You have your dress, shoes and accessories, now it’s time to figure out how to wear your hair! Having long hair, there are so many fabulous styles for you to choose from and it can really be overwhelming. Make your decision easier by finding a style that is suitable not only to your dress, personality or theme, but also to your facial features. Here are some great prom updos for long hair ideas to get you prom-inspired!
Romantic Low Wrapped Bun
A low-wrapped bun is a perfect romantic style for pristine class and elegance. When trying to create a low-wrapped bun, it’s good to keep in mind, the bigger you want the bun, the longer or thicker you want your hair to be, so for long thick hair, this is easy to achieve style. If you have thin hair or short hair, a romantic low bun can still be achieved but consider some extensions to help with density and fullness. When creating a smooth and very perfect-looking hairstyle, it’s important to use soft and workable products while creating the style, then more firm hold products to finish the style off.
Beautiful French Braid
Get two beauties in one by bringing a braided classic and a big coiled bun together to produce a sophisticated look! Finish with your favorite hair accent!
Reverse French Braid
This features a polished and classic yet modern style that promises to hold your hair up amidst the dancing and fun times on your favorite night! Let some wavy pieces loose at the side of your face for a flirty vibe.
Braided Messy Bun
The cute braid adds a hint of vintage chic look to the rose-inspired bun. It’s a style that you can do on your own even anytime you wanna feel glamorous!
Long Boho Updo Bun
This boho chic long bun gives the perfect harmony of volume and texture. Try this beauty on prom night for the most unique on-point hairdo on the dance floor!
Magnificent Braided High Bun
Experiment with this exquisite and cool braid work in a high bun. Prom night is all about standing out and this hairdo will definitely do the work!
Long Romantic Updo
Who doesn’t dream of an exquisite romantic bun that is amazingly full of volume like this one? Leaves you giving off a flirty sexy vibe on your date night!
Twisted Long Updo
If you’re gonna wear a fancy beautiful gown, might as well wear a glam updo as well like this twisted blonde updo! By just using hairspray or your favorite holding product, it’s an easy do-it-yourself style that can last the whole night.
Lovely Loose Braid
An effortless look that will leave you feeling like royalty on your special night! Work with the dimension of your hair color by freely creating a huge weave at the side of your face that transforms into a really fabulous low bun.
Q&A with style creator, Jocy Gonzalez
Associate Stylist @ Caliber Hair & Makeup Studio in Reno, NV
How would you describe this look?
This is a very beautiful elegant soft look. The most beautiful thing about this look is the braid. It gives a soft stunning feel to the upstyle.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Have a good product which you can be able to create this look with. Also, this hairstyle would fit someone’s who wants something elegant but doesn’t require lots of time.
Textured Bun
Q&A with style creator, Chloe Cornu
Freelance Hairstylist in Clare, Ireland
How would you describe this look?
This is a soft and textured updo. I love that it’s super relaxed but at the same time still formal enough for any occasion. This particular client was being a bridesmaid for her friend! I think anyone could wear this to a wedding or a red carpet event and would even be amazing with some fresh flower details too! I have a lot of brides opting for this type of textured style over something structured!
Any advice for someone considering it?
There is a fine line between “textured” and “messy”, and I feel you really have to find the right stylist with the technique to be able to create this look. This look can work on most hair, straight or naturally curly, as it’s all about the hair prep!
I used a mix of styling tools and product to create this look! One of my favorite styling products to create a look like this is “Design Me” – “Puff Me”! It’s amazing stuff!
Loose and Tousled Updo
Q&A with style creator, Kayla Davis
Cosmetologist @ DG Studio in Spokane Valley, WA
How would you describe this look?
This look is an effortless beauty. I love how the drapery gives it a casual feel, combined with the elegance of the curly classic bun.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I would recommend this updo for someone with long hair and very little layering, as this will enable the hair to stay pinned back all day while maintaining the loose flowing feel. In order to achieve this style, you will also need to have enough hair, whether it be very thick or very long.
