You’ve picked your dress, your shoes are boxed up, and accessories ready to go. Only one question remains—how are you going to wear your hair?
Whether you’re going for timeless elegance, boho romance, or modern chic, your wedding hair is the finishing touch that pulls everything together. The right hairstyle will not only complement your dress but also make you feel amazing from the first photo to the last dance.
Read on to learn about all the different wedding hair styles. We have ideas for long, short, thin, thick, and natural hairstyles. Whether you’re having your hair done professionally or going DIY, we’ve got you covered with tips, tricks, and inspiration to help you find the one (for your hair, that is!).
Key takeaways when it comes to wedding hair
- The most important thing about your wedding hairstyle is that it’s comfortable and complements your bridal look.
- You should think about your hair length and hair texture when picking your bridal hair.
- Whether you have your hair done professionally or do your hair yourself, be sure to consider a trial run before the big day.
What is wedding hair?
Wedding hair is the hairstyle you choose to wear on your big day, and just like your dress, it should make you feel amazing. Whether you’re dreaming of soft waves, a sleek updo, or something effortlessly boho, your wedding hairstyle helps complete your bridal look and should reflect you.
Some brides go for classic elegance with a polished bun, while others embrace their natural texture with flowing curls or a chic ponytail. The key is finding a style that works with your dress, your vibe, and—most importantly—your comfort.
Wedding hair for short hair
If you have hair above your ears or just brushing your jawline, short wedding hairstyles might suit you best.
Sleek and sophisticated
Whether your hair is ultra-short or a trendy bob, a sleek and sophisticated wedding hairstyle looks absolutely stunning. Think smooth, glossy finishes, deep side parts, or even a chic wet-look style for something modern.
If you have ultra-short hair, all you need to do is smooth your hair down with a little styling gel or pomade for a slick look. Hair longer than your ears but shorter than jaw-length will likely need a light run through with straighteners before applying a smoothing serum or shine spray to keep everything looking polished.
A well-placed accessory—like a pearl clip, sparkly pin, or even a high-fashion birdcage veil—can also add a little magic to this look.
Short and funky
Short and funky works best on ulta-short hair. Above the ears or pixie length is best.
All you’ll need is some texturising spray, some matt clay or putty, and your fingers to work a little magic. Play around with volume, tousled texture, or even a piecey, edgy finish to give your hair a cool, effortless vibe. A little lift at the roots can add some drama, while a side-swept fringe or a few playful spikes keep things fun and modern.
Tucked behind the ears
Keep things classic by tucking your hair behind your ears for a simple but elegant look. You may need to use a clip or a little pomade to keep ultra-short hair in place. But, otherwise, this carefree and effortless style is all about embracing simplicity.
If you want to elevate the look, try a delicate barrette, a dainty ear cuff, or a floral hairpin tucked just behind one ear. If you’re wearing statement earrings, this style keeps the focus on them while still looking effortlessly chic.
Wedding hair for medium length hair
Medium length hair is any hair length between jawline and just past shoulder length. Medium length hair gives you a little more length to play with while still keeping it light and manageable.
Soft waves
Soft waves are a classic wedding style. You can create them with a waver, curler, or slim straightener (if you’re very skilled). There are also a range of heat-free methods, like braiding damp hair overnight, the dressing gown method, or using silk rollers, which can give you beautiful waves without the damage.
The key to perfect wedding waves is a balance of definition and softness—so after styling, gently brush through them with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to keep them looking effortless. Go easy on the hairspray to stay crunch-free all day.
You may like: The dressing down method is a TikTok famous method for getting heatless curls. All you do is wrap sections of your damp hair around the tie of a dressing gown (or a long, soft fabric belt), secure the ends with scrunchies, and leave it to set overnight. In the morning, you’ll wake up with gorgeous, bouncy waves—no heat required!
Half up half down
Another classic wedding style, a half up half down is great for those who want to keep their hair out of their face while showcasing their hair length. ’s also great if you can’t decide between having your hair up or down on your big day. All you need to do is gather the top section of your hair and secure it at the back with a clip, barrette, or even a small elastic. If you’re feeling fancy, consider pulling your hair back in braids, twists, or an elegant bun.
