Prom Hairstyles: Hair and Dress Preparation (2024)

Going to the prom is a huge event and preparing for the prom is all part of the fun. As well as deciding on the perfect dress, shoes, jewellery and make up, you also have to decide on the perfect prom hairstyle- and make sure it lasts the night!

So what's the best way to make sure you've chosen a prom hairstyle that'll go the distance? It's all in your prom hair preparation. We explain how to make sure your prom hair complements your dress' mood, and you don't go overboard with the message you send with your prom dress and hair. To make sure that you find a prom hairstyle that is absolutely perfect and will add the finishing touch to your prom night, THS has put together everything you'll need to know for getting a perfect prom hairstyle in easy steps.

1: Find Your Prom Style

You may have to do some running around for your prom dress and shoes, but luckily, finding your prom hairstyle is going to be really easy. All you have to do is log into your account (or register if you haven't already) and try on a prom hairstyle or two with your photo so that you can see first hand what kind of style is going to suit your face shape and hair texture and elasticity. You can then print out your chosen hairstyles and take them to your hairstylist!

2. Hairstyle Consultation (Three Weeks Before Your Prom)

Once you've got your picture, make an appointment to have a consultation with your stylist to talk about the prom hairstyle that you want, whether it will work with your dress and accessories and how long it will take to style. You can then schedule other appointments, such as makeup and nails, so that they won't run into each other. Don't forget to ask your stylist if you will need to have super-clean hair or hair that was last washed the day before- that way you can ensure that your hair will be easier to style.

Organize the consultation at least 3 weeks before your prom and take along any pictures that you have of prom hairstyles. That way your hairstylist will have a good idea of what you're after and whether you can pull it off; and if not, they can suggest any other prom hairstyles that'll be more suitable.

If you already have your dress picked out then take it- or some photos- along, as well as any earrings or necklaces that you'll be wearing.

Your prom hairstyle consultation should also include a discussion of how long it'll take to achieve your prom hair and the cost of getting your hair done.

3. Trial (At Least Two Weeks Before Your Prom)

You might have 100s of prom hairstyles in mind, or just one, but once you've decided on the right one for you then a prom hairstyle trial is a great next step.

You can get this done the same day as your prom hairstyle consultation, or at a later date, but do try to have your prom hairstyle trial at least 2 weeks before the event. That way, if the style just doesn't turn out how you thought it would, or if there are "creative differences" between you and your hairstylist, you still have enough time to find another style and/or salon.

If you've decided to get your hair colored as well as styled then it's a good idea to combine your prom hairstyle trial with your appointment to get your hair colored. That way, if you decide the color isn't for you, or that the curly ends you're going to have for your prom hairstyle will stand out better with a contrasting hair color, you can make those changes in time and not be left with a prom hairstyle that doesn't look good, or a hair color that just doesn't work for you.

The same goes for any other chemical work, such as getting your hair permed or chemically processed. Getting these hair services done well ahead of your prom will give you the chance to fix any mistakes, change your mind, and get used to your new hair color/hair texture.

4: Look After Your Hair

If you want super-shiny and healthy looking hair for your prom, start a strict hair care routine as soon as possible (see for example "Hair Care Resolutions Too Easy and Simple to Ignore"). Try an intense reconstructing salon treatment once or twice a week to help your hair get into top condition. This will also make your strands easier to manage and will give your hair a great natural shine. It's also a good idea to use a leave-in moisturizer after every shampoo and condition. This will protect your hair from things like the sun and salt water and also make it stronger so your strands will be better prepared to handle day-to-day styling.

5. Hair Care (The Day Before Your Prom)

Once you've decided on a prom hairstyle, had a consultation, trial and your hair colored, permed or straightened, and also booked your appointment, the only thing left to do is make sure your hair is prepared. That means one thing: making sure your hair isn't freshly washed!

The best thing you can do to make sure your prom hairstyle looks as good at the end of your prom night as it did when you left the salon, is to make sure your hair is clean but not too clean. To do this, you'll need to wash your hair the day before your prom hairstyle appointment.

