15 Elegant Wedding Hairstyles for Brides: Your Ultimate Guide to Bridal Hair Perfection

Hey there, gorgeous bride-to-be! I’m so excited you’re here. As someone who’s been in the wedding industry for years, I’ve seen my fair share of stunning bridal hairstyles. And let me tell you, picking the perfect ‘do for your big day is no small feat. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back (and your hair)!

Today, I’m going to walk you through 15 absolutely breathtaking wedding hairstyles that’ll make you feel like the queen you are. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic updo or thinking of letting your locks flow free, I’ve got something for every bride and every hair type. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of champagne, I won’t judge), and let’s dive into the wonderful world of bridal hair!

1. The Classic Chignon

Alright, let’s kick things off with a timeless favorite: the chignon. This elegant updo is like the little black dress of wedding hairstyles – it never goes out of style.

Here’s why I love it:

• It’s versatile: Works with any hair length or texture
• It’s practical: Keeps your hair out of your face all day
• It’s customizable: You can dress it up with accessories or keep it sleek and simple

To achieve this look, start by pulling your hair back into a low ponytail. Then, twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base, securing with bobby pins as you go. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect – a few loose strands can add a romantic touch.

Pro tip: If you have fine hair, try teasing the crown before creating the chignon. It’ll give you that extra oomph and volume that photographs beautifully.

2. Boho Waves

For my free-spirited brides, boho waves are where it’s at. This style screams effortless beauty and works wonderfully for outdoor or beach weddings.

What makes boho waves so great:

• They’re relaxed: Perfect for brides who want a more laid-back vibe
• They’re flattering: Soft waves frame your face beautifully
• They’re long-lasting: With the right products, these waves can hold up all day

To get this look, start with day-old hair (trust me on this). Use a 1-inch curling iron to create loose waves, alternating the direction of each curl. Once you’re done, run your fingers through your hair to break up the curls, and finish with a texturizing spray.

Remember, the key to boho waves is that “undone” look. So don’t stress if they’re not all perfectly uniform!

3. Braided Crown

Calling all fairy-tale brides! The braided crown is your ticket to feeling like absolute royalty on your wedding day.

Why you’ll fall in love with this style:

• It’s unique: Stands out from more traditional styles
• It’s secure: Keeps your hair in place for hours of dancing
• It’s versatile: Works with both long and medium-length hair

To create a braided crown, part your hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids (that’s when you braid under instead of over) on either side of your head. Bring the braids up and around your head, pinning them in place to form a crown. Finish by gently pulling at the braids to loosen them slightly for a softer look.

Don’t be afraid to add some flowers or delicate pins to your braided crown. It’s all about making it uniquely yours!

4. Sleek Low Bun

If you’re going for modern elegance, look no further than the sleek low bun. This style is perfect for the minimalist bride who wants to look polished and sophisticated.

The perks of a sleek low bun:

• It’s timeless: Will look just as chic in photos 20 years from now
• It’s face-flattering: Draws attention to your beautiful features
• It’s great for accessories: The perfect canvas for a stunning hair accessory or veil

For this style, start by applying a smoothing serum to damp hair and blow-drying it straight. Once dry, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base, securing with pins as you go. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways.

Remember, the key to this style is in the prep work. Take your time smoothing out your hair for that ultra-sleek look.

5. Romantic Half-Up, Half-Down

Can’t decide between an updo and wearing your hair down? The romantic half-up, half-down style gives you the best of both worlds!

Why brides love this style:

• It’s comfortable: You get the elegance of an updo without the headache
• It’s versatile: Works with any hair texture, from straight to curly
• It’s romantic: Soft and dreamy, perfect for those wedding photos

To achieve this look, start by curling your entire head of hair. Then, take the top section (from your ears up) and gently tease it at the roots for volume. Smooth the top layer over the teased section and secure it at the back of your head with bobby pins. Let the rest of your curls cascade down your back.

Feel free to add a sparkly hair accessory where you’ve pinned the top section. It’s a great way to add a little extra glamour!

