Let’s be real—prom hair can make or break your whole vibe. You’ve got the dress, the heels, maybe even a tiara, but without a killer hairstyle to pull it all together? Forget it. That’s where curls come in. Wild, soft, sculpted, messy—curly hairstyles for prom are having their main character moment. Whether you’ve got short coils, waist-length waves, or anything in between, there’s a curly masterpiece waiting to make you look like a walking Pinterest board. Ready for the curls of your dreams? Let’s get into it.
Half-Up Twisted Curls
Nothing screams “elegant without trying too hard” like a curly half-up hairstyle for prom. This look takes your natural or heat-styled curls and pins the crown section back in soft twists, leaving the rest to cascade down your shoulders. It’s perfect for medium to long curly hair and plays especially well with strapless or off-shoulder gowns—hello, neckline!
Curly Crown Updo
Royal-core girls, this one’s your time to shine. This curly updo for prom sits high with volume at the crown, twisted into a regal halo and secured with pins or even pearl clips for that formal fairytale finish. This is a dream for naturally curly hair types (especially type 3b or 3c), giving serious queen hair energy with minimal fuss.
Soft Side-Swept Bangs
Curly hairstyles for prom with bangs are the flirty, romantic upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Let those curls frame your face with a few airy, side-swept bangs that soften the look while still keeping it polished. Pair this with soft glam makeup and a flowy dress for ultimate “dream girl” effect.
Butterfly Clip Fantasy
Throw it back to early 2000s with a curly hairstyle dotted with butterfly clips—Y2K but make it elevated. This look keeps curls loose and defined, with whimsical clips scattered strategically to highlight texture and dimension. Ideal for short to medium curly hair, this one’s playful but still formal enough to land in the prom hall of fame.
Curly Low Bun Updo
Chic. Sophisticated. Red carpet-worthy. This formal hairstyle for curly hair tucks long curls into a low, romantic bun at the nape of the neck. Add a touch of volume at the roots, maybe a floral pin or two, and you’ve got yourself a look perfect for gowns with detailed backs or deep V necklines.
Long Spiral Curls
Channel some serious mermaid-core with long, defined spiral curls cascading down your back. Whether you’re rocking natural curls or heat-styled spirals, this is one of those long curly hairstyles for prom that looks expensive. A side part, glowy skin, and body shimmer? You’re a walking prom goddess.
Braided Curly Halo
Braids meet curls in the most magical way here. A crown braid frames your face while the rest of your hair stays loose and wild, giving that boho-glam vibe that works perfectly for prom or homecoming. It’s especially stunning on naturally curly hair with volume—hello, prom hair inspo board!
Curly Faux Hawk Updo
Feeling edgy? This curly updo hairstyle gives rockstar energy with its mohawk-inspired silhouette—tight sides and all that glorious curl stacked on top. Best for medium to long hair, and totally killer with a bodycon prom dress or something a little unconventional.
Short Curls with Glam Pins
Short curly hairstyles for prom do not mean less glam. Just pop in a few rhinestone bobby pins on one side and define those curls to perfection. This style slaps on pixie cuts, bobs, or even chin-length curls—and lets your jewelry and makeup really take the spotlight.
High Voluminous Pony
The ultimate power move: a high ponytail with curled lengths and a whole lotta bounce. Slick the top for contrast, and let the pony explode in voluminous curls—it’s dramatic, it’s dreamy, and it works for every dress style imaginable. Think Ariana Grande but with natural curls. Iconic.
Wrap It Up, Curl Queen
Now that you’ve seen the ultimate inspo list of curly hairstyles for prom, the only thing left is to screenshot your faves and send them straight to your stylist—or better yet, try one out this weekend. Curls were made to turn heads, and whether you’re going for sweet, sultry, or totally savage, your dream prom look is right here. So tease that volume, add that butterfly clip, and own the damn dance floor.