In order to create a big full bun, a hairpiece could be used to help add volume within the bun as well. I picture this hairstyle matching perfectly with an off the shoulder or strapless neckline to accentuate the natural beauty of the collar bone and neck.
Fashionable Fishtail Updo
Q&A with style creator, Lexi Martin
Hairstylist @ The Hair Parlour in Kansas City, MO
How would you describe this look?
This is a fishtail braided into a cleaned-up bun! I definitely love the detailing in the braid. The bun keeps it chic and clean, but the detailing in the braid adds a boho or indie feels. You can also sneak some hairpins and pieces of flowers in it.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I think this is awesome for all hair types! This girl had tons of hair, and while it took long, it held up well! People with finer hair might opt for a hair donut to add some coverage.
I also think this is awesome for girls who usually wear their hair more traditionally, but also want something a little more fun!
Impressive Honey Blonde Textured Updo
Q&A with style creator, Abby Norvell
Hair & Makeup Artist in Tulsa, OK
How would you describe this look?
This is a soft-twisted low bun. I absolutely love the texture and the movement that this updo has.
Over the last couple of years, braids have been extremely popular and incorporated into a lot of updos, and I like that this updo looks different with the twist!
Any advice for someone considering it?
Let the hair air dry beforehand so that it has as much natural texture as possible.
I used a tapered wand (size: 1″ to 1/2″) and prepped the hair with a light, working hairspray and dry shampoo. I tried a ton of dry shampoos and my favorite is the L’Oréal Extraordinary Clay. It gives the roots and ends volume and texture and just the right amount of tack to allow the hair to hold without becoming crunchy and stiff.
This style is for anyone who is looking for texture, movement, and volume in their updo!
Bright Blonde Pull Through Braid
Q&A with style creator, Teisha Ferrin
Cosmetology Student @ Paul Mitchell The School Salt Lake City in Salt Lake City, UT
How would you describe this look?
This look is the perfect combo of sassy and sweet! I like it because it combines 3 of my go-to braids – the pull-through, the infinity braid, and the classic fishtail.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look requires a lot of length. Maybe consider clip-in extensions to add length and fullness.
A good texture spray is key to any braided style. It gives the hair some grit and something for the braid to hold on to.
Products are important especially for those with fine hair. I always leave some face-framing pieces to soften the look. I find it flattering for everyone, and it gives a level of comfort for those who don’t usually wear their hair back.
Flattering Updo for Thick Hair
Q&A with style creator, Yulia Popovich
Licensed Cosmetologist @ Simply Stylin’ Salon in Vancouver, WA
How would you describe this look?
This look was inspired by a summer vibe wedding! The most important part about hairstyling is to duplicate the personality. This look describes an innocent young girl whose beauty steals the hearts of everyone.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style is extra special because you can do it on almost all types of hair. Especially for those young ladies who want to feel like Cinderella. For one night, you can stand out in the crowd without going too overboard.
Make sure you keep the hair hydrated. You can use the Biolage Hyra Source Mist for a better and cleaner look.
Elegant Long Updo
Q&A with style creator, Paola Perez
Owner @ Pao’s Makeup Inc. in Miami, FL
How would you describe this look?
This is a super cute casual updo. I love how versatile it is. Even though it is elegant, you can use it with a more laid-back look. However, it is ideal for somebody who is going for a princess look.
To get this look, you have to texturize part of the hair, giving the top of your head a little volume and hold the top half of the hair with bobby pins.
The bottom half of the head is then curled with a curling iron and each section is twisted and held up in different directions to fill all the spaces and finish the updo.
This style’s versatility allows you to use it for several kinds of events (from formal to more casual), and it is flattering with any style of neckline that you may choose.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My first question to a client before I start styling their hair is, “how do you want to see yourself?” It is important to me that the person is sure of what she wants so that in the end she feels comfortable.
For this type of hairstyle, I prefer a client with long hair. Adding extensions to create the look adds weight to the client’s hair and it’s uncomfortable for people not used to wearing extensions.
