Prom night is a momentous occasion, a chance to shine and create unforgettable memories. While the dress takes center stage, your hairstyle is the crowning glory that completes your entire look. A beautifully crafted updo can elevate your elegance, complement your gown, and ensure you feel like royalty. But with so many options, how do you choose the perfect one?
Fear not, future prom queen! This guide unveils 21 stunning prom updo hairstyles, offering a diverse range of styles to suit every personality, dress, and desired aesthetic. From timeless classics to modern marvels, we’ll help you find the updo that makes you feel absolutely radiant.
Timeless Classics for Prom
Some styles never fade, offering an enduring charm that speaks volumes of sophistication and grace. These classic updos are perfect for a traditional or vintage-inspired gown.
1. The Classic French Twist
An epitome of elegance, the French twist gathers all hair into a sleek, vertical roll at the back of the head. It’s incredibly versatile, suiting most face shapes, especially oval and heart-shaped. Style it sleek for a polished look or with a slight bouffant for added drama. Pair with pearl earrings or a delicate hair comb.
2. The Elegant Chignon
The chignon is a sophisticated bun, typically worn at the nape of the neck. It can be smooth and structured or soft and slightly messy. This style beautifully complements open-back or high-neck dresses. Accessorize with a jeweled hairpin tucked into the side or a subtle floral accent.
3. The Sophisticated Low Bun
A variation of the chignon, the low bun offers a refined yet understated elegance. It can be tightly coiled or loosely pinned for a softer effect. This style is ideal for showcasing statement earrings or an intricate neckline. A velvet ribbon woven through can add a touch of luxury.
Romantic Braided Updos
Braids add texture, romance, and an ethereal quality to any updo. They are perfect for gowns with softer fabrics like tulle or lace, creating a dreamy, whimsical aesthetic.
4. The Braided Crown
This regal style involves braiding sections of hair around the head, creating a halo effect. It’s particularly flattering for round or square face shapes, adding softness. Embellish with small, fresh flowers or delicate crystal pins nestled within the braids.
5. The Fishtail Braid Updo
The intricate pattern of a fishtail braid creates a unique texture when gathered into an updo. This style works beautifully when pulled to one side or wrapped into a loose bun. It pairs well with bohemian or free-spirited dresses. A single, sparkling hair clip can highlight its beauty.
6. The Loosely Pinned Braid
For a softer, more romantic look, a loosely plaited braid is gently swept up and pinned, allowing tendrils to frame the face. This style exudes effortless charm and is perfect for a whimsical or garden-themed prom. Tiny pearl pins scattered throughout add a magical touch.
Effortlessly Chic Updos
For the girl who wants to look stunning without appearing overly done, these updos strike the perfect balance between polished and perfectly undone.
7. The Messy Bun Updo
A sophisticated take on the everyday messy bun, this updo features strategically placed loose strands and volume at the crown. It’s incredibly flattering for almost all face shapes and adds a youthful, modern vibe. Use a decorative elastic or a jeweled hair tie.
8. The Textured Ponytail Updo
Elevate a simple ponytail by adding voluminous waves or curls, then pinning it high or low to create an updo effect. This style offers a playful yet chic appeal, especially with a side-swept fringe. A statement scrunchie or a metallic cuff can enhance the look.
9. The Twisted Updo
Simple yet elegant, the twisted updo involves twisting sections of hair and pinning them artfully at the back. It’s a clean, sophisticated look that highlights facial features and necklines. A simple, elegant barrette or a few bobby pins with crystal accents are perfect.
Glamorous Volume Updos
If your goal is undeniable glamour and a show-stopping presence, these voluminous updos are designed to turn heads and create a dramatic silhouette.
10. The Voluminous Curls Updo
This style features a cascade of soft, bouncy curls gathered and pinned high or low, creating incredible body and movement. It’s ideal for making a grand entrance and suits dresses with simple necklines. A tiara or a sparkly headband would be a magnificent addition.
11. The Retro Bouffant Updo
Channeling vintage Hollywood glamour, the bouffant updo features significant height at the crown, often paired with a sleek low bun or ponytail. This dramatic style is perfect for a retro-inspired gown. A wide, embellished headband or a vintage brooch can complete the look.
12. The High Bun with Volume
A high bun positioned at the crown of the head, enhanced with backcombing for extra volume, creates a striking and confident look. This style elongates the neck and highlights shoulders. Consider wrapping a delicate hair chain around the base of the bun.
Sleek and Modern Updos
For the fashion-forward individual, these updos offer a contemporary edge, characterized by clean lines, polished finishes, and a minimalist aesthetic.
13. The Sleek High Ponytail Updo
A high, tightly pulled ponytail is transformed into an updo by wrapping and pinning the length of the pony around its base. This creates a sharp, modern, and powerful look. It works best with minimalist gowns and strong makeup. A sleek metallic hair tie is all you need.
