19 Best Prom Hairstyles for Black Girls This Year

Prom is one of those nights where you want everything to feel just right—the dress, the makeup, and definitely the hair. If you’re a Black woman scrolling through Pinterest feeling overwhelmed, I hear you. There are so many options out there, and it can be hard to know what will actually work with your texture, your outfit, and your personal style.

The good news? Black hair is incredibly versatile, and whether you’re team natural, team braids, or team sleek and straight, there’s a prom look out there with your name on it.

This list has a little bit of everything—romantic curls, bold braids, vintage vibes, and modern updos—so you can find the one that makes you feel like the main character.

1. Soft Glam Curls

Soft, bouncy curls are timeless for a reason. They frame your face beautifully, photograph well from every angle, and bring instant glamour without trying too hard. This style works with a silk press or stretched natural hair and pairs perfectly with strapless or sweetheart necklines .

What you need:

1. Medium-barrel curling iron (for consistent, bouncy curls)
2. Heat protectant spray (to keep hair healthy)
3. Shine spray (for that healthy, glossy finish)
4. Wide-tooth comb (to gently separate curls)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Start with a silk press or blown-out natural hair for a smooth base.
2. Step 2: Wrap sections around a medium-barrel curling iron, holding for a few seconds before releasing.
3. Step 3: Once all sections are curled, let them cool completely.
4. Step 4: Gently run your fingers or a wide-tooth comb through the curls and finish with shine spray.

2. Sleek High Ponytail

Bold, confident, and undeniably modern—a sleek high ponytail lifts your features and lets your makeup and dress take center stage. The key is that glass-like finish and height at the crown .

What you need:

1. Strong-hold edge control (for sleekness and laid edges)
2. Boar bristle brush (for smoothing)
3. Thick elastic band (to match your hair color)
4. Shine serum (for that wet-look finish)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Apply edge control to your hairline and use a boar bristle brush to smooth hair back.
2. Step 2: Gather hair at the very top of your crown and secure tightly with an elastic.
3. Step 3: Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the elastic, pinning underneath.
4. Step 4: Smooth flyaways with more edge control and finish with shine serum.

3. Braided Updo with Curls

This style gives you the best of both worlds—the structure and artistry of braids paired with the softness of romantic curls. It feels regal and special without being fussy .

What you need:

1. Rattail comb (for precise parting)
2. Small clear elastics (to secure braids)
3. Bobby pins and U-shaped pins (for securing the updo)
4. Gold cuffs or decorative pins (optional, for flair)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Braid the front sections or crown area in your chosen pattern (cornrows, twists, or individual braids).
2. Step 2: Gather the remaining hair and curl it with a wand for softness.
3. Step 3: Pin the curled sections into a loose updo at the back, mixing the braids and curls together.
4. Step 4: Tuck in any loose ends and add gold cuffs or decorative pins for extra glam.

4. Voluminous Natural Curls or Afro Glam

There’s nothing more striking than natural texture styled with intention. Whether you go for a full, shaped afro or defined, bouncy curls, this look radiates confidence and natural beauty .

What you need:

1. Curl-defining cream or gel (to enhance your pattern)
2. Pick or wide-tooth comb (for volume at the roots)
3. Diffuser attachment (for drying without frizz)
4. Statement earrings (because they’ll pop against the volume)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Apply curl cream to damp hair and scrunch for definition.
2. Step 2: Diffuse until fully dry or air-dry for a softer look.
3. Step 3: Once dry, use a pick at the roots to lift and shape for maximum volume.
4. Step 4: Fluff and shape the afro symmetrically, then add your statement earrings.

5. Half-Up, Half-Down with Waves

This is the ultimate romantic middle ground. You get the elegance of an updo with the softness of loose waves flowing down. It’s balanced, camera-ready, and works with so many dress styles .

What you need:

1. Curling wand (for creating waves)
2. Decorative pins or clips (to dress up the half-up section)
3. Volumizing powder or spray (for lift at the crown)
4. Light-hold hairspray (to keep everything in place)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Add volume at the crown with volumizing powder or by backcombing gently.
2. Step 2: Take sections from each temple and bring them to the back, securing with decorative pins.
3. Step 3: Curl the remaining loose hair with a wand for soft, romantic waves.
4. Step 4: Let waves fall naturally over your shoulders and set with light-hold hairspray.

6. Textured High Ponytail with Defined Curls

This ponytail is all about showcasing your curl pattern. It’s youthful, fun, and perfect for adding volume and flair to your look. Ideal for medium to thick hair types and heart-shaped or oval faces .

