Prom night is approaching, and if you’ve been blessed with long locks, you’re in for a treat! We’ve curated the 15 most stunning updo hairstyles of 2014 that’ll make you the belle of the ball. From elegant twists to romantic braids, these styles will complement your dress and make heads turn.
Looking for that perfect hairstyle that’ll last all night while you dance the evening away? We’ve got you covered. These updos aren’t just gorgeous—they’re practical too, keeping your hair secure without sacrificing style. Whether you’re going for a classic, vintage, or modern look, our collection features options that’ll enhance your natural beauty and create unforgettable prom memories.
15 Most Delightful Prom Updos for Long Hair in 2024
1. Classic French Twist with Pearl Accents
The timeless French twist gets a 2024 update with strategically placed pearl pins for added elegance. This sophisticated style works beautifully with strapless or high-neck dresses. Securing this updo requires approximately 15-20 bobby pins, ensuring it lasts through hours of dancing without falling flat.
2. Bohemian Crown Braid
Braided crown styles have evolved into intricate designs featuring loose tendrils framing the face. This romantic updo pairs perfectly with flowing dresses and nature-themed accessories. Texturizing spray creates the perfect foundation for this effortlessly chic look that photographs beautifully from all angles.
3. Sleek High Bun with Side Sweep
Polished high buns continue to dominate formal events with their clean lines and face-framing potential. This architectural style showcases statement earrings while keeping hair completely off the shoulders. Applying a quarter-sized amount of high-shine serum creates that coveted glass-like finish.
4. Twisted Low Chignon
The twisted low chignon offers understated sophistication for those seeking elegance without excessive volume. This versatile style works with virtually all dress necklines and face shapes. Creating the perfect twist requires sectioning hair into three primary parts before securing at the nape.
5. Messy Textured Updo
Deliberately undone updos have become the go-to for fashion-forward prom-goers seeking effortless glamour. This tousled style features intentional volume at the crown and strategically placed loose strands. Dry shampoo provides the perfect gritty texture needed for this modern interpretation.
6. Braided Halo with Floral Accents
Intricate braided halos encircling the head create the perfect foundation for fresh or silk flowers. This ethereal style complements romantic and garden-themed prom attire. Braiding techniques involve crossing three strands consistently while maintaining even tension throughout.
7. Side-Swept Romantic Updo
Asymmetrical updos swept elegantly to one side offer dramatic impact for grand entrances. This Hollywood-inspired look features cascading curls secured strategically for movement. Prepping hair with volumizing mousse ensures sufficient body to maintain the dramatic side sweep all night.
8. Twisted Rope Braid Updo
Rope braids twisted into an intricate updo create fascinating texture and visual interest from every angle. This architectural style works wonderfully with geometric dress patterns and modern accessories. Twisting techniques require dividing hair into two sections and wrapping them around each other in a consistent direction.
9. Bubble Ponytail Updo
Segmented “bubble” ponytails wrapped into sophisticated updos have become increasingly popular among trendsetters. This innovative style combines playfulness with refined structure. Creating perfect bubbles requires securing small clear elastics approximately two inches apart throughout the length.
10. Vintage Hollywood Waves Pinned Up
Classic finger waves pinned into a partial updo capture old Hollywood glamour with modern sensibility. This timeless style pairs beautifully with column dresses and art deco accessories. Deep side parts create dramatic contrast essential for achieving this iconic look.
11. Twisted Crown with Cascading Curls
Half-up crown styles featuring twisted sections and flowing curls offer the best of both worlds. This versatile updo showcases both intricate styling and length simultaneously. Curling hair with varying barrel sizes creates natural-looking dimension throughout the cascading sections.
12. Knotted Updo
Multiple small knots secured into an artistic arrangement create unexpected texture and modern appeal. This architectural style makes a statement without requiring excessive accessories. Creating uniform knots involves crossing sections over each other and pulling through consistently.
13. Braided Top Knot
Combining intricate braiding with the practical top knot results in an elevated everyday style perfect for prom. This balanced updo works well with both minimal and ornate dress designs. Braiding techniques include Dutch, French, and fishtail variations leading into the secured knot.
14. Woven Lattice Updo
Interlacing sections of hair into a basket-weave pattern creates fascinating dimensional effects. This complex style showcases technical skill while maintaining elegant simplicity. Sectioning hair into eight primary pieces provides the foundation for this impressive architectural design.
15. Curly Pinned-Up Tendrils
Natural curls pinned strategically create beautiful, voluminous updos with romantic softness. This texture-focused style celebrates natural hair patterns while providing structure. Setting curls with a diffuser before pinning ensures defined texture that lasts throughout the evening.
