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Graduation Ready: Haircut & Hair Styling Tips to Rule Prom Night

Whether you’re walking across the graduation stage or showing up to prom looking sharp, your haircut and hairstyle can make or break your look. Suit? Nailed it. Shoes? Polished. Date? Check. Now let’s make sure your hair is giving some main character energy.

Here’s how to level up your prom look and leave your classmates wondering how you pulled off that glow-up:

Plan Ahead for Peak Freshness

Your haircut will look great the moment you step out of the chair, but it really hits its stride a couple of days later, once the hair and edges had time to settle in. That’s why we recommend getting your cut 2–5 days before prom. You’ll be photo-ready, feeling confident, and won’t have to worry about any last-minute styling stress.

Know Your Style (and What Flatters You)

Prom is the perfect excuse to dial up your look, and whether you’re sticking to a classic or testing out something bold, the key is choosing a style that complements your face shape, hair type, and outfit. Need inspiration? These prom-ready cuts never miss:

  • The Classic Taper: Clean blend at the neckline with natural length up top.
  • The Crop: A forward-styled cut with textured, messy volume. 
  • The Modern Mid-Length: Balanced layers add volume and easy to style.
  • The Skin-Faded Pomp: A bold, voluminous top meets a crisp skin fade for a clean, structured silhouette.

Still unsure? Talk to your Tommy Gun’s barber about your vision - they’ll help you find the look that works best for you.

Get the Right Styling Product

No more crusty gels or dollar-store shampoo. This night deserves premium products. Your hair needs to hold without looking like it could shatter. Here’s a cheat sheet:

  • Pomade: For slicked-back or side-part styles with high shine. We recommend using Reuzel Blue Pomade for that strong-hold and high-shine finish. 
  • Matte Paste: Natural finish with strong hold—perfect for textured looks. We recommend using O'Douds Matte Paste for those wanting a style with lift, texture, and maximum volume. 
  • Clay: Ideal for thicker hair and a strong, dry hold. We recommend using Uppercut Deluxe Clay for a reworkable, strong-hold and a diverse range of styling options.

Remember, always apply the product to towel-dried or dry hair.

Don't Skip the Details

Want to take your look to the next level? Ask your barber to include a back-of-neck shave with your haircut—it keeps your style looking clean and sharp for longer.

And if your skin could use a refresh before the big day, go for the Aveda Facial. This relaxing, four-step service deeply cleanses and energizes your skin, leaving you looking fresh and feeling confident for prom night.

Practice Your Style Before the Big Night

If you don’t usually style your hair, try your prom look at least once a few days before. You’ll learn how much product to use, how long it takes, and how it holds up after an hour or two. That way, you’re not panicking with 10 minutes to go and a comb full of regret.

Most Importantly - Enjoy the Moment

Prom is your time to shine, and now you’ve got everything you need to look and feel your best. So enjoy the night, make some memories, and don’t forget to swing by your local Tommy Gun’s a few days before for a fresh cut and the right styling products to lock in your look.