Prom hair do's and don'ts: hair stylist weighs in on how to achieve the perfect prom look (tutorial) (2024)

-- It's that time of year again.

Around the state, countless highschool girls are making one of the most important decisions of their senioryear.

How should they wear their hair at prom.

While it may seem like an easy task, hair stylist Callie Lathan said the days of basic cascading curls are behind us.

With hundreds of hair tutorials available on Youtube and Pinterest, Lathan, who works at InStyle Hair Studio in Prattville, said many prom goers prefer soft updos and braided looks these days.

"Usually a lot of people wear their hair down, but lately I'vebeen seeing tons of updos because of the dress styles that are popularnow," said Lathan.

Of course, many factors play a part in the decision of whether to wear hair up or down during prom. Lathan, who co-owns a wedding stylist business called Styles for Aisles, said the dress's neckline should play a big role in how a girl's hair is worn.

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut orstrapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan."For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry,try an updo. When you spend $300 on a dress, you want to be able to see thedetails."

Between paying for the dress, nail care, make-up and more,many girls often take their hair into their own hands to save a little cash. While Lathan said an appointment with a professionalhairstylist isn't a requirement to turn heads on prom night, there are several tips thatgirls should keep in mind when tailoring their own tresses.

•Use good products:

For those wanting to make sure their look lasts through the night,Lathan recommends using Bed Head Masterpiece hair spray, which she says willkeep your hair in place even after busting a move on the dancefloor all night. In addition, Lathan said those hoping for a voluminous look should try Big SexyRoot Boost and Bed Head Small Talk.

• Don't shampoo the night before:

While it may seem counterproductive, shampooing your hairthe night before or the day of your prom could prevent your hair from holding well.

• Get help so you can see the back:

Lathan said many girls perfect the parts of their hair theycan see, but make the mistake of assuming the out of sight areas are just as well-groomed.Instead, have someone help you style your hair to make sure the entire head is flawless.

• Choose simple styles:

While hundreds of hairtutorials where girls make the most complicated updos seem like a breeze are available on the internet now, it'slikely that it took them more than one take to get it right. Instead, Lathan recommends selecting asimple style so you don't get frustrated or pressed for time on the big day.

Still looking for a updo that's easy to achieve, but will stay on trend with this year's looks? Included in our gallery is a step-by-step guide for an updo fit for any dress style.

While Lathan is already fully booked through this prom season, she can be reached for styling, hair cuts and more year-round by calling 334-358-1720.

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Prom hair do's and don'ts: hair stylist weighs in on how to achieve the perfect prom look (tutorial) (2024)

FAQs

How should I have my hair for prom? ›

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.

How many days before prom should I wash my hair? ›

Don't Wash Your Hair Right Before Your Appointment

You don't want your hair to be greasy, so don't go days without washing. Along with that, be sure that your hair isn't wet when you arrive. The texture and volume of your hair changes as it dries, so an updo with wet hair won't last as long.

How to make prom hair last? ›

Prepping your prom hairstyle properly is like eating a good breakfast. It will give your updo or other hairdo the energy to last for hours. Apply a styling product to damp hair to boost volume and control texture. Blow dry section by section with a round brush to smooth the ends and boost the roots.

How can I look prettiest at prom? ›

10 Beauty Tips for Prom
  1. Get glowing skin.
  2. Whiten your smile.
  3. Clean up your brows.
  4. Hydrate your hair.
  5. Use a good deodorant or antiperspirant product. ...
  6. Add a pop of color to the eyes.
  7. Change up your hair.
  8. Treat yourself like a celebrity with a lip color change.
Apr 17, 2014

What is the easiest hair for prom? ›

Half up, half down

One of the most easy to do hairstyles for a party or formal event, this look works with short bobs or long flowing locks and keeps it from getting into your face. Add a volumising mousse to give your hair some body and movement before roughly blow-drying.

Is it better to have clean or dirty hair for an updo? ›

Fresh hair tends to be softer and potentially harder to style” than dirty hair, notes Potempa, but with the right products, you can give your hair some extra hold to make sure your updo looks flawless and stays intact when you hit the dance floor.

How long does prom hair usually take? ›

A: Hair styling usually takes around 30-45 minutes for heat styling only (waves, curls, smooth styles) and 1-1.5 hours for an updo style. Note: Hair styling appointments may not be available on certain prom dates due to high numbers of requests for makeup application appointments.

Should you do makeup or hair first? ›

“It has been my experience with clients that getting your makeup done before doing your hair is best,” says Voight. She further adds, “This way, the makeup artist has the chance to blend the makeup into the hairline and around the jaw area without worrying about messing up the beautiful work of the hairstylist.

Should I wear my hair down for prom? ›

If you have a high-neck dress, one-shoulder dress, open-back dress, or a dress with unique details on the shoulders or back that you want to showcase, you might want to wear your hair up with a smooth twist, a low or high bun, an elaborate cluster of curls, or even a side-sweeping style with cascading curls.

Should I wear my hair curly or straight for prom? ›

You can never go wrong with a straight hairstyle. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks sleek and sophisticated. This hairstyle is sure to hold up through all the dancing you'll be doing on prom night! Incorporating a braid into any natural hairstyle is the perfect way to add an interesting element.

How to match your hairstyle to your prom dress? ›

For gowns that are strapless, simple in style or that are spaghetti straps, wearing your hair down is a great option. Loose curls are always a great starting point. From there, you can decide between a half-up, half-down look, maybe a braid to keep the front pieces in place, there are really so many choices!

What should a girl do before prom? ›

From finding a trendy prom dress to booking your beauty appointments, we're here to make sure your day runs smoothly.
  • Finding the dress. ...
  • Accessorize! ...
  • Hair. ...
  • Makeup. ...
  • Nails. ...
  • Get that Prom Glow. ...
  • Try everything on. ...
  • Confirm all your appointments.
May 2, 2024

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