Elegant Twisted Buns for a Timeless Look
Twisted buns dominated the 2014 prom hairstyle scene with their versatility and classic appeal. These sophisticated updos offered a perfect balance of elegance and practicality, keeping hair secure throughout a night of dancing while creating a stunning focal point for your overall look.
Classic High Twisted Bun
The classic high twisted bun creates a regal silhouette that perfectly complements formal prom attire. This timeless style involves twisting sections of hair and securing them at the crown of your head for maximum impact. Hair serum plays a crucial role in achieving the polished, sleek appearance that made this updo so popular in 2014. Many prom-goers enhanced their high twisted buns with strategically placed hair accessories such as decorative pins or even fresh flowers for a personalized touch. This versatile style works beautifully with various necklines, making it an adaptable choice for any prom dress design.
Side-Swept Twisted Bun with Accessories
Side-swept twisted buns offer an asymmetrical elegance that captivated the 2014 prom scene. This variation secures the twisted hair to one side, creating a sophisticated look with visual interest from every angle. Straight bangs provide a wonderful contrast to the twisted texture, achieving that perfect balance between casual and formal aesthetics. Bobby pins, decorative hair ties, and jeweled accessories can transform this already stunning style into something truly memorable. Natural curls or braids incorporated into the twist add dimension and personalization to the side-swept bun, giving you endless options for customization. This flattering style frames the face beautifully while showcasing earrings and necklines, making it particularly popular for off-shoulder or asymmetrical prom dresses in 2014.
Romantic Braided Updos That Turn Heads
Braided updos dominated the 2014 prom season, creating memorable looks that perfectly balanced elegance and casual charm. These styles incorporated intricate weaving techniques while maintaining a soft, romantic appearance that complemented formal attire beautifully.
Crown Braid with Loose Tendrils
Crown braids emerged as a standout choice for 2014 prom hairstyles, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and effortless beauty. This gorgeous style featured hair braided into a crown shape that framed the face elegantly, while strategically placed loose tendrils softened the overall look. Many prom-goers paired their crown braids with straight bangs to enhance the style’s balanced appearance. The versatility of crown braids made them suitable for virtually any formal dance event, allowing for personalization based on dress style and individual preferences.
Fishtail Braid Updo with Volume
Fishtail braid updos brought an element of intricate detail to 2014 prom hairstyles, combining complexity with showstopping volume. This trend incorporated the distinctive fishtail braid technique into voluminous updo styles that created dramatic height and visual interest. Popular variations featured bouffant styling at the crown, complemented by carefully arranged pin curls and thick braided sections that defined different areas of the hair. The unique texture of the fishtail weave added depth and elegance to these formal updos, making them particularly photogenic for prom night memories. Many stylists recommended securing these elaborate styles with both pins and hair serum to ensure they remained flawless throughout the evening’s festivities.
Glamorous Hollywood Waves Transformed Into Updos
Hollywood waves became a standout prom updo choice in 2014, offering timeless elegance with a modern twist. These sophisticated styles took classic waves to new heights by transforming them into structured yet flowing updos.
Vintage Pinned Waves
Vintage pinned waves captured the essence of old Hollywood glamour while creating a secure and stunning prom hairstyle. This classic look featured strategically placed pin curls that formed the foundation of a beautiful bouffant or high bun. Stylists created this look by curling sections of hair, then pinning them to the head to establish the desired shape and volume. Many prom-goers enhanced these waves with decorative hair accessories like crystal flowers or vintage clips for added sophistication. The completed style offered exceptional staying power throughout an evening of dancing while maintaining its structured elegance.
Side-Swept Curled Updo
Side-swept curled updos dominated the 2014 prom scene with their asymmetrical charm and romantic appeal. Creating this look involved curling the entire head of hair with a curling iron to establish a foundation of texture and volume. Stylists secured a section of hair with a hair tie positioned to one side, creating the base for the updo. The remaining curled hair was then artfully wrapped around this initial ponytail, forming a rosebud-shaped bun that showcased the curl patterns. Bobby pins and updo pins worked together to secure every strand in place while maintaining the flowing, side-swept appearance. This versatile style complemented various necklines and allowed for personalization through the looseness of curls and placement of the side bun.
Messy-Chic Updos for the Modern Prom-Goer
The 2014 prom season saw messy-chic updos dominate as a standout trend for long-haired prom-goers. These styles perfectly balanced elegance with effortlessness, featuring undone braids woven into loose buns that created a modern take on formal hairstyling.
