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Updated on December 14, 2022
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2. Accent Braid Prom Updo

Curly Messy Bun Prom Updo

Instagram / @tonyastylist

Prom hairstyles can be as wild and crazy as you want, or like this style, they can be cute and feminine. For a really easy style that you could even do at home if you wanted, try a curly messy bun with an accent braid and face-framing wisps of hair.

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For the high school prom, girls always try to outdo one another in the uniqueness of outfits and hairstyles. Some young ladies try to express bold ideas in their looks and others stick to the classic style, reflected in the images of tender beauty. Anyway, your prom hairstyle should highlight your character and match all the elements of your look.

Realizing that the choice of hairstyle is the essential stage of your preparations for the prom, we have collected 50 trendiest prom hairstyles for long hair you may consider for your senior ball in 2023.

Prom Hairstyle Trends 2023

Which prom hairstyle have you been fantasizing over? If you’re like any average high school girl, you’ve been daydreaming your way through the study hall these last few weeks, imagining a slow song with your boo on the dance floor. No formal occasion is complete without the right style, so read on for the best prom hairstyles you can rock on your special night and save the pictures.

1. Loose Low Ponytail with a Messy Braid

Low Ponytail with Messy Braid

Instagram / @hayleyholmeshair

Don’t want to stick to formal hairstyles when preparing for your prom? We have one excellent idea that will help you look bold yet chic. This catchy look with a messy side braid is completed with a couple of well-placed golden pearl hair pins, added for a delicate touch of tenderness.

2. Accent Braid Prom Updo

Prom hairstyles can be as wild and crazy as you want, or like this style, they can be cute and feminine. For a really easy style that you could even do at home if you wanted, try a curly messy bun with an accent braid and face-framing wisps of hair.

Curly Messy Bun Prom Updo

Instagram / @tonyastylist

3. Milkmaid Braids with Blonde Highlights

Wish to combine two hair trends in your prom hairstyle? Braids and highlights perfectly go together, so we recommend you pay attention to this option. Wrap two braids around the top of your head to create a beautiful crown braid, and lose a few locks to bring charming vibes to your style.

Chunky Braided Hairstyle for Prom

Instagram / @sabrinadijkman

4. Formal Dutch Fishtail Updo

Instead of creating a braid that goes along your hairline like a headband, try this version of the accent braid: start at your part and work down towards the ear then across the back of the head. To succeed at this style, section off the hair for the braid and create the loose bun first.

5. Elegant Curled Prom Style

If you’re in search of hairstyles for prom that will help you stand out on the big night, consider this option. Can you do this at home? Probably not! If you do attempt this curled and pinned style, be sure to start off with a texturizing spray to create hold in the loose hair.

Messy Loose Formal Updo

Instagram / @eltrendy_wedding

6. Half Up Half Down with Pixie Bow

Some prom hairstyles are simply amazing! We’re pretty much blown away by this simple yet flattering hairdo, which will be an excellent option to get for your prom night. Black pixie bow accentuates your hairstyle, making it look very stylish!

Halt Up Pony with a Bow for Prom Night

Instagram / @natalieannehair

7. Long Cascading Curls

Hair for prom doesn’t have to be all the way up. A sassy pony with tons of volume like this one will go especially well with flowy Grecian or boho dresses. Pair the long hair look with dangly earrings or sparkly barrettes on the big night.

8. Wavy Prom Hairstyle

While breezy blonde waves are considered one of the most popular prom hairstyles, these mermaid waves look utterly effortless and flattering! Even though it’s a relatively simple style, the wavy locks ooze much shine and movement. This hairstyle for long hair is definitely a great pick for a romantic look.

Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyle

Instagram / @blushinbabebeauty

9. Voluminous Hairdo with Curled High Bun

This big high bun is made voluminous, which looks fairly festive, especially when combined with flower hairpins. Choose flowers of a contrasting color for a bigger impact. Remember that prom hairdos are to be fixed with hairspray, as they need to last the whole night.

High Messy Bun for Special Occasion

Instagram / @qais_hairstyle

10. Tousled Updo for Long Hair

Up hairstyles for long hair that have flowy wisps and imperfect waves are always stunning. You can do this messy French twist on the base of a pony wrapping separate strands around its base and moving lower towards the nape of the neck.

