Simple yet stunning wedding hairstyles don’t have to break the bank. In fact, many brides opt for effortless looks that are both budget-friendly and beautiful. Think loose buns, undone fishtail braids, and sleek ponytails – all of which can be achieved with a few simple styling tricks. The key is finding a hairstyle that makes you feel like the best version of yourself on your big day. And if you’re looking for some inspiration to help you achieve that perfect look, we’ve got you covered. From classic up-dos to understated low styles, our curated selection of affordable yet elegant hairstyles has something for everyone. And as a special treat, be sure to check out our affiliate links below for some top-rated products from Olaplex that are specifically designed for fine hair – perfect for brides with thinner locks.
13 Elegant Wedding Hairstyles to Try
#1 A long, dark brown curly hair with messy braids joined to make a massive one that lays on the back
#2 Light brown, straight messy hair let to lay freely at the back
#3 Short, straight dark brown hair brushed sideways and had a small braid around the head
#4 A short, light brown hair set to cover the ears and has a messy bun at the back
#5 Long dark brown hair brushed to lay on both shoulders and has curled ends
#6 A light brown short hair wrapped at the back of the head and some part laid on the side of the head
#7 A light brown short hair wrapped in braids around the head and is decorated with pink flowers
#8 A long curly black hair is set to lay free on the side and is decorated with white flowers
#9 Long dark brown hair brushed to lay on both shoulders and has curled ends
#10 A light brown long hair decorated with a wreath
#11 A dark brown short hair decorated with white flowers
#12 A dark brown short hair with a messy burn and red flowers
#13 Short black hair brushed sideways
Say goodbye to the notion that high-end prices equal high-end style. These chic and affordable wedding hairstyles show you can have both without breaking the bank. Take a look!
33 Fancy Wedding Hairstyles
When it comes to pulling off a flawless wedding look, the right hairstyle can be the difference between a ‘wow’ moment and a ‘what’s wrong with that?’ expression. To help you achieve the former, we’ve curated a selection of fancy wedding hairstyles that exude elegance, sophistication, and an undeniable air of glamour. Each of these styles has been carefully crafted to create a winning look that will leave your guests in awe on your special day.
#1 Beautiful loose braid cascading down the back
#2 Loose “messy” mixed braid hairstyle
#3 Sexy, curly, and simple hair style
#4 A fun and unique spin on the traditional ponytail
#5 This low bun is perfect for straight hair
#6 A straight hair pulled up into a high and somewhat loose bun
#7 Long loose curls cascading down the back
#8 A perfect look for short hair, beautifully wavy and totally beachy!
#9 Long straight hair comes to life with a simple fishtail braid pulled to the side
#10 Another beautiful fishtail braid look.
#11 A classic look for a classic bride, the half-part adds a touch of glamour
#12 Loose long curls cascading down the back is simple and pretty
#13 Add some loose waves and secure your hair to the side for this look
#14 Loving this straight hair with a unique coil curl in the front and loose bun in the back
#15 You can’t go wrong with massive curls like these!
#16 A beautiful simple wedding hairstyle that anyone can pull off
#17 A free-spirited wavy style for a free-spirited bride.
#18 Long straight hair left natural, accented by a beautiful veil, is easy and stunning.
#19 This elegant and pretty dutch braid is a feminine bridal hair style that is very beautiful
#20 Want to add some interest to your hair? Then, look no further than this pretty braid to a bun.
#21 Flowing and chic, this bridal look is beautiful and adds a pretty touch with a flower tiara
#22 This updo looks modern and fun, great for brides that are looking to sport a trendy style
#23 Delicate and feminine, this hairstyle is great for those looking for a romantic bridal look
#24 A sparkling rhinestone clip takes this bridal style from pretty to gorgeously glam
#25 Feathers are a unique way to add style and dimension to a pretty bridal hairstyle
#26 Vintage and chic, pin curls perfectly frame the face and create a winning style
#27 Bohemian and easygoing, this bridal look includes a pretty braid and soft, loose waves
#28 Cascading flowers and a long braid create a gorgeous style that is feminine and poised
#29 Definitely adorable, this bridal look has it all. Curls, flowers, and an elegant braid.
