Prom hairstyles for strapless dresses should highlight your shoulders and neckline while adding a touch of elegance.
From romantic curls to sleek updos, the right hairstyle completes your look and boosts your confidence.
Soft waves, braided styles, and chic buns bring out the beauty of a strapless gown effortlessly.
Where you love classic glam or modern trends, these styles will make you stand out on your big night.
Let’s find the perfect look for you!
Save this Post for Later! ⬇️
1. Classic Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves are the epitome of timeless glamour, making them a perfect choice for prom night.
This elegant style features deep, sculpted waves that flow smoothly over one or both shoulders, reminiscent of old Hollywood movie stars.
The key to achieving this look lies in using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers to create uniform curls, then gently brushing them out to form soft, cascading waves.
A deep side part adds an extra touch of sophistication, making the hairstyle appear effortlessly chic.
To maintain the structure and shine, apply a lightweight styling mousse before curling and finish with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure the waves last all night.
This style works beautifully with strapless dresses as it highlights the shoulders and collarbones without overwhelming the look.
For an added touch of glamour, consider tucking one side behind the ear and accessorizing with a sparkling clip or vintage-style barrette.
2. Sleek Low Bun
A sleek low bun is a refined, polished hairstyle that exudes sophistication and elegance, making it an ideal match for a strapless dress.
This style involves parting the hair in the center or to the side and combing it back smoothly before twisting it into a neat, secure bun at the nape of the neck.
The result is a timeless, chic appearance that keeps all attention on your facial features and neckline.
For a flawless finish, use a fine-tooth comb and a smoothing serum to eliminate any flyaways and achieve a sleek, mirror-like effect.
If you want to add a modern twist, wrap a thin section of hair around the base of the bun or incorporate a delicate jeweled hairpin for a touch of sparkle.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who love minimalist yet elegant looks and pairs well with bold earrings or a statement necklace to elevate the ensemble.
3. Romantic Loose Curls
Soft, voluminous curls create an effortlessly romantic and feminine look that pairs beautifully with a strapless gown.
This style enhances the natural beauty of your hair by adding body, movement, and dimension.
To achieve the perfect curls, start by applying a heat protectant and use a medium-barrel curling wand, wrapping small sections of hair away from the face.
Once all sections are curled, gently run your fingers or a wide-tooth comb through them to soften the curls, creating a more natural and airy effect.
A lightweight finishing spray will help hold the curls in place without making them feel stiff or weighed down.
This hairstyle complements all hair types and lengths, and adding subtle highlights or a glossy shine serum can further enhance the texture.
Romantic loose curls work especially well for those who want a balance between effortless beauty and polished elegance, making them a go-to choice for prom night.
4. High Ponytail with Waves
A high ponytail with waves is a stylish and trendy option that offers the perfect blend of sophistication and playfulness.
This look is achieved by gathering the hair high on the crown of the head and securing it with a hair tie before curling the ends for added bounce and movement.
To make the ponytail appear fuller, backcomb the roots slightly before securing it, and wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic and create a polished finish.
This hairstyle is particularly flattering for those who want to highlight their cheekbones and elongate their neck.
It pairs well with dramatic eye makeup and statement earrings, as it keeps the hair away from the face while still maintaining an elegant, voluminous appearance.
For an extra touch of glamour, consider adding pearl or rhinestone accents along the hairline or using a velvet ribbon for a chic, vintage-inspired touch.
5. Half-Up Half-Down with Twists
The half-up, half-down hairstyle with delicate twists is a dreamy, romantic choice that complements a strapless dress beautifully.
This style allows you to keep some hair away from your face while letting the rest flow freely in soft waves or curls.
To create this look, take two sections from the front, twist them back, and secure them with a small, elegant clip or bobby pins at the crown of your head. You can add volume to the top by gently teasing the roots before twisting, giving the hairstyle more dimension and fullness.
The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its versatility—it works with both straight and curly hair and can be dressed up with pearl pins, floral accessories, or a delicate hair chain.
This effortlessly chic hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between elegant and relaxed, making it a fantastic option for p
6. Messy Low Chignon
The messy low chignon is a timeless and effortlessly elegant hairstyle, perfect for adding a romantic and sophisticated touch to your prom look.
This style features a loosely pinned bun at the nape of the neck, with soft, face-framing tendrils left out to create a natural, airy effect.
The key to achieving this look is to curl the hair beforehand for added texture, then gently twist and pin sections in place, allowing some strands to fall naturally for a relaxed yet polished finish.
