1. Braided Crown Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
Braided crowns became the biggest prom trend a few seasons ago, and it looks like nothing can steal their crown away. Pun intended. Yes, they are still the most beloved style of all. This version also has beach waves and baby’s breath flowers woven into the braid.
2. Easy Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
If you’re the no fuss type of gal, then this is definitely the hairstyle for you. It’s a very simple blonde ombre with beach waves and hair parted down the middle. Here’s a tip – use some seawater spray for a more textured look and some oversized earrings.
3. Retro Curls Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
This hairstyle is incredibly easy to pull off. It looks fancy, but, with a little bit of practice, you can learn how to do it at home and save some money on the big day. You just need to use your hair straightener or curler.
4. Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair with Braids
These micro braids are the detail that will make all the difference when you have short hair and need to look fancy for prom. Straighten out all your hair and braid two or three strands on one side. The result will be fabulous.
5. Whimsical Hair Accessories
If you have a simple dress or a gown in a non-color or a nude shade, then you can think of solutions to add a pop of color and whimsy to your outfit. One such solution is hair accessories. These are life-size butterflies and dragonflies.
6. Hair Glitter Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
Hair glitter is another trend that is still holding strong, although we don’t know for how long. Gold foil is coming fast from behind, so take advantage of this trend while you can. If you’re interested in gold foil for short hair, we’ve also covered that below.
7. The Kendall Jenner
We could not have possibly compiled a list of romantic prom hairstyles for short hair without referencing our biggest inspiration source – celebrities. As you scroll through, you will find all your lovely leading ladies in Hollywood who have short hair. Kendall is just the first!
8. The Zendaya
Zendaya is without a question one of the most beautiful newcomers in Hollywood. Therefore, it’s no wonder that she is already a fashion and styling guru. Here she is at a red-carpet event with a very short and gelled pixie cut shaped into 1920s flapper finger waves.
9. Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair with Pearls
Sometimes, the detail that makes all the difference lies not in the hairstyle itself but in the hair accessory you use. This is a pair of simple hair combs studded with three pearls each, ranging in size from small to large.
10. The Christina Aguilera
If you’re looking for inspiration on how to do retro blonde curls with a sequin prom dress, look no further because songstress Christina Aguilera is the woman to go to. You should also pay attention to the makeup, which is a combination of pink and wine lipstick.
11. The Reese Witherspoon
This is a perfect hairstyle for a heart-shaped face. The side part shifts the focus away from the forehead and moves closer to the ear line where you will be wearing some beautiful earrings. The sweetheart curls sweeten the angular face.
12. The Emma Watson
Who doesn’t want to look like a real, live-action Disney princess on her prom night? Now you can because Emma Watson is Belle come to life, and she is also your inspiration when it comes to prom hairstyles for short hair.
13. The Lily Collins
We cannot decide what we love more about this look. It might be the crushed winterberry lipstick, the powerful eyebrows that contour the whole face, the Snow White hairstyle, or the minimalist tattoo that shows from her neckline.
14. The January Jones
This is how you do an asymmetrical bob when considering prom hairstyles for short hair. January Jones has discovered the secret to a perfect angular bob, complete with what is, probably, the most beautiful shade of blonde we’ve ever seen – Manhattan lights.
15. The Natalia Dyer
This girl is all about keeping it natural and age-appropriate even when she’s on the red carpet, and we applaud her for that. The baby pink makeup is accompanied by an organic brown hair color, some light waves, and a pink and red gown we really wish we’d own for our prom.
16. The Millie Bobby Brown
Although she’s only 13, the Stranger Things actress is already a powerhouse when it comes to styling and fashion. Here she is with a prom-worthy pixie cut embellished with a silver hair accessory that brings out her more feminine side.
17. The Charlize Theron
If you really want to talk about pixie cuts as far as prom hairstyles for short hair are concerned, we have to refer you to Charlize Theron. Unanimously recognized as one of the most beautiful women in the world, this look she wore on the red carpet with a slicked pixie and oxblood lipstick is to die for.
18. The Gigi Hadid
When it comes to short hair, supermodel extraordinaire Gigi Hadid really helped usher in a new trend. Evidently, we’re talking about the no-part hairstyle. Here she is rocking it with a very choppy short bob. Did you notice the golden cuff earring? Love!
