33 Prom Hairstyles for Short Hair Ideas for 2024

Prom is one of the most exciting events in a young person’s life, and choosing the perfect hairstyle is a key part of getting ready for the big night.

Whether you’re rocking a pixie, bob, or any other short cut, there are endless ways to create stunning prom hairstyles that complement your look.

From sleek and sophisticated bobs to playful curls and braids, we’ve rounded up 33 prom hairstyles specifically for short hair that will make you shine on your special night.

Whether you want something elegant, edgy, or effortlessly chic, these styles will inspire you to step into prom with confidence and style.

Let’s dive in!

33 Prom Hairstyle Ideas for Short Hair

1. Sleek Side Part Bob

For a polished prom look, the sleek side part bob is a winner. Simply create a deep side part and use a flat iron to smooth your hair into a sleek finish.

Tuck one side behind your ear and use a light-hold hairspray to maintain the sleekness.

This hairstyle highlights the sharpness of a bob while keeping the overall look elegant and minimal, perfect for formal events like prom.

2. Textured Waves

Add some fun to your short hair with textured waves. Use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves.

Once curled, run your fingers through the waves to break them up and add a messy, undone texture.

Finish with a texturizing spray to give your waves a lived-in, beachy look. This style adds volume and movement, making it perfect for those who want a casual yet chic prom hairstyle.

3. Half-Up Twisted Crown

The half-up twisted crown gives your short hair a royal touch.

Divide the top half of your hair, twist small sections from each side, and pin them at the back of your head, creating a crown-like effect.

Leave the rest of your hair loose or add soft curls for extra texture. This style adds a whimsical, romantic element to your prom look while keeping the hair out of your face.

4. Retro Finger Waves

For a vintage vibe, go for retro finger waves. Use a comb and a lot of styling gel to shape defined “S” waves along your hairline.

The result is a smooth, shiny style that harkens back to the 1920s. This hairstyle works best for short, straight hair and gives an ultra-glamorous, polished finish.

Pair it with bold makeup to truly channel the old Hollywood look.

5. Braided Headband

A braided headband adds a playful touch to short hair. Take a small section of hair near your ear, braid it, and then pull it across the top of your head like a headband.

Pin the braid behind the opposite ear for a secure hold. You can leave the rest of your hair straight or add loose curls to soften the look.

It’s a cute and functional style that keeps hair off your face.

6. Messy Pixie with Curls

Turn your pixie cut into a voluminous look by adding messy curls.

Use a small curling iron to curl random sections of your hair, then mess them up with your fingers for a tousled, carefree style.

This look adds texture and dimension to your short pixie, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer an edgy, fun prom look.

7. Sleek Pixie with a Statement Clip

For a chic and simple look, style your sleek pixie and add a statement clip. Straighten your pixie cut using a flat iron for a smooth, sleek finish, and tuck one side behind your ear.

Then, add a bold, decorative hair clip on the tucked side for a bit of sparkle. This style highlights your facial features while keeping your look elegant and effortless.

8. Tucked-In Curls

To create a unique look with short hair, try tucked-in curls. Use a curling iron to create tight curls and then tuck one side behind your ear, securing it with a decorative pin.

The asymmetrical style gives the hairstyle a polished yet playful appearance, making it perfect for prom. Add a shiny serum to give your curls a sleek finish.

9. Tousled Bob

The tousled bob is a laid-back yet stylish option. To achieve this look, use a curling wand to create loose waves throughout your bob, then finger comb your hair to break up the waves and add texture.

A texturizing spray or mousse can help add volume and hold to the style. This effortless look is perfect for those who want a relaxed but chic vibe for prom night.

10. Side Swept Waves

Add a bit of glamour to your short hair with side-swept waves.

Curl your hair into soft waves and use a comb to sweep the hair to one side, securing it with a few bobby pins behind the ear.

This style is all about volume and texture, making it a great option for creating a sophisticated look without too much fuss.

11. Mini Faux Hawk

For those who want to make a bold statement, the mini faux hawk is a perfect choice.

Use a volumizing mousse to add height to the top of your hair, then pin the sides tightly against your scalp.

This style works best for short pixie cuts and gives an edgy, rock-inspired look. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the volume intact throughout the night.

12. Bouncy Curls with Volume

Add extra drama to your short hair by creating bouncy curls. Use a curling iron to create large curls throughout your hair, and lightly tease the roots to add volume.

Finish with a setting spray to hold the curls in place. This hairstyle adds body and movement, making it ideal for anyone who wants a lively, voluminous prom look.

13. Curled Pixie with Glitter Part

Take your curled pixie up a notch by adding a glitter part. After curling your pixie, apply glitter along the part line using hair gel to add sparkle.

This adds a fun, playful element to your prom hairstyle, turning a simple pixie cut into a standout look.

14. Sleek and Straight Lob

A sleek and straight lob is a classic choice for prom. Use a flat iron to create a smooth, straight look and finish with a shine serum for an extra polished effect.

Part the hair in the middle for a symmetrical, clean look that exudes elegance.

15. Short and Curly Bob with Flowers

Create a whimsical prom look by adding small floral accessories to a curly bob.

Curl your short hair and tuck in tiny flowers or delicate pins to give it a romantic, nature-inspired vibe. This look works best for an outdoor or garden-themed prom.

