Ponytail

One of the most beautiful yet straightforward hairstyles is the ponytail. Perhaps the most versatile hair option, ponytails, can take you from the Homecoming game to the dancefloor in an instant. Upgrade your everyday ponytail for the special occasion by building up the volume and length with a clip-in hair extension. Secure the ponytail a little higher on your head than you usually would; this will make it stand out and show off the extra length. Add a cute accessory like a satin ribbon, and finally, use a curling wand to create bouncy waves and curls.

Hairstyles with Bangs

Are you looking to freshen up your look? Bangs are the quickest and most straightforward way to shake up your hairstyle for Homecoming. Choose a fringe style that suits your face shape – side-swept bangs look lovely on round faces, while A-shape bangs suit square faces, and long, layered bangs are flattering on almost everyone. If you already have a fringe, why not try pairing it with a textured updo? While chic and sophisticated, the style is still understated and pretty – perfect for those who have a minimalist style.

Low Ponytail

Keep your Homecoming look soft and pretty with a low ponytail. While simple, a low ponytail can still look glamorous enough to wear to an evening event with a few small styling tweaks. First, ensure your hair is silky and smooth. Next, build a little volume in the crown to keep the style looking balanced, then add a clip-in extension to give the ponytail some extra length and body. Finally, leave some face-framing pieces at the front to keep the style flattering and feminine. Finish with a spritz of high-shine spray, and pair with dewy, glowing make-up and statement earrings.

Pinned-Up Curls for Natural Hair

If you’re embracing your natural hair and ditching the weave, wig, or relaxers, consider a beautiful pinned-up curly style for Homecoming. It’s a gorgeous updo that will show off your kinks and curls to perfection while drawing the eye up to your face and eyes. To keep your curls looking their best amid the colder Fall temperatures – especially if your Homecoming involves outdoor events – use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner, curl-defining cream, and hair oil.

Updo With Fishtail

Give your updo a glamorous twist with a fishtail braid. While it looks complicated, the style is deceptively simple – and looks even better if you have ombré or balayage hair color. Create two fishtail braids on either side of your head and cross them over at the front, securing with bobby pins to make a faux halo-braid or crown-braid effect. Leave some pieces loose at the front to add to the delicate, bohemian feel of the hairstyle.

Halo Updo

A classic halo braid updo looks beautiful for an event like Homecoming – especially if you are going to be named Homecoming Queen. It creates a lovely crown-like effect and has a timeless, formal appeal. Put your twist on your halo updo by adding hair accessories – think mini stars, crescent moons, or pearls for an ethereal look. You could also add flowers or braid ribbon through your hair for a pretty finish.

Slicked Back

For those who want a modern and edgy look for Homecoming, a slicked-back style is ideal. It has a stylish simplicity and an editorial feel that is perfect for fashion-forward girls and is also an excellent choice for those with fine or straight hair. The key is to create a wet look without appearing as if your hair has just been washed. Add mousse at the crown and blow-dry to create more volume and lift at the top of your head. Then apply a gel and brush your hair up and back from your face, keeping the sides flat. The result is a super cool, sleek look.

Pretty Curls

There is nothing prettier than wild, free curls! Show off your hair’s natural volume and bounce with a free and easy curly style. The key to taking your curls to the next level for a special occasion like Homecoming is to ensure they are defined, rather than frizzy. Reduce flyaways and split ends by combing from the bottom up – never from the roots. Next, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to detangle, rather than a brush. Then, use a hydrating serum that will define, separate, and moisturize your curls will adding a beautiful shine.

Messy Knot

Are you searching for a chic Homecoming updo that’s as stylish as it is simple? Look no further than a messy topknot. There’s no need for any styling tools or products – all you need is a strong snag-free hair elastic and bobby pins to secure the knot. The best part is, the messier your hair looks, the better. To keep the style looking chic, rather than disheveled, leave some long, delicate pieces at the front or around your temples to create a face-framing effect. Then make sure you pair the hairstyle with soft glam make-up – think a high-wattage highlighter, rose blush, and lots of mascara.

Side Braid

A side braid works for day and night events due to its understated yet fresh look. Plus, it’s a great option if you want a braided hairstyle that doesn’t require a mirror or a particular technique. Take your side braid from schoolgirl to star of Homecoming by building volume at the crown and leaving some pieces loose to create a faux asymmetric fringe. The hairstyle is particularly flattering if you have a round, heart, or square face.

Waterfall Braid

A waterfall braid is a gorgeous Homecoming hair option as it has a beautiful feminine, romantic vibe with a Bohemian feel. Ideal if you have medium-length or long hair that is thick or naturally wavy, a waterfall braid creates gorgeous movement and dimension. For that reason, it is an excellent option if you are wearing a backless or sleeveless dress. Plus, you can put your personal touch on the style by weaving a ribbon or gold thread through the braid.

