Some of us spend just as long browsing online for the perfect prom hairstyle as we do shopping for dresses. It seems like the least of your concerns at first, but as the big day inches near, you realize you're totally clueless – especially if you're doing your hair yourself! Finding something that's elegant but easy can be really tricky, and on top of that, you want something that complements the neckline of the dress. That's why we've compiled a list of a few different hairstyles that you can definitely do yourself and that will also turn your dress into an ensemble.
Halter Tops: Loose Braid
Halter tops are tricky because you want to show off the pretty neckline, but they do show a lot of shoulder, which can cause some visual imbalance for those of us who are a bit broader across the top. Piling all your hair on top of your head can leave your shoulder area looking a little bare, while wearing it all down will cover up that pretty neckline. We think Blake Lively makes a good compromise by doing a loose fishtail braid thrown over her shoulder. You can wear it up high like hers, or you can start it down at the nape of your neck for a more beachy look. It helps that this style is super easy!
Spaghetti Straps: Tousled Chignon
When your dress has delicate elements on top, such as spaghetti straps, you want to play off of it with a delicate hairstyle. A tousled side-chignon, like the one Jessica Alba is wearing, is the perfect way to create a look that's feminine and romantic. Some subtle jewelry, like long earrings and a small bracelet, can really bring it all together. Click here for an easy chignon tutorial!
One-Shoulder: Ballerina Bun
Nobody opts for a dramatic, one-shoulder neckline with the intention of covering it up! Asymmetrical necklines are a show-stopper, so let them do all the talking by keeping your hair up and away. There's nothing more chic than a sleek ballerina bun with this neckline – it's such an elegant and classic hairstyle for a dress that has an edge. Go for natural eye makeup, a shimmery highlight, and a bold lip if you really want to make a statement with your style.
Strapless/Sweetheart: Loose Side Waves
Strapless dresses are well-loved as prom styles, and admittedly, they leave a lot of room to play around with hairstyles. That being said, there's nothing we love more than letting some loose waves fall over one shoulder when wearing a strapless dress. It reads slightly retro and extremely glam – just look how amazing Amy Adams looks in this look! Here's an easy tutorial so you can do it yourself.
High Neck: Chic Ponytail
High necklines are all the rage this year – everyone from Kate Blanchett to Adriana Lima is wearing them. In our opinion, they look sleek and maybe a little bit mysterious when paired with a clean, simple ponytail. Just look at Allison Williams – she pulls off this look perfectly a bold red lip!
Mac Duggal 62062 has lace applique embellishments and a modest bateau neckline that makes it so elegant and feel like it came right out of a fairy tale. Rock it in the Ivory/Nude color pictured above to get a color like Lily's dress. Or, it also comes in colors Aqua/Nude and Red. All colors will have you looking beautifully elegant!
For a ball gown style dress like Lily's, Jovani 24008 is a great option. It's a gorgeous strapless floral ball gown that features exposed piping details at the bodice and a lace applique adorned tulle skirt.
To get the elegant long sleeves in a ball gown like Lily, go with Tarik Ediz 92579. It's a vibrant ball gown that features a high neckline, lace illusion bodice, and a full tulle skirt. This has fairy tale written all over it!
For a whimsical see through clutch inspired by Lily's clock clutch, go with La Regale 25550. It's a transparent box clutch with a shoulder chain. While it's shown in Emerald here, it also comes in Fuchsia and Royal.
