There are plenty of decisions that go into planning the perfect prom night. Once you’ve chosen your dream prom dress and secured an awesome dateyou’ve got a list of beauty choices to make, including of course, how you’ll wear your hair. Lots of factors need to be considered, from the style of your gown to the texture of your hair and the amount of time and money you want to spend. To help ensure your big night is also a really good hair day, we’ve put together a list of 25 prom hair tips. Whether you’re heading to the salon or going the DIY route, get prom-perfect tresses with our pointers ahead.
- Avoid any major cut or color changes prior to prom night–keep your strands healthy looking with a trim a few weeks before, but don’t go drastic.
- Wear a button down shirt for your hair appointment–a pullover can mess up your ‘do when you’re changing into your dress.
- Bring a photo of your dress, front and back, so your hairstylist can help you choose a look that works with it.
- If you can afford it or you’re having a friend do your ‘do, go for a trial run to save some prom-prep stress.
- Test out hair sprays ahead of time to find one that doesn’t dry too hard or “crunchy” looking or leave any residue–then be sure to bring it with you to your appointment.
- Speaking of hair spray, stow a travel-size bottle of your go-to spray and some bobby pins in your prom purse for hair emergencies.
- If you’re prone to frizz or static, keep some frizz sheets (dryer sheets work in a pinch, too!) in your bag, as well.
- Bobby pins should be put in wavy side down to grip the hair and avoid slipping out.
- Come to the salon with dry hair–especially if you’re getting an updo, in which case you’ll want to wash your hair the day before.
- Try the hair accessories trend: Embellished barrettes, pins, and headbands are fun ways to upgrade your look; just be sure to bring them to the salon with you.
- Not into a fancy complicated prom updo? Go for a sleek ponytail and wrap one section of hair around your elastic to make it more evening-appropriate (or dress it up with an accessory, as mentioned above).
- Bring inspiration images from Pinterest or magazines, but keep it limited (3-5 images max) to avoid confusion.
- Remember to tip your hairstylist 20% of the overall cost of the service (and tip the assistant, as well, according to how involved they were).
- Schedule your hair appointment several hours (approximately 4-6 hours) before prom to leave time for any potential changes.
- Doing your own prom hair? Check out YouTube hair tutorials for easy DIY prom hairstyles. Bonus: You can practice ahead of time without scheduling a salon appointment!
- Factor in the vibe of your gown when planning your prom hair. For example: If you’re wearing a flowy boho gown, try a messier, undone ‘do. If your prom dress is sleek and fitted, consider a slick ponytail.
- If you’re wearing your hair down, try a deep side part for an elegant evening-ready look.
- Don’t have room for an umbrella in your clutch? A shower cap may look momentarily ridiculous but will save your strands in the event of rain.
- Try texturizing spray to hold curls rather than hair spray, which can actually weigh them down and cause curls to fall.
- That said, if you think your curls are too tight, wait it out: All curls fall slightly (thank you, gravity) so give them some time before you tousle.
- Planning to stay on the dance floor most of the evening? You may want to go for a looser, undone prom hairstyle that you won’t have to worry about keeping in place.
- If you are doing your own prom hairstyle and your tresses are freshly washed, add dry shampoo to your roots to give grip and texture.
- Spray bobby pins with hairspray or texturizing spray prior to putting them in your hair for extra hold.
- Pamper your hair the night before to get it in prom-perfect shape. Wash with clarifying shampoo if you want volume and to remove product build-up, or do a moisturizing mask to smooth out your texture and deep condition.
- A general tip: Learn which products your hair needs to maintain its style. Products vary according to fine, straight, thick, or curly hair, and the wrong ones can leave you looking less than polished. If you get something new, be sure to test it a few days before prom to make sure it does what you need it to do!
Tell us your prom hair tips in the comments!