The products that I used to create this look are hairspray and bobby pins to hold the hair.
This is a style that I recommend for prom where all the girls want to look different and special. There’s nothing better than a cute updo for a night of dancing and fun without having to worry about your hair not looking its best.
I also recommend this hairstyle for anybody who wants to look formal but with a modern touch.
Pinned Up Messy Bun
Q&A with style creator, Emma Sibson
Mobile Hairdresser & Barber in Leeds / Wakefield, UK
How would you describe this look?
This is very elegant and classical, which is perfect for a wedding, prom or the races. I love the detail of how it rolls into a twist and neatly pinned back with loose curls around the sides of the face.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Make sure your hair is not too clean. Add texture dust spray to give extra volume and curl the hair before pinning it up. Afterward, use finishing gloss spray to add shine, and extra hold hairspray to keep it secure.
Long Greek Chignon
Q&A with style creator, Lucja Ryzner
Student @ The Temple: Paul Mitchell School in Baltimore, MD
How would you describe this look?
I would describe, or compare this look to a bed full of roses! It’s very romantic and it reminds me of many roses on a vine. My favorite part of this style is the unique twist to your average braided crown. It is very dainty yet tough (to style) like a rose!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style can be done on short to long hair! My model actually had shoulder-length hair. The key to styling this look is putting in support first. I was using many bobby-pins to pin the small rose braids in place. So what I did is create a small Dutch crown braid in the middle and a cushion for those bobby-pins. Next, I took front framing pieces, used a Paul Mitchell Styling Lotion to tame any frizz, and braided into a rose to form all around the head. Not much thermal styling is needed! This look is perfect for simple, high neckline dresses. These embedded roses will definitely add the “wow” factor to your whole look! For best result of this updo, thick, dimensional hair is best.
Long Wrapped Around Updo
Q&A with style creator, Danielle Russo
Hairstylist @ Ufo Salon and Spa in Somerset, NJ
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as a sophisticated updo, perfect for an elegant night out or a special occasion. My favorite thing about it is how smooth and clean cut it looks, with everything in place. I also love the detailing of the twists and curls, which are eye-catching and add lots of interest. The contrast of the brown hair with blonde highlights makes every detail pop.
Any advice for someone considering it?
First, understand that this updo will look different with different hair types, textures, and colors. For example, blonde hair is easier to see details and contrasts, while brown or dark hair has no contrast and fine detailing can get lost. However, this updo is achievable for all hair types.
One tip is to have your hair be somewhat dirty when getting it done. It’s harder to work with silky clean hair when curling and pinning the hair. It also makes the updo stay longer. Dry shampoo is a miracle worker when dealing with silky, thin hair. Overall, this is a great and versatile updo for many events. If it catches your eye, go for it!
Neat & Elegant Updo
Q&A with style creator, Monique Rangel
Makeup Artist & Hairstyling Artist @ Inland Empire Studio in Bloomington, CA
How would you describe this look?
I think this look is very neat and elegant. The hairstyle explains itself very well and stands out so much on someone with lighter shades of hair so the braid is more noticeable.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look will work great for anyone who loves their hair out of their face. When working on this hair style it&rsquos great for all hair types thin to thick and length passing the shoulders for fuller and thicker braid results.
Updo For All Occasions
Q&A with style creator, Rima
Hairstylist / Owner @ Rima’s Salon in Glendale, CA
How would you describe this look?
This is long, classic, and simple updo for all occasions.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look can work for any type of hair, from thin to thick. If the hair is thin, we use a thickening product and volumizer. If the hair is thick, we use Anti-Freeze for a smooth look.
Beautiful Braided Updo
Q&A with style creator, Netta Nicosia
Hairstylist / Make-up Artist @ Netta Nicosia Artistry at Glam Beauty Suites in Davie, FL
How would you describe this look?
I created this beautiful braided updo for a client to wear to her school dance.
