Beautiful Bridal Hairstyles

Beautiful Bridal Hairstyles

Bridal hairstyles are created to complement a woman’s face shape, dress and make-up, and yours will be the crowning glory on your wedding day look. To help you choose the one that will make you feel beautiful and confident, we’ve created this guide featuring the 7 most popular bridal hairstyles along with photos of real brides who wore them well. 

Bridal Hairstyles - 7 Sensational Looks

1. Classic Updos

The classic updo is a timeless choice for brides who want a sophisticated and elegant look. An updo not only keeps hair out of your face, but it also allows you to show off the intricate details of your gown and jewelry. Popular variations of the classic updo include the chignon, a low bun that sits at the nape of the neck, and the French twist, which adds a bit of flair with its sleek, twisted design. These hairstyles are ideal for brides who want a refined, polished appearance and work well with veils or delicate hair accessories like combs and pins.

Frontal bride portrait with bouquet Anna Sauza Photography
Photographed by Anna Sauza Photography - Mexico wedding photographer
Couple portrait with billowing veil Kartheekphoto
Photographed by KartheekPhoto - Asbury Park, New Jersey, wedding photographer

2. Romantic Loose Waves

Loose waves are a lovely choice for brides who prefer a soft, romantic look. The style adds natural volume and movement to your hair, making it ideal for wearing with lace dresses and floral crowns. This hairstyle also suits a variety of hair lengths and textures, and it’s a great option for brides who want a relaxed, effortless look.

Couple portrait Joann Arruda Photography
Photographed by Joann Arruda Photography - Hudson Valley, New York, wedding photographer
Groom kisses bride's cheek Green Apple Photography
Photographed by Green Apple Photography - Louisville, Kentucky, wedding photographer

3. Boho Braids

From fishtail braids that fall down the back of wedding dresses to tightly woven braids that work as elegant crowns, there is a braided bridal hairstyle for every bride out there. Once you choose the type of braids you like, you can elevate your look with flowers, pins or pearls for a personalized touch. Braids are particularly suited to women with long hair, but can also be adapted for shorter lengths by adding hair extensions. We love this look at outdoor weddings and on adventure elopements where you want to keep your hair tidy enough to hold up to the wind without being too sophisticated for the surroundings.

Bridal hairstyle backview Derek Wong Photography
Photographed by Derek Wong Photography - Hawaii wedding photographer
Braided bridal hairstyle Stefano Cassaro Photography
Photographed by Stefano Cassaro Photography - Italy wedding photographer

4. Sleek and Straight

For brides who prefer a minimalist and modern aesthetic, a sleek, straight hairstyle parted in the middle or on the side is an elegant choice. The look works exceptionally well with contemporary wedding dresses, and can be enhanced with a glossy finish and minimalistic accessories like metallic headbands or simple barrettes. If you want a chic, understated look that still makes a statement, this is a choice you may want to consider.

Bride portrait in bodice gown Bagrada Photos
Photographed by Bagrada Photos - France wedding photographers
Alternative bridal hairstyle Folks Story
Photographed by Folks-Story - France wedding photographers

5. Half-Up, Half-Down Styles

The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a versatile option that combines the elegance of an updo with the softness of loose waves. The top half of the hair is usually pinned back, often with a braid or twist, while the bottom half is left to flow freely. This look can be customized with curls, waves, or straight strands and works well with all kinds of accessories. 

Bride putting on shoes Manuel Aldana Fotografia
Photographed by Manuel Aldana Fotografia - Guatemala wedding photographer
Bride and groom in mossy forest Satya Curcio Photography
Photographed by Satya Curcio Photography - Orcas Island, Washington, wedding photographer

6. Vintage Glamour

If you’re inspired by the elegance of past decades, vintage bridal hairstyles like finger waves and pin curls or a retro-looking updo might do the trick. These options add a touch of old Hollywood style to your wedding day look and pair beautifully with silk and satin gowns and bold red lips. Vintage hairstyles are perfect for birdcage veils and old-world hair accessories that add an extra touch of nostalgia.

Stylish bride with lace dress and parasol Dark Roux
Photographed by Dark Roux - Houston, Texas, wedding photographers
Bride portrait with makeup wearing white robe Natasha Gillett Photography
Photographed by Natasha Gillett Photography - San Francisco, California, wedding photographer

7. Short and Sweet

Some women look absolutely stunning with short hair. With tresses that don’t need to be fussed with throughout the day, you’re good to go from getting ready to the last dance. If you have short hair, or are thinking about an entirely new look for your wedding, you’ll find this bridal hairstyle to be an easy, almost effortless choice.

Red haired bride with white rose bouquet Richard Israel Photography
Photographed by Richard Israel Photography - Charlotte, North Carolina, wedding photographer
Sexy couple portrait Kesha Lambert Photography
Photographed by Kesha Lambert Photography - New York wedding photographer

Conclusion

Ready to choose your perfect bridal hairstyle? Jump right on over to our Fashion Gallery and choose “hairstyles”, where you’ll find hundreds of gorgeous looks to save and share. Then reach out to your stylist and let them know what’s inspiring you.

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