Choosing the perfect prom hairstyle is difficult, whether you’re a young woman or a young man. Prom night is one of the most sought-after and important nights in a teenager’s life, and everyone wants to look their best to leave a great last impression.
From whimsical buns to half-updos for a romantic look, there are many hairstyles to choose from, and aside from personal taste, there are many aspects that can influence the choice, like the style of the dress, the length and texture of your hair, and the shape of your face.
Below is a list of the hottest prom hairstyles in 2025 that stylists can use to help their customers for this big day.
Table of Contents
2025 prom hairstyles for women
Based on face shape
Based on the outfit
Based on hair length
2025 prom hairstyles for men
The type of hair
Straight vs. curly hair
Versatile men’s hairstyles for prom
Final thoughts
2025 prom hairstyles for women
During the makeup and hairstyle rehearsal, stylists usually ask for photos and references. However, in 2025, there are some important rules to follow to achieve the perfect prom hairstyle.
Based on face shape
Oval, rectangular, round, and triangular: not all faces are the same, and everyone should be able to choose the right hairstyle that best enhances their features and hides their flaws: framing the face, defining the cheekbones, shortening or lengthening the forehead, and smoothing out the edges by playing with volumes and lengths.
People with a round face need a hairdo that can make their face appear longer, like a half-up hairstyle, and it’s even better with a few curled tufts at the front to achieve more volume. Square faces need softness, and loose hairstyles can smooth the edges with soft waves or curls.
The oval is the most balanced face shape and looks good with any type of hairstyle, from loose hair to half-up styles and buns. This is the best feature to try two of the most trending prom hairstyles in 2025: the waterfall braid and the crown braid. Last but not least, for elongated faces, it is important to add volume and avoid loose and straight hairstyles.
Based on the outfit
The hairdo and the accessories are supposed to match and complement the dress, and every detail matters on the day of the prom.
Prom girls wearing simple dresses can draw attention to a whimsical hairstyle and eye-catching makeup, like a cute updo or low bun with accessories like hairpins, combs, or trending headbands.
On the other hand, a princely dress should be only completed and enhanced with romantic, flowy hairstyles.
The neckline of the dress is also a binding element. A high-necked dress can be enhanced by an updo, for example, a high ponytail or a chignon. The same goes for those who wear a backless dress that the hair shouldn’t cover!
Based on hair length
Of course, hair length is another important factor that can help customers choose among the trending prom hairstyles in 2025.
Young women with long hair should go for a high hairstyle or half-ups and create beautiful loose curls with a hairdresser or curlers that should be kept in all night during sleep.
Straight hair is not in vogue this year, and the other trending option for those with long hair is a beautiful braid that can come in different forms and shapes: from the longest and neatest ones to those applied on updos, from the messy braid to the various braids scattered along the hair.
Short or very short hair should be enhanced with hair accessories, flowers, and tiaras. Also, with this feature, mid- or short dresses are a great option to recreate a pin-up look.
People with mid-length hair who don’t want to use extensions should focus on simplicity in 2025 and choose a low ponytail enhanced with beautiful pins, clips, or combs.
2025 prom hairstyles for men
Prom day is an important event not only for young women but also for young men who want to look their best to impress their date and not only. With a range of cuts available, choosing is not an easy task.
The type of hair
The texture of the hair will influence the type of hairstyle best suited for this night. As we know, not all hair is the same, meaning that a hairstyle that works for one man may not work for another.
For men with thinner, finer hair, shorter hairstyles look better. With shorter cuts, the hair already looks thicker. Thickening sprays or dry shampoos can also help add volume. The prom hairstyles in 2025 that look great on men with thin hair include crew cuts, slicked-back styles, and, of course, a nice clean shave on the side.
Thick hair is often the hair everyone wants, but it certainly doesn’t work on every head. It’s best to find a hairstyle that suits thick hair and works with a mane with volume, like a classic style or the trendy pompadour cut with waves on top and the Ivy League cut.
Straight vs. curly hair
Men with straight hair have many styling options. Popular hairstyles for men with straight hair include a classic straight style, a pompadour, or a quiff (similar to a pompadour). Those with long, straight hair who prefer to leave it loose may want to use a flat iron to keep it even. Here, however, you can also go for a very well-combed ponytail.
On the other hand, curly hair is harder to manage: a diffuser always works, as do anti-frizz products. Some popular hairstyles for men with curly hair include a flat-top style (volume on top and short on the sides), waves, braids, or a slicked-back look.
Versatile men’s hairstyles for prom
A shaved head gives the impression of a mature and defined man, suits all face shapes, and is perfect for a prom. This minimal style is functional and fashionable. In addition, there is no barber in the world who does not specialize in these types of cuts.
Smooth and short waves are edgy but also classic and simple. This style requires a bit of moisturizing products and a lot of patience, but it is worth it.
The pompadour style is considered a classic prom hairstyle and, in general, for those who want a bit of eccentric style, especially when the cut is short.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a professional hairstylist or prepping for your big night, these prom hairstyles for 2025 offer something for every style and personality. To elevate the final look, consider quality accessories from trusted salon suppliers and stylists on Alibaba.com.