It’s a beautiful low-effort but high-impact wedding hairstyle. Plus, the pulled-back hair gives your veil something to grip on to!
Pro tip: You can easily combine a half up half down style with soft waves if you’re looking for a style that’s the best of both worlds.
Messy twist
A messy twist works well on layered or textured medium-length hair, creating an effortlessly chic and romantic look. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, undone vibe while still looking polished enough for a wedding.
This look may take a little practice to get that ‘perfectly undone’ wedding hairstyle, so it’s worth trialling this a few times before the big day, whether you’re working with a professional stylist or doing your own hair. Simply gather sections of hair, loosely twist them towards the back of your head, and pin them in place with kirby grips. The key is not to overthink it—let a few strands fall naturally, and don’t be afraid to gently tug at the twists to soften the look.
Use texturising paste, powder, and hairspray to give the style some grip and hold without looking too stiff. You can also add some interesting contrast by including delicate accessories like pearl hair pins, diamantes, or floral clips.
Wedding hair for long hair
Long hair is considered any hair length past shoulder length. This hair length gives you maximum hair real estate to play with, meaning the possibilities are endless!
Hollywood waves
Hollywood waves are a beautiful and timeless choice for brides looking for their red-carpet moment. Hollywood waves are structured, glossy, and polished. They ooze sophistication, making you feel like a film star on your big day.
To achieve Hollywood waves, you’ll need to first curl your hair using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers, ensuring all curls are going in the same direction. Once your curls have cooled completely, gently brush through them with a soft-bristle brush to blend them into smooth, flowing waves. If your hair is especially fine, you may need to lightly tease and hairspray them into place.
Pro tip: Hollywood waves hold best when styled on hair that’s not freshly washed. Using a light mousse or texture spray before curling will help the waves keep their shape all day and night. For extra hold, clip each curl while it cools, then gently release and brush through for that signature smooth finish.
Boho braid
Hello, Rapunzel! A boho braid is a beautiful, perfectly undone hairstyle that’s full of texture and personality. You can easily keep it clean and sleek, or add flowers, gems, or pearls for extra interest. It’s all about what feels right for you!
To start, prep your hair with a texturising spray or dry shampoo to give it some grip and volume. Then, loosely braid your hair, gently pulling apart sections (also known as pancaking) to make it look fuller and more relaxed. A boho braid can be created using your preferred braiding method.
Whether it’s Dutch, fishtail, or three-braid, the key to nailing the boho look is to keep it loose and a little undone. If you want extra movement, leave a few face-framing pieces out and curl them softly.
Classic updo
If you’re on the fence about how to fix your hair, you can’t go wrong with a classic updo. It’s the perfect style for keeping hair off your face and neck, making it a great choice for warmer-weather or brides who want a polished, no-fuss style that lasts all day. Plus, it gives your veil something to grip onto.
A classic updo could be a bun, a sleek pony, or a timeless french twist. Whatever takes your fancy, the important thing is that it feels secure and comfortable. It needs to last all day, so make sure you pick a style that won’t budge through all the hugs, dancing, and happy tears.
Wedding hair for straight hair
Naturally straight hair tends to be the finest of all hair textures, so you’ll need a style that adds a little volume or holds well throughout the day.
Low bun
Make the most of the sleek texture of your hair by opting for a sleek and polished low bun. The natural smoothness of your hair will create a smooth and elegant finish, perfect for brides aiming for a classic look.
To recreate, simply gather your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a bobble. Twist or roll the ponytail into a bun and pin it in place with kirby grips, making sure it feels secure. If you want a fuller look, gently tug at sections of the bun to add volume or use a hair donut for extra shape.
Sleek and straight
Let the natural beauty of your hair texture shine with a sleek, straight wedding style. All you’ll need is some heat protectant, a pair of straighteners (for an ultra-sleek look), and some hair oil.
You can easily elevate this look by smoothing your hair down and tucking behind your ears, adding a deep side part, or accessorising with sparkly pins.
However you style it, a straight and glossy finish creates a chic, modern bridal look that pairs beautifully with minimalist dresses and statement jewellery.
