Found the dress? Shoes sorted? Now it’s time to decide on your hair do for ball.
Your hairstyle can completely change the feel of your outfit. Whether you’re going for sleek and sophisticated, soft and romantic, or something a little more effortless, the right hair can pull your entire ball look together.
If you’re stuck for inspiration, here are some of the best ball hairstyles to consider — plus how to find a hairstylist near you for the big night.
1. The Sleek Bun
A sleek bun is one of those ball hairstyles that works with almost everything. It’s polished, photographs beautifully and lets your dress take centre stage.
It’s particularly good with high-neck, embellished or statement dresses where you don’t want your hair competing with the neckline.
Best for: Strapless dresses, high necklines and statement earrings.
2. Soft Hollywood Waves
If you want something timeless, you can’t really go wrong with Hollywood waves.
Think glossy, brushed-out curls with plenty of volume and movement. They work beautifully with both classic gowns and more modern fitted dresses, and can be worn with a middle or side part depending on the look you’re going for.
For an extra-glam finish, tuck one side behind your ear and add statement earrings.
Best for: Classic, glamorous and romantic ball looks.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down
Can’t decide whether to wear your hair up or down? Do both.
A half-up, half-down hairstyle gives you the softness of having your hair down while keeping it away from your face. Loose curls, soft waves and face-framing pieces make this an especially pretty option for a school ball.
You can also add a bow, clip or subtle hair accessory to make it feel a little more special.
Best for: Romantic dresses, floral styles and softer ball looks.
4. Slicked-Back Ponytail
A high or mid-height slick ponytail is a great option if your dress has a more modern or minimalist feel.
Keep the front smooth and polished, then choose between a straight ponytail or curled ends depending on how glam you want to go.
It’s also a practical option if you plan on spending most of the night dancing.
Best for: Minimal dresses, bodycon styles and contemporary looks.
5. Messy Textured Updo
If a perfectly slick bun feels a little too formal, try a softer textured updo.
Loose pieces around the face, volume through the crown and a slightly undone finish create a romantic look without feeling overly styled.
This is also a great way to show off an open-back or detailed-back dress.
Best for: Romantic, feminine and effortless looks.
6. Bouncy Blowout
Sometimes you don’t need an elaborate updo at all.
A professional bouncy blowout can make your hair look glossy, full and polished while still feeling like you. Think lots of volume at the roots, soft movement through the lengths and curled ends.
If your dress already makes a statement, keeping your hair relatively simple can balance the whole look.
Best for: Almost any dress style.
How Do I Choose the Right Hair Do for My Ball Dress?
Start with the neckline of your dress.
If your dress has an interesting neckline, open back or lots of detailing, wearing your hair up can help show it off. Strapless and simple dresses give you more freedom to experiment with long waves or a half-up style.
You should also think about how you normally wear your hair. Your ball is probably not the best night to choose a hairstyle that makes you feel completely unlike yourself.
Save a few inspiration photos before your appointment and show them to your hairstylist. They’ll be able to recommend a version that works with your hair length, texture and face shape.
Finding a Ball Hairstylist Near You
Once you’ve decided on your ball hair inspiration, book your appointment early — especially during peak school ball season when popular salons and mobile hairstylists can fill up quickly.
The Dress Rental NZ Beauty Directory makes it easier to discover beauty businesses for your event in one place. Browse local hairstylists, hair salons, makeup artists, nail technicians, spray tanning and other beauty services to help get everything organised before your ball.
Looking for someone to do your ball hair? Browse the Beauty Directory to find hair and beauty professionals near you.
When Should I Book My Ball Hair?
Ideally, start looking for your hairstylist as soon as you know your ball date.
When booking, let them know that the appointment is for a ball and what time you need to be completely ready. Remember to leave enough time afterwards to get dressed, do any final makeup touch-ups, take photos and travel to the venue.
If you’re getting both professional hair and makeup, ask each provider how long they need so you can work backwards from when you need to leave.
Ball Hair FAQs
Should I wash my hair before getting my ball hair done?
Ask your hairstylist what they prefer. Depending on your chosen hairstyle and hair type, they may recommend washing your hair the night before rather than immediately before your appointment.
Should I have my hair or makeup done first?
Either can work, although your individual hair and makeup artists may have a preference. If you’re having an elaborate updo, it can sometimes be easier to have your hair done first and complete your makeup afterwards.
What should I take to my ball hair appointment?
Bring inspiration photos, any hair accessories you want incorporated and a photo of your dress. Showing your hairstylist the neckline and overall style of your outfit can help them create a hairstyle that complements it.
What are the best hairstyles for a school ball?
Some of the most popular hairdos for a ball include sleek buns, Hollywood waves, half-up half-down curls, ponytails, textured updos and bouncy blowouts. The best option is ultimately the one that suits your dress, hair and personal style.
Get Ball-Ready
Your hair doesn’t need to be complicated to look incredible. Choose something that complements your dress, works with your hair and — most importantly — makes you feel comfortable.
Once you’ve found your inspiration, the next step is finding the right person to create it.
Browse the Dress Rental NZ Beauty Directory to discover hairstylists and beauty professionals near you for your ball.