Simple Messy Formal Updo

Instagram / @tonyastylist

11. Sleek Updo with Braided Crown

Prom styles are all about updos, and if you’re looking for a cute way to make an impression at your dance, then the sleek classic updo with accurate braids is the way to go. It will work awesomely for any hair type and color.

Sleek Brown Braid Updo

Instagram / @hairbyruslan

12. Perfect Prom Look

We’re in love with this style! It’s classic and modern all at the same time. This wouldn’t just look good for prom—you can also consider it a winner for graduation hairstyles, too. The teased poof with soft-looking strands laying on top and the side twists are so pretty.

13. Teased Updo with Cute Headband

If you’re looking for updos that don’t take themselves too seriously, try this style. This is a super cute, youthful take on everything formal. Be sure to ask for some serious teasing, so it doesn’t look like an everyday style. The thin, shiny headband is a fuss-free accessory that will let you focus on what matters—dancing!

Bun Updo With A Bouffant

Instagram / @mallonyfarias

14. Dutch Braid Crown on Long Wavy Hair

Rich hair shade pairs perfectly with braided half-up prom hairstyles for long hair. The disheveled Dutch braid boosts the raging energy of your red hair while bringing romantic vibes to this flattering hairstyle.

Hairdo for Prom with Headband Braid

Instagram / @sarahwhair

15. Chic Waterfall Braid Updo

While this style looks simple at first glance, it’s actually very complicated, because the braid appears to join the curled messy bun with the top pieces of hair. You’ll have to master the art of sectioning. Keep the front pieces separate while you are working on the curled bun, then make the braid and pin it above the bun.

Half Sleek Half Curly Blonde Updo

Instagram / @hairbymatilda

16. 80s High Ponytail

Dances are the best time to embrace something a little more extravagant in your look, and if you’re on the hunt for chic hairstyles for prom, the high ponytail with a deep side part from the 80s trends will give you everything you’re looking for. Show this pic to your hairstylist to recreate this gorgeous style for your prom.

17. Elegant Hollywood Waves

Hairdos for long hair rarely come more elegant than the big bouncy waves pictured here. This look truly works wonders on long, thick hair, adding instant chic to any outfit. Also, it is one of the prom hairstyles for long hair you can do on your own, once you follow this great Hollywood waves tutorial.

Hollywood Waves Downdo

Instagram / @styledbyabbi

18. Disheveled Fishtail Braid

You don’t have to color your hair to draw attention to your prom hairstyle. If you create this big, voluminous fishtail braid and match it with an appropriate prom outfit, we can guarantee all eyes will be on you!

19. Messy Low Bun with Face-Framing Strands

If you want to impress your friends and classmates at the upcoming prom night, you should come up with something catchier than a simple chignon. Leave some wavy strands here and there to add more texture to your low bun, and frame your face with a few long locks.

Elegant Messy Side Bun Hairstyle

Instagram / @bridalbraidsbybri

20. Elegant Twist Updo

This stunning look is a great way to show off your highlighted locks. The peekaboo tattoo is super cool too. Ask your stylist for loose twists that create an overall simple and sleek effect. Because the hair is not overly sprayed, it has a perfectly imperfect vibe.

21. Tangled Braided Crown

Braids are one of the most versatile hairstyles out there, perfect for dances. Creating an undone look, this braided crown leaves a lot of texture in the hair and volume in the crown. With a lacy braid wrapped around the bun, the style is held in place by bobby pins, with not a pritz of hairspray in sight.

Messy Prom Hairstyle with Braid Around

Instagram / @tangles.beauty

22. Fishtail Braid on Long Tresses

This half-braided layered hairstyle will amazingly complement any prom outfit. To style your hair this way, don’t braid all your hair – just collect half of your locks on the back in a fishtail braid. A fiery red hue makes this look even more eye-catching.

23. Chic Ponytail Updo for Long Curly Hair

Showcase your stunning long curls and draw everyone’s attention with this flattering ponytail updo. Use a long ponytail trick not to lose length. To avoid looking too formal, add curls and delicate accessories to your high pony to make it more charming and softer.

