39 Gorgeous Homecoming Hair Ideas You Can Totally Do Yourself

With its time-honored traditions and social events, your school’s homecoming is the first big event of the year. From the themed spirit week to the football games, to the big homecoming dance on Saturday night, it’s a season of high energy and enthusiasm. It’s a way to establish your school’s community and identity, and a time to appreciate a sense of fun and belonging.

And it’s also the first time you get to show off your style on the dance floor. From spinning with your special someone to getting down with the girlies, the homecoming dance is the perfect place to make an impression. And your homecoming hairstyle is a part of that!

Finding a glam hairstyle to wear on the big night will make your look unforgettable. Whether it’s a party ponytail, loose waves, or a formal updo, complete your look with one of these gorgeous homecoming hairstyles (that you can do yourself)!

Updos

An upswept hairdo is elegant and formal, perfect for a romantic, polished homecoming ensemble. Be sure to grab plenty of hairpins and bobby pins before you get started, and don’t forget your styling products! Sparkly combs and other accessories will add even more shine to these homecoming hairstyles.

1. Low Updo with Hair Pins

Effortlessly “messy” and elegant at the same time, this low updo is homecoming-ready. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, pull at the crown for volume, braid the pony, and pull on the braid for texture. Then, just twist the braid into a simple bun and add as many hair pins or clips as you like! (See the full tutorial!)

2. Elegant Updo

For those who have homecoming dances that are more on the formal side, this elegant updo is a perfect choice. The style is simple, sleek, and classy. When paired with the crown-like headband it will leave you looking like a queen. Smooth and gather the top sections of your hair, twist, and pin from both sides, then take the rest of your hair from underneath and roll it through. (See the full tutorial)

3. Messy Bun

A cute, messy bun is a perfect go-to party style. However, if you don’t have those long locks, getting it into a bun can be difficult. This tutorial has you covered on how to put your lob into a gorgeous messy bun for homecoming by pulling your hair halfway through an elastic and pulling the outer sections into place. (See the full tutorial!)

4. Low Textured Bun

A low bun is always special occasion-appropriate! This one’s got a textured twist that’s fun, unfussy, and basically screams ‘homecoming hair.’ You can jazz it up with hair clips, or leave it as-is for a sweet, natural vibe. (See the full tutorial.)

5. Messy Low Updo

There’s something so fun about messy styles. Whether you’re going for edgy or mellow, the way these ‘dos look can help your outfit make a statement. This DIY updo is perfect for your big night. (See the full tutorial!)

6. 90s Updo

The 90s are over? As if! You’ll look fly when you rock a 90s inspired bombshell updo to homecoming. This is the perfect look for a retro-themed homecoming; this look was popular enough to see plenty of play in the Y2K era, too! (See the full tutorial!)

7. Low Braided Bun

A braided bun is sweet and romantic– the perfect homecoming hairstyle for a cottagecore girlie! Accessorise with a gorgeous barette or hair comb for an extra touch of elegance. (See the full tutorial!)

8. Curly Girl Updo<

If you have natural hair, flaunt your beautiful curls with this gorgeous hairstyle that highlights their texture. Gleaming accessories add some extra flair, but it’s the bounce and joy of your hair that brings this style to life. And all you need is a couple of hair ties and some pins to keep everything secured! (See the full tutorial!)

9. Easy Chignon<

An elegant chignon is one of the most sophisticated homecoming hairstyles– you’d never guess that this glamorous updo only takes a few minutes in front of your mirror. (See the full tutorial!)

10. Ballet Bun

The charm and elegance of the balletcore aesthetic make it perfect for the fun of homecoming. This low bun style is perfect for curly girls who make every dance a prize-winning recital. (See the full tutorial!)

11.Braided Bun

If you can make a ponytail and a 3-strand braid, this elegant updo is within your reach! Sitting atop your head like a crown, it’s the perfect homecoming hairstyle to show off your favorite earrings. Don’t forget to fluff the braids for the best results! (See the full tutorial.)

12. High Neck Hairstyle

Looking for homecoming hair ideas for a halter or other high-necked dress? This chic, elegant hairdo has you covered! Simple and sleek, the knotted look is achieved through an easy rope braid. (See the full tutorial!)