Why? Washing your hair the day of the prom will make your hair too soft and could stop it from holding your hairstyle, forcing your hairstylist to overload your hair with more styling products (which will make your hair look stiff and feel hard). It may also make styling your hair harder for your hairdresser and they'll need extra time to make sure your hair is 100% dry. After all the work you've put into planning your https://www.thehairstyler.com/prom-hairstyles-tips-hair-dress-mood.aspprom hair style you certainly don't want it all coming undone because of your shampoo!

Preparation for your prom is as important as choosing the right dress. And this means having a consultation to make sure your hairstyle suits you and your dress, doing a test-run of your prom hairstyle and color, and getting your hair in tip-top shape for styling the day of your prom.

Prom Hairstyles: Hair and Dress Tips

The mood of your prom dress is the attitude or feeling its style, cut and color create; for example, is it cute, emo, boho or glamorous? When you've figured that out, you need to match your prom hairstyle with your dress.

We've put together a list of moods of prom dresses and some suggestions for prom hairstyles that would suit them:

Cute Prom Hairstyles

If you like the cute and flirty look, maybe go for a short prom dress with an empire waist, or a cute little strapless bubble dress in pink or white. Match your prom hair and dress with a cute hairstyle that's styled into natural loose waves- like Sarah Jane Morris' hair at the Critics' Choice Awards.

Prom Hairstyles: Hair and Dress Preparation (4)

Sarah Jane Morris: Critics Choice Awards

Vixen Prom Hairstyles

If your dress is daring- maybe with an eye-catching slit, figure-hugging lines, off the shoulder or strapless- go for a sexy hairstyle. Try something half up half down with waves tickling your shoulders; or side-swept waves like Alicia Keys' Oscars hair.

Alicia Keys: Oscars Hair

Rocker/Boho Prom Hairstyles

The rocker/boho look is casual, hippy and a little flower-power. Your dress might be long and flowing and your bodice embroidered. Try a prom hairstyle like Amanda Bynes': her braids through the front are quite boho, and the sides have been left to flow below her shoulders. You might also want to check out some of the Olsen twins' boho hairstyles.

Amanda Bynes: Wavy Long Hair

Emo Prom Hairstyles

An emo prom dress will probably be black. It might have a layered skirt and hook and tie bodice, or maybe it'll be uber short in vinyl, or maybe longer and military style.

You can definitely make the emo hair look work for your prom, and you can definitely get prom hair to match. Try something like Twilight's Kristen Stewart's red-carpet hair. It's a combination of red and black color sections and it's got a cool messy and textured look about it. Its dark brooding quality makes it a bit emo, and I guess the piecey two-tone color and volume make it look like scene hair too.

Kristin Stewart: Emo Prom Hair

Burlesque Prom Hairstyles

For burlesque style, check out any photos of Dita Von Teese or Lady GaGa (and Christina Aguilera at the American Music Awards 2008), and watch the film Moulin Rouge. It's a style that's pretty much a combination of vintage and sexy in a retro and theatrical way. Try a hairstyle like Dita's soft layered bob, or Katy Perry's hairstyle at the Critics' Choice Awards 2009.

Dita Von Teese: Wavy Medium Hairstyle

Glamorous Prom Hairstyles

The glamorous look is sophisticated, classic and uncluttered. It's not about being daring or extravagant, but subtle and graceful. Angelina Jolie was definitely the queen of glamor with her Oscars hair 2009 (and Natalie Portman was a close second), in a form-fitting strapless black dress. If you like the glamorous look, try prom hair like Angelina's: it's elegantly pulled back to show off her face, neck and accessories.

Angelina Jolie: Oscars Hair

Match Your Prom Hairstyle and Dress

It's a good idea to match your prom hair and dress- in fact, no prom hair style should be performed without your stylist seeing your dress first. Something you really need to bear in mind is your dress's "loudness." Ask yourself, "How loud is my dress stating its mood?" and balance your hair accordingly. Related is the cut of your prom dress's neckline. Adjust your hair to suit the amount of flesh you're showing.