Using a texturizing spray helps to create volume and grip, ensuring the chignon stays in place all night.
This hairstyle beautifully accentuates the shoulders and collarbones, making it a perfect match for strapless gowns.
To elevate the look, consider adding pearl hairpins, a delicate vine hairpiece, or a few sprigs of baby’s breath for a soft, bohemian touch.
7. Sleek Straight Hair with a Center Part
For those who prefer a modern and sophisticated look, sleek, straight hair with a center part is a showstopper.
This minimalist style is all about achieving a flawless, glass-like finish that reflects light and enhances your natural beauty.
To achieve this look, start by applying a heat protectant, then use a flat iron to smooth out the hair in sections, finishing with a shine serum for an ultra-glossy effect.
A precise center part helps to create balance and symmetry, making this hairstyle particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces.
Since this style keeps the hair sleek and simple, it pairs beautifully with bold makeup and statement accessories like chandelier earrings or a dramatic choker.
The simplicity of this look allows your strapless dress to take center stage, making it an ideal choice for those who love refined, high-fashion elegance.
8. Bohemian Braided Crown
A braided crown is the ultimate boho-chic hairstyle that radiates an ethereal, fairy-tale-like charm.
This style involves weaving two braids from each side of the head and pinning them across the crown, creating a delicate halo effect.
The remaining hair can be left down in loose waves or a soft, tousled texture to enhance the romantic appeal.
This hairstyle works particularly well with floral hairpins or tiny pearl accents woven into the braid for an enchanting, whimsical touch.
Perfect for outdoor or garden-themed proms, this hairstyle complements strapless dresses beautifully by drawing attention to the shoulders while adding a soft, intricate detail.
It’s an excellent choice for those who love feminine, nature-inspired looks with a touch of vintage elegance.
9. Side-Swept Curls
Side-swept curls offer a classic and glamorous look that never goes out of style. This elegant hairstyle features voluminous curls swept over one shoulder, creating a cascading effect that adds drama and sophistication.
To achieve this look, curl the hair with a medium-barrel iron, then gently brush through for soft, defined waves.
Secure the curls to one side with discreet bobby pins or a decorative hair clip for extra hold. This style is particularly flattering for strapless dresses, as it balances the open neckline while adding movement and texture.
It pairs beautifully with bold red lips and sparkling earrings, creating a red-carpet-worthy ensemble that is both timeless and captivating.
10. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a trendy and unique twist on the classic ponytail, offering a fun yet stylish alternative for prom night.
This hairstyle involves securing the hair into a high or mid ponytail, then adding additional elastics down the length of the ponytail at equal intervals.
Each section is gently pulled apart to create voluminous “bubbles,” giving the hairstyle a playful yet polished appearance.
This style works particularly well with long hair and adds a fresh, modern touch to a strapless dress.
To make it more glamorous, wrap a small section of hair around each elastic for a seamless look, or add subtle rhinestone accents for a sparkling effect.
11. Voluminous Curly Updo
A voluminous curly updo is the perfect choice for those who love a bold, dramatic hairstyle with plenty of texture and movement.
This look involves curling the hair and pinning sections into a loose, textured bun at the crown or nape of the neck, creating a full and voluminous effect.
To enhance the drama, tease the crown slightly before gathering the curls for added height. This style works especially well for those with naturally curly or wavy hair, as it enhances the hair’s natural body and bounce.
A few loose tendrils left out around the face give the hairstyle a soft, romantic finish, while pearl or jeweled pins add a touch of glamour.
12. Twisted Low Ponytail
A twisted low ponytail is an elegant and sophisticated alternative to the traditional ponytail, adding a unique and stylish twist to your prom look.
This hairstyle involves creating soft twists or rope braids on either side of the head before gathering them into a sleek ponytail at the nape of the neck.
The twists add an intricate, polished touch while keeping the style modern and refined. This look pairs beautifully with a strapless dress as it keeps the neckline open while still adding an element of visual interest.
To enhance the elegance, consider wrapping a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail and finishing with a shine spray for a sleek, polished appearance.
13. Retro Victory Rolls
For a vintage-inspired look with a bold statement, victory rolls bring an iconic 1940s flair to your prom hairstyle.
This style involves rolling sections of hair away from the face and pinning them in place, creating structured, voluminous rolls.
The remaining hair can be styled into soft waves or a sleek, polished updo for a true retro effect.
