The traditional African American wedding style is a timeless and iconic choice, with its versatility and beauty making it a favorite among brides-to-be. From elegant hairstyles to statement jewelry, the options are endless when it comes to creating a stunning look for your special day. With so many gorgeous styles to choose from, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed when trying to decide on the perfect bridal hairstyle. However, with a little guidance and inspiration, finding the ideal look is easier than ever. Whether you’re looking for classic updos, bold natural curls, or an effortless half-put-up style, there’s something for everyone in this extensive list of African American wedding hair inspiration. So, keep reading to discover 45 breathtaking styles that will make your heart skip a beat.
45 Wedding Hairstyles For Black Women
When it comes to choosing the perfect hairstyle for your special day, there’s a wide range of options to consider. From edgy cropped locks to flowing dreads and sleek, straight styles, you’re sure to find a look that makes you feel like a million bucks. Rather than sifting through endless possibilities, let’s dive right in and explore some fantastic hairstyles that will make your big day even more unforgettable.
Messy Hair Updo with White Flowers
For black-haired brides with long, straight locks, this wedding hairstyle is the perfect choice. To elevate the look, pair it with matching earrings and delicate white flowers. For a step-by-step guide on achieving this stunning style, read on.
Jeweled Headband on an Elegant Updo
The allure of wedding hairstyles for African American women is undeniable, with a sleek updo complemented by matching earrings creating a truly showstopping look. For those looking to replicate this elegance, there’s no better starting point than mastering the art of creating a custom headband.
Side Part Updo
Achieve a stunning hairstyle by starting with a subtle side part, then work your locks into luscious waves through careful sculpting. This effortless yet chic look is sure to turn heads. For an added touch of sophistication, be sure to check out the accompanying video for some expert tips and tricks.
Wavy Updo Hairstyle for Girls
For women with straightened hair, a sleek updo is the perfect way to showcase their locks. When paired with a wavy hairstyle, the overall aesthetic becomes even more striking. To complete the look, secure it with a ribbon headband that adds a touch of elegance. Follow along for a simple step-by-step guide on how to achieve this stunning style.
Simple Updo
For many couples, a straightforward yet elegant approach is the way to go on their special day. A delicate bridal hair brooch can make all the difference in drawing attention to an updo wedding hairstyle, creating a beautiful and understated look that’s perfect for a casual celebration.
Modern Updo
Elevate your wedding style with a sleek and sophisticated modern updo, achieved by skillfully taming stray locks into a neat and polished coiffure. For a timeless look, opt for a tight and smooth updo by carefully combing back your hair straight, allowing the focus to be on your radiant smile and elegant attire.
A Leaf Crown on Curly Hair
Ditch elaborate hairstyles and let your natural texture shine through. Add a whimsical touch with a delicate leaf crown that exudes effortless elegance. To achieve this look, simply follow the steps in the accompanying video tutorial.
Elegant Updo
Creating an updo wedding hairstyle is a great way to achieve a stunning look on your big day. To get started, begin by brushing out your black hair and then section it off into smaller parts. Next, use heat styling tools or curlers to create tight curls that can be molded into the desired shape. The key to achieving this style is to vary the size of the curls and the way they’re placed on the head to create a unique and eye-catching look.
Classic Short Black Woman Wedding Styles
For individuals sporting shorter locks, this hairstyle is a match made in heaven. The beauty of it lies in its effortless nature – often, there’s no need to fuss over one’s hair, allowing for a carefree ‘do that’s perfect as-is. And let’s be honest, the results are simply stunning.
Highlights on Short Cut
While embracing the boldness of a short butch cut, it’s best to steer clear of wigs or similar hairstyles that might detract from your natural look. Instead, consider pairing your style with a side cut and adding subtle highlights, such as frosted caramel tones, to create a cohesive and eye-catching appearance. These types of styles really come alive in videos, don’t they?
Floral Head Piece on Wavy Hair
To create a show-stopping wavy wedding hairstyle, focus on adding some flair with a floral headband. Before that, you’ll need to get your locks in the right shape. Start by straightening out your hair and then add large waves for a romantic touch.
Stylish Straight Hair
For brides-to-be with African-American hair, finding the perfect hairstyle for their big day can be a daunting task. Among the many options, one timeless and stylish choice is a sleek, straight hairstyle that exudes elegance and sophistication. When executed well, this look can be incredibly flattering on black women, making them feel like the best version of themselves on their wedding day. To achieve this look, you can follow these tips and techniques, or draw inspiration from the many beautiful examples out there.
