Emily is Smiling

I'm posting this week's prom tips a day early because I have something more special planned for Valentine's Day.  Over the last few weeks, I've given tips for finding the perfect dress and accessories for prom.  Today I'll be sharing some trendy makeup and hairstyles that will be popular this year.

Hair

Headbands

I never thought I'd see the day, but headbands are actually in style this year.  Of course, the headband needs to be dressy and elegant.  It should be embellished with pretty crystals or flowers. 

A headband can be worn with curls or an updo.  See how the pretty crystal headband in the picture to your right is worn?
  

Flowers

Flowers worn in the hair has been a popular trend for the last several months.  You can make this work for prom too.

There are many ways to wear a flower in your hair.  You can use a pin, clip, or headband.  You can clip it to the top of your head like the girl in the picture to your left or you can hook it to the bottom of your ponytail.  It's really up to you. 

Just remember to make a statement with your flower.  Make it big and beautiful and be sure its color won't clash with your dress.
 

Loose Curls

Spiral curls are gorgeous and easy to create with a flat iron.  Simply type in YouTube tutorials and thousands of results will come up.

Check out Carrie Underwood's gorgeous curls in this picture.  Pretty, right?  If you print this page out and take the picture to your hairstylist, she'll probably be able to create a similar look for you.


Side Ponytail or Braid

This was trending last season, but it is still popular this year.  Curl the ends of your hair before putting it into a ponytail.  Loose or tight curls should work.

Because your bangs and a few layers should be hanging out of the ponytail anyways, this is a good hairstyle for if you plan to go to a dance after prom.  You won't have to worry quite as much about messing up your hair.


 

Loose or Knotted Updo

The updo is the classic prom hairstyle.  You could try tying some loose curls into a careless but pretty-looking updo.  I love Eva Longoria's beautiful curls in the picture to your left.

Or you could try a knotted or braided updo for a more complex look.  You may need to go to a professional hair stylist for a look like this.  I love the extra pin added to the hair.
 

Bouncy Curls

The bouncy curls look is another prom trend that will never go out of style.  I find bouncy curls absolutely beautiful.  You'll probably need to use a curling iron or curlers for a look like this... and be prepared to use plenty of hairspray!  But if you can pull the look off, it will look stunning, no matter what you wear.   


Makeup

Pops of Color

When you're choosing this style of makeup, be sure to wear either bright eyeshadow or bright lipstick, but you should probably avoid wearing both at the same time. 

Try out different shades of eyeshadow and blend them together.  You may want to start practicing a week or two before prom comes so you'll know ahead of time how to apply the right colors of makeup.


Nude

If you have an absolutely stunning dress, you want to go for a nude makeup look.  Now, this doesn't mean that you can't wear any makeup.  It just means that you won't focus on bright or dark colors. 

Wear a little bit of mascara and a matte shade of nude lipstick or a light gloss.  Wear little blush.  Wear earthy tones of eyeshadow or if you'd really like some color, try a silvery white or pink, depending on the color of your dress.  The light silvery colors will open up your eyes.
  

Smoky Eyes

If you don't know how to create a smoky eye look, search for tutorials on YouTube or visit one of the makeup counters at the mall or Ulta.  The professionals who work there will be eager to help you create the right look before prom. 

Be sure not to make your makeup look too dark or you'll start to look like a raccoon, but if you're careful, smoky eyes can be a pretty touch to your prom dress.  Either wear red lipstick or try to keep your lips fairly nude.

----------

What is your favorite hairstyle for prom?
How do you wear your makeup?

On Thursday will be my last article about prom trends, so keep an eye out.