My favorite part of this style is the versatility and the effect that adding the braid gives to the entire look. It creates a more relaxed feel, yet it still formal and romantic.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I recommend a braided updo to just about anyone who wants to wear a formal hairstyle to an event. It can also be worn more casually by simply creating a less intricate bun.
This style is excellent for a client with any texture hair and is a great way to sweep the hair off the face and neck. This look is sure to last through a great night of fun!
French Twist + Chignon
Q&A with style creator, Casey Powell
Hair Sculptor / Make-up Artist / Salon Owner @ Modern Classic Beauty in Jacksonville, FL
How would you describe this look?
I love French twists and chignons (the fancy word for the bun at the bottom), so I combined the two.
I love the easiness of the style with the raked back texture and how it offsets the formality that is often associated with French twists.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I use Kenra Volume Spray 25 for almost every style I do. I recommend teasing a little bit at the top of the head, raking all your hair back with fingers spread apart, then spraying and holding your fingers there while the spray dries quickly. That will help keep the separation needed for the texture. Create a French twist on a half up section, then bring all of the remaining hair into the chignon.
I think this style brings a modern twist to a more conservative style. It would be good for a client going to prom or special event, or even a wedding!
Fun & Formal Pony Style
Q&A with style creator, Helena Da Cruz
Hairstylist @ Hair Dimension Salons in Bronxville, NY
How would you describe this look?
I describe this look as fun, but still formal if necessary. The thing I like most is that it’s up off the neck and cool, but still very today’s look!
Any advice for someone considering it?
Using Arrojo Dry Shampoo gave me more texture and fullness to make the style last. I recommend this hairstyle to anyone ranging from mid teens through mid thirties. I don’t feel it’s sophisticated enough for someone older.
Elegant Side Updo
Q&A with style creator, Alexandra Wilson
Hairstylist @ Hair Styling By Alexandra Eisemann in East Greenwich, RI
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would say this is elegant formal updo and the fact that it’s a side updo makes it more of a modern look. I love how it’s so simple, yet with just a few twists it creates just a little detail. Less is more sometimes!
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
Definitely curl the hair first! I personally love using Kenra Professional Medium Hold Spray 13. It’s a great working spray! After initially curling the hair, don’t be afraid to run your fingers through it. It will make the hair look softer and you want to make sure hair is tangle-free, especially before creating those twists.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is definitely for someone with medium to long, thick hair. I think this look would be perfect for any formal event!
Focal Point
The swirls in this style make it very interesting and sexy. It will be the perfect accessory for a backless gown.
Recommended Products:
Frizz and flyaways can ruin the beautiful detail of this style. Paul Mitchell’s Soft Spray is perfect for looks like this because it is wet enough to hold down and tame unruly strands. It doesn’t set right away which is perfect because it gives you enough time to detail your style.
Hair Type:
Medium to thick hair will work best with this updo.
Face Shape:
This hairstyle can work on any face shape.
Loose and Tousled
This soft and relaxed style is the perfect way to soften strong features.
Recommended Products:
For a flexible, loose and crunch-free style that last all night, try Paul Mitchell’s Hold Me Tight.
Hair Type:
Any hair type with layers will work with this style. Without layers, the different lengths of curls left out won’t be possible.
Face Shape:
The fringe and the volume on top of the head make this style perfect for wider face shapes. To make it more suitable for longer face shapes, swoop the fringe across the forehead more to cover majority of it. This will make the face appear shorter and wider. Longer faces should minimize volume on top of the head to avoid making the face look longer.
Finger Wave
Have all eyes on you with this glamorous vintage look.
Recommended Products:
Extra-Body Sculpting Gel by Paul Mitchell is a great product to sculpt a finger wave with. It locks the waves in place and gives them a lot of shine.
Hair Type:
Fine to medium hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
This style is perfect for showing off an oval face shape. This will also look great on heart shaped faces as it will highlight their cheekbones.
Grecian Goddess
Look like a queen in this Grecian goddess-inspired style.
Recommended Products:
Paul Mitchell’s foaming pomade is excellent is smoothing and controlling hair while braiding.
