Wedding hairstyles need to last through hours of photos, hugging and dancing, and still look good in daylight and evening light. This guide covers 14 wedding hairstyles for brides and guests, with who each suits, what to ask your stylist and how long each takes.
Choosing wedding hairstyles
Start with the dress neckline, the veil and the venue. A high neckline pairs well with an updo, while a strapless gown suits hair worn up or loose. If you are wearing a veil, ask your stylist where it will sit: under a bun, on a crown or at the back. Book a trial six to eight weeks ahead and bring photos of the dress and any accessories.
Updos
1. Chignon
A low knot at the nape that suits formal looks.
- Who it suits: Medium to long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a chignon with a slightly loose finish.
- Upkeep: 45 minutes.
2. French twist
Hair is rolled and pinned vertically.
- Who it suits: Medium to long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a smooth twist.
- Upkeep: 45 minutes.
3. Slick back bun
A smooth bun that suits a bold look.
- Who it suits: Straight hair.
- How to ask: Ask for gel along the hairline.
- Upkeep: 40 minutes.
4. Messy bun
A relaxed bun with loose pieces.
- Who it suits: Medium to long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for pins for hold.
- Upkeep: 30 minutes.
5. Braided crown
A braid wraps around the head.
- Who it suits: Long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a braid sized to the face.
- Upkeep: 60 minutes.
6. Braided ponytail
A low tail with a braid.
- Who it suits: Long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for pearls or a ribbon.
- Upkeep: 40 minutes.
Half-up and loose
7. Half up half down
The top is pinned; the rest falls loose.
- Who it suits: Fine and medium hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a clip or comb.
- Upkeep: 30 minutes.
8. Hollywood waves
Smooth, brushed-out waves.
- Who it suits: Medium to long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a deep side part.
- Upkeep: 60 minutes.
9. Beach waves
Loose waves for a relaxed wedding.
- Who it suits: Fine and medium hair.
- How to ask: Ask for waves that hold.
- Upkeep: 45 minutes.
10. French braid
A braid that starts at the crown.
- Who it suits: Long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a loose braid.
- Upkeep: 40 minutes.
11. Fishtail braid
A fine, intricate braid.
- Who it suits: Long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a loose side braid.
- Upkeep: 40 minutes.
Short and mid-length
12. Finger waves
Sculpted S-shaped waves.
- Who it suits: Short to chin-length hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a vintage finish.
- Upkeep: 60 minutes.
13. French bob styled
A polished bob with a sleek finish.
- Who it suits: Short hair.
- How to ask: Ask for a pin curl finish.
- Upkeep: 40 minutes.
14. High ponytail
A sleek tail for a modern look.
- Who it suits: Medium to long hair.
- How to ask: Ask for extensions if needed.
- Upkeep: 30 minutes.
Match the style to your hair length
- Short hair: finger waves, a polished bob or a pixie with a clip or comb. A tiara or a flower pin does the work of an updo.
- Medium hair: a chignon, a French twist or a half-up style. Ask for pins that match your hair color.
- Long hair: braids, waves or a full updo. Long hair also holds a veil well, since it gives the pins something to grip.
- Fine hair: ask for prep spray and a little teasing at the crown so the style does not slip.
- Thick hair: ask for a style that spreads the weight, such as a low bun or braids, so the pins do not strain.
Plan the trial and the day
- Wash your hair the night before or the day of: freshly washed hair slips out of pins, so ask your stylist for advice.
- Bring the veil, the clip or the crown to the trial.
- Take photos in daylight so you can compare.
- Ask how long it lasts, and bring pins for touch-ups. See also: bridesmaid hairstyles and prom hairstyles.
Preview before the trial
Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and preview a few looks on your own photo before the trial, then show your favorites to your stylist.
Related reading: bridesmaid hairstyles, prom hairstyles and half up half down hairstyles.
FAQ
What is the best wedding hairstyle?
It depends on the dress and hair length. A low chignon or half-up style suits most brides.
What wedding hairstyles work for short hair?
Finger waves, a polished French bob or a pixie with an accessory.
What are good wedding guest hairstyles?
A low bun, a braided ponytail or soft waves. They hold up through dancing.
When should I do a hair trial?
Six to eight weeks before the wedding, in similar light and with your accessories.
