With Prom right around the corner, one of the most common sights on seniors’ tablets or iPad screens is pictures of celebrities with red carpet-ready hair. Whether you have a looming appointment with a professional stylist or are doing your hair on your own, having a picture to work from is often very helpful. Here are 5 popular styles to try for the 2013 Prom season!

1. Piecey braided or twisted Updo

For a formal event like Prom it is common to see updos. Instead of the traditional pinned up curls, many celebrities like Lauren Conrad are wearing their curls pinned back in loose twists or small braids. The beachy effect is a romantic look that is perfect for prom. Unless you are experienced with styling hair, this can be a difficult look to style  yourself. If you are not planning on seeing a professional hair stylist for Prom, it may be wise to ask a friend or parent to style your hair if trying this look.

2. Old Hollywood Waves

While small, tight curls are beautiful, there is nothing like volumous waves like the ones worn by Hayden Panettiere, Jessica Alba, Lana Del Rey, and Beyonce, among others. The 50’s inspired look is  a go-to for celebrities because of its’ timelessness. The high-shine waves are sure to work with almost any dress, and flatter most faces. They are easy to do on one’s own. The key is to let hair curl in cool, vented rollers after curling.

3. Fishtail Braid

Most commonly seen on sports fields, the athletic-inspired fishtail braid is now featured in formal hairstyles, giving them a whimsical edge. Popularized by Blake Lively’s wedding pictures, the fishtail makes an excellent hair choice for anyone looking for a way to make their hair stand out. Try to avoid braiding all of the hair. Leave a majority out of the braid, and curl it. Gather the hair to one side. The braid will give the waves dimension and body, while making for a comfortable style.

4. Simple Blowout

Sometimes it is best to keep it simple, with a style like this one worn by Julianne Hough. While it is fun to try something new, many people tend to look best in more natural looks. Blowouts are generally less expensive than elaborate updos in a salon, and take much less time. If you are getting your hair professionally blown out, be sure to ask for added volume; this will dress up your simple hair. If you are doing this yourself, put mouse in your hair while it is damp,  and use a round brush to add volume. Once dry, curl large chunks of hair with a 2+ inch iron away from the face, spray, and brush out completely to get body and movement.

5. Low bun

It’s not a secret: Mercy Girls absolutely love their buns. Luckily, these buns can be converted into classy prom hairstyles. The style sweeps all of the hair off the face, showcasing fantastic makeup and beautiful features. This style is somewhat difficult and probably requires a professional appointment or skilled friend to look its best. It is best worn with classic, statement earrings like the ones worn by Jennifer Lawrence at the Oscars.