Prom hairstyles for short hair are possible with a little creativity, product, and tools. You can create cute styles such as updos, half updos, braids and more. Short hair can be accused of not being versatile enough, especially when it comes to fun formal styles. Defy what’s expected and take your short haircut to a whole new level with one of these amazingly gorgeous short hairstyles for prom. By simply adding a few curls, flips, accessories, or splashes of color you can take your short cut to a whole new stylish dimension. Your prom day is a great time to step it up and make a statement. Get inspired some of these gorgeous short prom hairstyles below!
Pearl Headpiece on Neck-Length Wavy Hair
Use a pearl headpiece on neck-length wavy hair to glam up a simple hairstyle. Pearl accessories are timeless and a staple in elegance. Short hair has fewer styling options than long hair, so accessorizing is absolutely necessary to bring interest and attention to the hairstyle. Make sure to pin your accessories in place using a cross pin method to keep them secure while you dance the night away.
Flower Headpiece for Short Hair
This laid-back Boho-inspired half updo is a work of art! With two simple twists tied together at the back and decorated with lovely floras, you get to show off a beautifully textured and messy yet elegant look. When considering this prom hair, short hair is the best way to rock it!
Short Prom Hair With Sweet Floral Headband
Headbands and accessories are a great way to achieve a boho chic vibe for short hairstyles. Add in some twists and short braids for a more interesting prom night look. When you have short hair, prom hairstyles can be a little more challenging to put into an updo or braid. That’s why I love how you can still make a short haircut look formal and super cute when it’s down.
Caramel Blonde Updo With a Twist
Who says prom updos for short hair can’t be done? This unique and cute hairstyle is a smart way to keep the hair off your shoulders. You can also leave some side bangs for a flirty mysterious aura. It might be a little harder to create a classic updo, but plenty of short hairstyles can be done in a fancy manner.
Cute Pixie with Headband
Q&A with style creator, Jammie Thompson
Hairstylist @ Hair by Jammie in Jacksonville, FL
How would you describe this look?
Your short haircut is that staple accessory. The undercut of a pixie is like looking at the red bottoms of your shoes. You can show off the undercut by parting it heavy to one side or even adding a side braid. Accessories for short hair like a scarf or a headband can make all the difference in turning some heads. I love that people grow confident and stand a little taller when rocking a short hairstyle.
Any advice for someone considering it?
When considering short hairstyles for prom, it’s important to maintain the haircut. Typically the undercut will need to be cut once a month or so. If you wear your hair in a ponytail the majority of the week, it’s time to consider a hairstyle that forces that ponytail to disappear! When styling your hair it’s important to prep the hair with the correct products to maintain a style for at least a couple of days.
My two go-to styling products for all hair types is Surface Bassu Oil and Surface Trinity Repair Tonic. These products are great for all hair types to blow-dry in and even reapply to dried hair to add shine, strengthen, and protect the hair from heat. If you are looking for that extra texture to smooth hair or even after curling, Char blow-dry paste will help keep the volume and add texture.
For those who like to work out or do not like to wash your hair every day, Trinity Dry Shampoo is a must. This is the best dry shampoo for your hair because it doesn’t spray on white, absorbs the oils and dirt, leaving the hair smelling amazing. A hot tip is to apply Trinity Dry Shampoo to freshly blow-dried hair (say what?!). Believe it or not, you can buy yourself an extra day without shampooing. The final hot tip is to get a good shampoo cap! This is great to use when washing your face since the ponytails are trashed! Have fun with your short hairstyle!
Messy Center Part Waves
Q&A with style creator, Natasha Kaichuk
Hairstylist & Makeup Artist in Israel, Tel-Aviv
How would you describe this look?
This is the beach wave hairstyle for short hair. I love this look because of the free shape and easy feeling. I always prefer the natural charm of messy hair and gentle waves. This prom hair for short hair radiates with chic of carelessness.
Any advice for someone considering it?
It will suit girls with the modern, free, soft and independent image. It can work with any hair type and any face type.
Things you need to get the beach wave hairstyle: a curling iron in the right size (for straight thick hair 9-18mm, for wavy hair it can be 19-22mm.), a hair mousse (light strength), and a fixing hair spray (medium strength).
Don’t curl the ends of the hair, leave it straight, and it will give a more natural look. When you finished curling, don’t open the curls, give it 5 min. to cool down, and it will give the curls a nice firmy shape for a long time. Open the curls with your head down for more volume.