19. The Sarah Hyland
This Modern Family alumnus graduated with honors from the comedy school of one of the funniest TV shows in the country. Therefore, we’re sure she knows how to do prom hairstyles for short hair the right way.
20. The Keira Knightley
Leave it to this British beauty to breathe some elegance into our prom look book. She is wearing a long and shaggy pixie cut and she is making it look fantastically effortless. Nude makeup and a red flower crown are the keys to British beauty!
21. The Julianne Hough
We also have actress Juliane Hough sporting a lovely flower crown on a chai blonde pixie cut. She looks a lot more bohemian than Keira did. Therefore, you can see which one you like best and take your pick!
22. The Sienna Miller
Here is how you do prom in style and prove you have high-class. Choose a braided hairstyle with just a few, barely visible beach waves cascading down, very little makeup, and a pair of gold statement earrings that talk of nothing but luxury.
23. Edgy Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
A pixie cut can also be transformed into an edgy hairstyle if that’s what you want for your big ball night or if you have a dress to match. Use lots of hairspray as well as bobby pins to create a quiff or a fauxhawk for the desired look.
24. The Taylor Swift
Back when she could still come to the phone, the old Taylor Swift look poised, polished, and ready to go to prom every single time she stepped out in public. Just take a look at these asymmetrical vintage curls complete with that classical red rouge.
25. The Slick Lob
A fantastic haircut can also count in case you’re stooped for some good ideas for prom hairstyles for short hair. This is a show-stopping slick lob in a dark brunette with wispy bangs that can cover your eyebrows.
26. The Curly Pixie Cut
Here’s a great idea for your prom. If you have a pixie cut and straight hair, curl it! It will be a super fun surprise to see yourself with a handful of curls. Style them using some cool accessories like combs and pins.
27. The Rihanna
Here’s bad girl RiRi trying a super modern and contemporary take on the old-fashioned mohawk. She has turned her pixie cut into a high and tight affair, also resembling a beehive, complete with blonde tips.
28. The Winona Ryder
She was the it girl of an entire generation and the face of the 90s. Her feminine and graceful beauty was everything we all wanted back in the day, and now you can copy her super smooth, two-toned ginger and copper wavy pixie for your prom.
29. 20s Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
They don’t call them the roaring 20s for nothing. Think about The Great Gatsby, Josephine Baker, and the rest of the flapper girls and you will understand the beauty of the decade. Let it inspire you on your big night as well.
30. Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair and Natural Flowers
Another way to make a statement on prom night with your short hair is by styling it with natural flowers. Ask your local florist to make you a crown using your favorite flowers and find ways to keep it fresh all night long.
31. Finger Waves Prom Hairstyles
Finger waves are another fantastic style you can put on your list because, with some practice and the right tutorials, you can master them at home. This will save some precious dollars on your budget, and you can spend more on the dress.
32. The Jennifer Lawrence
Currently the highest paying actress in the world and one of the most beautiful women on the planet, Jennifer Lawrence knows a thing or two about styling. She made a bold but fantastic move when she dyed her hair winter blonde, but so can you. Make a dramatic entrance at prom!
33. The Evan Rachel Wood
We are absolutely in love with two things about Evan Rachel Wood. Her part in Westworld which we cannot wait to see more of and her awesome pixie cut. It’s gingery blonde and she wears it in a very windswept I woke up like this kind of way. Inspirational!
34. The Kaley Cuoco
We also find Kaley Cuoco’s pixie cut inspirational. Just look how fierce she is at this red carpet event with her high-necked, tunic style black dress covered in Rhinestones, and her massive, bouffant pixie. A true warrior.
35. The Hayden Panettiere
Actress Hayden Panettiere loves a good pixie slick back as well. But she is a lot more demure and elegant when it comes to wearing hers. It’s a dark blonde which she chose to pair with a minimalist smoky eye and a dusty pink lip.
36. The Ruby Rose
You cannot possibly look at this photo of the model and actress Ruby Rose and not think that this is total prom hairstyle for short hair inspiration. The braids in her hair are absolute perfection, while the platinum cuff earring is the latest trend and we want it!