13. Short Hair Updo

If you’ve got short hair, you can still rock an updo! This playful hairstyle places a bun high on top of your head; secure it well with bobby pins to position it exactly where you want. Use gently-curled framing pieces to soften the look and you’ll have a lovely hairstyle that perfectly complements your outfit. (See the full tutorial!)

14. French Twist

The perfect style for a backless dress, a French twist is chic and stunning– just like you. The twist itself might take a little practice, but once you’ve got the hang of it, the style adds effortless charm and elegance to your homecoming look. (See the full tutorial.)

Half Up Hairstyles

If you prefer homecoming hair ideas that leave some of your hair down, but want the added oomph of an updo, get the best of both worlds with a half up hairstyle!

15. Barbie-Inspired Half Up Hairstyle/h2>

Maybe you don’t have anything big planned for homecoming–just a giant blowout party with all of your girls, and planned choreography, and a bespoke song. If those plans sound right to you, take some inspiration from everyone’s favorite fashion icon and try this half-up Barbiecore hairstyle. Pro tip: a Topsy Tail tool can help with flipping the ponytail! (See the full tutorial!)

16. Boho Half Up, Half Down Hairstyle

You’re going to want to rock this boho half-up hairstyle long after homecoming is over. Check out that peek-a-boo braid (swoon)! (See the full tutorial)

17. Half Up Bun

Can’t decide between an updo or leaving your hair down? With this gorgeous hairstyle, you don’t have to choose! It looks great with hair of any texture or length, and you can do it yourself in minutes. (See the full tutorial!)

18. Effortless Half Up Hair

This hairstyle might be simple to pull off, but it doesn’t look simple. Soft, sweeping curls meet in the back with a dramatic twist that gives you instant, effortless charm. It’s elegant, sweet, and looks amazing. (See the full tutorial.)

19. Half Up High Pony

Look like a movie star with this glamorous hairdo! The half-up high pony creates a beautiful cascade effect for maximum gorgeous at minimum effort. (See the full tutorial!)

20. Half Up, Half Down Curly Hair

Another great curly style, this half up half down look uses a satin bow as the perfect hair accessory. It’s the perfect look for a Bridgerton Regencycore fan. (See the full tutorial!)

21. Braided Half-Up Hairstyle

Combining a dreamy braid with flowing hair, this stunning half-up option has it all. This laid-back hairstyle is a quick and easy way to complete your cute homecoming look. First, curl your hair into waves, then rope braid a section an inch from the back on each side, bring them together, and secure them with bobby pins. For a more intricate look, consider styling your hair into a fishtail braid, or dutch braid. (See the full tutorial)

Ponytails

We get you, girl. You want your hair off of your neck, but at the same time, you want it to swing, flow, and otherwise move with you as you dance. That’s what the elevated ponytail is for. These pretty ponies aren’t your average gym class convenience, though–they’re sophisticated styles that will turn heads. 

22. 90’s High Ponytail

The 90s high ponytail is making a huge comeback and is the perfect option for a special occasion like homecoming! Section your hair into a side part, keep a small section of bangs out to tuck behind your ear, pull your hair into the ponytail, then finish it off by wrapping a piece of hair around the hair tie. (See the full tutorial!)

23. Low Ponytail with Romantic Twist

Romantic, dreamy, and a little bohemian, this is the perfect spin on the classic low ponytail. Create a rope braid, secure your low ponytail, add face-framing pieces, then twist the braid around your elastic, and you’ve instantly achieved a swoon-worthy hoco look. (See the full tutorial)

24. Pinned Party Pony

There are endless options when it comes to hair clips and works with any kind of style, from long hair to short bobs. For some great ways to showcase your hair clips, consider pairing them with a fun mid-height pony. Just pull down face-framing pieces, pull on the hair at the crown for volume, wrap hair around the elastic and add clips or pins. (See the full tutorial.)

25. Fake Bangs With High Ponytail

Do you love the idea of bangs but can’t quite commit to the style? This simple hairstyle will give you gorgeous, face-framing curtain bangs without requiring a trip to the salon. After putting up your high ponytail, use bobby pins to pull your faux bangs into place to finish off your look.  (See the full tutorial!)

