Prom is one of the most anticipated evenings a girl grows up dreaming about. That one night to get glammed up, spend the evening with your best friends and celebrate the end of high school and new beginnings is a memory every girl cherishes for a lifetime.
From the dress, to the shoes, to the hair, to the date, to the limo and everything in between, prepping for your prom can almost feel like a part-time job in itself! That's why we've created this ultimate guide to prom hair, to help you check that perfect hairstyle off your list of prom to do's.
Get Alexa's look (left) with Seamless Chestnut Brown Balayage Luxy Hair Extensions, get Paige's look (middle) with 220g Ombre Blonde Luxy Hair extensions, get Steph's look (right) with Seamless Ombre Chestnut Luxy Hair extensions
Since prom hair is synonymous with long, voluminous hair, we've got you covered. If you have shorter hair and have always dreamed of that perfect prom hairstyle with long curls, or an elaborate undo, hair extensions are the secret to that perfect prom hairstyle. Remember, however, hair extensions aren't just for short to long hair transformations,. Use a few wefts to spice up your updo, apply a full set for a full transformation with Victoria's Secret model-esque waves, or even opt for a shorter set to add volume to your lob! How you use hair extensions for your prom hairstyle is totally up to you, however, is the perfect way to ensure that your hair matches your dress in the most glamorous way possible.
Read on for our top Prom Queen worthy hairstyle for 2019, complete prom do's and don'ts to ensure you feel like Cinderella at the ball—no fairy godmother required.
Choosing the perfect prom hair: where to start
Paige is wearing the 220g Ombre Blonde Luxy Hair extensions
With so many resources out there, choosing the best prom hairstyle to go with your dress and personal style has never been easier. To start, we recommend selecting inspiration photos of hairstyles that speak to you. Pinterest has many stunning prom hairstyle inspo photos, with an endless amount of options. To help narrow down some looks, create your own prom board, where you can pin your favorite looks to for future reference. Keep the following in mind when gathering these looks:
What is your natural hair type?
Keeping realistic about your natural hair type will help you narrow down on a hairstyle that will suit you best. Do you have pin straight hair that doesn’t hold curl well? You may want to steer away from those big, bouncy, curly hairstyles. Do you have naturally curly hair and need to have it professionally straightened? Sometimes, it's best to enhance your natural hair for the big day rather than fussing with a hairstyle that just won't hold. Ask yourself what type of styling works best for your natural hair type, and if you have your heart set on a specific prom hairstyle, consult with your hairstylist first to ensure that they will be able to create the hairstyle with ease.
Is there a theme for your prom?
One of the exciting parts about some prom nights is the creative theme that the night is based off. Are you looking to go with this theme? If so, factor the prom theme into your searches when you are selecting inspo photos to get a little more creative and unique with your look.
Will you be dancing?
If you are that girl that won’t be holding back on the dance floor (you know who you are), you might want to consider a hairstyle that will keep intact through all of that movement. Picking out hairstyles that don’t require too many bobby pins, accessories or intricate styling may be the way to go so that you can feel free to dance all night long and toss your hair with confidence.
Prom Hair With Hair Extensions
Prom night is a perfect time to have fun with your Luxy Hair extensions to achieve those big braids or curls for instant #hairgoals. Here are some of our favorite reasons for why hair extensions make the perfect accessory on prom night.
Steph is wearing the Seamless Ombre Chestnut Luxy Hair extensions
Achieve versatile hairstyles
Ladies, we're going to let you in on a little secret...most of the hairstyles that you see out there require hair extensions. Even your favorite celebs wear hair extensions (Ariana, anyone?), simply because hair extensions allow for such a wide range of hairstyles. If you have shorter or thinner hair and are dreaming of that special hairstyle, a few wefts of hair extensions can make all the difference and give you a brand new look.
Experiment with color
Not only do Luxy Hair extensions allow you to achieve various hairstyles, you can also try out different hair colors for prom night. Have you always wanted ombre hair but don't want the commitment of dyeing your hair? Our ombre Luxy Hair extensions are just what you need. Looking to add extra dimension to your hairstyle? Clip a few lighter colored wefts in for instant highlights, or opt for a balayage set for a whole new look. The possibilities are endless, and prom is the perfect time to go all out.
Paige is wearing the 220g Ombre Blonde Luxy Hair extensions
Easy To Use
The best part about Luxy Hair extensions is that they are easy to clip in at home and can be styled any way you would like. If you already own a set of Luxy Hair extensions, you can easily create a professional looking prom hairstyle without having to pay a professional hairstylist. We recommend to practice the style at home in the days leading up to prom so you feel confident and ready.
Prom Hair by Luxy Hair
You didn't think we were going to leave you on your own did you? Here are some of our favorite prom-queen worthy hairstyles for 2019, complete with tutorials or each hairstyle.
Paige is wearing the 220g Ombre Blonde Luxy Hair extensions
Floral ponytail
Kassinka is wearing the 220g Ash Blonde Luxy Hair extensions
Prom calls for having some fun with the little details of your hairstyle. This is why we had to include this floral ponytail look, which adds a pretty and elegant floral detail to a regular ponytail, perfect for prom night. Kassinka wears her 220g Ash Blonde Luxy Hair extensions in the tutorial above for added volume and length.