37. Blunt Bangs Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
Speaking of earrings and the latest trends, you should also know that tassel earrings are a huge hit right now. We suggest you pair them up with a set of blunt baby bangs and slightly inverted curls that can set the tone for your edgy prom night look.
38. The Carey Mulligan
Here’s the rule. The less you do with your hair, the more you have to do with your face. And vice versa. Carey Mulligan is a perfect example of that. Her simple, beige blonde hair has been slicked back in a simple pixie cut, so she’s wearing towering diamond earrings complete with a heavy smoky eye.
39. Gold Foil Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
The absolute latest trend to emerge from Instagram this year is gold foil leaf. We believe it works best when you have short hair because, in that way, the eye only focuses on the gold foil itself. Find some tutorials online and jump on this trend right now.
40. Themed Hair Accessories
If your hair is currently in a simple pixie cut, you can always wear themed accessories to embellish it. Think about the color of your dress and what it represents. For example, if your dress is green, then maybe some leaves. If it’s red, maybe some poppies or cherries, and so on.
41. Teal Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
Building on the above, you can wear both themed hair accessories and a nonconventional color. This, for example, is teal mixed with a bit of aquamarine to get that blue-green color. The hairstyle has been embellished with bright neon yellow marigolds for the visual effect.
42. The Mia Wasikowska
How about some prom hairstyles for short hair from Alice in Wonderland herself? This is actress Mia Wasikowska sporting a magenta and orchid boyish pixie cut, perfect for those of you who still believe ‘as many as six impossible things before breakfast.’
43. The Dolce & Gabbana Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
The Dolce & Gabbana fashion house might be world famous for their clothes, bags, shoes, and perfumes. However, if you look closely at the hairstyles their models wear during their fashion shows, you will discover a whole new world. This is a low chignon for short hair embellished with live carnations and roses.
44. Accessories with Sparkle
You can also take a more traditional road when it comes to hair accessories. This is a three-tier headband embellished with faux pearls. It’s perfect for a pixie cut. You can pair it with classic earrings and a dramatic makeup.
45. The Messy Bun Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
Finally, we have saved the last solution for the last-minute girls. In case you find yourself being very late to your own prom and your hair isn’t done yet, don’t worry. Messy buns can get you out of any tight spot. Tie your hair in a low chignon and use a brush with soft bristles to tease it. Start in the back and move to the front. You’re saved!
Frequently Asked Questions About Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair
How far in advance should I book my prom hair appointment?
Book your prom hair appointment at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during prom season (April-June). Popular stylists fill up quickly, and booking early gives you time to schedule a trial run to perfect your chosen style. This also allows time for any adjustments or changes if needed.Should I wash my hair before getting it styled for prom?
Generally, it’s best to wash your hair 1-2 days before your prom styling appointment. Slightly dirty hair often holds styles better than freshly washed hair, as natural oils provide grip and texture. However, always follow your stylist’s specific instructions, as some styles may require clean hair.Can I do prom hairstyles for short hair at home?
Many elegant prom hairstyles for short hair can be achieved at home with practice and the right tools. Simple styles like retro curls, finger waves, or adding hair accessories are DIY-friendly. However, for complex updos or intricate braiding, professional styling is recommended to ensure your look lasts all night.What hair accessories work best with short prom hairstyles?
Short hair offers excellent opportunities for stunning accessories. Consider decorative bobby pins, jeweled hair combs, delicate headbands, fresh or silk flowers, vintage brooches, or elegant hair chains. The key is choosing accessories that complement your dress and personal style while securing properly to shorter hair lengths.How can I make my short prom hairstyle last all night?
To ensure your short prom hairstyle stays perfect throughout the evening, use strong-hold hair products, carry touch-up supplies (bobby pins, small hairspray bottle), avoid touching or running fingers through your hair, and consider bringing a small compact mirror for quick checks. Setting your style with hairspray and using quality styling products makes a significant difference in longevity.Conclusion
Short hair typically means don’t care. That’s how the saying goes. Short hair offers unique advantages for formal styling – it’s more comfortable for dancing, photographs beautifully, and allows your dress and makeup to take center stage. But we believe we have covered it exhaustively with our list that includes no less than 45 romantic, edgy, fun, creative, famous, celebrity-inspired, retro, and glam prom hairstyles for short hair. Decide on the one you like best, run to the stylist or start practicing on your own how to do it!Reader Success Stories
Our community has created these stunning curly hairstyles using our tutorials! Submit your photo for a chance to be featured.