6. Vintage Hollywood Waves

Channel your inner silver screen siren with glamorous vintage Hollywood waves. This style is perfect for brides who want to bring a touch of old-school glamour to their big day.

The appeal of Hollywood waves:

• They’re glamorous: Instant red-carpet vibes
• They’re photogenic: Photograph beautifully from every angle
• They’re surprisingly versatile: Can be adapted for different face shapes and hair lengths

To get this look, start with a deep side part. Use a 1-inch curling iron to curl your hair in sections, always curling away from your face. Once you’ve curled all your hair, let the curls cool completely before gently brushing them out to create those signature S-shaped waves. Finish with a shine spray for that movie-star glow.

Pro tip: This style works best on shoulder-length or longer hair. If your hair is on the shorter side, consider clip-in extensions to achieve the full effect.

7. Textured Updo

For the bride who wants something a little more modern and edgy, the textured updo is a perfect choice. It’s like the cooler, more laid-back cousin of the classic chignon.

What’s great about the textured updo:

• It’s modern: A fresh take on traditional updos
• It’s forgiving: The textured look means it doesn’t have to be “perfect”
• It’s long-lasting: The texture helps it hold up all day and night

To create this style, start by adding texture to your hair with a salt spray. Then, loosely gather your hair at the nape of your neck and start pinning it up in sections, leaving some pieces out for a deliberately “undone” look. Don’t be afraid to pull some pieces out around your face for a soft, romantic effect.

Remember, the beauty of this style is in its imperfection. Embrace the flyaways and loose strands – they add to the overall texture and charm of the look.

8. Sleek Ponytail

Who says ponytails can’t be bridal? A sleek, high ponytail is a fantastic option for the fashion-forward bride who wants to make a statement.

The case for the bridal ponytail:

• It’s unexpected: A fresh and modern bridal look
• It’s face-lifting: The high placement gives you an instant facelift effect
• It’s great for showing off your dress: Especially if you have a detailed back on your gown

For this style, start by straightening your hair for a super smooth finish. Then, gather your hair into a high ponytail, securing it with an elastic. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it, securing with a bobby pin. Finish with a shine serum and strong-hold hairspray.

Want to elevate it even more? Add some hair jewelry or wrap a ribbon around the base of the ponytail for an extra special touch.

9. Soft Romantic Updo

If you’re dreaming of a hairstyle that’s equal parts romantic and sophisticated, the soft romantic updo might be your perfect match. It’s like a more relaxed version of a formal updo.

Why brides adore this style:

• It’s timeless: A classic look that never goes out of style
• It’s comfortable: Keeps your hair up but in a soft, non-restrictive way
• It’s customizable: Can be adapted to suit your personal style

To achieve this look, start by curling your entire head of hair. Then, loosely gather your hair at the nape of your neck and start pinning it up in sections, allowing some curls to fall naturally. The key is to keep it soft and a bit messy – we’re going for romantic, not prom queen.

Don’t forget to pull out a few face-framing tendrils. They add to the romantic vibe and soften your overall look.

10. Braided Updo

For the bride who loves the idea of braids but wants something a bit more formal than a braided crown, the braided updo is a perfect compromise.

The charm of a braided updo:

• It’s intricate: Adds beautiful texture and detail to your overall look
• It’s secure: Those braids will keep your style in place all day
• It’s unique: No two braided updos are exactly alike

To create this style, start by dividing your hair into sections. Create various types of braids – French braids, Dutch braids, fishtail braids – and then pin them up into an updo shape. The exact configuration is up to you (or your hairstylist). The beauty of this style is in its customization.

Feel free to add some small flowers or pearl pins throughout the braids for an extra special touch.

11. Side-Swept Curls

If you’re blessed with long locks and want to show them off, side-swept curls might be your dream come true. This style is all about glamour and romance.