Waterfall braid
The natural smoothness of your hair will make it easy to create a slick waterfall braid in your hair. This style is a little tricky, so you’ll either need to have a professional create this style or watch a ton of Youtube videos until you’re comfortable with the technique.
To create a waterfall braid, you need to section off a small piece of hair at the front and begin braiding as if you were doing a French braid. As you cross each section over, drop the bottom strand and pick up a new piece of hair from underneath to replace it.
Continue this pattern along the crown of your head, securing the braid with a decorative grip or clear elastic once it reaches all around your head.
Wedding hair for wavy hair
Naturally wavy hair is a beautiful and glamorous hair texture. Why not show it off on your special day?
Natural waves
Wear your hair in its natural texture and embrace the best version of you on your wedding day. You’ll know what it takes to make your waves look their best, so whether it’s freshly washed hair, day two hair with a refreshing spritz, or even a little curl-enhancing mousse to define your waves, go with what works for you. The key is to enhance your natural texture rather than fight it.
Curly high bun
Sweep your hair up onto the crown of your head and secure it with a bobble. Tie loosely into a messy high bun, letting a few of your natural waves fall freely for a soft, romantic feel. This effortlessly chic style adds volume and texture, making it a perfect choice for brides who want a relaxed yet elegant look.
For a little extra glam, try adding a sparkly hairpiece, barrette, or decorative hair pins to instantly elevate the style.
A relaxed chignon
A chignon is one of the simplest, but prettiest hairstyles you can create on your wedding day. We know it sounds fancy, but it’s actually super simple to recreate.
First, gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a bobble. Then, twist the ponytail into a loose bun and pin it in place with kirby grips, making sure to keep it soft and slightly undone for that effortless, romantic feel. If you want a little extra volume, gently tease the crown before securing the ponytail.
Pro tip: For a relaxed, textured look, lightly tug at the bun to loosen it and pull a few face-framing pieces out. A spritz of flexible-hold hairspray will keep everything in place while still allowing movement. The key is not to overthink it—let the pieces fall where they may.
Wedding hair for curly hair
Did you know that only 15-20% of people have naturally curly hair? Whether they’re tight ringlets or loose spirals, your curls are special—and there are plenty of ways you can let them shine on your wedding day.
Natural curls
No fuss, no stress—let your natural hair speak for itself on your special day. You know what it takes to make your hair look best, so follow your usual hair care routine whatever that looks like. Whether it’s moisturising cream, hydrating leave-in spray, a fresh wash, or even a few cheeky rollers in the front, stick with your tried and tested methods.
Pinned back
Pinning back your face-framing layers in the perfect way can keep your curls out of your face while still letting them take centre stage. This simple yet elegant style adds a touch of structure without losing that natural, effortless feel.
All you need to do is take two small sections of hair from the front, gently twist or braid them, and secure them at the back with a kirby grip or a sparkly clip.
Pro tips: For extra hold, criss cross your kirby grips in an ‘X’ shape to keep them secure all day. If you want a little more volume at the crown, gently tease the roots before pinning the sections back. A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray will help keep everything in place without making your curls feel stiff.
Decorative comb
Naturally curly hair is the perfect texture for holding a decorative comb in place, making it an effortless way to elevate your bridal hairstyle. Whether you’re going for a classic, vintage, or boho-inspired look, a beautifully placed comb can add instant elegance without taking away from your natural curls.
Simply slide the comb into your curls where you want it to sit and push it up and over itself. The thickness of your hair will help it stay in place, showcasing the natural beauty of its texture.
Wedding hair for thin hair
There’s no need to compromise on style just because your hair is on the finer side! With the right techniques, you can create a wedding hairstyle that adds volume, texture, and a little extra wow factor.
Textured waves
Textured waves are a great way to add body and bounce to thinner hair textures. Prep your hair with heat protectant and a little salt spray, and it’s time to start!
You’ll either need a deep-barrel waver or a curling wand to create soft, voluminous waves. If using a curling wand, wrap small sections of hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds, then release. Once your hair has cooled, gently brush through the waves with a wide-tooth comb for a natural finish.