Chignon Wedding Hairstyles
This classic African American vintage-inspired wedding hairstyle is a timeless choice that won’t lose its appeal anytime soon. The sleek, understated chignon and low buns are testaments to its enduring style, speaking volumes about the beauty and elegance of the wearer.
Lace on Low Chignon
A delicate lace veil expertly elevates the understated charm of the low chignon wedding hairstyle, skillfully drawing attention to its refined beauty.
A Veil on Simple Chignon
For brides who adore the romantic allure of a veil, a black wedding hairstyle is an excellent choice to complement their long locks. This sleek and modern look exudes a sense of effortless elegance, perfect for those who desire a more laid-back yet stylish appearance on their big day.
Bright Accessories on Top Bun
For many couples, finding the perfect hairstyle for their big day can be a daunting task. One style that stands out from the rest is this elegant and understated wedding bun look for black hair. By adding a beautiful hair accessory, such as a stunning bow or delicate pins, this simple yet sophisticated style can be elevated to make a lasting impression. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its ability to complement any wedding attire, making it an excellent choice for the big day.
Tight Top Bun
For those looking to tone down their locks, a complex wedding hairstyle offers a stylish solution that draws attention to the eyes and facial features.
Messy Bun
Let your locks loose and revel in the carefree spirit of the messy bun hairstyle, where unruly strands are celebrated rather than constrained.
Clean Bun
Elevate your updo by pairing it with a strapless wedding dress, allowing the sleek and polished bun to take center stage. To achieve this stunning look, follow our step-by-step guide.
Two Tones Corn Rows
For those seeking a wedding hairstyle that embodies versatility, this intricate style is an excellent choice. By combining its various elements, you can create a look that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Take a closer look at the following features to see how you can customize it to suit your personal taste.
Lace and Waves
The hairdo’s crowning glory is its exquisite headband, which beautifully frames the flowing waves. This stunning coiffure is further elevated by its understated yet sophisticated styling, resulting in a truly breathtaking overall aesthetic.
Edgy Shaved Side
One of the most striking and daring haircuts for a black tie wedding is undoubtedly this avant-garde style, which features a sleekly styled top section seamlessly merged with a shaved side. The overall effect is nothing short of mesmerizing. To achieve this look, viewers can reference the accompanying video tutorial.
Beautiful Lilies on Regal Hair
The crowning glory of a royal wedding hairstyle is perfectly complemented by matching earrings and a delicate lily motif. This stylish combination not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates a truly unforgettable visual experience.
Sculpted Updo
For many African American brides, finding the perfect wedding updo can be a challenge. However, one style that stands out as a top choice is the sculpted updo, which not only showcases their natural hair but also highlights their unique features. This hairstyle is particularly appealing because it offers a departure from more traditional wedding styles and allows the bride to express her personal taste and flair. By styling their hair in an updo, the focus can be shifted away from the length or texture of their locks and onto their beautiful face, elegant neck, and stunning overall appearance.
Flowing Locks
Elevate your wedding hairstyle with effortless, flowing locks that exude a carefree and joyful atmosphere, perfectly complementing your special day’s tone. The relaxed, undone look can be a wonderful departure from traditional wedding hairstyles, creating a sense of whimsy and romance. To achieve this stunning style, check out the accompanying video for expert tips and guidance.
Red Waves
Brighten up your look by infusing vibrant red hues into your wavy locks. This bold move not only adds a striking touch to your hairstyle but also creates an unforgettable impression on those around you. For me, it’s a game-changer – I’m absolutely smitten with the end result.
Natural Hair with Pin Curls
While black wedding curls may appear effortless and undone, they’re actually a popular choice among brides opting for a more laid-back approach to their big day hairdo. To achieve this look, focus on brushing the top section of your locks to create a seamless blend with the rest of your natural hairstyle.
Hip and Curly Pixie Wedding Hairstyle
For the perfect blend of whimsy and sophistication, consider a romantic wedding hairstyle for your big day as a black bride. A style featuring medium curls can create a playful yet elegant atmosphere in any ceremonial setting.
Fairy Tale Locks
For those seeking to infuse their look with a pinch of whimsy and a dash of fantasy, consider incorporating locks that exude an air of enchantment. If your natural tresses are on the shorter side, don’t worry – extensions can be a wonderful solution to add volume and drama.