In terms of your prom dress's "loudness," here are some examples. If it's a cute dress, is it subtly cute, or does it scream "THIS DRESS IS SO CUTE!!" with lots of over the top frills and bows etc? Or, if your dress is more of a vixen style, is it subtly sexy- like with a modest slit and form-fitting fabric- or is it really out there, with a huge slit... maybe in crimson red?

Marion Cotillard: Oscars Hair

Beyonce Knowles: Oscars Hair

You need to balance your prom hair with the loudness of your dress. I mean, if your dress is stating its mood really loudly (another example: if you're going for the emo look and you've chosen something in daring black vinyl and fishnet) then keep your prom hair subtle or you'll look like you're trying too hard. And it's a similar rule of thumb the other way round: if the mood of your dress is quite subtle then turn up the volume on your hair or you're in danger of looking boring.

The "loudness" of your prom dress can also be a product of the weight of its lines. If it's a more classical dress with solid and heavy lines, avoid over doing your look and choose a contrasting hairstyle with soft waves and creative curls; if your outfit's cute, soft and bouncy with lighter lines, a smoother and more structured hairstyle is going to work best.

Miley Cyrus: Golden Globe Awards Hair

The cut of your prom dress's neckline affects the "loudness" of your look and the kind of hairstyle you should get too. For example, if your dress has a high collar and you wear your prom hair out, it'll run the risk of diluting the "loudness" of your dress (because it will partially cover your dress). Or, if your prom dress has a low-cut front or back it's a good idea to balance your look by allowing your hair to fall gently on your bare skin.

To help you out, have a look at the pictures of celebrities we've included in this article. Miley Cyrus has balanced a very exposed neckline with soft curls falling on her shoulders. Beyonce has balanced her loud patterned dress and plunging cleavage with a simple half up half down hairdo. Marion Cotillard, on the other hand, wore a relatively simple glamorous white dress and chose big sassy curls to amplify the overall sexiness of her look.

Remember to choose a prom hair style that suits the mood of your dress. Choose any dress you like- they're all great- but make sure the style you decide on makes you feel comfortable. You don't have to be a star to look this good at your prom. Just follow these simple guidelines about matching your prom dress and hair (without going over the top), and you'll be well on your way to looking fab at your prom.

Prom Hairstyles: Hair and Dress Preparation (2024)

FAQs

How should I wear my hair for prom? ›

Factor in the vibe of your gown when planning your prom hair. For example: If you're wearing a flowy boho gown, try a messier, undone 'do. If your prom dress is sleek and fitted, consider a slick ponytail. If you're wearing your hair down, try a deep side part for an elegant evening-ready look.

Should I wash my hair before getting it styled for prom? ›

You don't want your hair to be greasy, so don't go days without washing. Along with that, be sure that your hair isn't wet when you arrive. The texture and volume of your hair changes as it dries, so an updo with wet hair won't last as long.

How long before prom should you get your hair done? ›

Try some of the tips below to make sure your prom night coincides with a good hair day. For hair, you'll be dealing with a matter of hours, not days. “If the prom is at 6 or 7, I would recommend getting the hair done around 1 or 2.

What is the easiest hair for prom? ›

Low bun. If you're short on getting-ready time, then a bun is a super quick and easy option. You don't even need to wash your hair beforehand, as second-day hair can give your style more texture. For a flawless, controlled look, slick back your hair with a dash of lightweight hair serum and fix with hairspray.

How do I prepare for a prom dress appointment? ›

Day of!

Wake up early to shower, shave, and prep your skin ahead of your appointments. Steer clear of any hair or skin treatments the few days before to avoid any build up or flare-ups. Stay hydrated for glowing skin and plenty of energy to hit the dance floor.

