33 Popular Prom Hairstyles For Girls With Medium-Length Hair

You have chosen the most fashionable dress and the best matching shoes for your prom, but you are still struggling to finalize a hairdo. If that is you, we have listed some of the best prom hairstyles for medium-length hair to help you out. So, you need not worry about styling your hair for the big formal event anymore. All you need to concentrate on is your makeup and attire. While some people prefer styling hair at salons, what if we tell you there is no need to waste your money there? You can get that professional look at your own home without spending a dime and sweating it. Wondering how? Let us help you out there. This article lists some of the top hairstyles that you can do by yourself on your medium-length hair and be the highlight of prom night. So what are you waiting for? Scroll down!

Before You Get Started

• Prior to prom night, stay away from severe color or cut alterations. Instead, keep your hair looking healthy with a trim a few weeks beforehand.
• A sweatshirt can mess up your hairstyle when you’re changing into your dress, so wear a button-down shirt while prepping your hair and make-up.
• To reduce prom preparation tension, opt for a practice run before your prom night.
• When arranging your prom hair, take the inspiration of your gown into consideration. For instance: Try an elegantly messy updo if you’re sporting a flowing bohemian gown.

Top 33 Gorgeous Prom Hairstyles For Girls With Medium-Length Hair

1. Tucked Back Hair

Need a style that’s simple, sexy, and elegant – all at the same time? This sleek and shiny tucked-back look is for you. Sport this look to your prom with a sexy figure-hugging dress and slay all night. Make sure your highlighter is on point to amp up the style quotient.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Smoothening serum
• Hair brush

How To Style

1. Wash and air dry your hair and apply a heat protectant.
2. Take a 1-inch hair section at a time and straighten. Run the straightener twice over a section to get poker-straight hair.
3. Part your hair down the middle and tuck both sides behind your ear.
4. Take a few drops of smoothening serum and rub it on your palms.
5. Run your palms through your hair to give it a sleek and shiny finish.

2. Hollywood Waves

Isn’t this a perfect Hollywood look? Emma Stone’s dreamy waves are all glitz and glam. These retro Hollywood waves are for you if you are up for a vintage look. Show off your fashion game with this look and make heads turn at the prom!

What You Need

• Volumizing mousse
• 5-inch curling iron
• Pin curl clip
• Blow drier
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray
• Shine spray
• Comb

How To Style

1. Apply a volumizing mousse to your washed and damp hair.
2. Side part your hair and blow dry.
3. Separate and clip the front section of your hair from the crown.
4. Take 1-2 inches of hair from the remaining hair and curl from the roots to the ends. Make sure you are setting the curls in the same direction so that when you brush them out, you get that iconic Hollywood wave.
5. Roll that section in a ring and clip it at the root with a pin curl clip.
6. Repeat the process with all your hair except the front section. Spritz medium-hold hairspray on the rolled sections.
7. Once your hair has cooled, release the curls from the pin curl clips.
8. Gently tuck the front section of your hair behind your ear to form faux side-swept bangs. You may secure it with a bobby pin.
9. Finish off with a shine spray.

3. Vintage Ponytail

Slay the prom day with this retro look! Yes, the go-to hairstyle for the 90s babes is back! With a side part and a wrapped high ponytail, anyone can pull off this sleek and stunning hairdo with ease. The best part about opting for this look is you do not have to worry about messing up your hair when you rock the dance floor.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Comb
• Shine spray
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Prep your clean and dried hair with some heat protectant.
2. Picking up thin hair sections at a time, straighten all your hair.
3. Flip the ends toward your face instead of keeping them poker straight.
4. Section off 1-2 inch hair from the middle, close to the hairline.
5. Comb back the rest of your hair and make a high ponytail.
6. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic and wrap a hair section from the ponytail around the base.
7. Secure the wrapped hair section with a couple of bobby pins.
8. Tuck the front hair section behind your ear.
9. Finish off the look with a shine spray.

4. Zigzag-Wavy Hair

Another 80s hairstyle that almost every pop star at that time loved to rock is back! The crimped hair look with a center part gives the zig-zag, wavy pattern a more natural appearance. Step aside from the regular beach weaves and loose curls, and show off your unique personality at the prom with this look.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Crimping iron
• Comb
• Hair spray

How To Style

1. Wash and dry your hair as you usually do.
2. Prep your hair with some heat protectant.
3. Picking up small sections of hair at a time, crimp them starting an inch away from the roots.
4. Part your hair from one side using just your fingers.
5. Finish off the look with a hair spray.

