5 Hairstyles for Prom
On prom night, when you want to look your very best, your hair is just as important as your dress. Yes, we really just said that. Think about it: If you've got an amazing gown that fits you perfectly but your hair is falling down on one side and losing its curl on the other, people won't notice (or care) what you're wearing. Don't fret though. We've got the hairstyles that'll make you the queen of the ball, regardless of your hair type or personal style.
Read the next page to learn about a classic 'do that looks just as good on the dance floor as it does on the red carpet.
5: Chignon
This hairstyle is a great choice for girls who want to look simple, yet elegant. A chignon is a knot of hair at the nape of the neck, and it works well regardless if you have curly or straight locks. Celebrities like Jessica Alba, Beyonce and Julia Roberts have rocked this style on the red carpet, and they've all worn it in unique ways. That's what's so great about the chignon -- it's both classy and customizable. You can wear it pulled back tightly into a sleek bun, or you can have it assembled more loosely, with teased hair and pieces pulled out to frame your face. The side chignon is also a popular variation where the knot still sits low on the head, but your hair is situated on the side rather than the back. This beautiful, asymmetrical look is a modern twist on a timeless classic, and, yes, it looks great on the dance floor.
4: Sleek Ponytail
If you want your hair pulled back for a night of dancing but you don't dig the chignon, you might consider this style. The sleek ponytail can be worn in the back or on the side, and it usually works best with long, super-straight hair (or hair that's been super-straightened). If you have a straightener, elastic bands and bobby pins at home, you can easily create this look yourself. Simply apply a smoothing cream and then flatiron your hair. Then pull it back or to the side in a low ponytail. Take a 1-inch section of hair from the bottom and wrap it around the elastic so that it's completely covered. Pin your locks into place, finish with hair spray to keep your 'do sleek and secure, and you're ready to go!
3: Soft Waves
If you have long, layered hair, this could be the look for you: Big, soft curls cascading away from your face. This is a stunning style if you're OK with having your hair down for the night. Like the sleek ponytail, you can easily create this hairstyle at home if you've got the right equipment (a large-barrel curling iron and some strong-hold hairspray). Make sure to try out this look before the big night in order to see how well your hair keeps its curl. Remember, it could rain, so you'll want to see how your 'do holds up in less-than-perfect conditions.
Boho braids are perfect for the girl who wants to add a funky look to her hair. These small braids run through your hair or around your face. This style accentuates a number of looks, as you can wear these braids with your hair down or up in a chignon or ponytail. You can also choose whether you want French or regular braiding. Unlike the sleek ponytail, boho braids work well for girls with hair that's straight, curly or anywhere in between, so it's a style that you can really make your own. If you're a skilled braider, you can create this look at home. If not, chances are you know someone who can help, or you can visit a professional hair braider.
Another look that has recently escalated in popularity is the ballerina bun. Like the sleek ponytail, this style requires long hair, but it doesn't have to be straight. It differs from the chignon in that instead of sitting low, near the neck, it sits on the top or back of the head, just like the bun on a -- you guessed it -- ballerina. Like the chignon, though, you can wear a sleek ballerina bun or a messy one with pieces pulled out or around your face. To get this look, either coil your rolled hair around a ponytail and pin it into place, or use a sock bun to get a larger, 1960s' style 'do. Try out each method before the big night to see which one you like best.