Textured Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Textured low buns emerged as a favorite choice among 2014 prom attendees seeking a sophisticated yet approachable look. This versatile style involved curling the hair first to create dimension before gathering it into a strategically placed low bun. Face-framing wisps delicately released around the hairline softened the overall appearance and highlighted facial features beautifully. Creating this look required minimal tools—just a quality curling iron and several bobby pins to secure the style in place. Many prom-goers appreciated how this updo complemented various dress necklines while maintaining a timeless appeal that photographed beautifully throughout the night.
Tousled Top Knot with Accessories
Tousled top knots offered the perfect blend of casual chic and formal styling that resonated with the 2014 prom crowd. Securing hair into a high bun position created an elongating effect, while deliberately tousled texture kept the look from appearing too severe or overdone. Accessories played a crucial role in elevating this seemingly simple style—polished hair pins, decorative hair ties, and even fresh orchid flowers transformed basic top knots into statement-making prom hairstyles. Thick, polished segments of hair pinned at the crown and adorned with orchids created particularly elegant variations that balanced sophistication with youthful charm. Many students chose this style for its staying power throughout a night of dancing while still maintaining that coveted “effortlessly chic” aesthetic that defined 2014 prom trends.
Sophisticated Low Updos with Intricate Details
2014 saw sophisticated low updos become a standout choice for prom-goers with long hair. These elegant styles featured meticulous details that elevated simple buns into statement hairstyles perfect for formal occasions.
Braided Low Chignon
Braided low chignons emerged as one of 2014’s most sought-after prom hairstyles, offering the perfect balance between formal elegance and relaxed charm. This versatile style featured intricately woven braids that were carefully arranged into a loose, messy bun positioned at the nape of the neck. Many stylists paired these braided chignons with straight bangs to create a striking contrast between the textured bun and sleek front sections. The “undone” finish of these chignons added a contemporary touch to an otherwise traditional style, making it particularly appealing for fashion-forward prom attendees. Pins were strategically placed throughout to ensure the style remained secure during hours of dancing and celebration.
Twisted Low Bun with Floral Accents
Twisted low buns adorned with floral elements captured the romantic essence of prom night in 2014. This sophisticated style involved dividing the hair into sections, twisting them intricately, and securing them into a polished low bun that sat elegantly at the base of the neck. Fresh orchids became the accessory of choice, adding a touch of natural beauty and color to the refined updo. Hairstylists often applied hair serum throughout the style to tame flyaways and create a smooth, glossy finish that photographed beautifully. The strategic placement of pins ensured these buns remained intact throughout the evening while maintaining their structured yet soft appearance. This particular style complemented both high-necked and backless prom dresses, making it a versatile option for many different formal looks.
Half-Up, Half-Down Styles for the Best of Both Worlds
The half-up, half-down hairstyle became a standout favorite for prom in 2014, offering the perfect balance between formal elegance and relaxed beauty. This versatile style allowed teens to showcase both the sophistication of an updo and the romantic flow of loose locks.
Braided Crown with Cascading Curls
Braided crown styles dominated the 2014 prom scene, combining intricate braiding techniques with voluminous curls for a truly enchanting look. The top section of hair was expertly braided around the crown of the head, creating a halo effect that framed the face beautifully. Below this braided diadem, luscious curls cascaded down the back and shoulders, adding movement and romantic flair. Many prom-goers enhanced this style with decorative pins, tiny flowers, or subtle sparkles woven into the braid for extra dimension. This sophisticated yet youthful option worked wonderfully with strapless or sweetheart neckline dresses, allowing both the hairstyle and gown to command attention.
Twisted Half-Updo with Volume
The twisted half-updo emerged as a popular alternative to braids in 2014, offering texture and drama through elegant twists rather than intricate weaving. Hairstylists created this look by taking sections from each side of the head, twisting them back, and securing them with pins while adding important volume at the crown. The dramatic height at the roots gave this style a red-carpet quality that photographed beautifully in prom pictures. Face-framing pieces often remained loose for a softer effect, while the back portion featured either sleek straight strands or bouncy curls depending on the desired final look. Many variations included strategically placed pin curls that added interest and texture to the twisted sections. This adaptable style complemented virtually any dress style, making it a universal favorite for prom attendees wanting a reliable yet striking hairstyle for their special night.
Statement-Making Updos with Accessories
When it comes to creating unforgettable prom hairstyles, accessories can transform a simple updo into something truly spectacular. The 2014 prom season saw an impressive array of statement-making updos that incorporated eye-catching accessories to elevate the entire look.