5. Crimped Ponytail

If wild and loose crimped hair is not your style, take the craziness a notch lower with this tamed ponytail. The look is perfect for showing off the 80s crimped hair but keeping the mess away from your face. Opt for this trendy look, and groove to your favorite songs at the prom without a worry in the world.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Crimping iron
• Comb
• Setting spray
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Wash and dry your hair as you usually do, and apply some heat protectant.
2. Crimp your hair section by section until all your hair is in a zig-zag, wavy pattern.
3. Separate your bangs, comb back the rest of the hair and tie them into a high ponytail.
4. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic and pick up a thin section of hair from it.
5. Wrap this section around the hair elastic to hide it, and secure it with bobby pins.
6. Brush your bangs, and set your look in place with a setting spray.

6. Slicked Back Hair

Wearing an off-shoulder gown for the prom but do not want a regular updo? Try this slicked-back look that Kate Graham carried oh-so-easily! A stunning way to show off your shoulders, this hairstyle gives an edgy and sleek vibe to any outfit. Adorn this Hollywood-inspired look, and show the crowd that you are no less than a celebrity.

What You Need

• Thickening gel
• Hair brush
• Bobby pins
• Setting spray

How To Style

1. Wash your hair, dry it partially, and comb it to loosen any knots.
2. Take a dollop of thickening gel, and work it through your damp hair.
3. Brush back all the hair, and leave it to dry.
4. Secure the hair with bobby pins wherever necessary, and fix the look with a setting spray.

7. Eye-Grazing Bangs

Need a style to flaunt your natural, wavy hair? This effortless hairdo sported by the doppelganger queen Nina Dobrev might just be what you are looking for. The sweet and simple style goes perfectly with princess-cut prom dresses and takes no more than five minutes to master.

What You Need

• Volumizing mousse
• Blow drier
• Comb
• Shine spray

How To Style

1. Brush out any knots or tangles from your washed hair.
2. Apply some volumizing mousse and blow dry your hair.
3. Rake your hair with your fingers to make a messy middle parting.
4. Separate your bangs from the rest of the hair and let them fall on your forehead.
5. Brush the rest of your hair and leave them at the back.
6. Finish off the look with a shine spray.

8. Braided Headband

Here’s another prom hairstyle that needs no heat styling! If extravagant updos are not your style, this simple braided headband is perfect for you. Replicate Nina Dobrev’s look, and stun the boys and girls at the prom with this cute and chic style.

What You Need

• Volumizing gel
• Blow drier
• Comb
• Bobby pins
• Hair elastics
• Setting spray

How To Style

1. Wash your hair and apply some volumizing gel.
2. Comb your hair, part them in the middle, and blow dry them.
3. Separate three 1-inch hair sections (just above the ears) on each side of your head.
4. Braid each of these sections and secure their ends with hair elastics.
5. Now, comb the rest of your back so that no partition remains.
6. Take both braids from each side and cross them over your head.
7. Secure the braids behind each ear using bobby pins.
8. Gently run your finger through the hair at the back and finish with a setting spray.

9. Donut Bun

Need a style to show off your cheekbones and facial features? Don’t miss out on the versatile and classy donut bun. This sleek and simple updo is easier to do than looks and goes perfectly with almost all prom outfits. So, if you cannot decide how to style your hair, choose a donut bun without worrying!

What You Need

• Donut bun/Thick hair elastic
• Comb
• Hair elastics
• Bobby pins
• Hair spray

How To Style

1. Brush your washed and dry hair to get rid of any tangles.
2. Comb all your hair back and tie it into a neat ponytail using a hair elastic.
3. Slip the ponytail through the donut bun or a thick hair elastic and set it at the base of the ponytail.
4. Cover this bun with the ponytail hair such that it forms a donut-like shape.
5. Hold tightly and secure with another hair elastic.
6. Hold the remaining hair that is sticking out and divide it into two parts.
7. Wrap the loose ends around the bun and secure them with bobby pins.
8. Spritz some hair spray to give the bun a neat finish.

