10 Prom Hairstyle Ideas Inspired by Celebs

by Lyndsay Green, Teen Vogue

Whatever your length, we’ve got hairspiration for you.


The countdown to prom is on. In just a few short weeks, you’ll be getting all glammed up for one of the most memorable nights in your life. What does that call for? An equally memorable hairstyle! Got long hair? Consider looking to Zendaya’s waist-length strands as an option. Willing to rock your curls bigger than ever before? Solange just might be your spirit animal. You’ll want to thank these celebs for glamming up for their red-carpet appearances. They’ve taken all the work out of it! See the looks below to get to planning.

1. Stick Straight

Waist-length hair might seem like a lot of work, but Zendaya’s pin-straight strands are unbelievably controlled. By tucking the front pieces of her hair tucked behind her ears, she creates a makeshift headband (and keeps those pieces from frizzing or kinking around her face). If your goal is to wear your hair down for prom without looking like a frizzy mess at the end of the night, this is how you do it!

Related: 16 Prom-Perfect Flats You Can Dance All Night In

2. Braided Crown
Try a loose, wispy updo like Bella Thorne’s. First, sweep your hair into a messy ponytail with tendrils falling at the sides of your face. Then, weave your pony into a fishtail braid and wrap it around the crown of your head. Prom queen or not, you’ll look like royalty!

3. Double Dutch
For another braided option, try Amanda Seyfried’s French braids for double the fun. Tie the tips of your braids into a chic chignon like Amada for a pretty, polished finish.

Related: Before Jennifer Lawrence and Taylor Swift Were Famous, They Modeled for Abercrombie—and We Have the Pics!

4. Natural Goddess
If you’ve got naturally curly hair, feel free to embrace your curls likeSolange by simply defining them with a medium-sized barrel curling iron throughout.

5. Cutting Edge

Going for more of a badass vibe? Look to Kristen Stewart’s asymmetrical crop for inspiration. Give it a wave and a tousle for the same effortless effect—no one wants to look like they tried too hard to be cool.

6. Cropped In
Unsure what to do with your new bob? Jessie J’s slicked-back style is a great compromise for someone deciding between an updo and a loose hairstyle. Her deep side part adds impeccable polish to her look and those sleek strands could be easily tucked into a low pony as the night goes on.

7. Bottom Knot
Speaking of polish, Behati Prinsloo’s sleek chignon pairs beautifully with a strapless gown. Starting with a deep side or center part, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and wind it into a tight knot. With this no-fuss style, you won’t have a thing to worry about the entire night—when it comes to your hair, that is. Your date? That’s a different story.

8. Top Knotch
Just got a fresh set of bangs? Well, aren’t you trendy! Pair yours with a messy bun like Rihanna’s for an edgy yet classic vibe.

9. Pin-Tucked
If you’re going for an old Hollywood glamour feel, try a retro pinup style like Taylor Swift’s. Just be prepared—people will be asking if you cut all your hair off all night long!

10. Dream Girl
For a more whimsical approach to Behati’s bottom knot, try Lily James’s softer low bun. Sweeping your hair over one of your ears, letting that blingy statement earring peek through.

More from Teen Vogue:

Your Ultimate Prom Beauty Checklist

15 Gorgeous Prom Dresses Under $250

19 Prom Clutches To Carry Your Stuff In Style

25 of Our Favorite Short Dresses for Prom

 

Photos: Getty Images