14. The Sculptural Top Knot
More than just a bun, a sculptural top knot is a precisely shaped and positioned bun at the very top of the head. It’s edgy and fashion-forward, perfect for modern architectural dresses. Minimalist earrings and a bold lip will complete this sophisticated style.
15. The Wet Look Updo
Achieve a high-fashion, editorial look with a ‘wet look’ updo. Hair is styled sleekly back, often with a deep side part, and gathered into a low bun or twist, giving the appearance of being freshly styled from water. This bold choice pairs well with sleek, modern gowns.
Bohemian Charm Updos
Embrace a free-spirited, natural beauty with updos that feature soft textures, loose pieces, and an organic flow, perfect for a relaxed yet elegant prom vibe.
16. The Loosely Pinned Updo with Tendrils
This style focuses on softness and movement, with sections of hair gently pinned up while leaving face-framing tendrils to soften the look. It’s universally flattering and suits delicate, flowing dresses. Incorporate small, real flowers or delicate vine-like hair accessories.
17. The Half-Up Braided Updo
While technically a half-up, half-down, the top section is intricately braided and then pinned high, creating an updo effect while allowing the lower hair to flow. This offers the best of both worlds. A floral clip or a simple ribbon woven into the braid works beautifully.
18. The Boho Knot Updo
A relaxed, artful knot or series of knots are created at the nape or mid-back, often incorporating small braids or twists. This style is effortlessly chic and has a natural, earthy appeal. Consider small feather accents or natural wood hairpins.
Unique Statement Updos
For those who dare to be different and want their hair to be a conversation starter, these updos offer creativity and individuality.
19. The Faux Hawk Updo
This edgy updo creates the illusion of a mohawk using braids, twists, and pinned sections, with volume concentrated down the center of the head. It’s a bold, confident choice for a truly unique prom look. Studded hair accessories or a metallic hair cuff would be perfect.
20. The Bow Updo
Hair is artfully shaped and pinned to resemble a bow, often at the crown or nape. This playful yet sophisticated style adds a whimsical touch and is truly memorable. Keep other accessories minimal to let the hair bow shine.
21. The Intricate Basket Weave Updo
This highly detailed updo involves weaving sections of hair over and under each other to create a basket-weave pattern. It’s a true work of art and requires a skilled stylist. This intricate style needs no further embellishment beyond perhaps tiny, subtle crystals.
Accessorizing Your Prom Updo
The right accessories can transform your updo from beautiful to breathtaking. Consider these options:
- Hairpins and Combs: Delicate crystal pins, pearl-studded combs, or floral accents can be strategically placed to add sparkle or a touch of nature.
- Headbands and Tiaras: A sparkling headband can add a regal touch to a sleek updo, while a delicate tiara is perfect for a truly princess-like feel.
- Earrings: With an updo, your ears are on full display. Choose statement earrings that complement your dress and hair, whether they are chandeliers, drops, or studs.
- Ribbons and Fabric: Velvet ribbons, silk scarves, or lace can be woven into braids or around buns for a soft, romantic touch.
Prom Updo Dos and Don’ts
Ensure your prom hair journey is smooth and stylish with these essential tips.
Do’s for Your Perfect Prom Updo
- Do a Trial Run: Always schedule a hair trial a few weeks before prom. This ensures you love the style and gives your stylist time to perfect it.
- Do Bring Photos: Show your stylist pictures of your dress, accessories, and desired updo styles.
- Do Consider Your Dress Neckline: An updo can beautifully showcase an intricate neckline or an open back.
- Do Wash Hair the Day Before: Freshly washed hair can be too slippery. Hair washed the day before holds style better.
- Do Use Setting Spray: A good setting spray will keep your updo in place all night long.
Don’ts for Your Prom Updo
- Don’t Try a Brand New Style on Prom Day: Stick to what you’ve practiced or seen in your trial.
- Don’t Over-Accessorize: Let your hair or dress be the main statement. Less is often more.
- Don’t Forget Comfort: Ensure your updo isn’t too tight or heavy, as you’ll be wearing it for hours.
- Don’t Stress About Perfection: A few loose strands can add to the romantic charm of many updos.
Key Takeaways for Your Prom Hair
Choosing your prom updo is an exciting part of the prom experience. Remember to:
- Select a style that reflects your personality and complements your dress.
- Always do a trial run to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Consider the overall aesthetic—classic, romantic, modern, or bohemian.
- Accessorize thoughtfully to enhance, not overshadow, your hairstyle.
- Most importantly, choose a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful!
With these 21 dazzling prom updo hairstyles and expert tips, you’re well-equipped to make an unforgettable entrance. Your perfect prom updo awaits, ready to complete your enchanting look and help you dance the night away in style. Embrace the magic of prom, knowing your hair is as spectacular as you are!