10. Wavy Ends

When in doubt, just wave it out! This easy prom hairstyle is both timeless and versatile. From glamorous to classic, it suits all personalities and is super-easy to achieve. Add a soft and romantic vibe to your prom look with this hairdo, and let your inner diva shine.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Hair straighter
• Curling iron
• Texturizing spray
• Hair brush

How To Style

1. Wash and dry your hair, and apply a heat protectant.
2. Comb your hair and make a side part.
3. Pick up 1-Inch sections of your hair at a time, and straighten all your hair.
4. Let your hair cool down and twist the hair ends using a curling rod or a 1-inch straightener.
5. Gently run your fingers through your mane and shake them out for a soft wavy look.
6. Set the waves in place using a setting spray.

11. Cutesy Top Knot

This bun hairstyle is perfect if you are ditching your prom gown for a chic pantsuit. One of the most popular hairdos, this cute updo frames the face flawlessly (or the cheekbones, to be exact). The top knot ensures you can groove to your favorite songs without worrying about your hair getting wet and sticky.

What You Need

• Smoothening serum
• Comb
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins
• Hair straightener
• Hairspray

How To Style

1. Wash and dry your hair, and apply some smoothening serum.
2. Separate your bangs from the rest of the hair.
3. Brush back the remaining hair and hold them into a high ponytail.
4. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic and divide it into two sections.
5. Twist both sections individually and intertwine them.
6. Roll this twisted ponytail into a bun and secure it with some hair pins.
7. Brush your bangs to cover your forehead and straighten them if necessary.
8. Spritz on some hairspray to set the look.

12. Finger Curls

Go all out with these edgy and crazy vintage-inspired finger curls, and show off your daring personality! Just do what Joey King did, and you will be the most talked about person at the prom (all in a good way). Pair the hairstyle with equally bold lips and eyes, and show them who’s the queen!

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Hair straightener
• Smoothening serum
• Rat tail comb
• Hair gel
• Hair clips
• Hair brush
• Hair spray
• Shine spray

How To Style

1. Wash and dry your hair and apply some heat protectant.
2. Taking small sections of hair at a time, straighten them.
3. Middle-part the hair and apply some smoothening serum.
4. Separate 1-2 inch front hair sections on each side of the parting. Apply a layer of hair gel on each section.
5. Press the sections against your head and use the comb to push the hair forward and backward to give it an “S” shape.
6. Use your fingers to trace the S shape, and use more hair gel if needed. Repeat the process on both sides.
7. Use hair clips to hold the shape in place and spritz hair spray over them. Wait for 10 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, straighten the rest of your hair.
9. Remove the clips and finish off the look with some shine spray.

13. Loose Waves

Well, now that you’re a young lady who’s going to graduate from high school soon, I’m sure you would like to experiment with some sexier styles. What better day to do this than at prom? This rugged and sultry curly hair look sported by Mila Kunis is sure to work perfectly on an understated and elegant prom dress.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 1 inch curling iron
• Texturizing spray
• Hair brush

How To Style

1. Apply heat protectant all over your washed and dried hair.
2. Picking up small 1-inch sections of hair at a time, curl all your hair. Remember to curl away from the face and keep the ends slightly straighter for a more modern look.
3. Lightly brush through the set curls and shake them out to get your desired textured look.
4. Spritz on lots of texturizing spray all over your hair.

14. Messy Side Bun

Running for Prom Queen? Then you definitely need a hairdo that is fit for royalty. And you definitely need to go for a classy updo. This elegant messy side bun look is perfect for adding that soft and romantic vibe to your whole look and is sure to get you voted Queen of the Prom Court!

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 2 inch curling iron
• Hair brush
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Apply some heat protectant and curl the lower half of all your hair.
2. Gently run a brush through your curls to open them up.
3. Part your hair on one side.
4. Start tying your hair in a loose side ponytail (on the side of the parting with more hair).
5. At the last twist of your hair elastic, loop your hair only 2/3rd of the way through to create a bun.
6. Wrap the loose ends of your ponytail around the base of your bun and secure them with bobby pins.
7. Fan out your bun and pin it to your head to finish off the look.