The beach wave hairstyle is perfect for any of your day looks – casual, formal, fun, morning and evening, summer and winter. Enjoy it!
Splendid Silver Smooth Bob
Q&A with style creator, Paola Medina
Co-Owner & Master Hairstylist @ Eter Beauty Lab in Chihuahua, Mexico
How would you describe this look?
Fresh and classy. I really like this look because of a very simple but powerful reason – it is dynamic and easy to handle. From its color, it does not require a lot of maintenance or visits to the hair salon, and we all want that!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is a great choice for girls who enjoy being girly, women who embrace their delicacy and coquetry but also look for practical solutions for their hair.
When creating this look, I always make clear that it needs to be styled, so I suggest them to get a therm active protector, specifically One United from Redken for all the benefits it has.
Color-wise, you should have a healthy hair for the color to hold onto, so I recommend having a high-end shampoo or mask at home to maintain it.
Short Wavy Prom Do Style
Q&A with style creator, Holly Kolodziej
Master Stylist @ Salon Spruce in La Jolla, CA
How would you describe this look?
This is a textured bob with waves through the tresses. The length we decided on together, suited her face shape and personality. When it comes to short hairstyles, bobs are the most versatile in styling for formal events and galas.
My favorite thing about this cut is the internal layers that we gave her. Not only did the internal layers give her texture and removed access weight, but she can also wear this cut sleek or straight without seeing lines from texturing shears (that so many stylists still use).
Any advice for someone considering it?
Make sure this is the cut for you. It’s super fun, but curly hair takes twice as long to grow out.
Also, anyone who is considering this cut should think about the seasons. If you’re considering going super short, I suggest that you wait until the humidity goes down in the air. The more weight you have, the more you can control frizz with a product.
We used a curl cream and sea salt spray to give her some softness and texture. Rather than scrunching the hair. I took 2-inch sections, twisted each section around my fingers and let it drop. I then defused the whole head with a “hot sock,” and touched up the curls with a curling wand, after fully dry.
Shadow Root Double Braided Updo
Q&A with style creator, Jessica Blake
Owner / Stylist @ Hair Revival in Surprise, AZ
How would you describe this look?
This is a little bohemian braided updo and a little classy. I feel like it shows off the color very well.
My favorite thing about this style is it makes the guest look like she has more hair then she actually does.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My advice when styling prom hairstyles for short hair is don’t overdo it with a product. This look didn’t require a lot to make it work. A good texture powder like Expanda Dust from Unite gives her fine hair the perfect amount of texture and grit. This is perfect for the girl who wants to dance all night long and not have her hair sticking to her neck or face.
Awesome Glamhawk Prom Hairstyle
Q&A with style creator, Jacki Spellman
Colorist / Stylist / Make-up Artist @ Lifted Salon in Roseville, CA
How would you describe this look?
This short prom hairstyle is a version of what I consider a “GlamHawk.” It’s my favorite style because I’m an old punk rocker at heart.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is definitely a rocking hairstyle that will get eyes on you! Love it, own it, have some fun with it!
Prom hairstyles for short hair can be a little challenging to style, especially if it’s fine hair. Layering products purposefully helped add the texture I needed for hold and longevity of wear.
I styled her with volume using Eufora’s Boost Root Lifting Spray and Sculpture Styling Gel for heat protection and hold. Blown dry and finished with a flat iron.
I then added Eufora’s Full Effect Dry Texture Spray for more added volume and back-combed a mohawk section for extra grip for pinning. I pinned it tight on the sides and with more volume towards the crown. I added Eufora’s Powder Lift for even more volume (because why not!?), then finished it off with Illuminate Shine Mist and Elevate Hair Spray.
Short Prom Braids
Q&A with style creator, Bethany Jiles
Hairstylist @ The Upper Cut Salon in Villa Rica, GA
How would you describe this look?
