20 Prom Hairstyles Updos That Are Going Viral This Year
Prom is one of those nights I want to remember for years, so my hairstyle matters just as much as my dress. I’ve learned that the right updo doesn’t just look beautiful—it helps me stay comfortable while dancing, taking photos, and celebrating without constantly fixing my hair.
After exploring different updo styles and seeing what works for different hair types and face shapes, I put together this list of my favorite prom hairstyles. Whether I want something timeless, romantic, or trendy, there’s an option here that can match almost any prom look.
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If I’m searching for a prom hairstyle that looks elegant and stays in place all night, these 20 updo ideas offer plenty of inspiration. From polished French twists to soft braided buns and modern textured styles, every hairstyle has its own personality. I’ll also share who each style suits best, simple styling advice, and practical tips that can help my hairstyle last from the first photo to the last dance.
Key Takeaways
- Updos help keep my hair secure throughout prom night.
- Different styles work better for different face shapes and hair textures.
- Adding texture usually helps my hairstyle stay in place longer.
- Hair accessories can make even a simple updo feel more special.
- A practice run before prom can make styling much easier.
- Using lightweight hairspray instead of heavy products helps keep my hair natural-looking.
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1. French Twist Updo
Whenever I want a timeless hairstyle, I usually think about a French twist first. It has a polished finish that works beautifully with classic gowns and modern dresses alike. I like how it keeps every strand neatly tucked away while still looking soft and elegant.
If I want a more relaxed appearance, I leave a few face-framing pieces loose. This helps soften my features and makes the hairstyle feel less formal without losing its sophisticated charm.
Pro Tip: I always use bobby pins that match my hair color. They blend in much better and keep the twist looking seamless in photos.
2. Messy Bun Updo
A messy bun is one of my favorite choices when I want something stylish without looking overly structured. The loose texture creates natural volume, making my hair appear fuller even if it’s on the finer side.
I find this style especially comfortable because it doesn’t need to look perfect. A few soft strands around my face actually make the hairstyle look more intentional and romantic.
3. Braided Crown Updo
Whenever I want a hairstyle that feels soft and feminine, I love the look of a braided crown. Wrapping braids around the top of my head creates beautiful detail while keeping the rest of my hair secure.
This style pairs especially well with floral dresses, flowing fabrics, and delicate jewelry. It also gives my hair extra texture, which helps it stay in place longer during the evening.
4. Sleek Low Chignon
A sleek low chignon is perfect when I want a clean and polished appearance. Sitting neatly at the nape of my neck, it complements high-neck dresses, off-the-shoulder gowns, and elegant accessories without competing for attention.
I also appreciate how comfortable this hairstyle feels throughout the night. Since the weight is distributed evenly, I rarely have to adjust it after it’s secured.
5. Voluminous High Bun
When I want my hairstyle to stand out, I usually choose a high bun with plenty of volume. Adding gentle teasing at the crown creates extra height and gives my overall look a more balanced shape.
This hairstyle works especially well if I want to highlight statement earrings or an open-back dress. It creates a graceful neckline while adding a glamorous finish that’s perfect for prom photos.
6. Romantic Side Bun
A romantic side bun is one of my favorite choices when I want my hairstyle to feel soft and elegant. Instead of sitting in the center, the bun rests slightly to one side, giving my overall look a graceful touch. Loose waves around my face make the style feel effortless without looking messy.
I especially like pairing this hairstyle with one-shoulder or strapless dresses because it naturally draws attention to my neckline. Adding a decorative hairpin or a few pearl pins can make it feel even more special.
7. Dutch Braid Updo
Whenever I want something detailed without being overly complicated, I go for a Dutch braid updo. The raised braid creates beautiful texture across the head before blending into a bun or twist at the back.
This style works especially well for thick hair because the braid appears fuller and more defined. Even if I have a busy night of dancing, the braided structure helps everything stay secure.
8. Ballerina Bun Updo
A ballerina bun never goes out of style. I love how neat and polished it looks, especially when I want a classic appearance that lets my dress and makeup stand out.
The high placement helps create a longer-looking neck and gives my profile a graceful finish in photos. This style also feels surprisingly lightweight, making it comfortable for several hours.
9. Twisted Side Updo
The twisted side updo gives me the elegance of a formal hairstyle with a slightly modern feel. Instead of braids, soft twists create beautiful movement before gathering into a low side bun.
I like how this hairstyle works with almost every face shape. The twists add depth without making the hairstyle appear overly complicated, and they look beautiful from every angle.
Pro Tip: Before twisting each section, I lightly spray it with a flexible-hold styling spray. This helps the twists stay defined without becoming stiff.
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10. Flower Bun Updo
Whenever I want something unique, a flower bun always catches my attention. Small sections of hair are arranged to resemble flower petals, creating a hairstyle that feels creative while still looking elegant.
Although it appears detailed, the finished result is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable. It looks especially beautiful with floral accessories, pearl pins, or delicate crystal clips.
