How to Choose Bridesmaid Hairstyles

When selecting bridesmaid hair, balance the wedding style with what makes each person feel confident. Aim for cohesion through a shared theme—such as texture, parting, or accessory—rather than identical styles. Consider venue, dress necklines, climate, and timeline to ensure hair looks polished and lasts all day.

• Coordinate, don’t copy: Choose a unifying element (sleek finish, soft waves, or pearl accents) while allowing variation by hair type.
• Plan for longevity: Humidity, wind, and dancing matter. Opt for secure updos or set styles if needed.
• Match the neckline: High necklines pair well with updos; strapless or V-neck dresses complement down or half-up styles.
• Comfort first: The best style is one each bridesmaid can wear confidently for hours.
• Get the bride’s approval: Clear the overall vision and any accessories before the big day.

Classic and Modern Updos

Updos remain a go-to for weddings because they’re elegant, practical, and photo-ready. These options span polished to textured, minimal to embellished.

• Sleek Infinity Bun: A sculptural twist on the slicked-back bun that looks chic from every angle. Pair with a center part for modern minimalism.
• Classic French Twist: A timeless updo with subtle ’90s vibes; elevate with a sleek finish or a minimalist French hair pin.
• Low Chignon: A low, tucked bun at the nape is universally flattering and veil-friendly.
• Textured Low Bun: Soft, pulled-apart waves gathered into a bun create a romantic, effortless finish.
• Knotted Updo: Interlaced sections knotted into place—refined yet special for formal settings.
• Twisted Updo: Twists add dimension and hold; great for medium to long hair and pairs well with pins or fresh florals.
• Side-Parted Volume Updo: A voluminous crown with a side part balances strong makeup and statement earrings.
• Curly Topknot: Allow natural curls to shine by defining coils and wrapping them into a high knot with soft, wispy edges.

Half-Up, Half-Down Bridesmaid Hairstyles

Half-up styles strike a perfect balance: secure around the face while showcasing length and movement. They also work across textures and are easy to coordinate among a group.

• Classic Half-Up With Waves: Polished yet effortless, this style pairs beautifully with soft glam makeup.
• Half-Up With Wispy Tendrils: Modern face-framing pieces soften the look and flatter photos from all angles.
• Braided Half-Up: Add a small braid or twist on each side for texture; finish with pearl pins for a subtle accent.
• Half-Up Pony With Volume: A teased crown and curled lengths create a romantic, photo-friendly shape.
• Half-Up With Pearls: Scatter pearl pins or a comb along the twist or braid for cohesive bridal party styling.
• Floral Half-Up: A few fresh blooms or botanical clips lend a garden-party vibe, ideal for outdoor weddings.

Down and Polished: Curls, Waves and Sleek Styles

Wearing hair down can feel relaxed yet refined with the right finish. These options complement a wide range of dress silhouettes and venue styles.

• Loose, Textured Waves: A universal crowd-pleaser; use a flexible-hold spray for movement that lasts.
• Voluminous Curls: Big, bouncy curls bring instant glamour and great dimension in group photos.
• Side-Swept Curls: Old Hollywood inspiration with one side pinned back—perfect for statement hairpins.
• Sleek and Straight: A center part and glassy shine read modern and minimalist; add a bejeweled barrette for sparkle.
• Classic Curls With Pinned Sides: Pinning back both sides marries the look of wearing hair down with the practicality of an updo.
• Natural Curls With a Clip: Define coils and place a decorative comb at one side for a glam, texture-forward finish.

Braids for Every Aesthetic

Braids bring artistry and hold, making them ideal for long events and outdoor celebrations. Choose one braid to unify the party or mix braid types within the same accessory theme.

• Wavy Fishtail Braid: A fishtail with soft waves feels boho-chic; sprinkle pearl bobby pins throughout for polish.
• Classic Three-Strand Braid: Simple, clean, and quick—great for uniformity across a large bridal party.
• French Braid Crown: Wraps around the head for a romantic, ethereal look—works beautifully with floral accents.
• Side Braid With Volume: A full, side-swept braid adds drama without heavy accessories.
• Twisted Rope Braid: Sleek, minimal, and modern; best on medium to long hair.
• Bloom-Accented Braid: A long braid interlaced with small blossoms suits garden and vineyard venues.

Ponytails and Polished Tails

Ponytails aren’t just practical—they’re stylish, speedy to execute, and ideal for dancing. Elevate them with volume, waves, or embellishments.

• High Party Pony: Sleek at the crown with curled lengths; secure with bobby pins and a wrap-around hair piece for a seamless finish.
• Low Polished Pony: A center part and smooth, low tie look minimal and modern. Add a silk ribbon to soften the look.
• Voluminous Pony: Tease at the crown, then brush into a mid-height ponytail; curl ends for fullness.
• Textured Pony With Tendrils: Gentle texture at the crown and face-framing strands strike the perfect balance of relaxed and refined.

Short Hair, Don’t Care

Short and medium cuts can be just as expressive and formal as long hair. These looks emphasize shape, texture, and strategic accessories.

• Textured Pixie Cut: Use pomade or texturizing spray to define pieces; finish with a minimalist clip or ear cuff.
• Curly Bob With Headband: Let curls spring freely and top with a bejeweled or satin headband.
• Soft Wave Bob: Create S-waves with a flat iron and tuck one side behind the ear with a subtle pin.
• French Bob With Shine: A precise blunt edge, center part, and glassy finish read ultra-chic for modern weddings.
• Shoulder-Length With Flip: A gentle outward flip at the ends adds retro flair without feeling costume-y.

