Ponytail with Braided Bangs
Sarah Morris//Getty Images Amp your prom ponytail up a few notches by adding two braids as bangs.
Major Bow
Vittorio Zunino Celotto//Getty Images Bows are an easy way to make a sleek half-up, half-down style look totally prom-worthy. Make a center part in the middle of your hairline and pull half of your hair back into a sleek ponytail, and tie a long ribbon around the pony.
Vintage Curls
Jeff Kravitz//Getty Images The roaring '20s are back, and you can bet you'll have a prom theme to match. Jumbo curls feel appropriate but not costumey. Let one spiral hang down in front for just a touch of that Old Hollywood glamour.
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Elevated Braid
Karwai Tang//Getty Images We are leaving tired ponytails in 2022, 2023 is all about next-level styles made for Instagram and TikTok. A Rupunzel-like silky braided pony gets even chicer with ribbons intertwined toward the end. This look could truly kill.
Classic Cornrows
Getty Images Since cornrows have been around for literally thousands of years, I'd say it's a pretty safe bet for prom. Wear the iconic hairstyle with any prom look for a sellar ensemble.
Messy Ponytail
Daniele Venturelli//Getty Images In a prom full of buns and updos, this effortless version stands out.
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Wispy Braided Bangs
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin//Getty Images Stacked-Up Bun
Getty Images Twist up all those inches into a Power Bun (that's what we're going to call this beauty) that stands tall. Lay those edges and add a teeny cornrow down your part for a little extra visual interest.
Messy Ringlets
Getty Images A mess of undone curls will look just as good at the end of the night as it did in the beginning, because when your hair falls down, it just adds to the ~lewk~. It's a win/win, really.
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Glass Hair
Steven Simione//Getty Images Let those inches SHINE, hunny! A trendy glass hairdo feels elevated on its own. It's the perfect touch to highlight a statement earring or necklace, btw.
Retro Pony
NBC//Getty Images Ari gave her classic high-pony a revamp, and the result is lowkey perfect for prom night. Rock her trademark style, then flip out the ends for all of the '70s vibes.
Swept Bangs
Frazer Harrison//Getty Images You spent a lot of time on that makeup. Put it on display with a frame of wavy bangs and some breezy tendrils.
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Textured Knot
Getty Images Are you looking for a lowkey prom hairstyle that'll slay? Opt for this softer, undone bun that feels laid-back and soft at the same time.
Glossy Space Buns
Getty Images Take this 'do from Coachella to prom with just a few small touches. Add major doses of shine spray and hair oil for that glassey look. Keep your buns sleek and pull down tendrils around your face. Hit those with your curl wand and you're good to go.
Sleek Knotted Bun
IMAXTREE.COM Give a simple bun a prom-worthy upgrade. Comb hair into a slick low pony, then separate it into two sections and twist them together. Wrap into a bun for a folded look.
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Princess-y Volume
Getty Images Replicate Cinderella's classic 'do, but with cool Billie Eilish flare. Some messy pieces around your face and funky clips in the back are the secret to a totally modern take.
Chunky Braids
Getty Images Go XL on your typical box braids for prom with added drama (AKA what prom is all about). If you're feeling extra fierce opt for an unexpected color, like this stunning sapphire tone.
Soft Bangs
Dimitrios Kambouris//Getty Images This look is a prom favorite that never fails. Side-swept bangs, soft curls, and a little volume on top – it's a timeless choice that looks good on *literally* everyone.
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Classic Chignon
David Livingston//Getty Images From the front: pure elegance. From the back: a swirly spiral of glossy locks. An old-school chignon hairstyle is great for anyone with a lot of extra inches and (bonus!) will make you look like a modern Audrey Hepburn.
Abstract Bun
Karwai Tang//Getty Images This is one style that looks amazing no matter how long your hair is. Wispy, curled tendrils soften this intricately-styled bun.
Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.
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