Long Curled Hair in a Fake Long Ponytail Updo

Instagram / @enika_hairstyle

24. Ponytail Updo for Long Straight Hair

A high ponytail is among the hairdos that will never go out of style. This look will be a beautiful addition to a sleek monochromatic minidress or mermaid silhouette gown. If you’re wondering how to create such a voluminous style that lasts all night, the answer is to use hair spray before you go to the party.

25. Messy Bun with Long Side Pieces

For a cute prom look that will go really well with just about any dress, opt for a side french braid near the crown and a curled messy bun. A teased poof in the back and curled long side pieces in the front make the style formal in addition to fun.

Messy Curled Updo With A Braid

Instagram / @eltrendy_wedding

26. A Half Up Hairstyle with a Pull Through Braid

Loose waves and braids are born to work together – they add much texture and volume to the locks and accentuate the dimension of hair color. Experiment with the braided patterns and tightness of the braids to personalize your updo.

Long Hair Downdo for Prom

Instagram / @hair.and.nina

27. Twisted Side Roll Updo

Prom hairstyles for long hair can be a little bit tricky because you’re trying to figure out what to do with all that length! Let your length work for you by choosing a cute, loose bun. Keeping the bun low and to the side creates a modern boho chic look that is totally fresh and fashionable.

28. Gorgeous Waved Updo for Long Hair

Updos for long hair need to work with your length and volume, not against them. With very long hair, you can create a low bun out of the bottom portion of your hair and then slowly add more curled pieces into it, pinning each one in place. Think of this as an artful arrangement!

Voluminous Updo For Long Hair

Instagram / @art4studio

29. Gorgeous Half Up with a Big Bow

With sophisticated texture and hue, this exquisite look is an incredibly flattering choice for formal occasions. It will perfectly suit any prom dress, and it won’t take you long to style your hair this way. An accent represented by a big plum bow plays the role of the cherry on the cake.

30. Classic Roll Updo with Braid

For a classic roll updo with a modern update, you need to try two things. First off, keep the look messy, not perfect, by working with a loose tension and using texturizing products (not anything that will create a stiff, unnatural hold). Then add a loose braid pulling hair from above your ears.

31. Dutch Braid Prom Updo

Updos for prom offer a lot of options for long hair. A braid that winds and joins with a braided flower creates an illusion of endlessly long locks that are ready for any fancy updo you can think of.

32. Half Up Half Down Hairstyle for Prom

Cascading locks are always a good idea when it comes to beautiful yet easy prom hairstyles for long hair. Wear your hair half-up and half-down to show those glamorous voluminous curls and highlight the dimension of your hair color.

Simple Prom Hairstyle for Long Hair

Instagram / @jodycallanhair

33. Long and Loose Side ‘Do

Just because it is a formal night, does not mean you have to lift all of your hair up. You’ll just want to keep it off your face to show off your features. To create this style, curl your hair with a half-inch wide barrel (pinning after each curl to set). Then loosely twist to create a messy side braid.

Curly Side Hairstyle For Long Hair

Instagram/ @hairbymatilda

34. Boho Braid

This Bohemian braid style puts special emphasis on texture. The voluminous, textured braid works incredibly well with wavy locks (and lots of extensions). When you want to show off your outfit, styles like this create a cute, no-fuss finishing touch.

35. Half Up Prom Hair with Balayage

This easy curled updo is the one you will turn to again and again. Being a great option for any kind of formal event, the look is incredibly simple to replicate with a curling iron and a few pins.

36. Big Kinky Curls

Natural curls look gorgeous on themselves, but if you add a few hair accessories, your hairdo will become even more festive. It will work awesomely for brunettes with rosette curls; however, lighter highlights can never hurt!

Natural Hair Style for Prom

Instagram / @lamajbackwards

37. Messy High Bun Updo

A full, voluminous bun is a great option for long hair. You will probably want to use a sock bun sponge to create the structure and shape. Be sure to save out some pieces so that you can create an elegant wrapped style.

Big High Bun For Prom

Instagram / @eltrendy_wedding

38. Chic Prom Style for Super Long Hair

This hairstyle is definitely worth the red carpet! Sleek on the front and wavy in the back, it looks quite fascinating and eye-catching. If you have thick hair, it won’t be hard to get this fullness on top when styling your locks.