To achieve this hairstyle, start by tying your hair into a low ponytail after clipping in your Luxy Hair Extensions. Take 2-3 inches of hair from your ponytail to create a 3-strand braid down the centre of the ponytail. In order to achieve the “petals” of the look, pancake your braid by pulling out the loops on only one of the side. To finish off the look, wrap the braid around itself into a flower-like form, ending with the thin end of your braid in the centre of the flower to pin it down.
Stacked side braid
This one's for the girls who love a simple hairstyle with a twist. This stacked side braid looks complicated but is actually created by stacking two, super simple 3-strand braids on top of each other. This braid hairstyle will go beautifully with a strapless prom dress and understated jewellery. Karin wears her 220g Dirty Blonde Luxy Hair extensions in this tutorial for added length and volume to her braid.
Start by clipping in your Luxy Hair extensions for a full, thick, fluffy braid. Then, bring all of your hair to one side of your face, and take a chunk of hair about 3-4 inches thick, and put it aside. Braid your hair into a regular 3-strand braid and secure the end with a clear hair elastic, then pull the loops apart to fan the braid out. Now, take that original chunk of hair and create another smaller 3-strand braid with it. Place it on top of your bigger braid, and secure both braids together with a clear elastic. Take a bobby pin and pin the two braids together at the top to keep them in place. Check out the full tutorial above.
Hollywood inspired waves for short hair
If you are looking for a prom hairstyle for short to medium length hair, we love this classic Hollywood waves hairstyle, inspired by the classic Old Hollywood. This look shows that you don't necessarily need long hair to glow on prom night! To spice up your shorter 'do, opt for 16" hair extensions to add a bit of volume, without the added length.
The key to achieving this look is to use a wide-barrel curling wand for those classic, soft waves. Begin by parting your hair to the side and start to curl the side with the lesser amount of hair away from your face. As you curl around your head, begin curling inward, which will create those signature classic Hollywood curls. Voila! You will be ready to take on prom night like a Hollywood celeb with this hairstyle.
Waterfall braided crown with loose waves
A waterfall braid paired with soft, loose curls is so classic and feminine, we just had to include it as one of our favourite prom hairstyles.
You may be a little intimidated to try out what looks like a complicated braid on your own, but this hairstyle consists of a series of basic steps that come together to achieve this look. Since this is a hairstyle fit for a princess, we recommend to clip your Luxy Hair extensions in for added length. Then, using a 1 1/4" curling wand, curl your hair and create some loose, soft waves. Then, use the above step by step tutorial on how to create a waterfall braid, but continue the braid all the way across the crown of your head.
Big, sexy, voluminous curls
Want to fee like Bella, Gigi, or Kendall on your prom night? Mastering the art of the Victoria's Secret signature wave will help you achieve your angelic dreams. The best part? ou can create this look right at home sans glam squad.
To create this look, curl larger strands of hair with a big barrel curling wand. Add in your Luxy Hair extensions to achieve the extra volume and length to really amp up this look.
Glam waves and sexy curls
There are so many prom hairstyles for long hair that it can get overwhelming. Sometimes, however, the easiest and most effortless hairstyles make the most impact...after all, you want the focus to be on you. Your hairstyle should ultimately complement your outfit, not take over your entire look! Big, loose curls and waves look glamorous, and are easy to create at home, without having to visit a professional hairstylist.
To get the look, all you need is a large barrel curling wand, and some Luxy Hair extensions for instant length and volume to really pump up the drama. In the following tutorial, Karin wears her 220g Dirty Blonde Luxy Hair extensions.
Mermaid Braid
When choosing prom hairstyles for long hair, it doesn't always have to be about updos, which can sometimes look outdated. In fact, big, bold, beautiful braids are always trending for prom. Channel your inner Coachella queen and opt for a messy, boho inspired braid, layered braid, or even braid with flowers and pearls. The key to achieve this look is lots of length and lots of volume, and the best way to achieve this is to add clip-in hair extensions, which can be strategically placed throughout your hair for added thickness, while staying hidden.
These prom hairstyles may look like they take a bit of a work, but they are actually quite easy to create, we promise! All you need is a bit of patience and a bit of braiding skill to bring it all together. Check out the tutorial above to learn how to re-create a layered mermaid braid with Dirty Blonde Luxy Hair extensions. Or, learn how to do a twisted mermaid braid with Ombre Chestnut Luxy hair extensions, or go full festival with this stunning summer inspired braid with flowers.
Bubble ponytail
Here's an off-the-cuff, easy hairstyle for long hair to try. This prom hairstyle works beautifully if you are wearing a simple dress and really want your hair to steal the show. Inspired by Princess Jasmine, the bubble ponytail is one of the more edgy hairstyles for prom, but if you can pull it off, heads will definitely turn towards you.
There are two variations of this prom hairstyle—a low, sleek bubble ponytail as shown above, or high bubble ponytail. We recommend to choose the high ponytail hairstyle if you want to show off your back and give off a fun and flirty feel, and the low ponytail and if you'd like to keep things more elegant and sophisticated.