16. Slicked-Back Wet Look

For a bold, high-fashion look, try the slicked-back wet look. Apply a generous amount of hair gel to your short hair and comb it back for a sleek, shiny finish.

This look is all about confidence, making it perfect for those who want to stand out.

17. Short Hair with a Double Braided Crown

For a more intricate style, create a double braided crown. Braid two small sections from each side of your head and pull them back, securing them at the back of your head.

This style creates the illusion of a crown and adds a boho-chic vibe to short hair.

18. Side Swept Curls with a Sparkly Pin

For an elegant yet simple prom look, side swept curls are a great option.

Curl your hair into soft, loose curls and sweep it all to one side, securing it with a sparkly hairpin behind your ear.

This style not only shows off your curls but also keeps your hair away from your face, making it both functional and stylish.

19. Mini French Twist

Even with short hair, you can pull off a mini French twist. Gather the back section of your hair, twist it upward, and secure it with bobby pins.

Leave the front slightly loose or add a few waves for a soft finish. This elegant updo works beautifully for formal events like prom and adds sophistication to your short hair.

20. Short Choppy Layers with Loose Waves

Short, choppy layers create texture and dimension, while loose waves add movement.

Use a curling iron to wave your hair lightly, then apply a texturizing spray to enhance the layers.

This style is perfect for a laid-back prom look with a little edge, making your hair appear fuller and more dynamic.

21. Curled Bob with Side Braid

A curled bob combined with a side braid offers a fun, flirty prom hairstyle.

Curl your bob using a medium-sized curling iron, and create a small braid on one side of your head, pinning it behind the ear.

This style blends the softness of curls with the casualness of a braid, making it a great choice for a youthful, effortless look.

22. Soft Finger Waves with a Side Clip

Give your short hair a vintage touch with soft finger waves. Use a comb and styling cream to create S-shaped waves across your hair, then finish the look with a decorative clip on one side.

This timeless style adds glamour and class to any prom outfit, reminiscent of old Hollywood elegance.

23. Short Voluminous Waves

For a fuller look, opt for short voluminous waves. Curl your hair with a large barrel curling iron and tease the roots slightly for added volume.

Finish with a light hairspray to keep the waves in place. This style is perfect for short hair that needs extra body and movement to stand out.

24. Side Part with Curls and Hair Jewels

A deep side part paired with curls and hair jewels makes for a stunning prom look.

Create soft, loose curls, then add delicate hair jewels along the part or scatter them throughout the hair for a whimsical touch.

This style is ideal for those who want a little sparkle without going over the top.

25. Sleek Bob with Curtain Bangs

If you have curtain bangs, a sleek bob is the perfect match. Straighten your bob with a flat iron and allow your curtain bangs to frame your face naturally.

This style gives off a polished, modern look while still keeping it soft and flattering.

26. Twisted Faux Updo

Even with short hair, you can achieve the look of an updo with a twisted faux updo. Twist sections of your hair and pin them towards the back of your head to mimic an updo.

Leave a few loose strands in the front for a relaxed, romantic vibe. This style is perfect for those who want an elegant prom look without the length.

27. Messy Curled Pixie with Accessories

A messy curled pixie can be elevated by adding the right accessories. Curl small sections of your pixie cut, then use your fingers to tousle the curls for a carefree look.

Add a few dainty hairpins or clips for extra style. This hairstyle is great for adding a playful touch to a pixie cut while still looking polished.

28. Bob with Loose Curls and a Side Twist

For a chic and simple style, try a bob with loose curls and a side twist. Curl your hair loosely with a curling wand, then twist one side and pin it behind your ear.

This subtle twist adds interest without overwhelming the look, making it a great option for a minimalistic prom style.

29. Short Sleek Hair with Side Swept Bangs

Create a polished look by straightening your short hair and sweeping your bangs to the side.

Use a flat iron to ensure your hair is sleek and smooth, and finish with a shine spray for an extra glossy effect.

This simple yet elegant hairstyle keeps the focus on your prom outfit while giving your hair a sophisticated touch.

30. Bob with a Braided Front

Adding a braid to your short bob is an easy way to elevate your prom hairstyle. Create a small braid in the front, starting from your part and pinning it back behind your ear.

The rest of your bob can be left straight or wavy, depending on your preference. This braided front adds a boho element to your look while keeping it classy.

31. Wavy Bob with a Middle Part

A wavy bob with a middle part gives off a cool, modern vibe. Use a curling iron to add loose waves throughout your hair, then part it in the middle for a symmetrical look.

This style is effortless and perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish prom hairstyle.

32. Side Swept Bob with Loose Twists

To add some texture to your side swept bob, incorporate loose twists. Part your hair to the side and twist small sections, securing them with bobby pins at the back.

This gives your short hair an intricate, elegant feel without requiring too much effort, making it ideal for prom night.

33. Pin Curled Bob

Bring vintage flair to prom with a pin curled bob. Use small curling irons or pins to set tight curls throughout your bob.

Let them set and then gently comb through to loosen the curls slightly, giving you a soft, vintage-inspired look.

This hairstyle adds a touch of old-school glamour, perfect for a formal occasion like prom.