Victory rolls pair beautifully with classic red lipstick and winged eyeliner, making them an ideal choice for those who love vintage glam.
This dramatic, structured hairstyle contrasts beautifully with the softness of a strapless dress, making it a head-turning choice for prom night.
14. Fishtail Braid Over the Shoulder
A fishtail braid is an intricate yet elegant hairstyle that adds a bohemian touch to your prom look.
This style involves weaving small sections of hair into a fishtail pattern, creating a detailed and visually stunning braid that cascades over one shoulder.
For a more effortless, lived-in effect, gently pull apart the braid to add volume and texture. This hairstyle is perfect for strapless dresses as it draws attention to the neckline while adding a touch of whimsical charm.
Embellish the braid with tiny pearl pins or delicate flowers for a soft, romantic finish.
15. Glamorous Bejeweled Updo
A bejeweled updo is the ultimate way to make a statement on prom night, combining elegance with a touch of sparkle.
This style features a structured or tousled bun, enhanced with dazzling hair accessories like crystal clips, pearl pins, or a delicate headband.
The bejeweled elements catch the light beautifully, adding a regal and sophisticated touch to your overall look.
This hairstyle is perfect for strapless gowns, as it keeps the neckline clean and open while adding a luxurious, eye-catching detail.
Whether you prefer a sleek chignon or a soft, romantic updo, incorporating jeweled accents will make your hairstyle look even more glamorous and refined.
16. Elegant French Twist
The French twist is a timeless, elegant hairstyle that exudes grace and sophistication. This classic updo involves gathering the hair at the nape of the neck, twisting it upwards, and securing it with pins to create a sleek, structured look.
The style elongates the neck and highlights the shoulders, making it a perfect match for strapless gowns.
For a modern touch, leave a few face-framing strands loose to soften the look, or add pearl or jeweled accessories for a bit of sparkle.
A light mist of strong-hold hairspray will keep the twist in place throughout the night. This polished and refined style pairs beautifully with both minimalist and intricate prom dresses, offering an effortlessly chic aesthetic.
17. Waterfall Braid with Loose Waves
A waterfall braid is a delicate, romantic hairstyle that blends the beauty of braids with flowing, soft waves.
This style features a braided crown across the back or side of the head, allowing strands to cascade down like a waterfall.
To create this look, braid one side of your hair while letting sections drop through the twists, and then curl the remaining hair into soft, bouncy waves.
The result is an effortlessly elegant style that frames the face beautifully. This hairstyle pairs well with strapless dresses as it adds a whimsical, fairy-tale touch while keeping the neckline open. Enhance the look with tiny floral pins or a glittering headpiece for added charm.
18. Soft Low Ponytail with Face-Framing Pieces
A soft, romantic low ponytail is an excellent choice for those who want a polished yet relaxed prom look.
This style involves loosely gathering the hair at the nape of the neck while allowing a few strands to frame the face, giving it an effortless, undone vibe.
To add dimension and movement, curl the ends of the ponytail and tease the crown slightly for volume.
This hairstyle works beautifully with a strapless dress as it maintains a refined appearance without covering the shoulders.
For a more elevated touch, wrap a section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it or accessorize with a delicate clip or ribbon for added elegance.
19. Cascading Braided Ponytail
The cascading braided ponytail is a striking yet feminine hairstyle that adds both structure and softness to your prom look.
This style features a loose, voluminous braid leading into a flowing ponytail, creating a dreamy, princess-like effect.
To achieve this look, start with a French or Dutch braid from the crown of the head, then transition into a curled ponytail.
The braid adds an intricate detail that enhances the elegance of the hairstyle, while the ponytail provides movement and bounce.
This look complements strapless dresses by drawing attention to the shoulders and neckline while keeping the hair secure and stylish throughout the night.
20. Floral-Embellished Loose Bun
A floral-embellished loose bun is the perfect blend of romance and elegance, making it an excellent choice for prom.
This soft, textured bun sits at the nape of the neck or slightly to the side, with a few tendrils left loose for a relaxed, effortless feel.
To add a dreamy, ethereal touch, weave in small fresh or faux flowers that match your dress or theme. The floral details enhance the femininity of the look while keeping it soft and natural.
This hairstyle pairs beautifully with a strapless dress, as it allows your shoulders and décolletage to remain the focal point.
Whether you choose delicate baby’s breath for a subtle effect or bold roses for a statement look, this hairstyle is sure to make you feel like a fairy-tale princess.