Slicked back high ponytail
Calling all Ariana Grande fans...this one's for you! You didn't think we were going to skip over Ariana Grande's iconic slicked back ponytail with mega volume, did you? Not only is this hairstyle totally glam for prom and graduation, it's comfortable, versatile, and will keep your hair out of your face all night as you dance the night away.
Learn how to get the look below. If you're feeling more edgy, opt for the high, messy ponytail, and if you're feeling romantic, opt for the low, curled ponytail. Karin uses her 220g Dirty Blonde Luxy Hair extensions to achieve a thicker, longer ponytail for these looks.
French braid crown with loose waves
This hairstyle is one of our favourites because it is versatile enough to be a prom hairstyle for long hair or a prom hairstyle for short hair. Half up half down hairstyles give off that effortless, boho chic vibe, while still staying formal enough for prom or graduation.
To create this look, simply part your hair as you'd like, and create a french braid down each side of your hair, cross the braids and wrap each side around your hair, and secure with bobby pins. Add your favourite jewelled hair accessory to finish off the look. To get a thicker French braid, a weft or two from your Luxy Hair extensions will go a long way. Check out the detailed tutorial below on how to create this easy hairstyle. (Pro tip: you can curl your hair with a hair straightener if you don't have a curling wand—learn how here.) Josie wears her 220g Dirty Blonde Luxy Hair extensions to achieve that beautiful prom-worthy length and volume.
Straight and Sleek
This timeless hairstyle has all the makings to be a showstopper at your prom. Not only is this style one of the hottest hair trends at the moment, it's easy to create at home, totally sophisticated, translates beautifully from day to night, so you can style your hair early in the day for your graduation ceremony and spend more time in the evening taking photos instead of doing your hair. The best part about this hairstyle is that anyone can achieve the look with clip-in hair extensions to add long length instantly.
If you're worried about shorter layers peeking through, braid your hair into cornrows then, clip the extensions in layer by layer into the cornrows. Straighten the hair (always use heat protectant) add a drop or two of hair oil, and voila! Sleek, silky, smooth hair for days. Here's a step by step tutorial below (check out tutorial #1).
Twisted Updo hairstyle
Updos are a classic hairstyle for prom, and never go out of style. Whether you have short hair or long hair, an updo adds elegance, timelessness, and sophistication to your look. Updos don't have to be totally elaborate—in fact, you can create this updo by yourself at home, with beautiful results. In this tutorial, Ashley has short hair, and uses her Chocolate Brown Luxy Hair extensions to add thickness to her twisted bun.
Low, romantic bun
Listen, whether you have a prom date or not, it can't be denied that prom is a romantic night. You're spending the night celebrating the end of an important part of your life and welcoming a new one, all with the people you love. If that isn't a recipe for romance, we don't know what is. This romantic, low bun is perfect for a prom hairstyle—it looks refined, graceful, and stylish, and it perfect paired with a simple floor length satin gown.
Alex uses her 220g Ash Blonde Luxy Hair extensions in the tutorial above to achieve this beautiful, thick bun. Another option is to add a twist by braiding the sections that wrap around the bun for an ultra sweet vibe.
Loose waves with highlights
This prom hairstyle is one of our favourites...it combines all the things we love the most: loose waves, length length, and highlights that look completely natural without a visit to the salon!
To get this look, add a few wefts of a lighter color throughout your hair. If your natural hair is a match for Chocolate Brown, go a shade lighter to Chestnut Brown or Dirty Blonde. An alternative is to opt for a Luxy Hair balayage set, which comes pre-highlighted. Just choose the shade that matches your natural hair, pop the extensions in, and enjoy instant balayage hair.
The key to this look is to embrace the imperfections...you want to look like your hair just flawlessly fell into place with minimal effort. To get these no-fuss waves, curl pieces of your hair with a curling wand, and scrunch the hair as it is cooling. This will ensure that the waves look "lived-in" and playful.
Beautiful, voluminous bun
You can never go wrong with a classic bun. Whether low or high, a bun hairstyle exudes confidence, poise, and grace. With your hair pulled back from your face, this hairstyle shows everyone that you are ready to face the world without hiding behind your hair. Not only that, it's super versatile. You can add an upside down french braid for added oomph, wrap the base of the bun with a fishtail braid...the possibilities are endless! This is also a great updo hairstyle for short hair, as shown below.
Curly twisted updo
For all you curly haired gals out there, this one's for you! Instead of fighting with your natural hair to get it smooth and straight, why not embrace what your mama gave you? Not only does naturally curly hair already have gorgeous natural volume, when pinned into an updo hairstyle, it looks romantic with minimal effort. As a bonus, this prom hairstyle works well if you have short hair as well. To get the look, simply twist layers of your hair and cross them over starting from the top of your hair. Secure with bobby pins until you reach the nape of your head. Then, take the remainder of your hair, twist into a low bun, secure with bobby pins and you're done.
And that's it! Have you chosen your prom hairstyle? Let us know in the comments below.