Best Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair (2024)

FAQs

How do you wear short hair for prom? ›

If you are wanting to leave some of your hair down, a fun and edgy idea is the “half shave braid.” For this look take one, or both, sides of your hair and separate it from the rest of your mane. Then, take that section and french, or dutch braid, braid it creating the “half shave” illusion.

You can never go wrong with a straight hairstyle. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks sleek and sophisticated. This hairstyle is sure to hold up through all the dancing you'll be doing on prom night! Incorporating a braid into any natural hairstyle is the perfect way to add an interesting element.

Sweetheart, strapless, and off the shoulder tops and dresses look great with short hair. Wearing strapless lets the outfit flaunt your short hair, neck, and focus on the face. Large earrings, statement necklaces, and headbands can add a feminine touch and balance out your look.

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut or strapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan. "For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry, try an updo. When you spend $300 on a dress, you want to be able to see the details."

Sleek and Straight Sophistication: For a chic and polished appearance, straighten your short hair. Use a flat iron to create smooth, sleek strands. Apply a heat protectant before styling to prevent damage. This timeless look is perfect for more formal settings, exuding confidence and sophistication.

Short hair tends to suit all face shapes, although each face shape has things to consider when going short. Round faces, for example, can look rounder with the wrong short cut, but some short haircuts can look simply amazing.

Does short or long hair make you look younger? Long hair can enhance facial features by diverting attention away from wrinkles or age spots and adding volume to your hair. Short hair does not need to age you, though, as the style and texture of shorter hairstyles can add a youthful appearance.

Don't: Show too much skin

While it's okay to show some skin at prom, try not to go too overboard. You want to look classy, not trashy! Stick to dresses that fall below the knee or higher. If you're wearing a strapless dress, don't pair it with heels that have very high heels.

To put your mind at ease, opt to apply makeup before styling your strands, so you don't have to worry about your hair getting in the way. Do your makeup first…if you're pressed for time. On a tight schedule? Spend more time on your makeup.

How to match your hairstyle to your prom dress? ›

If you have a high-neck dress, one-shoulder dress, open-back dress, or a dress with unique details on the shoulders or back that you want to showcase, you might want to wear your hair up with a smooth twist, a low or high bun, an elaborate cluster of curls, or even a side-sweeping style with cascading curls.

Try your hairstyles a few months before the prom so you can pick your favorite. Bring pictures of your dress as well as “inspiration” pictures of several hairstyles that you like to your appointment. Don't drastically change your hair before prom! You can always cut it or color it the day after!