26. Cute Headband Ponytail Style

Chic and easy, headbands are great hair accessories that will instantly put your look together. Whether you pair your headband with loosely curled hair, a dainty low ponytail, a french braid, or an elegant bun, it’s sure to take your hoco look to the next level. (See the full tutorial)

27. Barbiecore Ponytail

Make no mistake: the Barbie hype did not die down after the release of the movie, and it will not have died down by the time your hoco rolls around. (Hopefully, it’s here to stay. Via la Barbie!) If you’re rocking a pink homecoming dress, you need the Barbie hair to go with it. (See the full tutorial!)

28. Sophisticated Low Pony

There’s nothing basic about this cascade of swirls! This elegant ponytail is sleek and formal, perfect for your homecoming hair. The secret is a flipped ponytail and enough of your favorite styling product to prevent frizz and flyaways. (See the full tutorial.)

29. Rhinestone Ponytail

Ooh la la! Rhinestones add dramatic flair and lots of sparkle to your outfit. This homecoming hairstyle is the perfect partner for a sparkly or metallic dress. Make sure to get your hair extra smooth, so that the rhinestones really stand out and aren’t obscured by flyaways. (See the full tutorial!)

30. Retro High Ponytail

A face-framing swoop and a claw clip make you look like a rom-com It Girl in no time at all. This ponytail takes inspiration from retro 60s and 70s styles and channels the easy-breezy attitude and playful vibe of those decades. (See the full tutorial!)

31. Pearl Headband Side Braid

If you want a style worthy of your royalcore outfit, or you want to be ready just in case you get crowned homecoming queen, this elegant, regal braid is for you! A pearl headband makes things even more glam. (See the full tutorial.)

Down Hairstyles

You can definitely wear your hair down at homecoming! Down hairstyles are romantic and feminine, letting you show off your gorgeous tresses. You can always add clips, hairpins, or other hair jewelry to add sparkle to these homecoming hair ideas, or you can wear them au naturel to highlight your healthy head of hair.

32. Old Hollywood Waves

For another gorgeous throwback hairstyle, try these retro-glam Old Hollywood waves. Curl all your hair in the same direction, put in a side part, and complete your timeless style by adding in some vintage-inspired hair clips. (See the full tutorial!)

33. Flat Iron Waves

Beachy flat iron waves can give you that relaxed, sun-kissed look any time of year. Perfect with a middle, side, or deep side part, these windblown waves are easy to achieve. After ironing each section of hair while angling away from the face, twist it around your finger to complete the curl. (See the full tutorial!)

34. Glam Waves with Gilded Headband

For those looking for a charming headband hairstyle, this combination of soft waves with a gorgeous sparkly headband is sure to shine on your homecoming night. Just curl your hair, brush it out with your fingers, then add in your headband; your style will be dazzling, romantic, and elegant all at once. (See the full tutorial)

>35. Mermaid Waves

If you love the look of beachy waves but want something a little more polished for homecoming hair, mermaid waves are just the style. All you’ll need is a crimping iron or other hot tool and the right technique. (See the full tutorial!)

36. Sleek Middle Part Hairstyle

When you want a simple, elegant homecoming hairstyle, reach for this effortless middle part style! Soft curls frame your face, while a sleek crown and perfectly straight part add quiet sophistication. (See the full tutorial!)

37. Classic Curls

The perfect hairstyle for someone who wants an ultra-feminine look, these soft curls have a gently elegant vibe that contributes to a beautiful ensemble. Curls can be a little delicate when you’re dancing, so set them with the cool setting on your dryer! (See the full tutorial.)

38. Hair Clips and Soft Curls

Show your personality with your hair accessories! Soft curls are sweet and charming, and you can get creative with the hairclips you choose! Mixing materials looks fun and playful, while matching metals look polished and sophisticated. Don’t be afraid to experiment! (See the full tutorial.)

39. Boho Headband Braid

A headband braid is a perfect way to add a cute, boho touch to your homecoming hairstyle. It may look complicated, but it’s surprisingly easy to do this adorable look yourself. Just take a section of hair on each side, braid your hair, then pull them over your head and tuck the ends behind your ears.  (See the full tutorial

How are you styling your strands for the big night? Show us your homecoming hairstyles on Instagram or TikTok @lulus! Still looking for the perfect homecoming dress? Check out our entire selection in our Homecoming shop!

This post was originally published in 2019 and has been updated with new content.