Quick Tip

You can also make a messy bun out of braids. Make 3 separate Dutch braids on one side of your head, collect all the hair in a ponytail, and create a bun by pinning up the curl ends.

15. Half Up Half Down Curls

Worked hard to maintain your straight A streak all year round and want to let your hair down for once? Well, you can do that quite literally at prom with this effortlessly chic half up half down hair look! A half-up-half-down prom hairstyle, like this one, beautifully complements medium-length hair. So, go ahead and channel your inner good girl with this curly hair and pouf on top style that has been sported by Carrie Underwood oh-so-sweetly.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 5 inch curling iron
• Comb
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Prep your washed, dried hair with some heat protectant.
2. Curl the lower half of all your hair.
3. Pick up all the hair from the front that is between your temples and comb it back.
4. Twist this section of hair once and push it a bit forward to create a pouf.
5. Pin this section of hair at the top of your head with a couple of bobby pins criss crossed over each other to finish off the look.

16. Simple And Straight

If you have curly hair, why not go for a hair transformation to mark the very important rite of passage that is prom? Yep, I’m talking about straightening your hair! Nothing flatters a classic, figure hugging prom dress more than a sleek straight hair look.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Smoothening serum

How To Style

1. Apply heat protectant all over your washed and dried hair.
2. Picking up 1 inch sections of hair at a time, straighten your hair until it is poker straight.
3. Part your hair down the middle.
4. Rub some smoothening serum between your palms and run them through your hair to give it a sleek and shiny finish.

 17. Low Bun

Prom is a time to clean yourself up and dress to the nines. And what better way to do that than to go for a super classy bun hairstyle? Low buns like these have the spectacular ability to transform you into a mature young adult who looks like she has everything under control (even if you most probably don’t).

What You Need

• Smoothening serum
• Comb
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How To Style

1. Apply some smoothening serum all over your hair.
2. Part your hair on one side.
3. Comb back your hair and tie it into a ponytail a couple of inches above the nape of your neck.
4. Divide your ponytail into 2 sections and individually twist them right till the ends.
5. Intertwine these two sections with each other till the very ends.
6. Roll this twisted ponytail into a flat bun.
7. Secure it to your head with the help of bobby pins.
8. Spritz on some hairspray to set the do in place and finish off the look.

 18. Messy Curls

Go wild, go crazy, and make all them boys and girls swoon over you at prom with this sexy curly hair look! Just do what Keke Palmer did and go for some tight spiral curls that will bounce around beautifully when you groove to your favorite songs.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 1 inch tapered curling iron
• Curl defining leave-in cream

How To Style

1. Prep your washed, blowdried hair with some heat protectant.
2. Picking up 1-inch sections of hair at a time, curl alternating sections of your hair from the roots to the tips for a chic and wild look.
3. With your hands, part your hair on one side.
4. Apply some curl-defining cream to your curls to give them some bounce and definition.

 19. Perky Ponytail With Loose Bangs

Want to spend your prom like a breeze and without any worries about touching up your hair or outfit? Then, take a page out of Jennifer Aniston’s lookbook. To keep all the focus on her beautiful dress, she went for a simple ponytail with loose bangs.

What You Need

• Comb
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins
• Teasing brush

How To Style

1. Tease down the hair at the crown of your head to give it some volume.
2. Leaving out your bangs, gently comb back all your hair and tie it into a mid-level ponytail.
3. Pick up a thin section of hair from your ponytail and wrap it around its base to hide the hair elastic from view.
4. Secure this wrapped section of hair with some bobby pins.
5. Part your bangs on one side to finish off the look.

Quick Tip

You can also make a puffy ponytail. It suits best if you have Afro-textured strands. You can opt for high puff at the top or low puff at the back.

 20. Romantic Twists

If you consider yourself a girl-next-door who likes to keep her hairstyles sweet and simple, then pair your prom dress with this hair down hair look with twisted accents. This simple hair look takes about 3 minutes to perfect and works brilliantly to add a romantic vibe to your whole look.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Prep your hair with heat protectant and straighten all your hair.
2. Roughly part your hair down the middle with your hands. It doesn’t have to be a straight parting.
3. From the very front, pick up a 2 inch section of hair from right next to your parting.
4. Twist this section of hair right till the end and pin it at the back of your head.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the right side to finish off the look.