This is a short prom style, but it would also be great for any fun outing like going to the beach or a music festival. I feel that it is an appropriate style for any age. It’s so fun and very boho-chic. I love that the double dutch si gives a lot of texture to the style. You might not consider side braids for prom but if your hair is long enough it can look very cute and chic.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Braids tend to lock into place much better if there is some existing texture in the hair, so I definitely recommend using a texture spray and/or curling the hair before doing the braids. Once you have your braid pinned tightly in place, be sure to use a good holding hairspray (I am a massive fan of Big Sexy Spray and Stay All Nighter Hairspray) and also a shine spray. It’s also very nice for keeping your hair out of your face. A lot of times when you are dancing the night away at prom, you can tend to get a little sweaty, so this style is great for keeping those fly-aways from sticking to your forehead.
Dutch Halo Braid Up Do
Q&A with style creator, Diane Cheeseworth
Stylist @ WO Salon Torquay in Torquay, UK
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this short hairstyle as a versatile updo that can be worn for either weddings or prom. This boho hairstyle consists of a Dutch halo braid updo that wraps from ear to ear across the top of the head. The back of the hair is twisted into a textured bun with a few soft pieces around the face.
What I love about these halo braids is that it can be done on shorter hair or longer hair. It can also be dressed up by adding hair adornments into the twist in the back.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Before styling, I suggest using a medium flat iron to create some movement in the hair and adding some texture with a boost powder. I particularly like the Puff.Me Powder from Design.Me. Once styling is completed, I would add a light hairspray so the hair has hold, but still keeps its soft appearance. I used Davines Invisible Gas hairspray.
This style lends itself best to hair that hasn’t been freshly washed because it has more texture to it. The hair design is suitable for any hair type or length as it consists of a Dutch braid and a twist. Once it has been dressed it will stay all day so the client wont need to worry about the style losing its shape or having to redress it. This type of look would suit any occasion.
Quick Twisted Updo
Q&A with style creator, Alex Sayler
Future Professional Cosmetologist @ Paul Mitchell The School Esani in Roswell, GA
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this short hairstyle for prom as versatile and quick twisted updo. All this style consists of are some wand curls and two braids. You can really take this style in 100 different directions with just those basic elements! Many girls are looking for prom hairstyles for short hair that are easy to style but will still look beautiful the whole night.
My favorite thing about this style is how elegant it looks with minimal effort and time. The versatility this style provides allows me to tweak a few things and create a whole new look and feel without having to start all over. If my client decides they aren’t completely happy with the end result, I can easily change it up.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Take into consideration your hair’s density and texture. My client has fine hair, but a lot of density. So having half of her hair up wouldn’t make her hair look any thinner because she has a high density of fine hair. If your hair doesn’t have a lot of density and your texture doesn’t aid in adding visual density to the look, I recommend going for a complete updo or adding in some extensions. This will ensure there is enough volume to keep the style from looking unfinished.
Simple Deep Side Part with Waves
Q&A with style creator, Kara Ann Becker
Hair & Make-up Stylist @ Split Endz Salon in Chicago, IL
How would you describe this look?
I would best describe this look as a simple yet classy hairstyle. Many of today’s prom dresses have higher necklines and lots of beading or patterns, and I feel as though this style doesn’t clash with them.
Any advice for someone considering it?
The key is using the correct products and the right curling technique. Always curl away from your face!
Vintage Inspired
Gorgeous shiny hair in a retro style like this one makes your overall vintage look perfect. The tight curls at the ends combined with the simple finger wave on top with insanely shiny hair is inspired by the original Hollywood starlets. Can’t go wrong with this one!
How To Style:
- When hair is damp, comb through with a firm hold gel.
- Use a comb to help create a strong finger wave on each side of your part. Clip in place with a long skinny clip (helps to set it and prevent you from pulling it out while curling the rest of your hair).
- Insert small plastic rollers to the rest of your hair while it’s damp and let dry, or let your finger wave dry (clip still in) and then use a small barrel curling iron to create the curls.
- Comb through dry curls using your fingers to separate them.
- Remove clip from finger wave and spray style with firm hold hairspray.
Recommended Hair Products:
You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great holding gel. Try Salon Care Super Firm Styling Gel. It doesn’t flake and will really hold your hair in place.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
Oval, heart, some round or square faces. Fine to thick density with a little bit of natural texture to it is ideal.
Tip:
Use small plastic rollers for the ends after setting the top in a finger wave, all while hair is damp. Yes, you can mimic the style with dry hair, but you won’t get the exact same feel.
Ultra-Mod
Try this unique style to amp up your own personal flair. What sets it apart are the definition to the curls on the top and sides, as well as the smooth but textured fullness in the back.
