15 Gorgeous Wedding Hairstyles for Your Long Locks

Hey there, bride-to-be! Can you believe it? Your big day is just around the corner, and let’s be real – your hair game needs to be on point. As someone who’s been in the wedding hair biz for years, I’ve seen it all. From classic updos to boho waves, I’ve got the inside scoop on what’s hot and what’s not. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of champagne, I won’t judge), and let’s dive into 15 stunning wedding hairstyles that’ll make your long hair the talk of the town!

1. The Classic Chignon: Timeless Elegance

Okay, let’s kick things off with a timeless favorite – the chignon. This bad boy has been around forever, and for good reason. It’s elegant, it’s sophisticated, and it keeps your hair out of your face while you’re tearing up the dance floor.

Here’s the deal: a chignon is basically a fancy bun, but don’t let that simplicity fool you. When done right, it’s a showstopper. To nail this look, start by creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Then, twist that ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a bun. Secure it with bobby pins, and voila! You’ve got yourself a chignon.

Pro tip: Leave a few face-framing tendrils loose for a soft, romantic vibe. Trust me, your photographer will thank you for those dreamy portrait shots.

2. Cascading Curls: The Ultimate Romantic Look

If you’re going for that “I just stepped out of a fairy tale” vibe, cascading curls are your new best friend. This style is all about embracing your long locks and letting them shine.

To achieve this look, start with some heat protectant (because nobody wants crispy curls on their wedding day). Then, use a large barrel curling iron to create loose, flowing curls. Once you’ve curled all your hair, gently run your fingers through it to break up the curls and give them a more natural look.

Here’s a little secret: pin the front section of your hair back with a sparkly clip or some fresh flowers. It’ll keep your hair out of your face and add a little extra oomph to your style.

3. The Half-Up, Half-Down: Best of Both Worlds

Can’t decide between an updo and wearing your hair down? Girl, same. That’s why the half-up, half-down style is a total game-changer. It gives you the best of both worlds – the elegance of an updo with the romance of flowing locks.

To rock this look, start by curling your entire head of hair. Then, take the top section (from your ears up) and pull it back. You can either braid this section, twist it, or simply secure it with pins. The key is to make sure it’s secure – you don’t want it falling out halfway through your vows!

Bonus points if you add a gorgeous hair accessory where the “up” section meets the “down” section. A blingy clip or a delicate floral comb can take this style from great to absolutely jaw-dropping.

4. Braided Crown: Boho Queen Vibes

Calling all my free-spirited brides! If you’re planning a boho wedding, a braided crown is pretty much mandatory. It’s whimsical, it’s romantic, and it looks way more complicated than it actually is.

Here’s how to do it: part your hair down the middle, then create two Dutch braids (that’s where you braid under instead of over) on either side of your head. Once you reach the nape of your neck, secure the braids with clear elastic bands. Then, wrap each braid up and over your head, pinning them in place to create a crown effect.

The best part? This style works with both straight and curly hair. If you’ve got natural waves, embrace them! If your hair is on the straighter side, add some loose curls to the length that’s left out of the braid for a soft, romantic finish.

5. The Sleek Ponytail: Modern Minimalist

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. “A ponytail? For my wedding?” But hear me out – a sleek, high ponytail can be incredibly chic and modern. Plus, it’s perfect if you want to show off a gorgeous pair of earrings or a statement neckline.

The key to elevating this look from gym class to “I do” is all in the execution. Start by straightening your hair to get it super smooth. Then, use a boar bristle brush to gather your hair into a high ponytail, securing it with an elastic that matches your hair color.

Here’s the secret to making it look luxe: take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it. Secure with a bobby pin, and finish with a generous spritz of high-shine hairspray.

6. Vintage Hollywood Waves: Old School Glamour

Channel your inner silver screen siren with some seriously glamorous vintage waves. This style screams old Hollywood and looks absolutely stunning in photos.

To get this look, you’ll need to start with a deep side part. Then, 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 it cool completely before gently brushing it out to create those signature S-shaped waves.

The finishing touch? A sparkly hair clip on the side with less hair. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra pizzazz and keep your waves in place all night long.

7. The Messy Updo: Effortlessly Chic

For my brides who want to look like they just rolled out of bed looking fabulous (isn’t that the dream?), the messy updo is your go-to. It’s romantic, it’s effortless, and it’s surprisingly sturdy.

Start by adding some texture to your hair with a salt spray or dry shampoo. Then, loosely gather your hair at the nape of your neck and start pinning it up in sections. The key is to keep it loose and not too perfect – we’re going for “artfully disheveled” here, not “I tried to do my hair in the dark.”

Don’t forget to pull out a few face-framing pieces and maybe even add a braid or two for some extra interest. And hey, if a few pieces fall out during the day, that’s just part of the charm!

8. The Fishtail Braid: Textured and Trendy

Fishtail braids are having a major moment right now, and for good reason. They’re intricate, they’re eye-catching, and they’re perfect for showing off those gorgeous long locks.