21. Classy Side Ponytail

Oh, Anna Kendrick…you can do no wrong, can you? Honestly, the girl can give a masterclass on how to keep your hair looks simple yet effectively sophisticated. This side ponytail style teeters the line between casual and fancy to create a look that is as elegant as it gets.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 2 inch curling iron
• Teasing brush
• Hair elastic

How To Style

1. Apply heat protectant all over your hair.
2. Picking up big 3 inch sections of hair at a time, curl the lower half of all your hair.
3. Gently tease down the hair at the crown of your head.
4. Part your hair down the middle.
5. Leaving out the front sections of your hair to frame your face, tie all your hair into a low side ponytail.
6. Flip your ponytail over your shoulder to finish off the look.

 22. Chignon Knot

Going stag to your prom and want to show everyone that you’re a smart, independent woman who don’t need no man? Then, check out this uber chic chignon bun that is effortlessly gorgeous and classy. Sport this over a sexy off-shoulder dress and watch all the boys who didn’t ask you to the prom eat their hearts out.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 5 inch curling iron
• Hair brush
• Texturizing spray
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Apply heat protectant to your washed and dried hair.
2. Curl all your hair.
3. Run a brush through your curls.
4. Spritz on some texturizing spray to give your hair some hold.
5. Part your hair on one side.
6. Leaving out some sections of your hair to frame your face, gather the rest of your hair at the back.
7. Twist all your hair right till the ends.
8. Roll this twisted hair once so that it forms a ring.
9. Pull the ends of your hair through the center of this ring and pull them down to tighten your knot.
10. Secure some sections of your chignon knot to your head with a few bobby pins to set the updo in place.

23. Classy Ribbon Updo

Afraid that you might sweat too much and find your hair matted to your head halfway through prom? Then I’ve got a hairstyle that will solve this problem in a jiffy and still look totally stunning. Go for a simple bun style and wear hair accessories like a black ribbon to create this breathtaking hair look.

What You Need

• Teasing brush
• Fine toothed comb
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins
• Black satin ribbon

How To Style

1. Start off by teasing the hair at the crown of your head.
2. Use a fine-toothed comb to brush back your hair gently.
3. Tie your hair in a mid-level ponytail.
4. Twist the ponytail right till the end and roll it into a bun.
5. Secure the bun to your head with some bobby pins.
6. Place your black satin ribbon across the top of your head, right behind your hairline.
7. Tie the ribbon’s ends together at the nape of your neck, under the bun, to complete the look.

 24. Kitty Ear Buns

Want to add a touch of whimsy to your prom look? Then, just take a look at Bella Hadid’s adorable kitty ears hair look! Ditch the conventional updos and French braids in favor of this super cute hairstyle. These kitty ear buns will help you channel your inner quirky side.

What You Need

• Texturizing spray
• Hair elastics
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How To Style

1. Spritz on some texturizing spray all over your hair.
2. Part your hair down the middle.
3. From the front, pick up all the hair from the left side of your parting to your left temple.
4. Tie this hair into a ponytail.
5. Twist this ponytail till the end and roll it into a bun.
6. Secure this bun to your head with the help of some bobby pins.
7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 on the right side to complete the look.

25. Frizzy Ponytail

Trust Zendaya to absolutely slay her hair look without picking up a single heated tool. If you’re planning on wearing a monochrome prom dress, then you need to pair it with this frizzy ponytail that is bound to transform you into the belle of the ball. Or, well, the prom.

What You Need

• Volumizing mousse
• Blowdryer
• Texturizing spray
• Fine toothed comb
• Hair elastic

How To Style

1. Start off by applying volumizing mousse to your washed, wet hair.
2. Flip your head forward and blow dry your hair from the bottom up to add lots of volume. Do not brush your hair while blow-drying your hair.
3. Spritz on lots of texturizing spray all over your hair and scrunch your hair with your fingers to give them some frizzy texture.
4. Part your hair down the middle.
5. Rub some smoothening serum all over the teeth of your fine-toothed comb and use it to slick down the hair at the top of your head.
6. Comb back your hair with this comb and tie it into a low ponytail.
7. Fluff up your ponytail even more with your hands to finish off the look.