Short Hairstyles

Short hair is not only super chic and low maintenance but also surprisingly versatile when it comes to styling. There are so many gorgeous, glamorous Homecoming options for short hair, including mini braids or a sleek style. However, one of the simplest and coolest hairstyles is a textured look. Use a sea salt spray or styling mist and twist sections of your hair and secure with bobby pins. Then add a statement accessory, such as an oversized clip or pearl barrette.

Medium Length Hairstyles

Medium length hair usually falls around your collarbones or shoulder blades. While it gives you a diverse range of styling options, it’s not as high-maintenance as long hair. Plus, you can easily use clip-in hair extensions to add volume or length as needed. For Homecoming, try styling your medium-length hair in a pretty and romantic half-up, half-down style, such as a loose crown braid paired with soft waves.

Long Hairstyles

Make the most of your long hair at Homecoming by wearing it down in a gorgeous wavy style. Wide-barrel tongs or rollers are ideal for creating statement oversized waves that cascade down your back. Keep your style looking sleek by first applying a smoothing serum and then finishing with a strong-hold mist. Alternatively, for a softer and more ethereal look, use a three-barrel waver to create on-trend mermaid waves.

Curly Hairstyles

Ladies with natural curls should consider an on-trend ‘90s hairstyle for Homecoming – a curly updo with loose tendrils. The style has a slightly wet look, so make sure your curls pop by keeping them hydrated and defined with curl cream. Then, sweep your hair to the top of your head and secure with curl-friendly pins and hair elastics. Leave some pieces free and let them fall forward to frame your face. For the ultimate ’90s look, pair your updo with oversized hoop earrings and a slip dress.

Straight Hairstyles

You can dial-up the glamour for Homecoming with a super straight hairstyle, such as a sleek high ponytail. The look suits those who want a sophisticated and chic finish. Plus, it allows your make-up and jewelry to take center stage. Flyaways are the enemy of the sleek ponytail, so use gel and hairspray to ensure no hairs are out of place. Add length and thickness to your ponytail using a clip-in extension, and wrap a section of hair around the base for a flawless finishing touch.

Cute Hairstyles

For those who want to show off their youthful and playful side for Homecoming, a cute hairstyle is ideal. To get the natural and pretty girl-next-door look, try a wavy half-up, half-down style. Use small tongs or braid your hair overnight to create beachy waves, then pull the top section into a loose bun. Add a cute hair accessory, such as a scarf, ribbon, hairband, or scrunchie, to finish the look. Pair it with natural, delicate make-up – think a subtle bronze eye, flushed cheeks, and rose-toned lip-gloss.

Easy Hairstyles

You don’t need to spend hours on your hair for Homecoming to achieve a beautiful final look. If you’re short on time or don’t have any styling tools to hand, try a twisted ponytail. Spritz through some texturizing spray, then pull your hair into a loose low ponytail. Next, fold the ponytail up and tuck it through to create a beautiful twisted effect. Cover your hair elastic with a ribbon or a section of your hair, and voila – you have a modern, glamorous, and feminine Homecoming hairstyle in seconds!

Half Up Half Down

Half-up, half-down looks give you the best of both worlds – the sophistication of an updo paired with the relaxed and pretty feel of a loose hairstyle. There is a massive range of options, from buns to braids and more. However, a classic and simple option for Homecoming is a knotted half-up, half-down style. Ideal for thick and wavy hair, all you need to do is twist the top section into a loose low knot rather than merely tying it back. It’s also a beautiful way to show off the highlights in your hair.

Half Updo

A gorgeous Homecoming style for thick hair is a half updo. It works for both medium and long hair lengths. Separating the top section means your hair doesn’t look like one solid mass – plus, it draws the eye upwards, making it a very flattering look for those with round faces. Add some face-framing bangs and waves to add to the sweet feminine vibe of the hairstyle.

Braided Hairstyles

Braided hairstyles are always trending due to their beautiful, intricate appearance and protective benefits for Afro-textured hair. For a cool ’90s-meets-modern vibe at your Homecoming, try braided buns with cornrows. The buns give the hairstyle fun and youthful appeal, while the cornrows add a sleek and polished touch. Because this is an updo, you can pair it with statement jewelry and bold eye make-up.

Hairstyles for Afro Hair

There is a huge variety of gorgeous Homecoming hairstyles that are perfect for Afro-textured hair. From Senegalese twists to Fulani braids or even simple puffs, you can show off your kinks and curls to perfection. One option to get the best of both worlds is a half-twisted or half-braided look. It combines the elegant look of braids and twists in the front section, with the fun of an oversized puff in the back section. Because it’s a pulled-back style, it will also put the focus on your face, jewelry, and shoulders – ideal if you’re wearing a slip dress or off-shoulder outfit.

Hairstyles for Thin Hair

While thin, fine hair has the advantage of being more manageable and smoother than thicker, coarser hair, it can be tricky to build volume or hold a style with this hair type. The best option is a simple style that emphasizes the sleek and lightweight look of thin, fine hair. One classic and elegant option is a low bun with face-framing tendrils. There is no need to add any volume or texturizing product – all you need is a straightener or curling wand to give the front pieces a soft wave. Alternatively, leave them straight and wispy for a cool ’90s vibe.