Homecoming means photos, dinner and hours of dancing, so you need a hairstyle that looks great and stays in place. The good news is that many of the prettiest styles are easy to do at home.
Here are 20 easy homecoming hairstyles, from sleek ponytails to romantic updos, each with a tip to help it last all night.
1. Classic Chignon
A low, polished bun at the nape is timeless and elegant.
SaveHow to get the look: Twist the hair before coiling it into a bun so it holds its shape.
2. Romantic Loose Waves
Soft, loose waves look effortless and pair with any dress.
SaveHow to get the look: Curl your hair the night before, then brush the curls out lightly.
3. Braided Crown
A braid wrapped around the head looks pretty and keeps hair off your face while dancing.
SaveHow to get the look: Pancake the braid by gently pulling the edges for a fuller look.
4. Sleek Ponytail
A sleek, high ponytail is modern and stays neat all night.
SaveHow to get the look: Smooth with a brush and gel, then wrap a strand of hair around the tie.
5. Vintage Hollywood Waves
Glossy, sculpted waves give old-Hollywood glamour.
SaveHow to get the look: Brush out tight curls and pin the waves in place while they cool.
6. Messy Bun
A loose, messy bun looks relaxed but still dressy.
SaveHow to get the look: Pull out a few face-framing pieces and curl them softly.
7. Half-Up, Half-Down with Twists
Twisted sections pinned at the back keep hair out of your face while showing off curls.
SaveHow to get the look: Secure the twists with a decorative clip.
8. Waterfall Braid
A waterfall braid over loose waves is delicate and romantic.
SaveHow to get the look: Spray the braid lightly with hairspray to stop it loosening.
9. Fishtail Braid
A loose fishtail braid over one shoulder is pretty and boho.
SaveHow to get the look: Use a texture spray first so the braid has more grip.
10. Elegant French Twist
A French twist is a sophisticated updo that suits formal dresses.
SaveHow to get the look: Use long bobby pins and cross them for extra hold.
11. Side-Swept Curls
Curls pinned to one side look glamorous and show off earrings.
SaveHow to get the look: Hide pins behind the ear with a pretty hair accessory.
12. Flower Crown Updo
An updo with a flower crown or fresh flowers looks soft and dreamy.
SaveHow to get the look: Pin the crown in place in a few spots so it stays secure while dancing.
13. Sleek Bob
A straightened, glossy bob looks chic and polished.
SaveHow to get the look: Finish with a shine serum for a mirror-like finish.
14. Messy Fishtail Bun
A fishtail braid twisted into a bun adds texture and detail.
SaveHow to get the look: Braid loosely so the bun looks full.
15. Ballerina Bun
A tight, high bun is clean and elegant.
SaveHow to get the look: Use a bun donut for a smooth, round shape.
16. Voluminous High Bun
A big, high bun adds height and drama.
SaveHow to get the look: Backcomb the ponytail before wrapping it for extra volume.
17. Twisted Crown Braid
Twists around the head look like a braid but are quicker to do.
SaveHow to get the look: Twist both sides toward the back and pin them together.
18. Classic Side-Swept Updo
An updo gathered at one side is elegant and suits one-shoulder dresses.
SaveHow to get the look: Match the side of the updo to the open side of your neckline.
19. Low Bun with Flowers
A low bun decorated with small flowers is soft and romantic.
SaveHow to get the look: Use baby’s breath or small silk flowers tucked into the bun.
20. Sleek Low Ponytail
A sleek, low ponytail with a middle part is modern and minimal.
SaveHow to get the look: Wrap the hair tie with a strand of hair for a polished finish.
Tips to Make Your Homecoming Hair Last
Start with second-day hair
Hair washed the day before holds curls and updos better than freshly washed hair.
Use heat protection
Spray a heat protectant before curling or straightening.
Set with hairspray
Use a flexible hairspray so the style holds but still moves.
Bring an emergency kit
Pack bobby pins, a hair tie and a small hairspray for touch-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest homecoming hairstyle?
A sleek ponytail, loose waves or a messy bun are quick and simple.
What hairstyle lasts longest while dancing?
Updos, braided crowns and ponytails hold up best during a long night.
Should I wear my hair up or down to homecoming?
Choose based on your dress neckline. High necks suit updos, while open necklines suit waves.
Can I do homecoming hair myself?
Yes. Most of these styles only need a curling iron, bobby pins and hairspray.
Final Thoughts
The best homecoming hairstyle is one that matches your dress and keeps you comfortable all night. Practise once before the big day so you know how long it takes.
Complete your look with our short homecoming dresses, homecoming nail ideas and half-up prom hairstyles.
