Prom night should be about celebrating, not struggling with complicated hair. These simple prom hairstyles offer elegance without the stress.
You’ll find options for every hair type and length that still make a statement.
Table of Contents
- Classic High Ponytail
- Twisted Half-Up Crown
- Low Messy Bun
- Sleek Straight Hair
- Soft Curly Ponytail
- Braided Headband Style
- Low Twisted Ponytail
- Side-Swept Curls
- Bubble Ponytail
- French Twist
- Double Dutch Braids
- Slicked Back Bun
- Fishtail Braid
- Pinned-Up Curls
- Top Knot
- Side Braid
- Twisted Low Bun
- Half-Up Top Knot
- Braided Ponytail
- Wrapped Low Ponytail
- Pinned Back Curtain Bangs
- Double Buns
- Tucked Under Bob
- Ribbon-Weaved Braid
- Accessorized Clips
- FAQ About Simple Prom Hairstyles
- Final Thoughts
Classic High Ponytail
This timeless style works with any prom dress you choose. It pulls the hair back neatly while keeping a playful vibe. Use a small hair section to wrap around the base for a clean finish.
Soft waves at the ends add movement and dimension. Try a velvet scrunchie or jeweled hair tie for extra sparkle. It’s ideal when you want hair off your shoulders all night.
Twisted Half-Up Crown
This romantic look gives princess vibes without much effort. Two small front sections twist back to meet at the crown. Secure with bobby pins hidden beneath the twists.
Leave the rest of your hair down in loose waves. A delicate hair vine woven through the twists completes the look. Perfect for showing off both your hairstyle and your dress details.
Low Messy Bun
A low bun keeps things chic but comfortable all night. Gather hair at the nape of your neck and twist into a loose knot. Pull out a few face-framing pieces for softness.
The messier you make it, the more effortless it appears. Slide in pearl-ended pins for subtle glamour. Works especially well with off-the-shoulder or high-neck dresses.
Sleek Straight Hair
Sometimes simple means letting your natural texture shine. Use a flat iron to create glass-like smoothness. Apply a shine serum to prevent flyaways.
Add a deep side part for extra sophistication. Clip one side back with a crystal barrette for interest. The clean lines pair beautifully with ornate or minimalist dresses.
Soft Curly Ponytail
For natural texture, try this voluminous curly look. Gather curls into a mid-height ponytail. Leave out the front sections to frame your face.
Use a wide-tooth comb to gently fluff the roots. Wrap a matching silk scarf around the base for color. The bounce of curls keeps the style fun and flirty.
Braided Headband Style
This boho-chic look adds interest while keeping hair down. Create a Dutch braid along your hairline from ear to ear. Tuck the ends under your hair and secure with pins.
Leave the rest of your hair loose with soft waves. The braid acts like a natural headband. It’s perfect for vintage-inspired or floral prom dresses.
Low Twisted Ponytail
For an elegant take on the ponytail, try this low version. Gather hair at the nape and secure with an elastic. Twist a small section and wrap around the base.
This style looks polished yet relaxed. Add a satin ribbon that matches your dress color. The twisted detail elevates a basic ponytail beautifully.
Side-Swept Curls
This glamorous look requires minimal effort. Curl all your hair with a large barrel iron. Brush through gently and sweep to one side.
Secure with a few hidden pins on the heavier side. The asymmetrical style shows off your neck and shoulders. It pairs perfectly with statement earrings.
Bubble Ponytail
A playful twist on the classic ponytail. Create multiple sections down the length of your ponytail. Secure each with clear elastics spaced evenly.
Gently tug each “bubble” to create fullness. This works best with straight or slightly waved hair. The dimensional look adds fun without complexity.
French Twist
This classic updo looks far more complicated than it is. Gather hair at the nape and twist upward. Tuck the ends and secure with criss-crossed pins.
Leave a few face-framing pieces loose. The sleek lines complement structured dresses beautifully. It’s surprisingly comfortable for dancing all night.
Double Dutch Braids
These symmetrical braids keep hair secure and stylish. Part hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids. Keep them tight near the scalp, looser toward the ends.
Tuck the ends under for a faux bob effect. Or leave them out for a sporty-chic vibe. Either way, you’ll stay cool on the dance floor.