What you need:

1. Strong elastic (to hold the height)
2. Lightweight mousse (for hold and shine)
3. Edge control (for a polished hairline)
4. Satin scrunchie or elastic (matching your hair)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Flip your head upside down and gather all hair at the crown, securing tightly.
2. Step 2: Apply mousse to the ponytail to enhance curl definition.
3. Step 3: Arrange the curls to fall naturally, letting them clump together for definition.
4. Step 4: Smooth your edges with edge control and finish with shine spray.

7. Elegant Braided Bun with Defined Twists

This stunning braided bun showcases beautifully defined twists for a polished yet playful look. It keeps hair off your neck (great for warm venues) and works wonderfully for oval or heart-shaped faces .

What you need:

1. Shine serum (for glossy finish)
2. Bobby pins and U-shaped pins (for securing)
3. Edge control (for a clean hairline)
4. Small decorative pins or cuffs (optional)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Create defined twists or braids throughout your hair (or use pre-braided extensions).
2. Step 2: Gather all hair at the nape or mid-back and begin wrapping the braids into a bun shape.
3. Step 3: Secure with U-shaped pins, making sure the bun feels sturdy but not too tight.
4. Step 4: Apply shine serum for gloss and lay edges with edge control.

8. Deep Side Part Waves

A deep side part instantly elevates any style by adding drama and elongating the face. The waves can be loose and romantic or sleek and vintage—either way, it’s an elegant choice .

What you need:

1. Curling iron or wand (for creating waves)
2. Rattail comb (for creating the perfect part)
3. Light-hold hairspray (to hold the waves)
4. Shine spray (for glossy finish)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Use a rattail comb to create a deep side part—deeper than you think you need.
2. Step 2: Curl sections of hair away from the face for consistent waves.
3. Step 3: Gently brush through the curls if you want softer, more blended waves.
4. Step 4: Set with hairspray and finish with shine spray for a healthy glow.

9. Goddess Braids or Feed-In Cornrows

Sleek, protective, and absolutely stunning—goddess braids or feed-in cornrows are perfect for an elegant yet low-maintenance prom look. They can be styled into an updo, left long, or adorned with accessories .

What you need:

1. Moisturizer or scalp oil (prep before braiding)
2. Edge control (for sleekness)
3. Gold cuffs, beads, or string (for decoration)
4. Light oil (for shine after styling)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Moisturize your scalp and hair thoroughly before braiding.
2. Step 2: Have your stylist create feed-in cornrows or goddess braids in your desired pattern.
3. Step 3: Add gold cuffs, beads, or decorative thread for extra glam.
4. Step 4: Finish with a light oil for shine and hydration.

10. Classic Low Bun with Sleek Edges

Timeless, refined, and incredibly versatile—a low bun highlights your facial features and pairs perfectly with statement earrings. It’s the definition of understated elegance .

What you need:

1. Strong-hold edge control or gel (for sleekness)
2. Boar bristle brush (for smoothing)
3. Bobby pins (matching your hair color)
4. Pearls or gold cuffs (optional, for extra glam)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Smooth hair with edge control and brush it back toward the nape of your neck.
2. Step 2: Gather into a ponytail at the nape, then twist and wrap into a bun, securing with pins.
3. Step 3: Lay your edges with edge control in your favorite pattern.
4. Step 4: Add pearls, gold cuffs, or decorative pins around the bun for a special touch.

11. Braided Crown Updo

This regal style literally crowns your head with braids. Cornrows or flat twists are arranged to frame your face like a crown, leading into a graceful bun or leaving the rest loose. It’s queen energy all the way .

What you need:

1. Rattail comb (for parting)
2. Edge control (for sleekness)
3. Bobby pins (for securing)
4. Beads or rhinestones (optional, for sparkle)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Part your hair and create cornrows or flat twists that follow your hairline like a crown.
2. Step 2: Gather the remaining hair into a bun at the back or leave it loose if preferred.
3. Step 3: Secure any loose ends with pins.
4. Step 4: Add beads, rhinestones, or decorative pins woven into the braids for sparkle.

12. Curly High Bun

A sleek, high bun with bouncy curls escaping at the top creates a look that’s both playful and elegant. The deep side part and soft tendrils frame the face, adding a romantic touch .

What you need:

1. Strong elastic (to hold the height)
2. Edge control (for sleekness)
3. Curl-defining cream (for the top curls)
4. Bobby pins (for securing)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Smooth hair back with edge control and gather into a high ponytail.
2. Step 2: Instead of wrapping all hair into a tight bun, leave the top section out to create loose, defined curls.
3. Step 3: Arrange the curls to cascade from the top of the bun, pinning any pieces that need support.
4. Step 4: Leave out a few face-framing tendrils and define them with curl cream.

13. Big, Fluffy Afro

Sometimes the simplest statement is the loudest. A full, shaped afro is bold, beautiful, and undeniably confident. Focus on fullness and definition for a look that commands attention .

