1-inch curling iron, curl your hair away from your face to create bouncy waves. Let the curls cool before brushing them out for a softer effect.
3. Secure the Ponytail at the Crown: Gather your hair into a high ponytail, making sure it sits at the top of your head for the most flattering, lifted effect. Secure with a strong elastic.
4. Wrap a Section of Hair Around the Elastic: Take a small section of hair, wrap it around the base of the ponytail, and pin it in place to hide the hair tie and give it a polished finish.
5. Add More Curl and Definition: Touch up any curls with a curling iron, then gently tease the ponytail at the base to create extra volume.
A Trick to Make the Ponytail Look Fuller and Lifted
For an extra-thick ponytail, use the double ponytail trick:
Create two ponytails instead of one—tie the top section first, then gather the lower section into a second ponytail beneath it.
This creates the illusion of a longer, fuller ponytail with extra volume at the crown.
Best for High-Neck or Detailed Dresses
A voluminous ponytail pairs beautifully with high-neck gowns, detailed bodices, or backless dresses, allowing the dress to shine while still keeping the hairstyle elegant and eye-catching.
If you want a trendy, confident, and easy-to-wear prom hairstyle, this curled ponytail is the ultimate showstopper!
9. Messy Boho Waves with a Headband
For a carefree yet stylish prom look, boho waves with a chic headband are the perfect choice. This effortless style exudes romantic, free-spirited energy, making it ideal for flowy, bohemian dresses. Plus, it’s easy to achieve while looking effortlessly put together.
The Relaxed Yet Stylish Look That’s Perfect for Bohemian Dresses
Boho waves give off a soft, natural, and effortlessly chic vibe—think Vanessa Hudgens at Coachella or Sienna Miller’s signature festival style. This look works best with lace, floral, or flowy prom dresses, adding to the bohemian aesthetic while keeping things modern and stylish.
How to Create the Perfect Undone Waves
1. Start with Texture: Use a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying for added grip and movement.
2. Use a Curling Wand for Loose Waves: Wrap sections of hair around a 1-inch curling wand, leaving the ends out for a more natural, undone effect.
3. Break Up the Curls: Once the curls have cooled, gently finger-comb or use a wide-tooth comb to separate them, creating soft, flowing waves.
4. Add Volume with Light Teasing: Backcomb a few sections at the crown to give the hair a lifted, full-bodied look.
5. Finish with a Light-Hold Spray: Use a flexible hairspray to keep waves in place while maintaining movement.
The Right Headbands and Hairpieces to Enhance the Look
The key to elevating boho waves is the right accessory. Some great options include:
· Delicate pearl or rhinestone headbands for a more romantic, ethereal touch.
· Thin braided or floral headbands for a truly bohemian aesthetic.
· Gold or silver leaf headpieces for a whimsical, Greek-goddess-inspired look.
· Velvet or beaded headbands to add a vintage, luxurious feel.
For those who love a laid-back yet glamorous style, messy boho waves with a headband are the ultimate dreamy prom hairstyle!
10. Soft French Twist
For a timeless and elegant prom look, the soft French twist is a go-to hairstyle. This modern take on the classic updo is effortlessly chic, making it perfect for formal prom dresses. Unlike the structured, old-school version, the modern French twist is loose, romantic, and slightly undone—giving it a softer, more youthful feel.
How to Create a Modern, Loose Version of the French Twist
1. Prep the Hair: Apply a light texturizing spray to add grip and make styling easier. If you have fine hair, tease the crown lightly for added volume.
2. Gather the Hair: Sweep all of your hair to one side and hold it at the nape of your neck.
3. Twist and Tuck: Begin twisting the hair upwards, securing it with bobby pins along the way. For a softer look, leave a few strands out around the face.
4. Secure the Ends: Once you’ve twisted the hair into place, tuck the ends inside and pin them securely.
5. Loosen for a Softer Look: Gently pull at the twist to create a more relaxed, effortless vibe rather than a tight, structured style.
6. Set with Hairspray: Use a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place while maintaining a soft, touchable texture.
Best for: Elegant, Formal Prom Looks
This hairstyle is ideal for formal, sophisticated prom dresses, especially:
· Strapless or off-the-shoulder gowns, as it keeps the focus on your neckline.
· Classic, vintage-inspired dresses, giving an Audrey Hepburn-esque elegance.
· Minimalist satin dresses, adding a timeless and graceful touch.
A Tip for Keeping the Style Secure All Night Long
To ensure your soft French twist stays in place through hours of dancing, use strong bobby pins that match your hair color and a firm-hold hairspray. If you have silky hair, lightly backcomb the inside sections before twisting to give the pins more grip.
The soft French twist is a perfect blend of grace and romance, making it a stunning choice for prom night!
11. Bubble Braid Ponytail
For a playful yet stylish prom hairstyle, the bubble braid ponytail is a must-try. This trendy look strikes the perfect balance between fun and elegant, making it ideal for a modern, fashion-forward prom outfit. Whether you go for a high ponytail for a dramatic effect or a low ponytail for a sleek, chic vibe, this style will turn heads all night long.
A Fun, Playful Style That’s Trendy and Eye-Catching
The bubble braid ponytail adds flair to a classic ponytail by creating evenly spaced “bubbles” along the length of the hair. This style works well on medium to long hair and is a great way to showcase volume and texture. It’s also a celebrity favorite, seen on stars like Gigi Hadid and Olivia Rodrigo, who have rocked variations of this youthful and modern hairstyle.
How to Create the Perfect Bubble Braid with Hair Ties
1. Start with a High or Mid Ponytail – Brush your hair back and secure it with a strong hair tie at your desired height.
2. Add Volume at the Crown – Gently tease the hair at the roots for extra lift.
3. Create the First Bubble – A few inches down from the base, wrap another hair tie around the ponytail. Gently pull at the hair between the two ties to puff it out, creating the first “bubble.”
4. Repeat Down the Ponytail – Keep adding hair ties every few inches and pulling the sections in between to create uniform bubbles.
5. Finishing Touches – Lightly spray with a flexible-hold hairspray and smooth flyaways for a polished look.
The Best Way to Add Volume for a Fuller Effect
For an extra voluminous bubble braid, try these tricks:
· Use hair extensions if you want a longer, fuller look.
· Backcomb each section slightly before puffing it out to add more structure.
· Use clear elastics for a seamless look, or go bold with decorative ties for added flair.
If you’re looking for a unique yet effortless prom hairstyle, the bubble braid ponytail is the perfect way to make a statement while keeping things easy and stylish!
12. Conclusion
Prom night is all about feeling your best, and with these 10 gorgeous hairstyles for medium-length hair, you’re sure to find the perfect look. Whether you love romantic curls, sleek elegance, or trendy braids, there’s a style to match your vibe and dress. Choose a hairstyle that makes you feel confident and comfortable so you can dance the night away without worries. Remember, the best hairstyle is one that makes you shine from the inside out! No matter which style you choose, you’ll be the star of the night!