As prom season approaches, selecting the right hairstyle becomes as crucial as choosing the perfect suit. This guide to prom hairstyles for men offers insights into styles that will meet school guidelines and personal preferences while also impeccably matching your prom attire. Dive into a range of styles from the classic buzz cut to the trendy topknot, each paired with a suave outfit suggestion.
Considerations Before Choosing Your Prom Hairstyle
Before you select from our list of prom hairstyles for men, keep a few key points in mind:
- School Guidelines: Ensure your chosen style adheres to any specific dress code or guidelines your school may have.
- Timing: For hairstyles requiring a barber or stylist, schedule your appointment at least a week before prom. This gives you time to adjust to the new look and make any necessary tweaks.
- Overall Look: Your hairstyle should complement your outfit and accessories for a cohesive prom look.
Prom Hairstyles for Men
Buzz Cut

The buzz cut is a classic, low-maintenance style featuring hair cut uniformly short across the scalp. It’s a timeless choice that’s easy to maintain and instantly gives you an air of confidence.
A buzz cut is straightforward and can be done at home with clippers. Set the guard of your clippers to your preferred length and move them evenly across your head. We suggest starting with a longer length than you think necessary, to avoid cutting it too short. For a precise finish, or to incorporate a slight fade, visit a professional barber.
- Outfit Match: A buzz cut pairs well with a sleek, modern tux, offering a clean and sharp look. Complement this with a Calvin Klein infinite slim fit dress shirt and Florsheim cap-toe Oxfords to complete the sharp, modern aesthetic. Alternately, style a buzz cut with a pastel suit like the one above, the Egara Modern Fit 2-Button Notch Lapel Suit Separates Jacket in medium blue.
Cornrows

Traditionally an African-American hairstyle, cornrows are a series of tightly braided rows, lying close to the scalp. This intricate style is versatile, allowing for various patterns and designs.
Cornrows require skill and are best done by a professional. Communicate your desired pattern and thickness to your stylist and ensure you’re working with someone who has experience with this style and your hair texture.
- Outfit Match: Cornrows can add a touch of personal style to any contemporary suit. For a striking all-black ensemble, consider the BLACK by Vera Wang Black Notch Lapel Tux. Finish the look with Stacy Adams double monk strap dress shoes for a cohesive and stylish prom ensemble.
Topknot
The topknot may not be your first thought when considering prom hairstyles for men, but it has plenty of potential. This style involves pulling long hair back into a bun at the crown or back of the head. It’s a stylish choice for those with longer locks, offering practicality with casual flair.
To achieve this look, your hair should be grown out to at least six inches, though ten or more is ideal. Simply gather all of your hair at the desired point on your head, and secure it with a hair tie. For a detailed tutorial, YouTube offers various “topknot” guides.
- Outfit Match: The topknot suits a bohemian or relaxed style, perfect for a laid-back yet stylish look. Embrace the tux in favor of a Joseph Abboud Light Gray Satin Edged Notch Lapel Tux to anchor this bohemian look, paired with a light gray Joseph Abboud linen blend vest. For a relaxed yet polished touch, add a white Tommy Hilfiger flex classic fit dress shirt worn open at the collar, Haggar premium stretch classic fit dress pants in light tan or sand, and Florsheim moc toe Venetian loafers in cognac.
Layered “Messy” Rocker
This prom hairstyle for men features medium-length, textured layers that create a casual, tousled look. It’s perfect for a relaxed yet fashionable prom appearance.
This style works best with medium-length hair. Use a texturizing spray or mousse, scrunch your hair, and let it air dry. For more guidance, YouTube has step-by-step tutorials.
- Outfit Match: Pair this hairstyle with a vintage or rocker-inspired suit for an effortlessly cool prom look. To embody the vintage rocker vibe, go for the Egara skinny fit shiny suit coat and pants, available in striking purple or platinum, to bring a bit of edge to your look. Pair it with a black or dark gray dress shirt and a solid-color tie that complements the suit’s sheen. Or, try a Joseph Abboud slim-fit peak lapel velvet dinner jacket in wine or dark blue, paired with a crisp white dress shirt, black bow tie, and black dress pants. Enhance the look with Moretti formal loafers, their black velvet and quilted diamond pattern adding a luxurious and textured finish.
Preppy

The preppy style is a clean, classic look, often featuring a neat side part or slicked-back hair. It’s a versatile style that embodies sophistication and will forever remain one of the most popular prom hairstyles for men.
Use a comb and pomade to slick back your hair or create a side part for a classic look. Search YouTube for “preppy hairstyle tutorials” to find a step-by-step guide.
- Outfit Match: This hairstyle should be paired with a traditional suit to truly showcase its timeless sophistication. To make it easy, choose a prom tux rental curated by the Men’s Wearhouse style team. Renting a Calvin Klein Blue Suit is a great start. Complement this with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and Stacy Adams Pharaoh cap-toe lace-up formal shoes to complete this classic ensemble.
Embracing Prom 2024 with the Perfect Hairstyle
As we wrap up our exploration of prom hairstyles for men, remember that the right hairdo can significantly enhance your overall prom attire. Embrace prom 2024 trends by choosing a hairstyle that suits your personal style and complements the latest fashion. Whether you opt for a messy rocker vibe or a sophisticated preppy look, ensure your hairstyle makes a statement on this memorable night.