Vintage prom hairstyles look like a photograph from another decade, which is exactly why they work in a modern ballroom. These vintage-inspired prom hairstyles run from 1920s finger waves to 1960s bouffants, with advice on keeping your hair healthy while you style it.
Which decade should you choose?
Each era has a signature shape. Pick the decade that matches your dress, and the hair will look like part of the outfit.
If you are unsure, old Hollywood waves belong to no single decade, and they go with almost every dress. Our guide to the wider return of retro pieces back in style shows what to wear with them.
Eight vintage prom hairstyles.
1. Old Hollywood waves.
Deep, glossy waves brushed to one side are the safest vintage choice. Set the waves with large rollers or a curling iron, then brush them out gently for a single smooth wave.
2. Finger waves.
Finger waves sit close to the head in a ripple pattern, and they look best on short or chin-length hair. They are traditionally shaped with a setting gel and a comb, and they dry in place.
3. Victory rolls.
Victory rolls are rolls of hair pinned up at the front, and they were popular in the 1940s. Add pearls and red lipstick and the look is finished.
4. Pin-up curls.
Curls pinned high on the head with a flower or a small bow are a cheerful 1950s look. Set the curls the night before so they have time to cool and hold.
5. Curls and a bow.
For long hair, soft curls with a bow headband are the simplest way into vintage. A band takes the hair off the face without any pulling.
The one I would choose
I would choose old Hollywood waves. They need no special tools, they go with every neckline, and they photograph well from every angle.
6. The bouffant chignon.
A smooth, rounded bouffant with a low chignon is the formal 1960s look. It needs height at the crown, which a stylist can build with careful teasing, so ask for it to be done gently.
7. The low bun with pearls.
A low twisted bun is elegant from behind, which makes it good for a halter or backless dress. Keep it loose enough to be comfortable for hours.
8. The retro bob.
A smooth bob with bangs and a bold lip looks like a silent film still. It is the easiest on this list if you already have short hair.
How do you style it without damaging your hair?
Vintage styles use heat and pins, so protect your hair. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says to use a flat iron on dry hair at low or medium heat, no more than every other day (AAD hair styling advice). It also says to keep a curling iron in one spot for only a second or two.
It also advises cutting back on long-lasting hold products, because combing through them can break hair. Let your hair partly air-dry before styling it, and brush as little as you can.
Keep updos comfortable
Tightly pulled buns, ponytails and updos can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss from pulling. The AAD says pain from a tight style means it is too tight, and other warning signs include scalp stinging, crusts and broken hairs around the forehead (AAD on hairstyles that pull).
Occasional tight styles are acceptable. For prom night, loosen anything that hurts, and give your hair a break afterward.
How should you plan the day?
Book your stylist early, because prom season fills quickly. Bring a photo of the style and a photo of the dress, and do a trial run a few weeks before the date.
Match the hair to the neckline. High updos suit strapless and halter dresses, and waves suit dresses with straps. Pearls, combs and small flowers finish the look.
For beauty ideas to go with it, see our guide to the biggest beauty trends, and for another hair idea, the viral butterfly cut.
If you are still choosing a dress, take a look at these hoco dresses, and if you are celebrating after graduation, these graduation cap ideas.
Vintage prom hair questions, answered.
What is a vintage prom hairstyle?
A style from an earlier decade, such as finger waves, victory rolls, pin-up curls, a bouffant or old Hollywood waves, adapted for a modern dress.
How do I make vintage curls last?
Set the curls and let them cool completely before you brush them out. A little hold product helps, but use as little as you can, since combing through heavy products can break hair.
Is it safe to wear a tight updo?
Occasionally, yes. The AAD says pain means a style is too tight, and that hair can be damaged if tight styles are worn often. Loosen anything that hurts.