How To Style:
- Prep hair with a volumizing mousse or other styling product then blow dry using a round brush.
- Use a curling iron to smooth and further develop curls on top/in front if you need to.
- Add backcombing underneath the crown and top, then smooth over and finger style the ends of the curls.
- Use a comb to help mold and define the structure in the top and front areas.
- Pull a pomade or wax (or other favorite texturizing product) through the ends of the very defined curls then spray the entire style with a firm hold hairspray.
Recommended Hair Products:
Try Paul Mitchell’s Sculpting Foam to help mold the top and define the curls. It will help with the stronger curl in back too.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
Oval, heart, subtle square or round faces. Fine to thick density with any texture.
Tip:
Use multiple products to achieve different looks within the same style. Add volumizing product to the crown and back areas for extreme volume while using a sculpting mousse or gel in front to get the smooth definition in front with a pomade or wax for the defined curls. Be creative and think about what you want each section of hair to do or to be.
Simple and Beautiful
Not all prom hairstyles for short hair are created equal and this one definitely has an edge. It’s an easy enough style to recreate, but formal enough to be paired with any complicated or ornate dress. Smooth in the front, curled in the back – it’s definitely not boring! Keep it classy by maintaining healthy hair and using clean quality products.
How To Style:
- After blow drying hair, use a curling iron to create curls around the back and sides of your hair.
- Flat iron the top front section by pulling from roots to ends across your forehead.
- Mist with a medium hold hairspray. Don’t overdo it on the spray!
Recommended Hair Products:
Try Kenra Volume Mousse 12 for medium hold and flexible styling.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
Any face shape can rock this adorable hairstyle! Fine to thick hair density with any texture is the best hair type for this look.
Tip:
Having multiple tones of color in your hair helps break up the style a little bit while adding dimension and interest.
Spunky Punk Hair
You’re the edgy girl that wants to stand out and not be too pretty or soft looking. Rock your locks with a simple smooth but full, a little spiky in the back, hairstyle. Rich dark brown color looks dramatic and striking against bold colors. These types of short prom hairstyles are tailored for girls looking for more flair in their look.
How To Style:
- Prep hair with a styling crème and blow dry with a flat brush.
- Use a flat iron on the lowest possible setting to smooth any stubborn hairs.
- Use a little shine-less paste or wax in the back then add a little backcombing on top and smooth over the top.
- A quick burst of medium hold finishing spray finishes off the style.
Recommended Hair Products:
For amazing body and shine, try Sebastian Trilliant Thermal Protection and Shimmer Complex. It will give you all sorts of crazy volume while adding a fantastic shine to your hair.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
Oval, square, heart-shaped faces, some round or long depending on the length around your ears. Medium to thick density with easily smoothed texture.
Tip:
Don’t skip the drama on your face. Having a dramatic style and dress without the face to go with it makes it look like you forgot something. At least glam up your eyes to make the style more consistent. Add the lips for an even bolder look.
Curly Prom Side Bun
You wouldn’t think it was possible, but it is – you can make short hair look longer and give yourself the look of a messy updo without having to have the length typically associated with them. This beautiful asymmetrical hairstyle would be perfect to make your prom bun hairstyle look different. For updos prom hairstyles for short hair, bobby pins and hairspray are your secret weapons here.
How To Style:
- Blow dry hair with a round brush after applying sculpting mousse.
- Curl the ends of your hair and break them up with your fingers.
- Pull hairs over to one side and pin them so the last part of the curl is free, even on the hair that is already on the same side as the style. Use hair pins (they’re like bobby pins, but they don’t pinch hair or anchor it, only hold it in place on top) for hair that you want styled loosely in the front.
- Spray finished style with a firm hold hairspray.
Recommended Hair Products:
Mousse Forte Strong Hold Mousse from Sebastian will give you ultra control over those curls. Use the mousse on wet hair and scrunch it into your strands to really disperse the product.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
Any face shape can wear this cute hairstyle and any hair texture, too. Do make a note that fine hair will look more wispy and less full.
Tip:
For hairs that are too short to reach, try imitating a braid too! You can layer hairs along one side to look like they’re in a braid by using a bobby pin in the end of each braid section as you go. Since another layer will go right over the top, the pins will be hidden and you’ll get all that short hair over to the side without having to look at the pins or feel like you’re wearing a hairspray helmet.
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