26. Retro Headband Style

The best hairstyles are those that blend the old school with the modern. And Maia Mitchell shows us here how to achieve this seamlessly. Embellish your retro beehive style with a thin headband to create a unique style that will make you stand out from the usual prom crowd.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• 1 inch curling iron
• Bumpit (big)
• Teasing brush
• Fine toothed comb
• Smoothening serum
• Thin metal headband
• Hairspray

How To Style

1. Prep your hair with heat protectant and straighten it.
2. Picking up 2-inch sections of hair at a time, curl the lower third of all your hair.
3. Insert your bumpit at the crown of your head.
4. Tease down the hair in front of your bumpit.
5. Rub some smoothening serum all over your fine-toothed comb and use it to smooth the hair on top of the teased hair and the bumpit.
6. Put on your metal headband right behind your hairline.
7. Spritz on some hairspray to set your hair in place.

27. Serpentine Bun

Shay Mitchell does not mess around when styling her hair for a big event. If you want to go for a hair look that is different from the same ol’ low buns and half updos, then check out this amazing top bun sported by Mitchell that is inspired by the way a snake coils. Sport this look to your prom with a sexy sequined dress to absolutely slay the fashion game there.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Smoothening serum
• Fine toothed comb
• Hair elastic
• U pins
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

How To Style

1. Apply heat protectant and straighten all your hair.
2. Rub some smoothening serum on your fine-toothed comb and use it to slick back your hair.
3. Tie your hair in a high ponytail right on top of your head.
4. Twist your ponytail right till the end.
5. Roll your hair into a circle once to form the base of your bun, inserting U pins and bobby pins as you go along to secure it to your head.
6. Now, place the lower half of your ponytail diagonally in front of the base of your bun.
7. Tuck the end of your ponytail into the center of your base, from the top, and secure it in place with the help of U pins and bobby pins.
8. Spritz on lots of hairspray to set the updo in place.

28. Grecian Half Updo

If you’re planning on wearing one of those flowy Grecian style gowns to your prom, you need to sport a hairstyle that completes the look. This half up style sported by the ever-so-gorgeous Troian Bellisario works beautifully to transform her into a Greek goddess – like Athena, maybe?

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 2-inch curling iron
• Hair brush
• Teasing brush
• Fine toothed comb
• Bobby pins
• Cloth headband

How To Style

1. Prep your washed, dried hair with a heat protectant.
2. Curl all your hair.
3. Run a brush through your curls to give them a softer look.
4. Part your hair down the middle.
5. Tease the hair at the crown of your head and smoothen down some hair on top of it with a fine-toothed comb.
6. Leaving out the front sections, pick the hair from the sides of your head and pin them at the back, right under your teased hair.
7. Twist your headband a few times before putting it on at the crown of your head.
8. Flip all your hair over one shoulder to finish off the look.

29. Sweet Side Braid

Whoever told you that you couldn’t have your hair in a simple braid at prom was grievously wrong. After all, if Ariel Winter can do it then it certainly means that the style gods deem it acceptable. Besides which, look how ethereal and gorgeous she looks in this hairstyle!

What You Need

• Teasing brush
• Fine toothed comb
• Hair elastic
• 1 inch curling iron

How To Style

1. Tease the hair at the crown of your head and slick down hair on top of it with a fine-toothed comb.
2. Leaving out your bangs, gather the hair from the top and sides of your head and pin it at the back of your head.
3. Gather all your hair and hold it about 4 inches above the nape of your neck.
4. Now simply braid it right till the end and secure it with a hair elastic.
5. Part your bangs on one side and curl the lower ends to finish off the look.

30. Boho Accent Braids

For you bohemian free spirits out there, here’s a stunning hair look you just can’t miss. Laura Marano’s gorgeously texturized and voluminous curls are a thing of beauty on their own. But the boho braid accents added to them take this boho chic look to a whole new level.

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• 2-inch curling iron
• Hair brush
• Texturizing spray
• Teasing brush
• Fine toothed comb
• Hair elastics

How To Style

1. Prep your washed and dried hair with some heat protectant.
2. Picking up big 2-3 inch sections at a time, curl all your hair.
3. Run a brush through your curls to open them up.
4. Spritz on lots of texturizing spray and fluff up your hair with your hands.
5. Tease down the hair right on top of your head.
6. Slick back your front hair on top of the teased hair and pin it down in the center at the back of your head.
7. Picking up random 2 inch sections of hair, braid them and secure them with hair elastics to finish off the look.

