Meet Mary Allen, a writer at The Right Hairstyles Magazine with a passion for the artistry of hair, who first joined our editorial team in January 2022. With a keen eye for trends in haircutting and coloring techniques, Mary Allen explores the diverse spectrum of beauty, ensuring that her articles resonate with women from all walks of life.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
As a creative person, musician and actress at heart, Stacey Bradshaw has experimented a lot with her hairstyles just out of curiosity: blunt and side swept bangs, layered haircut, long bob, highlights, dark toning etc. “Life is too long to be afraid of changes. Monotony is dull” is her motto. She is a freelance writer, keen reader, and just a curious person, who loves exploring new useful information on nutrition and beauty tips for keeping hair healthy and pretty.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
Short hairstyles are convenient in every-day wear, but what about prom when most girls are planning to rock luxurious curls and fancy updos? Fear not, your short tresses can also be styled all the rage. Here are fresh trendy ideas for prom hairstyles for short hair worthy to show off at your senior ball.
What options for styling short locks are the most popular? Surprisingly, you have a rich choice.
Pixie Crops. Pixies are the shortest hairstyles, so you need to refresh your haircut (and maybe your hair color) before prom and have it styled according to the chosen idea. Make a stake on the edges, finish or interesting hair hue! It may be a soft platinum blonde pixie with side-swept bangs or a sultry and edgy brunette crop. Longish pixies allow sporting chic curled and shaggy styles.
Short Bobs. Modern bobs can look super festive when styled with curls and waves, enhancing the texture. For prom, you can style your short bob with an accent braid or opt for a romantic half updo, a statement side parting, or even an elegant updo for short hair, more so if you don’t mind clip-in extensions.
Neck-Length Hair. Consider twisted and braided updos. You can also make a faux-updo by curling your locks, sleeking them back, and fixing them randomly at the nape with bobby pins. Feel free to add flowers and accessories.
The following 50 ideas will provide you with ample inspiration!
@bridal_hairstylist
This hairstyle is perfect for its carefree but elegant look, and it’s achievable even without curling your hair first. Consider balayage highlights and some decorative pins for added allure.
It is incredible what extensions for short hair can make. Just a few clip-in pieces will be enough to add some length and, most importantly, fullness you need to pull off a mesmerizing classy updo.
@gavinharviehair
Here’s a lovely bob, which looks very put-together with braided elements. Incorporation of a contrasting gypsophila shows how a single strategically placed detail can totally change the look of a simple short hairstyle.
@natashachanelhair
Thinking of something you can do on your own? Well, this blonde hairstyle with a half-up bun is simple, yet effective. All you need to do it to curl your hair and tie a messy half bun, stepping up the ‘do with a hair piece. An excellent choice when simplicity is a must!
@kaylazielbeauty
Here’s an updo that’s packed with youth and femininity. The rich brunette hue looks charming and natural, while the twisted elements look intricate and party-ready. Leave out the front layers for the flattering face frame.
@bridal_hairstylist
Here is a fun fact to celebrate – you don’t have to cut face-framing tendrils that look so chic in updos if your hair is already bob length! Bring your hair up into a sleek or messy bun and style a curled lock on one side to elevate the look.
@polishedstylejustine
Any simple hairstyle for short hair can become a stunning prom or wedding hairstyle once you leverage the power of flowers. This one features a larger floral bouquet on slightly curled short hair. Be sure to match the tone of the flowers with your gown to a well-rounded look.
@troianeyoung
You can’t go wrong with this style with its dainty look, guaranteed to work with any prom outfit. Being more formal,it’s smooth and neatly combed. The hair piece adds interest, as do the off-center part that delicately balances out the face shape.
@debbiecarlisle_
Besides curls, a deep side part is one trick to instantly step up your short hair. It also gives thinner hair an impressive crown volume. Decorate the style with a dainty hair pin that may also add vintage vibes to your ‘do.
@allurebridalstylists
A French roll is a popular hairstyle for evening wear whether you have long or short hair. This one has a lux vibe that is perfect for prom thanks to the curly texture, loose twists, and a sweet hair accessory.
@sourmelii
Do you want a hairstyle for short hair that allows you to show off your length as opposed to pinning it back? Then try something like this. Make your hair more dimensional with blonde highlights and wrap a strand around the ponytail base.
@katieonmane
You won’t be able to achieve a decent high bun on a short bob without any extensions, but with shoulder-length hair, the mission is possible. Use strong hold spray to keep hair at the back from falling down.
