The most popular bridesmaid and wedding hairstyles are low buns and chignons, soft waves, half up half down styles, and braided updos. Here's what sets them apart, who they suit, how to do them and how to make them last.
Bridesmaid and wedding hairstyles at a glance
- Time: 30 to 90 minutes
- Difficulty: Usually done by a stylist
- Best hair length: Any
- Holds: 12 hours or more, with the right prep
What makes them different
A wedding style has to last from morning photos to the last dance, so hold matters as much as looks. Bridesmaids often coordinate without matching exactly.
Who they suit
Choose by dress, venue and weather: updos for outdoor, windy or humid days; waves for indoor and evening weddings. Guests should aim for polished but not bridal.
How to do them
- Book a trial, and bring photos of the dress and any veil or accessories.
- Wash your hair the day before, not the morning of.
- Have the style set with pins, and with a veil comb if needed.
- Carry a small kit: pins, clear elastics, hairspray.
Tips
If you're changing your cut or color, do it two to three weeks ahead so there's time to adjust.
Variations
- Low chignon: the classic bridal bun.
- Hollywood waves: glamorous, over one shoulder.
- Half up half down: soft and romantic.
- Braided crown or waterfall braid: detail without a full updo.
- French twist: sleek and timeless.
- Short hair wedding styles: waves with a comb or pins.
Try a new look first
Thinking about a bigger change, like a new cut, bangs or a different color? See it on your own photo first with the AI hairstyle changer and the AI hair color changer.
Related styles
- Chignon
- Hollywood waves
- Half up half down hairstyles
- Crown braid
- Waterfall braid
- French twist
- Prom hairstyles
- More ideas: easy hairstyles
FAQ
What are the best bridesmaid hairstyles?
The most popular bridesmaid and wedding hairstyles are low buns and chignons, soft waves, half up half down styles, and braided updos.
How do I choose?
Choose by dress, venue and weather: updos for outdoor, windy or humid days; waves for indoor and evening weddings. Guests should aim for polished but not bridal.
How long do they take?
30 to 90 minutes.