Crystal-Adorned Updo
Crystal accessories added undeniable glamour to formal updos in 2014, creating hairstyles that sparkled under venue lighting. These dazzling elements could be strategically placed throughout high buns or loosely pinned updos to create a starry effect that complemented formal attire. Many stylists recommended securing crystal pins or clips at varying angles to catch the light from different directions. Elegant crystal accessories worked wonderfully when incorporated into polished segments of hair at the crown, offering a sophisticated touch that photographed beautifully. The versatility of crystal elements meant they could be scattered throughout the hairstyle or concentrated in one area for a more dramatic focal point.
Ribbon-Woven Braided Bun
Ribbon-woven braided buns emerged as one of 2014’s most charming and versatile prom hairstyle options. This trendy style combined the structure of braiding with the casual elegance of a messy bun, creating a perfect balance of sophistication and youthful charm. Stylists would typically create a loose braid before securing it into a relaxed bun formation at the nape or side of the head. The distinguishing feature came from colorful or complementary ribbons woven directly through the braid or wrapped around the base of the bun for added dimension. This style offered endless customization possibilities, with ribbons that could match or contrast with dress colors. Many prom-goers appreciated how this updo maintained its integrity throughout a night of dancing while still appearing effortlessly chic.
How to Prepare Your Long Hair for the Perfect Prom Updo
Start with a Good Foundation
Before diving into styling, we recommend preparing your hair properly to ensure your updo lasts all night. Clean, well-conditioned hair provides the perfect canvas for any prom style. For best results, wash your hair the day before your prom rather than the day of, as slightly “lived-in” hair holds styles better than freshly washed hair.
Gather Your Styling Tools
We’ve found that having the right tools makes creating the perfect updo much easier. Essential items include:
- Curling iron (for creating waves and curls)
- Hair ties and clear elastics
- Bobby pins and hair pins (plenty of them!)
- Sectioning clips
- Heat protectant spray
- Hairspray (medium to strong hold)
- Hair serum (for smoothing frizz)
- Water spray bottle (for dampening hair when needed)
Master the Art of Sectioning
Proper sectioning is crucial for creating a polished updo. Take 1/3 of your hair at the back and secure it with a claw clip, working with smaller sections to ensure precision. This technique was particularly popular for 2014 prom styles and makes the styling process significantly more manageable.
Pre-Style with Curls
Many of the most popular 2014 prom updos started with curled hair as a foundation. Use your curling iron to create loose waves or tighter curls depending on your desired final look. Curling your entire head of hair first gives you versatile building blocks for styles like curly messy buns, bouffants, and updos featuring rosette curls.
Apply Products Strategically
Hair products play a vital role in achieving a long-lasting updo. Apply heat protectant before using any hot tools. Smooth a small amount of hair serum through your hair to tame frizz and add shine. Finish each section with a light mist of hairspray as you work to build hold without creating stiffness.
Practice Securing Techniques
Learning to properly secure your updo ensures it won’t collapse halfway through prom night. For high buns, we suggest using a combination of hair ties to create the initial shape, followed by strategically placed pins to secure any loose sections. Crossing bobby pins in an “X” pattern creates maximum hold for heavier sections of hair.
Create Volume Where Needed
Volume was a key element in 2014’s most beloved prom updos. Backcombing or teasing certain sections, particularly at the crown, creates the foundation for stunning bouffant styles. Gently tease the roots using a fine-tooth comb, then smooth the outer layer of hair for a polished finish.
Incorporate Braiding Techniques
Many 2014 prom updos featured beautiful braided elements. Practice basic braiding techniques like French braids, Dutch braids, and fishtail braids. These can be incorporated into your updo as maiden braids wrapped around a bun or used to create structure and interest in looser styles.
Finish with Face-Framing Details
The most flattering updos from 2014 featured intentional face-framing pieces. Leave out a few wisps around your face for a soft, romantic touch that prevents your updo from looking too severe. These subtle details make your hairstyle appear more effortless and complement your facial features beautifully.
Consider Hair Accessories
Popular 2014 prom updos often featured elegant hair accessories like orchid flowers, crystal pins, or decorative combs. Select accessories that complement your dress and overall look. Place these final touches strategically to enhance your updo without overwhelming it.
Essential Products and Tools for Long-Lasting Prom Updos
Hair Styling Tools
Creating memorable prom updos requires the right styling tools to achieve those perfect 2014 looks. Curling irons stand as a fundamental tool for developing the curly, wavy bases needed for most popular updos of that era. A quality hair comb helps with precise sectioning and smoothing out hair, particularly when crafting intricate braided styles or polished buns. Claw clips provide essential temporary holding power while you’re working on complex styles like the rose side updo that dominated prom trends.