@sourmelii
The timeless success of curling your pixie for prom remains uncontested. The coils add fullness to the crown area, adding volume to the style and serving as a perfect cushion for the delicate hair piece if you want one. If you have an undercut, make sure to refresh it beforehand for a neat look and an edgy note that might characterize you best.
@jcx28
Contrary to what some people think, there are many different short formal styles, and they include not only buns and simple braids. This relaxed braided updo is a cute option because it looks good from all angles. It’s also one of the many ideas that demonstrate that braids are well suited for the prom day.
@tonyastylist
Searching for a cute but less hackneyed short hairstyle? Look no further than this sweet hairdo. You can also rock a style like this at a wedding, bachelorette party or any black tie affair.
@goldplaited_
Step out in style with this upscale princess look that’s highly recommended for graduation hairstyles. It features a luscious mix of golden blonde and brown blonde color tones and a loose side braid pinned in place. The cascading fluffy waves add bounce and volume.
@hairbylindseymichelle
This elegant hairstyle is highly deceptive––at first glance, you’d be absolutely sure the model has long, flowing, curly hair. Aided by curling and precise pinning, even shorter hair can achieve an eye-catching textured updo.
@hairhunter
As Instagrammer @kellgrace shows us, all hair––even short strands––can go up. This polished updo is sure to take your date’s breath away! Best of all? It’s easy to do.
@kellgrace
This one is a clear winner when it comes to chic looks. One side is tousled and the other is cornrowed, creating an eye-catching asymmetrical detail that is fairly self-sufficient and doesn’t need any extra frills.
It’s always possible to make a personal statement with formal hairstyles like this one. You can do that, for example, with a complex-looking 4-strand braid that runs diagonally across the back of your head and hides in the loose tousled curls.
@sarahpotempa
For a more relaxed look, try a soft updo that wraps around the back of your head. It’s an easy look if your hair is on the shorter side because you don’t have to worry about tucking in the tail.
@theconfessionsofahairstylist
This curled and pinned look is flirty and fancy. Short hairdos can sometimes feel like they’re missing something, but this one has all the elements of a longer style.
@beautyandtheblush
This looks complicated but it really isn’t. All you have to do is braid your hair and keep on adding pieces to the braid as you are braiding down. Secure the hairdo with a few bobby pins, and you’re done. You may ask your friend to help you with this look.
@daphnenarcy
You can’t help but appreciate the simplicity of this fine hairdo that’s perfect for the occasion. It features carefully curled ends lifted and pinned at the back for a polished updo look that seems absolutely divine with this gorgeous platinum blonde hue.
@meganfawcett27
Want to try something other than a slick formal hair look? Leave your bob down and loosely braid the front layers of your hair. Curl the ends, and you get one of those universal styles you can wear for graduation or a night out with friends.
@mallonyfarias
Shorter hair is usually worn down or in half updos. However, styling a trendy loose updo, even the one with a bouffant is a great idea. Backcomb, twist, pin and set with hairspray.
@kellgrace
Contrary to popular belief, not all formal hairstyles for short hair need to look, well, formal. Especially in recent years, we’ve seen a gradual trend towards relaxed (but still polished) hairdos, incorporating thick French braids and gentle waves with balayage or ombre color.
@adnomoreira
Think prom night is an evening dedicated to by-the-book hairstyles and quintessential sleek or curly updos? Try again. Not all looks, like this edgy braided half mohawk, have to fall within that category – this one is much more evocative of a rocker style than princess stuff.
@hair_by_pelerossi
This platinum (almost silver) hue works elegantly when paired with a messy, curly updo. Be sure to curl your hair beforehand to add some extra texture. Make loose twists along the sides and tie a low bun loosely too for a slightly undone effect.
@jaclynstepphair
School dance and graduation season can be a low maintenance girl’s worst nightmare: hairspray and curling iron?! Luckily, not all hairstyles have to be curly and perfect. Some are achieved in 15 minutes or less. You can tie two fishtail braids at the back of your head creating a sort of braided crown if you want to look elegant and put together with an easy and quick hairstyle.
@jenniekaybeauty
Although this updo is somewhat unassuming from the front, the back is pure drama, relying on a side swirl and twisted pieces brought together to build texture and volume. Start from running a volumizing mousse through your hair and tease the crown.
@annette_updo_artist
Long gone are the days of super sleek and unnaturally curly dos. Today, a more natural (but still elegant) appearance has taken precedence over sweet curly-girly hairstyles. Natural textures and dimensional colors take centre stage. A single fishtail braid transforms an otherwise casual daytime look into something dressier.