The allure of side-swept curls:

• They’re dramatic: Make a real statement as you walk down the aisle
• They’re flattering: The side-sweep is universally flattering for all face shapes
• They’re versatile: Can be adapted for different hair textures and lengths

For this style, start by creating a deep side part. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose, bouncy curls throughout your hair. Once you’ve curled all your hair, gently brush through the curls to soften them. Then, sweep all your hair over one shoulder, securing with bobby pins at the nape of your neck on the opposite side.

Pro tip: This style looks amazing with a statement earring on the exposed ear. Just saying!

12. Ballerina Bun

For my classic brides who want a look that’s elegant and timeless, you can’t go wrong with a ballerina bun. It’s sleek, it’s chic, and it’s oh-so-bridal.

Why the ballerina bun is a bridal favorite:

• It’s elegant: Gives you an instantly polished look
• It’s great for veils: Provides the perfect base for attaching a veil
• It’s face-enhancing: Really lets your beautiful features shine

To create a perfect ballerina bun, start by smoothing your hair into a high ponytail. Then, split the ponytail into two sections. Tease each section slightly for volume, then wrap them around the base of the ponytail in opposite directions. Secure with pins as you go. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.

Want to add a modern twist? Try a “bubble bun” by securing elastic bands every inch or so down your ponytail before wrapping it into a bun.

13. Retro Finger Waves

Calling all vintage-loving brides! If you want a look that screams old-school glamour, retro finger waves are the way to go. This style is perfect for shorter hair or can be incorporated into an updo for longer locks.

The appeal of finger waves:

• They’re unique: Stand out from more common bridal styles
• They’re glamorous: Instant Great Gatsby vibes
• They’re great for shorter hair: Finally, a fancy style for my short-haired brides!

Now, I’ll be honest – this style is tricky to DIY. It involves using a comb and your fingers to mold wet hair into S-shaped waves, then setting them with clips and a lot of patience. If you’re in love with this look, I’d recommend finding a stylist who specializes in vintage hairstyles.

Pro tip: This style pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired accessories like a birdcage veil or a bejeweled hair comb.

14. Twisted Updo

If you love the idea of an updo but want something a bit more interesting than a classic bun, consider a twisted updo. It’s elegant, it’s intricate, and it’s sure to turn heads.

The charm of a twisted updo:

• It’s unique: Offers more visual interest than a standard updo
• It’s secure: Those twists will keep your hair in place all day
• It’s adaptable: Can be made sleek and polished or more relaxed and bohemian

To create this style, start by dividing your hair into sections. Take each section and twist it, then pin it in place, building up the updo as you go. The exact pattern of twists is up to you – you can keep them all going in the same direction for a more uniform look, or mix it up for added texture.

Don’t be afraid to pull out a few strands around your face to soften the look. And remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect – a few loose pieces add to the romantic vibe.

15. Loose Romantic Bun

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the loose romantic bun. This style is for the bride who wants to look effortlessly beautiful – like you just threw your hair up and happened to look amazing.

Why brides love the loose romantic bun:

• It’s comfortable: Not too tight or structured
• It’s versatile: Works with any hair texture and most lengths
• It’s timeless: A classic look that won’t go out of style

To achieve this look, start by adding some texture to your hair with a curling iron or wand. Then, loosely gather your hair at the nape of your neck or slightly to one side. Twist it into a bun, securing with pins as you go. The key is to keep it loose and a bit messy – we’re going for “undone” perfection here.

Don’t forget to pull out some face-framing pieces and maybe even a few tendrils at the nape of your neck. The more relaxed it looks, the better!

Final Thoughts

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From sleek and polished styles to loose and romantic looks, there’s truly a perfect hairstyle out there for every bride.

Remember, the most important thing is that you feel like the best version of yourself on your wedding day. Whether that means rocking a glamorous updo or letting your natural curls flow free, choose a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful.

And hey, don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different styles. Maybe you love the idea of a braided crown but also want some loose curls. Go for it! Your wedding, your rules.

Lastly, whatever style you choose, make sure to do a trial run before the big day. This will give you a chance to see how the style holds up and make any necessary adjustments.

Happy styling, beautiful bride! Here’s to finding the perfect ‘do for your “I do”!