11. Braided Low Chignon
A braided low chignon gives me the best of both worlds. I get the detail of beautiful braids along with the timeless look of a classic low bun. The braids naturally guide the eye toward the back, making the hairstyle look more intricate than it actually is.
I like this style because it stays comfortable throughout the evening. Once it’s pinned properly, I rarely need to fix it, even after hours of dancing and taking photos.
12. High Textured Bun
Whenever I want a hairstyle with volume and personality, I choose a high textured bun. Instead of looking perfectly smooth, it has soft layers and natural movement that make my hair appear thicker.
This style works well with both curled and slightly wavy hair because the texture adds depth from every angle. It also photographs beautifully under different lighting, making it a great choice for prom pictures.
13. Side Twist Chignon
The side twist chignon combines soft twists with a low bun placed slightly to one side. I love how this small detail changes the entire look and creates an elegant silhouette without requiring an overly complicated style.
It pairs especially well with dresses that feature one shoulder, detailed necklines, or open backs. The side placement naturally draws attention to earrings and adds balance to my overall outfit.
14. Bubble Braid Updo
If I want something playful while still looking formal, a bubble braid updo is always a fun option. Instead of a traditional braid, small sections are gently pulled apart to create rounded “bubbles” that add volume and texture.
I enjoy this hairstyle because it feels modern and stands out from more traditional prom updos. It works well on straight, wavy, and lightly curled hair, making it a versatile choice.
15. Gibson Tuck Updo
The Gibson tuck is one of those hairstyles that never feels outdated. I simply tuck sections of hair into a rolled shape at the nape of my neck, creating a smooth and elegant finish that suits almost any prom dress.
What I appreciate most is how comfortable it feels. Since the hairstyle sits low, it doesn’t create extra tension on my scalp, allowing me to enjoy the entire evening without discomfort.
16. Waterfall Twist Updo
The waterfall twist updo gives me a hairstyle that feels soft, romantic, and effortlessly elegant. Instead of using full braids, twisted sections flow across my hair before being pinned into a beautiful updo. The result has plenty of texture while still looking polished.
I especially like this style when my hair has natural waves or loose curls. The twists create gentle movement that looks amazing in photos, and the finished style feels lightweight enough to wear comfortably all evening.
17. Romantic Low Bun
Whenever I want a hairstyle that feels timeless, I choose a romantic low bun. It sits neatly at the nape of my neck with soft volume and loose strands that frame my face without looking overly styled.
This hairstyle matches almost every prom dress, from sleek satin gowns to flowy chiffon designs. I also appreciate how comfortable it feels because the weight stays low instead of pulling on the top of my head.
18. Sleek Knot Updo
A sleek knot updo is perfect when I want a clean and modern hairstyle. My hair is brushed smooth and gathered into a simple knot, creating a polished finish that highlights my makeup, earrings, and neckline.
Even though the design is minimal, it has a luxurious look that pairs beautifully with statement jewelry or bold dresses. I also find it one of the easiest updos to maintain throughout the night.
19. Voluminous Crown Bun
If I’m hoping to add extra height, the voluminous crown bun is always one of my top picks. The bun sits higher on my head, creating a balanced shape while making my hairstyle appear fuller.
I like how this style makes my neck look longer and brings attention to my facial features. It works especially well when I wear dresses with open necklines because it keeps everything looking balanced.
Pro Tip: I tease only the roots instead of the entire section. This gives me natural-looking volume while keeping the outer layer smooth and polished.
20. Classic French Roll
The classic French roll is one hairstyle I know will never lose its appeal. My hair is rolled neatly upward and secured into a smooth shape that gives an elegant finish suitable for almost any formal occasion.
I love how versatile this style is. Whether my dress is modern, vintage-inspired, simple, or heavily embellished, the French roll always complements the overall look without stealing attention.
It also photographs beautifully from every angle, making it a reliable choice for prom memories I’ll look back on for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which prom updo lasts the longest?
From my experience, sleek styles like a French twist, low chignon, or classic French roll usually last the longest. When they’re secured with quality bobby pins and a flexible-hold hairspray, they can stay in place for 6–10 hours, even with plenty of dancing.
2. Can I wear an updo if I have short hair?
Yes. If my hair reaches at least chin or shoulder length, I can usually create a beautiful updo. For shorter hair, I use small twists, mini braids, or discreet hair extensions to add volume and make styling easier.
3. Should I wash my hair on the day of prom?
I usually avoid washing my hair right before styling. Hair that’s been washed the night before often has more grip and holds pins better than freshly washed hair. If I do wash it on prom day, I use a lightweight texturizing spray before styling.
Conclusion
Choosing my prom hairstyle is about more than following trends. I want something that helps me feel confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every moment of the night. The right updo can complement my dress, highlight my features, and stay beautiful from the first photo until the final dance.I also remind myself that no hairstyle needs to be perfect. A little texture, a few soft face-framing pieces, and a relaxed finish often make an updo look even more natural.