31. Big Frizzy Hair

Since time immemorial, girls have always gone for sleek and elegant hairdos for prom. But if you like to roll on the edgier side, you need to take inspiration from Skyler Samuels. She ditched the pretty and sophisticated updo for a grungy wild hair look that creates an awesome contrast with her pink sequined gown.

What You Need

• Blowdryer
• Texturizing spray
• Hair brush
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Start off by blowdrying your hair with your head bent forward. Don’t brush it.
2. Spritz on lots of texturizing spray and scrunch and fluff out your hair with your hands.
3. Part your hair on one side.
4. Gently brush back your hair from the front. Pin it at the back of your head to finish off the look.

32. Sleek High Ponytail

Another great way to trod the unconventional path when styling your hair for prom is to go for a bold ponytail style. Bailee Madison paired her pretty pink outfit with a sleek high ponytail that makes her look totally badass and cool. An added bonus here is that you can dance your heart out without having to worry about messing up your hair!

What You Need

• Heat protectant
• Straightening iron
• Fine toothed comb
• Smoothening serum
• Hair elastic
• Bobby pins

How To Style

1. Prep your washed and dried hair with some heat protectant.
2. Picking up 2-inch sections of hair at a time, straighten all your hair until it is poker straight.
3. Apply some smoothening serum to your hair and slick it back with a fine-toothed comb.
4. Tie your hair in a high ponytail.
5. Pick up a thin section of hair from your ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide your hair elastic from view.
6. Secure this wrapped section of hair with a couple of bobby pins.

33. French Braid Prom Hairstyle

This trendy twist elevates the classic sophistication of the French braid, making it special enough for your prom night.

What You Need

• Fine-tooth comb
• Hair elastics
• Bobby pins
• Hair curler

How To Style

1. Detangle your clean, washed, and dry hair.
2. Gather a small section of hair from the crown; this will be the starting point of your French braid.
3. Start braiding normally for the first few stitches.
4. Cross the outer strands under the main strand rather than over it; this is the key to a French braid.
5. Gather the hair as you braid towards the nape, finishing in a standard three-strand braid, fixing it with a hair elastic.
6. Now loosen the French braid along the stitches to give it more volume.
7. Then, take the braid and circle it around itself to make a bun. Secure this bun with bobby pins.
8. Finish by combing the rest of the hair and curl the ends into wavy curls.

Updos happen to be a popular go-to hairstyle for proms, and have the reputation of being a classic for formal and semi-formal events. Suzannah Gilman, a lifestyle blogger from a collective blog, shared her personal impressions of getting an expensive updo done for an event. She said, “Once I got my dress on, the picture would be complete. My napping fiancé woke when I got back and said, “Wow. That’s like a prom hairdo.” Well, scratch one off my list—I’d never been to prom. So, okay. This is a special ‘do. A special ‘do for a special night (i).”

Aren’t these hairdos a dream? With a little practice, you will surely have the best hairstyle to flaunt. Now let us look at how to choose the right hairstyle for your dress.

How To Pick The Right Hairstyle

When selecting your prom hairstyle, it’s important to consider the neckline and style of your dress. For strapless dresses, opt for updos that highlight your shoulders. You can go for sleek buns, elegant chignons, or voluminous top knots. These styles draw attention to your neckline and create a balanced silhouette. On the other hand, for high-neck dresses, try loose waves or half-up, half-down styles. These styles soften the

Matching your hairstyle to your dress not only enhances your outfit but also ensures you feel comfortable on prom night.

Now that you have a hairdo that is perfect for your outfit, let us move on to some accessories you will need to get the perfect look.

Essential Hair Accessories For Prom Hairstyles

Here are some essential accessories that will help you style your hair best for prom.

• Crystal Hair Pins

They are perfect for adding a touch of sparkle. Crystal hair pins work well with updos and loose waves.

• Floral Hair Clips

Floral clips can be placed on one side for a classic vibe or woven throughout a braid.

• Pearl Hair Barrettes

You can use them to pin back sections of hair or line a few along one side for a sleek effect.

• Rhinestone Headbands

Choose a delicate band for subtle sparkle or go bold for a statement look.

