7 Best Prom Hairstyles for 2025, According to a Celebrity Stylist

Prom season is here, which means the hunt for the perfect dress is officially on. You know the feeling: endless scrolling, trying on gown after gown, searching for the one that makes you feel like you just stepped out of a coming-of-age movie. But once you’ve found the dress (cue the dramatic montage moment), there’s one more piece of the puzzle to finish: the perfect prom hairstyle to match. After all, the right prom hairdo doesn’t just complete your look, it elevates it, turning a gorgeous gown into a full-on, jaw-dropping moment.

And in 2025, prom hair is all about effortless elegance with just the right amount of drama. Whether you’re drawn to romantic waves, sleek updos or playful accessories, the key is finding a style that complements your dress, not competes with it. A high neckline? Consider something swept up. A strapless number? Loose, flowing locks might be your best bet. And, of course, you’ll want a look that lasts through every dance, photo op and late-night snack run.

To help you find the one, we’ve rounded up the seven best prom hairstyles for 2025, according to a celebrity stylist. Because when the big dance comes around, your hair should be just as unforgettable as the rest of the night.

7 Best Prom Hairstyles 2025

1. Big, Bouncy Blowout

The big, bouncy blowout is as timeless as it is gorgeous. And if you want to feel like a Victoria’s Secret supermodel on your big night, this voluminous, soft-curl look should be your go-to.

“The big, soft curls create a gorgeous and glam look that works perfectly for a prom or formal event,” says celebrity hairstylist Laurie Heaps. The fullness of the curls adds drama and elegance, making it the perfect match for everything from classic ball gowns to sleek, modern dresses.

It also flatters every face shape and adds dimension to all hair types, ensuring your ‘do is the shining star all night long, no matter how much time you spend on the dance floor. To get the look, curl your hair with your trusty curling iron, pin the curls with silver duck clips and lock it in with something like Beachwaver’s Major Moment Strong Hold Hairspray. Once the curls are set, gently remove the clips and brush through for a soft, romantic finish.

2. Sleek & Shiny

If you’re aiming for a polished, high-glam look, this style—just like the incomparable Kate Hudson—a sleek, shiny ‘do is the perfect pick. The smooth waves reflect light beautifully, adding a gorgeous, healthy shine that’s perfect for any formal occasion. And the polished middle part? It’s the epitome of timeless elegance.

To recreate the look, Heaps recommends starting with a blowdryer and a round brush—or, make it easier on yourself and use something like a Dyson Airwrap or Beachwaver Blow Brush—to create a smooth, silky base. Once your hair is dry, and properly coated with heat protectant spray, go in with a flat iron to refine look and tidy any loose strays. Finish with some anti-frizz cream to keep your hair shiny and prom picture-ready all night long.

3. Soft, Tousled Waves

If you’ve ever dreamed of looking like you just stepped off a sun-kissed beach while still rocking a polished prom look, soft, tousled waves are your answer. These relaxed waves add just the right amount of texture without being too polished, creating an effortless yet elegant style that would fit any dress, says Heaps.

When styling, use a curling iron to create soft, looser curls, then tousle them with a wide-tooth comb for that soft yet lived-in feel. Finish with a light-hold styling spray to keep the movement natural and breezy. Whether your hair is naturally straight, curly or somewhere in between, this style effortlessly gives you that carefree look while still feeling polished and put-together.

4. Classic Updo

For the gals who opted for a chic, open-back dress, we’re here to encourage you to let that baby shine by pairing it with a classic updo. This elegant and polished style adds a touch of timeless glamour to any look. Just like with Selena Gomez‘s look above, an updo can elevate your entire ensemble, creating a refined silhouette that complements dresses with show-stopping elements. You don’t want your hair competing with your dress, after all.

When you sit down at your vanity on prom day, start by pulling your hair into a smooth, sleek ponytail. To get that perfect glossy finish, apply some product from a wax stick to slick everything back. If you want to add soft, face-framing tendrils, be sure to gently pull a few strands free from your updo before applying any gel or serum. This will give you more control when you curl them with a styling iron.

If you’re dealing with a lumpy ponytail (we’ve all been there), “tilt the chin up while gathering your hair” to keep the hair near the nape of the neck and tight to the chin, recommends Heaps. It’s a small move with big results.

5. Adding a Bow Accent

Adding a bow to your prom hairstyle is like the cherry on top of a perfect sundae; it’s a fun, feminine touch that brings an extra pop of personality. Whether you’re rocking your hair up or letting it flow down, a large, statement bow adds a whimsical element that’s just right for the occasion.

It’s the perfect mix of playful and elegant, giving your look a unique and eye-catching twist. Bows pair beautifully with everything from a classic princess gown to a sleek, minimalist dress, adding that extra flair that’s sure to stand out in all the right ways.

6. Wet Waves

For a look that’s sleek, bold and modern, nothing beats the glossy, shiny texture of wet waves. A trending style thanks to the sleek, polished look, it’s the perfect hairstyle for anyone looking to make a statement while keeping things fresh… and with minimal effort.

To nail the classic Kim Kardashian look, start by applying a generous amount of gel or mousse to damp hair to give it that glossy, slick texture, says Heaps. Depending on your preference, you can either dry it with a diffuser or let it air dry for a more natural, beachy look. Once your hair’s dry, use a curling iron or wand to define your natural waves and finish with some ultra-shiny hairspray to lock in that glossy, frizz-free ‘do.