What you need:

1. Curl-enhancing cream or gel (for definition)
2. Wide-tooth comb or pick (for fluffing)
3. Moisturizing spray (for hydration and shine)
4. Floral clips or headband (optional, for dressing up)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Define your curls with cream or gel on damp hair, then dry completely.
2. Step 2: Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to gently fluff the roots for maximum volume.
3. Step 3: Shape the afro symmetrically, picking out any areas that need more lift.
4. Step 4: Add floral clips, a statement headband, or leave it bare—either way, it’s stunning.

14. Side-Swept Curls

Soft, romantic, and timeless—side-swept curls swept to one side create drama and highlight your neckline and shoulders. It’s perfect for one-shoulder or strapless dresses .

What you need:

1. Wide-barrel curling iron (for loose, flowing waves)
2. Bobby pins (to secure the side sweep)
3. Shine spray (for glossy finish)
4. Light-hold hairspray (to hold without stiffness)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Curl your hair with a wide-barrel iron for natural, flowing waves.
2. Step 2: Gently sweep all curls to one side and pin any shorter pieces at the nape to keep them in place.
3. Step 3: Arrange the curls to cascade over your shoulder.
4. Step 4: Finish with shine spray and light hairspray for hold.

15. Faux Locs High Bun

For a bold and regal vibe, gather soft faux locs into a high ponytail and twist or wrap them into a neat high bun. This style is an eye-catching take on protective styling—elegant and practical all at once .

What you need:

1. Strong elastic (to hold the height)
2. Bobby pins and U-shaped pins (for securing)
3. Edge control (for a sleek hairline)
4. Gold cuffs or beads (optional, for decoration)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Install faux locs (or start with already-installed locs).
2. Step 2: Gather all locs into a high ponytail at the crown and secure tightly.
3. Step 3: Twist or wrap the locs around the base to form a bun, pinning as you go.
4. Step 4: Lay edges with edge control and add gold cuffs or beads to individual locs for flair.

16. Fulani Braids into a Bun

This style is a stunning fusion of culture and elegance. Intricate Fulani braids—often adorned with beads or rings—are gathered into a sleek high or low bun. It’s tradition meets modern sophistication .

What you need:

1. Moisturizer (for pre-braiding prep)
2. Edge control (for sleekness)
3. Beads or rings (for authentic Fulani details)
4. Bobby pins (for securing the bun)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Have your stylist create Fulani braids with the characteristic center braid and adorned sides.
2. Step 2: Once braided, gather all braids into a ponytail at your desired height.
3. Step 3: Wrap the braids into a bun and secure with pins.
4. Step 4: Add beads or rings to the ends of braids that hang from the bun or around the face.

17. Twisted Crown Updo

Effortlessly chic and queen-like, this style uses flat twists or cornrows arranged to frame your face like a crown, leading into a graceful bun or leaving the rest loose. It’s polished without trying too hard .

What you need:

1. Rattail comb (for parting)
2. Edge control (for smoothness)
3. Bobby pins (for securing)
4. Decorative pins or flowers (optional)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Part your hair and create flat twists or cornrows that follow your hairline.
2. Step 2: Gather the remaining hair at the back and twist or pin into a bun.
3. Step 3: Secure all twists with pins, making sure the “crown” lies flat against your head.
4. Step 4: Tuck decorative pins or small flowers into the twists for a romantic finish.

18. Classic Afro with Floral Clips

Take your natural texture and elevate it with delicate floral clips scattered throughout. This style celebrates your curl pattern while adding a touch of prom-worthy elegance .

What you need:

1. Curl-defining cream (for definition)
2. Pick or wide-tooth comb (for volume)
3. Small floral clips or pins (scattered throughout)
4. Shine spray (for healthy glow)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Define curls with cream on damp hair and dry completely.
2. Step 2: Use a pick at the roots for volume and shape the afro symmetrically.
3. Step 3: Start pinning small floral clips throughout the afro—scatter them randomly for an organic look.
4. Step 4: Finish with shine spray for a healthy, glossy glow.

19. Jumbo Twisted Mohawk

For the bold and fashion-forward, a jumbo twisted mohawk combines the edginess of a mohawk with the softness of twists. Braid or twist the sides and let the center section stand tall .

What you need:

1. Strong-hold gel (to slick sides)
2. Edge control (for clean lines)
3. Bobby pins (for securing)
4. Volumizing powder or spray (for the center)

How to style it:

1. Step 1: Apply strong-hold gel to the sides and smooth them back tightly, pinning flat if needed.
2. Step 2: Section off the center strip of hair from forehead to nape.
3. Step 3: Twist or braid the center section, or leave it curly for volume—apply volumizing powder at the roots for lift.
4. Step 4: Arrange the center to stand tall or cascade back, then set with hairspray.