• Decorative Hair Combs

Hair combs with crystals or pearls can be tucked into the back of an updo or side-swept style.

• Statement Hair Clips

For a modern twist, oversized hair clips can add an edgy element to your prom look.

You can also go for hair colors like Ombre and highlights. You can also choose pastel shades. If you don’t want to color your hair, you can invest in clip-on for a natural look without having to go through the process! Let’s look at some ways you can prepare your hair for prom in the section below.

How To Prepare Your Hair For Prom

To make sure your hairstyle lasts all night, consider these preparation tips.

1. Get a trim a week before prom: A fresh trim removes split ends and ensures your hair looks its best. It also gives you a polished base for styling.

2. Avoid heavy styling products on the day of the event: Excess product buildup can weigh hair down and make it more difficult to style. Stick to light, non-greasy products that enhance your natural texture.

3. Use a deep conditioning treatment a few days prior: Nourishing your hair with a deep conditioning treatment will add shine and manageability, making it easier to achieve the desired hairstyle on prom night.

These simple steps will ensure your hair is healthy, sleek, and ready for your big night.

Infographic: 8 Chic Prom Hairdos For Medium-Length Hair

When it comes to prom hairstyles, medium-length hair offers a wide range of possibilities. From sleek and sophisticated looks to vintage-inspired elegance and modern edginess, there are numerous styles to choose from. In the infographic below, we have highlighted the top 8 chic prom hairstyles you should try. Check it out and get ready to transform your hair for this special occasion.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any tips for creating a prom hairstyle for medium length hair that will stay in place all night?

While it depends on the hairstyle, attaching a few bobby pins and finishing off with a setting spray can help keep the hairdo intact.

What are some tips for creating a prom hairstyle for medium length hair that will look great in photos?

For capturing a complete prom look in a photograph, it is better to opt for prominent hairstyles with details visible from the front, such as Hollywood waves, braided headbands, cutesy top knots, finger curls, and kitty ear buns.

How can I choose a prom hairstyle that compliments my face shape and dress style?

For wide face shapes, opt for a hairstyle with height at the crown and volume at the sides to create the impression of an elongated face. For symmetrical face shapes, any hairstyle can help balance out your features. For a prom hairstyle to complement one’s dress style, wear an updo with a strapless dress or a low neckline to draw attention to the face and neckline. A half-up, half-down style goes well with a high neckline.

What hair color trends are popular for prom hairstyles for medium length hair?

The ombre is a popular hair color trend to try for your prom, especially if you have medium-length hair. You can try blends of subtle blonde or brown highlights to bold, vibrant hues depending on personal preference, dressing style, and skin tone. Soft pastel hues like pink, lavender and blue applied all over or as highlights are also apt for prom hairstyles.

How can I add volume and texture to my medium length hair for a more dramatic prom hairstyle?

Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner and styling products like a texturizing spray or a curler to create waves or curls to add bounce and texture to your hair. Wear a half-up, half-down hairstyle and experiment with braids to further add to the volume and texture of your hair for a more dramatic prom hairstyle. Try a side braid or a braided crown for a charming and memorable look.

How can I ensure my prom hairstyle for medium length hair complements my makeup and overall look?

Choose a medium-length hairstyle that complements the neckline and style of the prom dress. Choose a makeup look with shades that suit your dress to ensure the prom hairstyle enhances the overall look. For bold or dramatic makeup, opting for a subtle hairstyle can complement it to make a fashion statement. Go for a more elaborate hairstyle if the makeup is lowkey and natural.

Illustration: Popular Prom Hairstyles For Girls With Medium-Length Hair

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Check out this tutorial video for a stunning curly prom hairstyle for medium-length hair! Learn how to create this look step-by-step.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Samuel AshcroftCelebrity Hairstylist

 

Samuel Ashcroft is an expert stylist and educator at West London’s Josh Wood Atelier, one of the most prestigious salons in the UK. He has eight years of experience and specializes in effortless, simple, but beautiful hairstyles that enhance and embrace natural hair texture and patterns for every hair type and texture.

Read full bio of Samuel Ashcroft

Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

 

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor

Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

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Shreya MukherjeeBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as a writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi, as an intern. She then wrote for a progressive content website.

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