How to look flawless at prom? ›

Prepping for Prom Perfection: The Importance of a Flawless Base
  1. Cleanse: Start with a clean face. ...
  2. Exfoliate (Optional): If you have dry or flaky skin, gently exfoliate your face 1-2 days before prom night. ...
  3. Moisturize: Apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate your skin and create a smooth canvas for makeup.
Apr 5, 2024

How do I prepare my skin for prom? ›

5 Essential Tips for Glowing Skin on Prom Night
  1. Nobody wants dry, flaky skin when they're headed to the prom. One of the keys to moist, smooth skin is exfoliation. ...
  2. Be sure to drink plenty of water. ...
  3. Ready your pucker with moist lips. ...
  4. Build your color safely. ...
  5. Prepare your skin to apply your gorgeous makeup.
Apr 17, 2019

How do I prepare my hair for an event? ›

Let's Talk The Day Before The Event:
  1. Avoid applying conditioner on your roots and only apply it to the ends. ...
  2. If you have fine or naturally straight hair, avoid heavy creams or oils. ...
  3. For naturally curly or textured hair, prep your hair with a leave-in or cream that aids against frizz.
Sep 11, 2021

Is it better to do hair or makeup first for prom? ›

To put your mind at ease, opt to apply makeup before styling your strands, so you don't have to worry about your hair getting in the way.

What should I do the week before prom? ›

a week before:
  1. Purchase Accessories like jewelry, shoes, hair pins, and clutch. ...
  2. Break in your shoes– scuff up the bottoms, practice walking in them, and notice if there is anywhere you might want to apply cushions to prevent blisters. ...
  3. Makeup Tips.
  4. You and Your Squad.

When should I dye my hair before prom? ›

** You should touch up single-process color one week before prom to make sure any stains along your hairline have worn off. Highlights should be fresh for prom, but having a little bit of root really adds great dimension in pictures, so do them two weeks before the event for picture-perfect results!

Should I curl or straighten my hair for prom? ›

You can never go wrong with a straight hairstyle. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks sleek and sophisticated. This hairstyle is sure to hold up through all the dancing you'll be doing on prom night! Incorporating a braid into any natural hairstyle is the perfect way to add an interesting element.

Should I wear my hair down for prom? ›

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut or strapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan. "For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry, try an updo. When you spend $300 on a dress, you want to be able to see the details."

How should I have my hair for prom? ›

12 Prom Hairstyles to See Out High School in Style!
  1. Loose fishtail braids with long curly locks.
  2. A soft chignon bun with natural, curly lengths.
  3. Half-up, half-down twisted pony duo.
  4. A duo of relaxed chignon buns with soft waves.
  5. Hollywood waves with sparkly embellishments.
  6. Classic crown braids.
  7. The fishtail braid updo.

Can you wear your hair straight to prom? ›

You can never go wrong with a straight hairstyle. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks sleek and sophisticated. This hairstyle is sure to hold up through all the dancing you'll be doing on prom night! Incorporating a braid into any natural hairstyle is the perfect way to add an interesting element.

Should I wear my hair up or down for a formal event? ›

While your dress doesn't have to dictate how you wear your hair, it's still a good check point if you're on the fence. Dresses with high necklines tend to be more formal, so an up-do would be the most appropriate. Plus, an up-do will prevent any hair from getting caught on the dress—a double win!

How can I look prettiest at prom? ›

Let's look at the prom tips you need to know about.
  1. Style Your Hair. ...
  2. Get That 'Glow' ...
  3. Get Your Brows Done. ...
  4. A Bright Smile Is Powerful. ...
  5. Wear A Button-Down While Getting Ready. ...
  6. Prime + Set. ...
  7. Find The Perfect Dress For You. ...
  8. Prom Tips: Final Thoughts.

How do you stand out at prom? ›

Here are some tips for finding the perfect unique prom dress:
  1. Look for interesting fabrics. One way to make your prom dress stand out is to choose a dress made from an unusual fabric. ...
  2. Go for an unusual style (i.e. unique characteristics) ...
  3. Consider asymmetrical necklines. ...
  4. Wear an iridescent prom dress.

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