Big Classic Afro
When it comes to wedding day hairstyles for Black women, it’s all about embracing individuality. For those who exude confidence and flair, a bold, voluminous afro is the perfect way to celebrate their special day. This style is all about making a statement, with its fullness, texture, and movement commanding attention. On the other hand, if you’re more of a low-key, understated bride-to-be, a sleek, straight look or a chic updo can be just as stunning. The key is to choose a hairstyle that reflects your personality and style, whether that’s bold and edgy or elegant and refined.
Hair Piece on Wild Afro
To elevate the natural beauty of an Afro, consider incorporating a hairpiece that complements its texture and dimension. The key to pulling off this look is to exude confidence, which was emphasized earlier as a crucial aspect of styling an Afro.
Lace on Afro
To add some subtlety to the bold and intense afro wedding day hairstyle, consider incorporating an elegant headband adorned with laces. This thoughtful touch can help balance out the overall look, creating a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic.
Flower Crown on Half Up
For couples seeking a timeless and sophisticated wedding hairstyle, the half-down, half-up look is a great choice for those with black hair. To recreate this effortless elegance, consider the following tips:
Whimsical Flair
For a whimsical and enchanting wedding aesthetic, flowing locks are a must. Ditch traditional, stuffy styles in favor of a show-stopping ‘do that combines elegance and playfulness. Half-up, half-down hairstyles for black women offer the perfect blend of sophistication and whimsy, allowing you to let your hair down – literally.
Asymmetric Flow
For those with longer locks, the possibilities are endless when it comes to styling. One effortless option is an asymmetrical updo that showcases a flowing, relaxed vibe. Without the need for overly embellished hair accessories, this look is perfect for everyday wear or even a more casual wedding celebration.
Curled Tendrils
Elevate your half-up hairdo with a touch of sophistication by incorporating a stunning jeweled tiara into your style. To add a youthful and modern flair, create soft, curly tendrils that cascade down the sides, framing the face in a flattering way.
Long Flowy Hair
When it comes to achieving a whimsical, fairytale-inspired look on your big day, there’s no beating the allure of long hair. However, for those seeking a more understated yet equally elegant solution, an updo can be the perfect way to go. Not only does this style eliminate any fuss or hassle, but it also allows you to showcase the beauty of your locks while adding a touch of sophistication to your overall look.
Hairstyle With Tiara on Loose Curls
For individuals with longer locks, consider starting with a straightened look and then gently curling the hair for a more relaxed, effortless vibe. To really make the style pop, top it off with a statement-making tiara that complements your curls and adds an extra touch of glamour.
Simple Headband
For brides with long locks, the classic black wedding hairstyle is a stunning choice. To really make it pop, consider pairing it with a coordinating wedding bouquet and belt that complements the overall aesthetic. The end result will be a sleek, sophisticated look that’s sure to turn heads. And don’t forget to explore these ideas further for even more inspiration!
Vintage Elegance
For those with luscious locks, this timeless wedding hairstyle is a perfect fit. Emphasize your flowing mane by embracing loose, effortless waves that exude a romantic and vintage flair. To achieve this look, be sure to check out our comprehensive tutorial.
Matching Bridal Hair Jewelry
Elevate your classic black wedding hairstyle by combining it with a timeless necklace and a statement-making jewelled hairband. This thoughtful addition will not only draw attention to your beautiful locks but also add a touch of sophistication to your overall look, particularly if you’re aiming for a fairytale-inspired princess vibe. For more inspiration, explore our curated collection of wedding hairstyle ideas.
Jeweled Hair Piece
For African American women with long locks, this wedding hairstyle is a showstopper. The crowning glory is a stunning jeweled bridal hair accessory that adds an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to the overall look.
Modern Wedding Hairstyles
While accessories can certainly elevate a hairstyle, there’s something to be said for allowing the cut or style to take center stage. A straightforward approach can result in a modern, streamlined, and effortlessly cool aesthetic. Consider this:
Jeweled Tiara
To elevate the classic princess-inspired wedding hairstyle, incorporating a jewelled tiara is an excellent choice. This regal accessory can be perfectly complemented by adding coordinating necklaces and earrings that mirror the tiara’s design elements. For those looking to create their own bespoke pieces, a tutorial on making custom jewelry can provide a fun and creative outlet.