Curly Side Hairstyle For Long Hair

Instagram/ @hairbymatilda

39. Curly Prom Style

Formal hairstyles are made for girls whose hair is naturally curly. If you were blessed with textured locks, simply add a smoothing product or mousse throughout the length before you begin. Then create a loose twisted bun in the back and add hair in from the top and front.

40. Bun and Three Side Braids Updo

If there is ever a time to go extravagant with your hairstyle, then prom is the perfect occasion for that. Combining the elegance of a high bun with the carelessness of cute, messy braids, this undone hairstyle creates a creative, textured look that is incredibly easy to complete.

Triple Braid Bun Prom Updo

Instagram / @abigaillrrose

41. Half Ponytail Hairstyle

This hairdo is an excellent example of a cute girly prom style. To recreate this look, ask your hair stylist to make a half ponytail with a fancy scrunchy and wax your hair in front, laying your baby hair in a deliberate way. A perfect option for girls with natural hair.

Long Natural Hair Prom Hairstyle

Instagram / @lamajbackwards

42. Upside Down Braid and Bun

As far as prom hairstyles go, there is always a good opportunity to embrace something a little more elegant. Plaiting a section of hair up into and around the bun, this look is bound to impress and last for the entire night.

43. Volumized Low Chignon

Want a sophisticated prom hair look? The volumized low chignon works wonders on straight hair. The high volume in the crown is balanced by the big chignon in the nape of neck, so this look is harmoniously structured and incredibly easy to pull off. Finished with loose tendrils to frame the face, the low chignon suits any face shape.

Low prom Updo with a Bouffant for Long Hair

Instagram / @blujayehair

44. Curled Floral Updo

Updos for long hair come in many shapes and forms, but few come out as pretty as this tender updo with baby’s breath and rose buds. Loose tendrils of hair are left around the face, creating delicate softness.

simple updo with hair flowers

Instagram / @flamingoamyhair

45. Side Bun Twined with a Braid

If you’re searching for unusual prom hairstyles for long hair, the asymmetric seashell braid can have you well covered. The wider, lacier the braid is, the fancier the final result will look. Spritz with a bit of texturizing spray, and the style is complete!

Braided Updo for Prom

Instagram / @abigaillrrose

46. Fishtailed Snail Bun

Rocking an updo to prom can be the best way to make an elegant statement, but in a roomful of buns, it can be hard to stand out. Enter the fishtailed snail bun. You can braid three individual fishtails and swirl them into a single snail. A subtle touch of sparkle completes the look.

Fishtail Bun Prom Hairstyle

Instagram / @haselnussblond

47. Complex-Looking Updo With Variety of Textures

Undone, flirty and cute, the maiden braid is one of the best ways to make an impression at prom. Offset with straight bangs, this look has the perfect balance between casual and formal, and can be rocked at any sort of dance.

Braided and Twisted Prom Updo with Straight Bangs

Instagram / @bobbedhaircuts

48. Romantic Updo With Braids

With long, thick hair you can choose any graduation hairstyle you like. If’s it’s also trendy or vintage-inspired, you are sure going to be pleased with your choice. This voluminous style features a bouffant, pin curls and a thick braid to distinguish these two sections.

Curled and Twisted Prom Updo for Long Thick Hair

Instagram / @alex_haircraft

49. Messy Braided Updo

Prom hair styles might come and go, but the braid is around for good. Weaving undone braids into a loose, messy bun, you add the perfect undone finish to your modern formal hairstyle.

Messy Prom Hairstyle for Long Hair

Instagram / @modernsalon

50. Sculpted Orchid Bun

With thick polished segments of hair pinned at the top of the head and adorned with orchid flowers, this elegant hairstyle takes a prominent place among long hair updos. Secured into a high bun, the hair is set in place using pins and hair serum to smooth it out. Fresh orchids peek out, blending perfectly with the style.

Sleek Updo with Flowers

Instagram / @modernsalon

We wish you to look fantastic, feel very special at your senior ball and may you win the title of Prom Queen!

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