#30 An updo with a twist, add in flowers to your bridal updo to create a glamorous look
#31 Fun and interesting, this bridal look includes a beautiful gold clip that demands attention
#32 Simple and understated, this look highlights the bold color and cut of the bride’s hair
#33 Pretty and gorgeous, especially in photos, this bridal updo includes curls and flowers
10 Envious Bridal Curls
Curls are a timeless and elegant choice for brides on their big day, offering a wide range of styling possibilities. This classic hairstyle is not only visually stunning but also provides a sophisticated finish to any wedding gown. To achieve this iconic look, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for curl-friendly hair types and expert tips on how to recreate the style at home.
#1 We love these loose curls!
Loose curls offer a stylish yet understated look that pairs well with various dresses. This effortless hairstyle is particularly suited for ‘second day hair’, which can be achieved by skipping the shampoo on the wedding day. This unconventional approach may raise an eyebrow, but it will indeed save you time in both the shower and styling chair. If you’re taking on the task of doing your own hair, consider using a large-barrel curling iron to create soft, flowing curls that exude a relaxed elegance.
#2 Curls pulled back
Achieving gorgeous curls doesn’t have to be a time-consuming process. By pulling them into sections, you can easily create a simple yet elegant updo. For those in a hurry, there are methods to achieve these ringlets without relying on lengthy styling techniques. An alternative solution is to utilize a ringlet barrel curling iron, which can help you achieve the desired look quickly. However, it’s essential to remember to protect your hair from the heat by using a good heat protection spray.
#3 Curls and color!
The bride’s stunning curls caught my eye – who wouldn’t be impressed by that pop of color? While an ombre look can be achieved with professional help, it requires some expertise to get it just right. If you’re not ready to commit to permanent hair color, there are alternatives like Splat that can deliver a similar effect. Just remember to take precautions and follow the instructions carefully – I learned the hard way that this type of dye can stain surprisingly easily! To be on the safe side, consider getting your hair colored at least a week before your wedding, allowing any excess dye to wash out and preventing any surprises during the big day.
#4 Side-swept curls
Opt for a timeless bridal hairstyle that exudes elegance without requiring a veil. This classic look would be perfect for a formal wedding, and the best part is it’s surprisingly easy to achieve.
To start, make sure your hair is freshly washed and blow-dried to one side. With plenty of clips at the ready, section off your locks into manageable chunks. For a step-by-step guide on how to get gorgeous side-swept curls, check out this simple tutorial!
#5 An updo of curls!
When it comes to creating stunning updos, curls are the unsung hero that takes them to the next level. Not only do they add much-needed volume, but they also bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall look. A floral accent can then be used to add an extra layer of visual interest and depth.In terms of curling iron choices, the key is to choose a style that suits your desired updo aesthetic. For a more polished, sophisticated look, tight curls achieved with a small barrel curling iron are hard to beat. Alternatively, if you’re going for a more relaxed, effortless vibe, loose curls are definitely the way to go.
#6 Perfect curls
While we may not have extensive commentary on this hairstyle, it’s hard to deny the allure of these gorgeous bridal curls. One product that can help you achieve a similar look from the comfort of your own home is Aussie Miracle Curls. This styling tool not only helps to create luscious locks but also adds a touch of elegance with its beautiful hair brooch.
#7 Natural ringlets
This stunning bride’s natural beauty shines through her effortless locks. For those who are blessed with naturally curly hair, the key is to enhance rather than alter their God-given texture. A lightweight shine serum like Chi Infusion Shine can work wonders in adding a subtle sheen without overpowering the curls. If you’re looking for some expert tips on defining your natural texture, be sure to check out this comprehensive tutorial that shares simple and effective styling techniques.