Now, I’ll be real with you – fishtail braids can be a bit tricky to master. But with a little practice (and maybe a YouTube tutorial or two), you’ll be braiding like a pro in no time. Start by dividing your hair into two sections, then take small pieces from the outer edge of each section and cross them over to the other side.

Once you’ve braided all the way down, gently tug at the braid to loosen it up a bit. This will give it that coveted “lived-in” look and make it appear fuller. Finish with a clear elastic band and maybe even thread some baby’s breath or small flowers through the braid for a romantic touch.

9. The Side Sweep: Drama Queen Approved

If you’re all about making an entrance (and let’s be honest, who isn’t on their wedding day?), the side sweep is your new best friend. It’s glamorous, it’s dramatic, and it’s perfect for brides with long, thick hair.

To achieve this look, start by creating a deep side part. Then, curl all of your hair in the same direction – away from your face. Once you’ve curled everything, use a paddle brush to gently brush out the curls, creating soft waves.

Now for the fun part – sweep all of your hair over one shoulder and secure it at the nape of your neck with some bobby pins. Add a statement hair accessory on the side with less hair for some extra drama. Trust me, this style is a total showstopper.

10. The Twisted Updo: Sculptural and Sophisticated

For my artsy brides out there, let me introduce you to the twisted updo. It’s like a work of art for your hair – sculptural, unique, and guaranteed to turn heads.

This style involves creating several twisted sections of hair and pinning them up in a seemingly random (but actually very deliberate) pattern. The result is a textured, interesting updo that looks different from every angle.

The best part? It’s super customizable. You can make it as neat or as messy as you like, add braids into the mix, or even incorporate some sparkly pins for a bit of glam. It’s all about expressing your personal style.

11. The Waterfall Braid: Ethereal and Enchanting

If you’re looking for something truly magical, allow me to present the waterfall braid. It’s like a regular braid, but with a twist – literally. Strands of hair “fall” out of the braid, creating a cascading effect that’s absolutely gorgeous.

To create this look, start by sectioning off the top part of your hair. Begin a French braid, but instead of adding all three sections into the braid, let one section “fall” and replace it with a new section of hair. Continue this pattern around your head.

Once you’ve completed the braid, curl the remaining loose hair for a soft, romantic finish. This style is perfect for outdoor weddings or if you’re going for a whimsical, fairy-tale vibe.

12. The Low Bun: Understated Elegance

Sometimes, less really is more. Enter the low bun – it’s simple, it’s classic, and it lets your natural beauty (and that gorgeous dress) take center stage.

To create a low bun, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Twist it into a bun shape and secure with pins. The key to making this look wedding-worthy is in the details – add some volume at the crown, leave out some face-framing pieces, or incorporate a braid for added interest.

And don’t forget the finishing touch – a delicate hair vine or some fresh flowers woven around the bun can take this style from simple to simply stunning.

13. The Topknot: High Fashion Meets Bridal

Who says you can’t rock a topknot on your wedding day? This high-fashion style is perfect for the modern, trendy bride who wants to make a statement.

The secret to a wedding-worthy topknot is all in the execution. Start by creating a super-high ponytail, then twist and wrap the hair around itself to create a bun shape. Secure with pins and gently tug at the edges to create a fuller, more relaxed look.

To soften the style, leave out some face-framing tendrils or add a delicate headband. It’s the perfect mix of chic and romantic.

14. The Mermaid Braid: Beach Bride’s Dream

Getting hitched by the sea? The mermaid braid is calling your name. This ultra-long, ultra-thick braid is perfect for showing off your mermaid-worthy locks.

Start by adding some serious texture to your hair – beach waves are perfect for this. Then, create a deep side part and start French braiding from the top of your head, incorporating all your hair as you go. Once you reach the nape of your neck, continue with a regular three-strand braid.

The finishing touch? Gently pull apart the braid to make it fuller and more relaxed. Add some small flowers or seashells throughout the braid for the ultimate beach bride look.

15. The Twisted Ponytail: Elevated Everyday

Last but definitely not least, we have the twisted ponytail. It’s like your everyday ponytail’s cooler, more sophisticated older sister.

To create this look, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Twist each section away from your face, then combine them into a ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure with an elastic, then take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it.

For some added glam, use a curling iron to add some waves to the ponytail. It’s the perfect blend of casual and elegant – ideal for a more laid-back wedding or if you plan on hitting the dance floor hard (no judgment here!).

Wrapping It Up (Pun Intended)

There you have it, folks – 15 stunning wedding hairstyles for your gorgeous long locks. Remember, the most important thing is that you feel like the best version of yourself on your big day. Whether that means a elaborate updo or loose, flowing curls, choose a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful.

And hey, don’t be afraid to mix and match these styles or add your own personal twist. Your wedding day is all about celebrating you and your love story, so your hair should reflect your unique personality and style.

Now, go forth and conquer that wedding hair! And don’t forget to do a test run with your stylist before the big day. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when you’re not stressing about your hair on top of everything else.

Happy wedding planning, and may your hair be as fabulous as your love story!