Slicked Back Bun
The ultimate in minimalist glamour. Apply gel or pomade to smooth hair back. Create a tight, high bun at the crown.
The severe look highlights your facial features. Add dramatic earrings for balance. This style works especially well with high-neck or halter dresses.
Fishtail Braid
This intricate-looking braid is simpler than it appears. Divide hair into two equal sections. Take small pieces from the outside to cross over.
The result is a beautiful textured braid. Wear it over one shoulder for maximum impact. The bohemian vibe suits flowy, romantic dresses perfectly.
Pinned-Up Curls
For short to medium hair, this style shines. Curl all your hair with a small barrel iron. Pin random sections up with decorative clips.
The look appears thoughtfully undone. Vary clip sizes and shapes for interest. You’ll get tons of compliments without much effort.
Top Knot
When you want hair completely out of the way. Gather hair into a high ponytail first. Then twist and wrap into a messy bun.
Pull out a few wispy pieces around your face. The sporty elegance works with modern dress silhouettes. You’ll stay cool and comfortable all night.
Side Braid
A single braid makes a statement without fuss. Gather all hair to one side. Create a loose three-strand braid.
Tug gently on the braid sections to widen them. The lived-in look appears effortless. Pair with a bold lip color for contrast.
Twisted Low Bun
Elegance meets simplicity in this style. Create two low ponytails side by side. Twist each section and wrap around the base.
The double bun effect looks high-end. Add a jeweled hairpin where the twists meet. Perfect for showing off a backless dress detail.
Half-Up Top Knot
The best of both worlds style. Gather just the top section of hair. Tie into a small top knot.
Leave the rest down in natural waves. The look balances playful and polished. Great for those who can’t decide between up or down.
Braided Ponytail
Elevate a basic ponytail with this trick. Create a small braid at the front. Incorporate it into your regular ponytail.
The added detail makes it special. Use a colored ribbon to tie it all together. Simple yet eye-catching from every angle.
Wrapped Low Ponytail
Ultra-sleek and office-to-evening ready. Straighten hair completely for this look. Create a low ponytail at the nape.
Take a small section to wrap around the base. The smooth finish looks expensive. Minimalist perfection for modern prom-goers.
Pinned Back Curtain Bangs
Show off your facial features with this look. Create soft waves throughout your hair. Use decorative pins to secure just the front sections back.
The rest can flow freely down your back. The pinned portions frame your face beautifully. Effortless glamour that takes minutes.
Double Buns
Playful yet put-together space buns. Part hair down the middle. Create two high ponytails and twist into buns.
Keep them neat or slightly messy. The symmetrical look photographs amazingly. A fun choice for bold personalities.
Tucked Under Bob
For short hair that needs pizzazz. Apply texturizing spray for grip. Tuck the ends under all around.
Secure with hidden bobby pins. The flipped-under look appears retro-chic. Add a bold lip to complete the vintage vibe.
Ribbon-Weaved Braid
Colorful ribbons transform a basic braid. Choose a ribbon that matches your dress. Weave it through a standard three-strand braid.
The pop of color makes it special. Tie the ends into a pretty bow. Simple yet custom-looking results.
Accessorized Clips
When you want to keep hair natural. Simply style as you normally would. Then add strategic decorative clips.
Place them where you want attention. The right accessories elevate any basic style. Maximum impact with minimum effort.
FAQ About Simple Prom Hairstyles
Q: How do I make simple hairstyles look special?
A: Focus on accessories – sparkly clips, fresh flowers, or velvet ribbons add personality.
Q: Will these styles last all night?
A: Yes, especially if you use good quality hairspray and bobby pins.
Q: Can I do these styles myself?
A: Absolutely, most take under 30 minutes with minimal tools needed.
Q: What if my hair is very short?
A: Try embellished headbands, slicked-back looks, or tiny braided accents.
Q: How early should I practice?
A: Test your chosen style 2-3 times before prom night.
Final Thoughts
Simple prom hairstyles prove you don’t need complexity to look amazing. Each option here combines ease with red-carpet ready results.
Remember – the best hairstyle is one that lets you enjoy your special night without constant adjustments.