Hair Type:
Medium to thick hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
Wider face shapes will look great in this style. The length on both sides of the face and the volume on top of the head will lengthen the face.
Retro Meets Modern
This crisp and clean updo is a beautifully sculpted work of art.
Recommended Products:
Prep the hair with Extra-Body Sculpting Foam by Paul Mitchell to get a head start with volume.
Hair Type:
Medium to thick hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
This style will look great on round, heart and square face shapes.
Chignon
As Coco Chanel said, “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” That is what comes to mind when it comes to chignons.
Recommended Products:
Secure each strand with Paul Mitchell’s Hold Me Tight.
Hair Type:
All hair types will work well with this hair style.
Face Shape:
Depending on how the fringe is styled, this updo will suit any face shape. A fringe that is angled more horizontal will suit longer face shapes. A fringe angled more vertical will be more suitable for wider face shapes.
Multi Texture
This beautiful updo features multiple textures without looking overwhelming.
Recommended Products:
Secure every detail of this gorgeous style with Extra-Body Finishing Spray by Paul Mitchell. It’s a quick drying hairspray that won’t weight down the hair, allowing the style to keep its detail.
Hair Type:
Medium to thick hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
Having all the hair swept away from the face, this style will be perfect to show off an oval face shape.
Loose & Up
Hair loosely pinned into an beautiful updo is gives a soft and delicate look to its wearer.
Recommended Products:
To keep your look secure but still soft looking, use Paul Mitchell’s Hold Me Tight.
Hair Type:
Thicker hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
Depending on how the hair is swooped across the forehead, this style can work with any face shape. It will suit a longer face shape if most of the forehead is covered as this will shorten the face. It will suit a wider face shape if just enough of the forehead is covered to make the face appear narrower.
Half Up
Need to have your hair down but still want the updo feel? Get the best of both worlds with this half up style.
Recommended Products:
This style looks best with hydrated, frizz free, silky hair with crunch-free volume. Achieve this by prepping the hair with Hydro Cream Whip by Paul Mitchell’s Awapuhi Wild Ginger line.
Hair Type:
All types of hair will work well with this style.
Face Shape:
Oval face shapes will look amazing in this long style. Just remember not to create too much volume on top of the head as this could take away from the shape’s ideal proportions.
Messy Updo
Look like a celebrity going down the red carpet in this super stylish messy updo.
Recommended Products:
Use Paul Mitchell’s Hold Me Tight to keep this beautiful messy style secure all night.
Hair Type:
All hair types will work well with this style.
Face Shape:
The angle of the fringe and the hair left out on the sides of the face will make a round face appear longer. This will also lengthen a square face shape and soften its angles. The length of the fringe covers the jaw line and the hair that is left out slightly curled really softens it.
Queen Of The Night
Walk in like a queen in this beautifully regal, high updo.
Recommended Products:
Keep every strand in place and shiny with Paul Mitchell’s Extra-Body Finishing Spray.
Hair Type:
Really long and thick hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
The height of this style will make wider face shapes appear longer.
Ribboned Up
This style features ribbon twirled and twisted into the hair creating a very pretty updo.
Recommended Products:
For illuminating shine, mist Shine Spray by Paul Mitchell over the finished style.
Hair Type:
Medium to thick hair will work best with this style.
Face Shape:
This style will look suit any face shape depending on how the front is styled. Have hair or a fringe swoop across the majority of the forehead. This will make a longer face shape appear longer. Have it cover just a part of the forehead to make a wider face shape appear longer. Leaving out hair on the side of the face can make a face shape appear longer and soften a strong jaw line.
Softly Banded
More interest is added to this gorgeous soft updo using a headband.
Recommended Products:
Protect the hair from the heat of the curling iron and crimper with Paul Mitchell’s Hot Off The Press. Not only does it protect the hair from heat, but it will also keep your hair curled and crimped all night.
Hair Type:
Fine to medium hair works best with airy styles like this.
Face Shape:
The roundness of the silhouette of this style makes it suitable for longer face shapes.
