Short hair doesn’t mean you miss out on the elegance of a stunning updo at prom! We’ve curated a list of 19 easy-to-do hairstyles that will make your short locks shine on the dance floor. These styles are super cute and can transform your look in just a few minutes, because who wants to spend hours fussing with their hair when they could be making memories?
You might be thinking that updos are for longer hair, but that’s a myth we’re about to debunk! Don’t let that discourage you from experimenting with layers or bangs, which can add a playful edge to any short hairstyle. With these tutorials and videos, you’ll learn a variety of methods to create glamorous looks that are still comfortable enough for all those dance moves.
2025 is bringing a wave of exciting trends, and we’ve taken all the best elements to create hairstyles that will keep you stylish through the night. Whether you prefer a sleek and elegant vibe or something a bit more textured, there’s bound to be an updo here that speaks to you. Trust us; by the time you’re done reading, you’ll be ready to grab a pair of scissors—figuratively speaking, of course!
What’s even better is that you can customize these styles based on your preferences, whether you want a classic black and white look or a bold and vibrant outfit inspired by the Y2k era. Mixing and matching tutorials will let you find your perfect updo that reflects your unique personality.
So, get your bobby pins ready and let’s dive into these pretty updo ideas! With a little practice, who knows? You might even end up creating your own signature prom hairstyle that’ll have everyone asking for a tutorial!
—
#1 Chin-Up Chic
Prom is coming, and you think your short hair means you’re stuck with the same old style? Think again! Just like the awesome updo in the picture, you can rock some seriously cool looks even if you can’t braid down to your butt. This style proves that even with shorter strands, you can create a masterpiece that’s totally prom-worthy. Plus, less hair means less time getting ready, so you’ll have more time for selfies with your friends!
This isn’t just a hairstyle; it’s a power move. It’s like saying, “Yeah, I’ve got short hair, and I’m still gonna slay this prom thing!” With some strategic twists, pins, and maybe a little hairspray magic, you can achieve a similar sophisticated style. Channel your inner stylist, grab your bestie for moral support (and maybe some extra hands), and get ready to wow everyone with your unique and fabulous short prom ‘do!
#2 Liberated Locks
Okay, so you’ve got short hair and you’re freaking out about prom? Chill! This photo proves short hair can be totally gorgeous. Check out how a bit of pinning and some pretty waves can transform a simple bob into a prom masterpiece. It’s like, you don’t need Rapunzel-length locks to rock the dance floor, just a little imagination and maybe some hairspray that won’t make your ‘do look like a helmet.
Plus, think of all the time you’ll save getting ready! While your friends with super long hair are still wrestling with braids and extensions, you’ll be sipping lemonade and perfecting your dance moves. The best part? Short hair means you can actually move and groove without accidentally whipping someone in the face with a rogue ponytail. Prom queen, here you come, and you can say it with your short hair!
#3 Crop & Crown
Prom is like the Olympics of high school fashion, and you wanna win that gold! Rocking short hair doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a basic ‘do. Check out this style – it’s got a cool braid that’s like a fancy headband, plus those bouncy curls? Total prom goals! This is a perfect option if you want to look dressed up but still feel like your awesome self.
So, ditch the stress of growing your hair out and embrace your short-haired fabulousness! This look is proof that you don’t need a Rapunzel-length mane to turn heads. It’s all about working with what you’ve got and adding a touch of sparkle (hair glitter anyone?). Plus, think of all the time you’ll save getting ready. More time for pre-prom pizza!
#4 Sculpted & Stunning
So, prom is coming, and you’re rocking that cute short hair? Don’t stress about not being able to do cool stuff with it! This picture shows even shorter hair can have a totally awesome updo. Forget the pressure of trying to grow it out overnight – work with what you’ve got, and you can create something that’s totally unique. Think of it like this: it’s your chance to shine and show off your personal style, without drowning in a sea of long, identical waves.
That bun on top looks both classy and fun, almost like a party on your head. Plus, those loose curls and even a little bit of color poking through? Major style points! Whether you’re going for romantic or edgy, this hairstyle proves that short hair can totally slay the prom game. Ask your hairdresser about it, but you could even try to DIY this one with a few friends. Get ready to dance the night away knowing you look totally fab!
#5 Buzzed & Boujee
So, you’ve got short hair and thought you were stuck with a ponytail for prom? Think again! This picture proves you can totally rock a fancy updo, even if your hair isn’t down to your waist. Look at that braid – it’s like a super cool crown, and it’s way easier to manage than a mile of hair. Plus, you can totally add some sparkly clips or pins to make it even more prom-tastic!
Now, get ready to turn heads because short hair at prom is totally in. This style is super cute and elegant, but also looks like it’s ready to dance the night away. It’s a win-win! Forget about spending hours trying to style long hair that’s just going to get tangled anyway. With this, you’ll be the coolest (and most comfortable) person on the dance floor!
#6 Pixie Prom Power
So, you thought rocking short hair meant limited prom options? Think again! Check out this style – it’s like your hair decided to go to a fancy party and brought its coolest braid friend. You’ve got waves, a braid that’s probably cooler than anything you’ve ever braided, and a sparkly headband that screams “I’m here to slay the dance floor!” Who needs long hair when you can rock this much awesome in a shorter package?
That glitzy hair accessory is like the cherry on top of an already amazing sundae. It catches the light like you’re a walking disco ball (in a classy way, of course!). This style proves you don’t need tons of length to make a statement. Plus, imagine all the headbanging you can do without getting your hair tangled! So ditch the extensions, embrace the short hair vibes, and get ready to dance the night away looking totally fabulous.
