You have the dress, the shoes, and the accessories. You've planned the evening and the friend group. Next up, the hair. Get your bobby pins, hairspray, and elastic bands, because here are 15 prom hairstyles you can do yourself to save a little on your daughter's big day.
Whether you're going for a chic updo or a sleek (or flowing) cascade of curls, there are plenty of options when it comes to styling her mane for the big day.
Take a look at these 15 stylish prom hairstyles!
Which one is your favorite?
Image via Tessa Rayanne
Braided Updo
The key here is to make it messy… on purpose. With a few well-placed braids and a ton of bobby pins, you can achieve this braided updo that would look great with a halter or strap dress.
Side Low-Do
This low side-do utilizes the same idea as the braided updo, but moves the entire bun to either side. Hint: if you're wearing a one-shoulder dress, place the bun on the non-sleeve side.
Twisted Chignon
No braiding in this one! This twisted chignon is all about tight twists and pins. Fear not, it's much easier than it sounds.
French Braid Updo
The front looks amazing, but just wait until you get a look at the back. The French braid updo features a braid that trails the back of the head, ending up in the top knot.
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Twisted Crown Braid
Updos are all the rage at prom, but don't be afraid to let the hair down! This twisted crown braid half-updo is a great in-between look that's both classic and totally mesmerizing.
Boho Braids
Short hair, don't care.
This tutorial is all about boho braids for short hair, so short-haired ladies, there are plenty of options for 'ya!
Fishtail Bun
You start with a fishtail braid that takes a completely unexpected turn: a bun! Smooth out the hair, gather it at the crown of the head, and start braiding and wrapping away for this fishtail bun.
Fishtail Low Braid
Alternatively, this fishtail low braid is part fishtail, part French braid, and wholly beautiful.
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'Frozen' Elsa's Side Bun
Who couldn't use a little Frozen inspiration in their life? If you're rocking a teal and sparkling Elsa gown, it's only right to sport this side braid masterpiece!
Braid Wrapped Low Bun
Looking to incorporate hair accessories, or even a repurposed bracelet? This braid wrapped low bun easily holds some added metallic extra.
Criss Cross Updo
Don't be intimidated by the intricacies! This criss cross updo actually takes less than five minutes, but it might be worth it to do a practice run the night before.
Knotted Updo
The knotted updo takes some of the same characteristics as the side low-do, but there won't be any braids found here! To get ready for this one, make sure you load up on hairspray.
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Lace Braided Bun
Like a waterfall, this lace braid bun delicately parts the hair and then falls toward the low bun.
Curved Lace Braid
If you're feeling extra adventurous, turn that low bun into a braid! This curved lace braid uses the same idea as the lace braided bun but finishes the look with an extra-low braid.
Tuck and Cover Gatsby
Whether prom has a '20s theme or no, this tuck and cover Great Gatsby low bun is a little messy-on-purpose and exceptionally easy to pull off.