@hair_by_pelerossi
When styling your locks, remember that braids can work wonders for those who want to look natural yet a bit more upscale. A braid creates natural separation between the shades of your balayaged hair.
@jbraidsandbows
When creating evening styles for very short hair, the quickest and most effective method for maximizing volume is to tease the crown. To start, run a bit of thick volumizing mousse or spray through your locks, focusing on the roots. Next, tease the crown section with a comb, brushing downwards toward the roots. Make a few twists and pin them around the bouffant.
@adnomoreira
Don’t underestimate the beauty and allure of a classic sleek short hairstyle for school dances, graduation or other formal events. A style like this can give the spotlight to the rest of your look – your make up and attire, from a bold red lipstick to a dazzling evening gown. Another bonus? It’s incredibly easy––just twist and pin in place.
@coiffuredespres
This updo loosely swirls your highlights into a soft low bun at the nape of the neck. This could be a cool casual updo, but it definitely has its special twist, so, you can wear it proudly for a special occasion as well.
@lauren.morrison
If you are a fun and easy-going kind of girl, try sloppy braids and a messy bun for your graduation. We love this series of French braids that form an understated bun – perfect for photos.
@goldplaited_
Gray and silver tones, both blaring and subtle, are definitely all the rage right now – and make a cool color accent to any hairstyle. For extra short hair, try to add an asymmetrical twist by shifting the weight of your bob to one side, followed by a series of volume-enhancing curls.
@nataliesrosie
With bangs blended into the rest of the hair that has been styled in airy curls, this evening style has “Heavenly” written all over it. The trick? Lots (and lots!) of hairspray, especially right after you’ve curled your hair. Avoid running a comb or your fingers through the updo to keep the airy curls intact.
@annette_updo_artist
A decade ago, prom hairstyles were defined by a surplus of hairspray, super-tight curls, and crispy bangs. Today, the prettiest styles are also the softest – the natural-looking texture steals the show here. Consider a medium hold hairspray to ensure you keep the shape of the curl, but avoid the crisp effect.
@hairicome_
One braid adds a carefree touch but multiple braids create a beautiful bohemian look. Divide your hair into three different sections then braid each one across your head. It’s okay if some shorter pieces stick out. That messy texture definitely adds to the look.
@emilyandersonstyling
Just take a moment to admire her hair’s beautiful texture. When you have curls like those, there is no need for an overly complicated updo. Keep things simple and allow your mane’s texture to be the focus by choosing a haircut that shows it off, like this angled bob.
@marcostasti
Sometimes it’s the simplest look that has the biggest impact. See this low twisted updo. It requires minimal skill, but the result is very pretty.
@hairdreams_
Play up your mane’s texture. This angled bob would look gorgeous if it was styled straight, but the tousled, disconnected ends are so cute. Plus, they add movement and the illusion of thickness.
Claim this hairstyle as a conversation-starter, as it’s sure to get you noticed. If you like braids, definitely think of a loose chunky side fishtail braid that looks twice as awesome with contrasting highlights.
@goldplaited_
Clearly, this is a fancy and elegant way to change your trendy undercut look for the occasion. The loose braid separates the long bang from the carefree long front and leads toward the cropped undercut section, creating a wonderful contrast of three textures (long, short and braided) within one short hairstyle.
@christinajessel
This is the perfect occasion for an attention-grabbing entrance. Why not go for this cascading hodge-podge of copper and golden blonde messy waves that intertwine with the two braids nesting in their fullness. The uneven, messy edges complete the look.
@sarahpotempa
This style is a great choice because you can easily do it yourself. The tight French braid is gently constructed from the side part and accented with silver rings.
In search of updos for bobs? This is definitely a winner if you prefer such hairstyles. The long side fringes work well for this beautiful ginger hair which beauty could be enhanced only by the two messy side braids.
@onelittlemomma
Feel free to make your statement with this red hairdo. You can see how it’s really easy to create a fashionable look from a disheveled style with a harmonious volume throughout. The full side bangs are separated from the crown with an unkempt braid that begins somewhere among the waves above one ear and disappears into the tousled look.
@alex_haircraft
All these short hairstyles are bright and showy. They allow rocking bold colors and crazy textures, creating strong contrasts with your fancy outfits and flawless make-ups. Choose one of them and enjoy your night, feeling confident and radiant!
Enter your email to get this picture to your inbox, and get other ideas you might like 💌