Curly, Coily and Natural Texture Styles

Natural texture is always wedding-worthy. These styles celebrate curls and coils while providing shape and hold for a long day.

• Twist-Out With Bold Accessories: Define twists for shape, then add a statement barrette or comb for bridal-party sparkle.
• Curly Puff: Gather curls high to showcase face and earrings; lay edges softly for a romantic frame.
• Pinned Curly Updo: Pin sections loosely to preserve curl definition while creating an updo silhouette.
• Wash-and-Go With Side Clip: Keep curls hydrated and defined; add a single decorative clip to one side.
• Halo Braid on Natural Curls: Braid around the head and leave curls out at the back for texture contrast.
• Defined Coils With Middle Part: A clean part and high-gloss finish make coils look ultra-polished in photos.

Fine or Thin Hair-Friendly Ideas

For finer hair, styles that create the illusion of fullness are key. Strategic teasing, extensions, and accessory placement can make a major difference.

• Teased Crown Half-Up: Gentle backcombing at the crown lifts the profile without weighing hair down.
• Soft Messy Bun: Imperfect texture and pulled-apart pieces add volume and dimension.
• Voluminous Pony: A slight twist at the base combined with curls makes hair appear thicker.
• Floral or Pearl Accents: Add detail through accessories rather than heavy product; they draw the eye and elevate simplicity.
• Wave-Set Blowout: A large-barrel blowout with rollers or a wand creates body that lasts through photos and dancing.

Long Hair Looks to Love

Long hair offers endless styling options—from minimalist to maximalist. The key is choosing a look that suits the dress and the wedding’s overall vibe.

• Soft, Loose Curls: Let length shine with touchable curls; a single clip can unify the party.
• Glam Side-Swept Curls: Sweep hair to one side and secure with a sparkly pin for a vintage-inspired silhouette.
• Half-Up With Tendrils: Wispy face-framing pieces modernize the classic half-up shape.
• Straight With Statement Barrette: Keep it sleek and add a crystal or pearl barrette for an easy, impactful finish.
• Boho Braid Crown: A braided crown suits outdoor and rustic venues and photographs beautifully in golden hour light.

Accessory Ideas for Cohesive Bridesmaid Hair

Accessories are the easiest way to create a coordinated bridal party look across different hairstyles and textures. Always confirm details with the bride.

• Pearl Pins and Combs: Scatter throughout buns, braids, and half-up twists for subtle sparkle.
• Headbands: Satin or jeweled headbands are ideal for bobs and curls and help unify short and long cuts.
• Floral Accents: Fresh or faux blooms add romance to braids and updos; choose petite stems for longevity.
• Ribbons and Bows: Silk ribbons tied at the base of ponytails or braids are trend-forward and photo-friendly.
• Minimalist Pins: Gold or silver U-pins lend modern elegance to chignons and twists without overwhelming the look.

Building Your Day-Of Hair Plan

A smooth timeline and the right prep ensure beautiful, long-lasting results. Share the schedule with your stylist and bridal party well before the wedding day.

• Pre-wedding trial: If budget allows, schedule at least one trial for the bride and share the vision for bridesmaids.
• Prep by hair type: Fine hair may benefit from a clean wash day-of; coily/curly hair often looks best prepped the day before.
• Bring accessories: Have clips, pins, and ribbons on hand so the stylist can place them seamlessly.
• Set the schedule: Start with the most intricate styles; leave simple, quick looks for later in the timeline.
• Emergency kit: Pack mini hairspray, pins, clear elastics, a comb, and anti-frizz sheets for touch-ups.

38 Bridesmaid Hairstyles at a Glance

Use this quick-reference list to mix and match across the bridal party while staying cohesive.

• Sleek infinity bun
• Classic French twist
• Low chignon
• Textured low bun
• Knotted updo
• Twisted updo
• Side-parted volume updo
• Curly topknot
• Classic half-up with waves
• Half-up with wispy tendrils
• Braided half-up
• Half-up pony with volume
• Half-up with pearls
• Floral half-up
• Loose textured waves
• Voluminous curls
• Side-swept curls
• Sleek and straight
• Classic curls with pinned sides
• Natural curls with a clip
• Wavy fishtail braid with pearls
• Classic three-strand braid
• French braid crown
• Side braid with volume
• Twisted rope braid
• Bloom-accented braid
• High party pony
• Low polished pony
• Voluminous pony
• Textured pony with tendrils
• Textured pixie cut
• Curly bob with headband
• Soft wave bob
• French bob with shine
• Shoulder-length with flip
• Twist-out with bold accessories
• Curly puff
• Pinned curly updo

FAQs: Bridesmaid Hair

Should bridesmaids all wear the same hairstyle?

Not necessarily. Cohesion can come from a shared element—like pearl accents, a sleek finish, or side parts—while allowing each person to choose a style that suits their hair type and comfort level.

Who pays for bridesmaid hair styling?

Etiquette varies. Some couples cover hair and makeup as a gift, while others ask bridesmaids to pay their own. Clarify expectations early and include costs in the wedding party welcome info.

What hairstyles last longest for an outdoor wedding?

Secured updos (like chignons, twists, and braided styles) and ponytails tend to withstand wind and humidity better than fully down styles. Use humidity-resistant products and schedule touch-up time.

How do we keep different hair types cohesive?

Pick one unifying detail—accessories, parting, or finish—and let each bridesmaid adapt it to their texture and length. For example, everyone can wear pearl pins whether in a bun, braid, or half-up.

Any tips for fine or thin hair?

Ask the stylist about light extensions, strategic teasing, and curl-setting techniques. Choose styles with built-in volume like messy buns, half-up height, or a voluminous ponytail.