#7 Undercut Elegance
Okay, so who says short hair can’t bring the drama to prom? Check out this updo! It looks like the stylist took “messy bun” and gave it a total princess makeover. It proves that even if your hair isn’t super long, you can still rock a super fancy style. And let’s be real, it probably takes way less time to do than a full-on Rapunzel braid!
You know what else is awesome? This hairstyle is totally dance-proof! No rogue strands slapping you in the face when you’re busting a move. Plus, it totally shows off your earrings, which is a major win if you’ve got some killer bling to flaunt. So, if you’re rocking short hair this prom season, don’t stress! This look is proof you can slay the style game, even with less length.
#8 Prominent Pixie
So, you’ve got short hair? Don’t sweat it! This pic proves you don’t need Rapunzel-length locks to slay at prom. Check out those waves! They’re like, “Yeah, I woke up like this…but spent an hour with a curling iron.” It’s totally possible to rock some serious volume and shine without tripping over a massive braid all night.
Basically, forget the extensions and embrace the bob. Think of all the extra room you’ll have on the dance floor to bust a move without your hair getting in the way. Plus, you can totally blame any epic dance fails on your shoes, not your hairstyle. This look is all about being confident, comfy, and ready to party, all while looking like you just stepped out of a vintage movie.
#9 Beyond the Bixie
Think short hair means you’re stuck with the same old ‘do for prom? Nope! This look proves you can totally rock a fancy updo even without a ton of length. It’s all about clever styling and maybe a little help from some strategically placed pins. Plus, you can still show off those killer earrings you just had to have – no hair in the way!
Who knew short hair could look so elegant and prom-ready? This half-up, half-down style is the perfect mix of chill and chic. It looks like something a princess would wear, but without all the fuss. So go ahead, ditch the hair extensions and work what you’ve got! You’ll be turning heads without spending hours in front of the mirror.
#10 Short Cut, Long Night
Who says you need Rapunzel-length locks to rock prom? This hairstyle shows you can totally nail a fancy look even if your hair’s on the shorter side. The best part is, you can do something simple like half updo, add a little twist and then bling it out with a headband. It’s like turning your hair into a sparkly, golden waterfall!
Forget spending hours trying to figure out complicated braids. This look is all about working smarter, not harder. Adding a decorative accessory like this headpiece is a fun way to dress it up. Plus, imagine how amazing you’ll look in the prom photos when the lights hit that bling! You’ll be ready to dance the night away without a single stray strand in your face – total win-win.
#11 Edgy Evening
Thinking your short hair limits your prom options? Think again! This hairstyle proves that even if you can’t pull off a super long braid, you can still rock some serious glam. Look at that awesome half-updo with the braids! It’s like a hairstyle unicorn: magical, beautiful, and totally achievable even if your hair isn’t down to your waist. This look says, “I came to slay, and I’m comfortable enough to do it with hair that’s easy to dance in!”
Finding the perfect prom hairstyle should be fun, not stressful. This hairstyle is perfect because it looks fancy, but it’s probably not as complicated as it looks. It’s like that awesome TikTok dance everyone’s doing – intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’re ready to hit the dance floor! Plus, with some bobby pins and maybe a little hairspray, you’ll be ready to party all night without worrying about your ‘do falling apart.
#12 Micro Mane Magic
So, you’ve got short hair and prom’s looming? No sweat! Check out this hairstyle – it’s like your hair went to a fancy spa and came back ready to party. It’s got just enough curl and texture to look effortless, like you woke up this gorgeous. And the best part? You won’t be spending all night tripping over a super long ‘do on the dance floor!
Think of your short hair as the ultimate prom accessory. This style shows that you can totally rock a sophisticated look without needing Rapunzel-length locks. Plus, all those bobby pins holding things in place? Practically invisible! You’ll be comfortable, confident, and ready to bust a move all night long. Time to steal the spotlight and leave everyone wondering how you made short hair look so effortlessly chic!
#13 Bobbed & Beautiful
Prom is coming, and you might think having short hair means boring styles. Think again! You can totally rock a cool look, even if your hair isn’t long enough to braid down to your knees. Just look at this picture: it’s a super cute half-up style with waves, perfect for showing off your dress and still looking effortlessly chic. Who needs a super long braid when you can make a statement with texture and a touch of glam?
Plus, the best part about short hairstyles for prom is that they’re way easier to manage than those crazy long updos. You won’t spend the whole night worrying about bobby pins falling out or your head feeling like it weighs a ton. This simple, yet elegant style will stay in place while you dance the night away, so you can focus on having fun with your friends and maybe even snagging that prom king title!
#14 Dare to Bare: Prom Hair
So, you think short hair means boring prom styles? Think again! This look is totally achievable and perfect for when you want to feel like a woodland fairy, even if you’re just hitting the dance floor. Ditch the hair extensions; sometimes, less is more. A simple braid across the front and some sparkly accessories are all you need to take your short ‘do from “everyday awesome” to “red carpet ready.”
Getting ready for prom should be fun, not stressful, and this hairstyle is a winner because it’s actually pretty easy to recreate. Grab some cute clips or pins that match your dress (or even your bestie’s!) and get braiding. Plus, imagine how much easier it will be to dance all night without a giant tower of hair weighing you down. Win-win!
#15 Glam Snipped
Let’s be real, short hair doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the prom fun! This look is like a mini-waterfall of curls paired with a simple braid and a sparkly clip. It’s basically saying, “Yeah, I woke up like this… and then spent a little time making it even better.” It’s totally achievable even if your braiding skills are usually limited to friendship bracelets.
And don’t think that a fancy pin is only for people with Rapunzel-length hair. This gorgeous clip really steals the show, adding a touch of “I’m ready to dance the night away” to any style. Plus, it’s like a secret weapon – even if your hair gets a little messy after busting a move on the dance floor, that sparkly pin will keep you looking like prom royalty!