Hair Accessories
Securing your updo properly ensures it lasts throughout the night of dancing and photo-taking. Clear hair ties offer a discreet way to anchor ponytails and buns without being visible in the final look. Bobby pins or updo pins are absolutely essential for locking twists, braids, and buns into place—we recommend having at least 20-30 on hand for elaborate styles. Hair pins work wonderfully as finishing touches, strategically placed to control flyaways and secure those last few strands for a polished appearance.
Hair Products
The right products make the difference between an updo that lasts an hour and one that lasts all night. Hair serum applied before styling helps smooth frizz and adds beautiful shine, especially important for elegant, polished updos that were trending in 2014. A small water spray bottle proves invaluable for dampening sections of hair to make them more manageable, particularly when creating sculpted elements like rosebuds or tight curls in your updo.
Decorative Elements
Elevating your 2014 prom updo requires thoughtful decorative touches that complement your overall look. Fresh orchids or other floral accessories were extremely popular additions that added romantic elegance to any hairstyle. These decorative elements transform even simple updos into statement-making styles that capture the essence of that year’s prom trends.
Styling Techniques
Mastering a few key techniques ensures your updo looks professional and stays secure. Proper sectioning techniques form the foundation of neat, organized styles—dividing hair into clear portions makes complex braids and buns much more manageable. Twisting and wrapping techniques create those intricate designs that made 2014 updos so distinctive, especially for styles like the popular rose side updo that requires precise manipulation of hair sections for that perfect floral effect.
Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect Updo for Your Prom Look
We’ve showcased the most enchanting updo styles that will elevate your prom look in 2024. Whether you prefer timeless elegance with a French twist or bohemian charm with braided details there’s an updo that perfectly matches your dress and personality.
Remember that the right preparation tools and techniques are key to creating a hairstyle that lasts all night. Don’t be afraid to personalize your chosen style with accessories that complement your overall look.
Your prom night deserves a hairstyle as memorable as the occasion itself. With these stunning updo options you’ll walk into prom with confidence knowing your hair looks absolutely perfect from every angle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top updo hairstyles for prom 2024?
The top updo hairstyles for prom 2024 include the Classic French Twist with Pearl Accents, Bohemian Crown Braid, Sleek High Bun with Side Sweep, Twisted Low Chignon, and Messy Textured Updo. These styles range from elegant and classic to modern and bohemian, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every dress style and personal preference.
How should I prepare my hair for a prom updo?
Start with clean, well-conditioned hair the day before or morning of prom. Gather essential styling tools like curling irons, bobby pins, and hairspray. Section your hair properly before styling, and consider pre-styling with loose curls for texture. Apply products strategically—mousse for volume and anti-frizz serum for smoothness—to ensure your updo stays perfect all night.
Will an updo hairstyle stay in place all night?
Yes, a properly styled updo can last throughout prom night. The key is using the right products and enough bobby pins. Apply a strong-hold hairspray in layers during styling and as a finishing touch. Many updos featured in the article, like the Classic High Twisted Bun and Braided Low Chignon, are specifically designed to remain secure during dancing and activities.
What updo works best for different dress necklines?
For strapless or sweetheart necklines, try high updos like the Sleek High Bun or Bubble Ponytail. For high-neck dresses, low chignons or side-swept styles work beautifully. One-shoulder dresses pair well with asymmetrical updos like the Side-Swept Twisted Bun. Backless dresses shine with updos that keep hair completely off the neck, showcasing the dress design.
Can I incorporate accessories into my prom updo?
Absolutely! The article highlights several accessorized styles including pearl-accented French twists and crystal-adorned updos. You can enhance any updo with strategic placement of crystal pins, decorative combs, fresh flowers, or colorful ribbons. Accessories not only add personal flair but also help secure your hairstyle and catch the light for stunning photos.
How long does it take to style a prom updo?
Most prom updos take between 30-60 minutes to create, depending on the complexity of the style and your hair length and thickness. Styles with intricate braiding patterns like the Fishtail Braid Updo or Crown Braid with Loose Tendrils may take longer. Consider scheduling a trial run with your stylist before prom day or allow extra time if doing it yourself.
Are these updo hairstyles suitable for all hair lengths?
Most of the featured updos work best for medium to long hair. However, many styles can be adapted for shorter hair with the help of extensions or modifications. The Messy Textured Updo and Tousled Top Knot are particularly versatile for shorter lengths, while styles like the Classic French Twist typically require longer hair for the full effect.
What essential tools do I need to create a prom updo?
You’ll need a quality curling iron or flat iron, sectioning clips, plenty of bobby pins (both regular and U-shaped), clear elastic hair ties, a teasing comb, a paddle brush, and strong-hold hairspray. For specific styles, you might also need hair donuts for buns, texturizing powder for volume, and decorative accessories like pearl pins or flowers.