Pro tip: For a more effortless look, alternate the direction of the curls.
Half up half down bouffant
Add some extra volume to your hair with a cheeky backcombed bouffant. This style may take a little time and hairspray, but the result is definitely worth it.
First, you’ll need to section off the top portion of your hair, starting from your temples and pulling it toward the crown. Gently backcomb the roots of this section using a fine-tooth comb to add height and volume. Spray with a little hairspray and you’re good to go!
Once you’ve achieved your desired height, smooth over the top of your hair to conceal the teasing and secure it at the back with a few kirby grips or a decorative clip.
Volumised bun
A volumised bun is similar to a sleek bun but with a little extra oomph. All it takes is some texture powder, hairspray, and some backcombing.
Start by gathering your hair into a low or mid-height ponytail and securing it with a bobble. If you want extra lift, gently tease the roots at the crown before pulling your hair back.
Next, lightly backcomb the ponytail to add fullness, then twist or wrap it into a bun shape, securing it with kirby grips. If you need even more volume, use a bun donut or padding underneath for a fuller effect.
Pro tip: Sprinkle a little volumising powder onto your roots before styling to give fine hair extra grip and lift. Once the bun is secured, gently pull at sections to create a looser, more voluminous shape.
Wedding hair for thick hair
Thick hair can be both a blessing and a curse. Although it looks fabulous, it can weigh you down and feel a little unmanageable. Try the following styles to make the most of your thick hair on your wedding day.
Curly high pony
A curly high pony is a great way to keep your hair off your neck while making the most of your natural hair volume.
All you need to do is gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it with a strong bobble. To keep it looking sleek, smooth down any flyaways with a bit of styling gel or hairspray.
If your hair isn’t naturally curly, you can use a curling wand to add soft, voluminous curls to the ponytail for extra bounce.
Pro tip: Take a small strand of hair and wrap it around your bobble to disguise it for a polished finish.
Braided bun
Your thick hair is basically made for a braided bun. It’s classic, elegant, and it keeps all that hair off your neck, which is a lifesaver if you’re having a summer wedding or plan on dancing the night away.
Start by braiding your hair into a loose three-strand, fishtail, or Dutch braid. Then, wrap the braid around itself to form a bun at the nape of your neck or slightly higher if you want a bit more drama. Secure with kirby grips and a touch of strong-hold hairspray.
For a fuller, more textured look, gently pull apart sections of the braid before wrapping it into the bun. Leave a few pieces out to add interest, and you’re all done!
Multi-strand braid
Live your Khalessi dream with a multi-strand braid that’s guaranteed to turn heads. Thick hair holds braids beautifully, so why not take full advantage? Whether you go for a four-strand, waterfall, or even a combination of braids woven together, this style is perfect for adding texture and detail to your wedding look.
Start by sectioning your hair into three or four equal parts (depending on how intricate you want your braid). If you’re not a braiding pro, a simple Dutch or fishtail braid will still look incredible. Braid down the length of your hair, pulling apart sections slightly to make it look softer and fuller. Secure with a clear elastic or wrap a small strand of hair around the end for a seamless finish.
The bottom line on wedding hair
The most important thing about your wedding hairstyle is that it feels like you. Whether you go for a sleek updo, a romantic braid, or let your thick locks flow freely, the key is choosing a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
If you’re still undecided, think about your dress, venue, and personal style. Your hair should complement your overall bridal vibe. And don’t be afraid to add accessories! A well-placed pin, comb, or floral detail can take your hairstyle to the next level.
At the end of the day, your wedding hair should be something you love—whether it’s simple and effortless or full of intricate detail. So embrace the volume, work with your natural texture, and get ready to turn heads as you walk down the aisle!
You Might Also Like…
- Introduction: Your Wedding Hair
- Hair Up Or Hair Down?
- Wedding Guest Hairstyle Ideas & Etiquette
- How Much Does Wedding Beauty Cost? The 2025 Average Revealed
- Demystifying Bridal Beauty Costs: Why Professional Wedding Hair and Makeup Is Totally Worth It