Sarah T.
“I never thought I could achieve JLo-inspired waves with my fine hair, but these step-by-step instructions made it possible!”
Used: Olaplex No.6 + Oribe Texturizing Spray
Maya J.
“Following the Zendaya tutorial transformed my unruly curls into these defined spirals that lasted for 3 days!”
Used: DevaCurl SuperCream + Pattern Strong Hold Gel
Tasha W.
“After years of heat damage, I followed your natural curl care routine and finally restored my 3C curl pattern!”
Used: Camille Rose Curl Maker + Mielle Organics Oil
Emma R.
“Used your Blake Lively tutorial for my wedding day hair and received so many compliments!”
Used: Kenra Thermal Styling Spray + Living Proof Full Thickening Cream
Jasmine H.
“Your curly updo tutorial helped me create this elegant style for my sister’s wedding. So much easier than I expected!”
Used: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel + Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray
Dana L.
“Even with my super short curly pixie, your styling tips gave me this defined look that frames my face perfectly!”
Used: Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream + Innersense I Create Hold
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Submit Your PhotoCommon Curly Hair Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Frizz Control
Humidity and environmental factors causing unwanted frizz in curly styles.
Solutions:
- Use anti-humidity products with hold polymers
- Apply styling products to soaking wet hair
- Avoid touching curls while drying
- Consider a silk pillowcase and bonnet for sleeping
- Try the “gel sandwich” method (leave-in + gel + oil)
Recommended Products: Color Wow Dream Coat, Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel
Challenge: Curl Definition
Curls appear undefined or lose their shape quickly throughout the day.
Solutions:
- Use curl-specific products with stronger hold
- Try the “praying hands” application method
- Avoid raking through curls when dry
- Diffuse upside down for better curl formation
- Apply gel or mousse when hair is very wet
Recommended Products: Pattern Strong Hold Gel, DevaCurl SuperCream, Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls
Challenge: Volume at Roots
Flat roots with volume only at ends, creating a triangular shape.
Solutions:
- Try root clipping while drying
- Use a pick or wide-tooth comb at roots only
- Diffuse upside down or sideways
- Apply lightweight volumizing foam at roots
- Get a haircut with long layers to distribute volume
Recommended Products: Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Volume Spray, Innersense I Create Lift
Challenge: Dry, Damaged Curls
Heat or chemical damage causing breakage and lost curl pattern.
Solutions:
- Implement a protein-moisture balance routine
- Use deep conditioning treatments weekly
- Consider a “curly cut” to remove damaged ends
- Take a break from heat styling completely
- Use leave-in conditioners daily
Recommended Products: Olaplex No. 3, Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Mask, Kinky-Curly Knot Today
Challenge: Second-Day Hair
Difficulty maintaining curl definition between wash days.
Solutions:
- “Pineapple” hair at night with a loose scrunchie
- Use a satin pillowcase or bonnet
- Make a DIY refresher spray (water + leave-in conditioner)
- Spot-treat frizzy sections with product on wet hands
- Consider “micro-plopping” with a microfiber towel to revive
Recommended Products: Pattern Refresh Spray, Ouidad Botanical Boost, Slipsilk Pillowcase
Recommended Style:
Alicia Keys’ Natural Textured Style
This low-maintenance style celebrates your natural texture while keeping styling time minimal. Use hydrating products and protective styling techniques for a beautiful, easy-to-maintain look.
← Start OverRecommended Style:
This medium-maintenance style enhances your natural coil pattern with more definition. Use the LOC (Leave-in, Oil, Cream) method and finger coiling for beautiful, defined curls that last several days.
← Start OverRecommended Style:
Kerry Washington’s Structured Curls
This high-definition style requires more maintenance but creates stunning, sculptural curls. Use specialized styling techniques like shingling or the Denman brush method for maximum definition and structure.
← Start Over
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