Fishtail Braided Wedding Hairstyle
For fans of Disney Princess movies, the fishtail braided hairstyle is likely a nostalgic and captivating choice. This traditional African-inspired style has become synonymous with elegance and sophistication, making it perfect for anyone looking to channel their inner princess. Want to learn the secret to achieving this stunning look? Follow our step-by-step guide here:
What Should You Consider For Choosing Hairstyles for Black Women
Relaxers and Perms
When you’ve recently had a haircut and are waiting for your hair to grow out permanently, it’s essential to use chemical treatments like Relaxers and Perms to aid the process [1]. However, we strongly advise exercising caution when using these products, as improper application can cause damage to the scalp and hair. To minimize this risk, consider seeking the expertise of professional stylists who have experience handling chemical treatments. When using these products for new hair growth, be sure to reapply every two to three months as your hair continues to grow. It’s crucial to only use Relaxers and Perms during the initial growth phase, ensuring that you don’t disrupt the natural process.
Locs
The process begins with matting, twisting, or locking your hair into intricate strands that resemble ropes [2]. This initial stage sets the foundation for the rest of the styling, which demands significant time and dedication. Once complete, the strands are coiled together to create the signature locs look.
Loose Braids
While hairstyles can be incredibly diverse, varying in complexity, style, and shape, there is a common thread that runs through many elegant looks: versatility. This means you have the freedom to opt for tight braids or something more straightforward, allowing you to express yourself through your hair. However, this same versatility also brings with it a risk – traction alopecia. This condition is characterized by hair loss, irritation, and increased breakages due to the constant tension on the scalp that comes from wearing extremely tightly woven braided hairstyles. When left unchecked, traction alopecia can cause the hair to fall out as a result of this persistent stress.
Styling Using Heat
While heated styling tools like rollers, curling irons, and straighteners may be tempting for creating soft waves or pin curls, they can actually cause long-term damage to your hair, leading to dryness and brittleness over time. Instead, consider investing in tools coated with ceramic, which offer a gentler alternative for achieving the same styles.
FAQs
What are black hairstyles called?
For centuries, traditional African wedding hairstyles have been a staple of cultural expression and community identity. Terms such as dreadlocks, cornrows, and afros have been passed down through generations, each one telling a unique story about the individuals who wear them. In many Black communities, these hairstyles serve as a powerful symbol of heritage and tradition, offering a tangible connection to ancestors and cultural roots.
Are braids good for black hair?
The art of braiding plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and beauty of black hair. By incorporating regular braids into her regimen, a black woman can effectively prevent breakage and keep her locks strong. Moreover, braids serve as a stylish way to maintain a neat and tidy hairstyle. The benefits of braids extend beyond adults, as they also provide a convenient and elegant solution for kids’ hairstyles, promoting good hair habits from an early age.
How long can one keep braids in black hair?
When it comes to maintaining braids in black hair, the type of braiding style used plays a significant role in determining how long they can be kept intact. For instance, certain styles can last up to eight weeks without needing to be redone. However, it’s equally important to prioritize regular upkeep by cleaning and maintaining the braids every 2-3 weeks to prevent matting and tangling.
Are Box Braids good for a wedding hairstyle?
Box braids offer an impressive range of styling possibilities for wedding hairstyles. Whether you’re looking for an elegant updo, a half-up-half-down look, or even a braided crown, box braids can be easily adapted to fit your desired style. Furthermore, their versatility allows for the incorporation of decorative elements like beads and flowers, adding a touch of refinement to your overall aesthetic. Moreover, as they can remain in place for several weeks, this hairstyle is an excellent choice for brides seeking low-maintenance hair solutions in the lead-up to their special day.
African American Wedding Hairstyles Ideas Conclusion
As I bring our showcase of the 45 best African American wedding hairstyles to a close, it’s essential to consider that what works for others might not necessarily be the perfect fit for you. With so many stunning styles on display, it’s crucial to test them out before making a final decision.
The key takeaway here is that every individual has their unique features and characteristics that can greatly impact the way a hairstyle looks and feels. What works beautifully for your friend or the models featured in these images might not translate as seamlessly to your own features.
By keeping this in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the ideal wedding hairstyles that make you feel confident and beautiful on your big day.
I’d love to hear from you – which of these African American wedding hairstyles resonates with you the most?