#8 A little bit of everything
Imagine a hairstyle that effortlessly combines braids, curls, and a half-updo – all in one stylish package. This beautiful bride’s locks are the epitome of whimsy, featuring a delightful medley of textures and styles that will leave you green with envy. To take her look to the next level, consider adding a playful flower hair brooch in your wedding colors, expertly pulling everything together.
#9 Curls and a jewels
The allure of curls is undeniable, whether worn solo or paired with head jewelry. When combined, they create a sophisticated and refined aesthetic that exudes elegance. This timeless look is versatile enough to complement any wedding theme or style, making it an excellent choice for the big day. To recreate this look, consider starting with loose curls at the ends of your hair, allowing them to frame your face beautifully.
#10 Tight curls and flowers!
This stunning bride’s hairstyle exudes effortless bohemian chic. The harmonious blend of tight spiral curls and a half-floral crown creates a truly captivating look. To replicate this style, begin with freshly washed hair that has been treated with a leave-in conditioner for added moisture and manageability.
When it comes to creating those luscious curls, opt for a curling wand instead of a traditional clamp-style barrel. Alternatively, you can simply twist your locks around the barrel without securing them with the clamp. For step-by-step guidance on achieving these gorgeous spiral curls, be sure to check out our informative tutorial!
10 Brides Who Rocked Short Hair
All eyes should be on the bride, not her hair! We’re celebrating the beauty of short-haired wedding gowns by showcasing 10 stunning examples where the focus is firmly on the lovely ladies and their beautiful dresses. Gone are the worries about styling a mane that’s been hours in the making – with short hair, the attention remains squarely where it belongs: on the radiant bride herself.
#1 We love this short bob!
Embracing creative expression, some couples choose to harmonize their hairstyles with their wedding attire. A bold move that showcases their unique personalities and style.
#2 Short hair with accesory
The beauty of this wedding setup lies not only in the bride’s stunning floral crown, but also in the added space it creates for incorporating thoughtful accessories.
#3 With headband
Her hair accessory exudes elegance, with the subtle addition of sparkle creating a sophisticated ambiance.
#4 Above the Shoulder
This stunning bride’s effortless beauty is elevated by a chic hairstyle that falls just above the shoulder, drawing attention to her striking facial features and toned shoulders, creating a truly captivating overall appearance.
#5 Classic hair
#6 Confidence!
With unbridled confidence, this bride exudes a sense of power and poise, showcasing her striking features from the crown of her head to the flowing hem of her stunning gown.
#7 A little bit curly
#8 Simplicity is the key
#9 Colored short hair
In harmony, the bride’s hairstyle beautifully echoes the floral arrangements and her elegant attire, creating a visually stunning union that is sure to make memories last a lifetime.
#10 Bold look
With confidence radiating from every pore, this stunning bride pulls off the impossible – a bold, daring hairstyle that defies convention and turns heads. Her courageous decision to go for a strikingly short haircut is more than just a statement; it’s a reflection of her unapologetic personality and infectious energy.
44 Jaw-Dropping Wedding Hairstyles
When it comes to planning your big day, finding the perfect hairstyle can be a daunting task. After all, your hair is often one of the last details to fall into place, yet it has the potential to make or break your overall look. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the process, considering factors like accessories, durability, and veil placement (if applicable). To get started, we’ve curated over 40 stunning wedding hairstyle ideas that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the planning process.
#1 Elegant waterfall braid with simple twists for a stylish optical illusion.
#2 Beautiful and voluminous curled up-do with a floral hairpiece on the side.
#3 Voluminous braided high-based bun with a sparkling accessory around the bun.
#4 Braided Low chignon worn with a beautiful yellow and white accessory on the side.
#5 Beautiful braided high bun hairstyle that goes for any occasion.
#6 Cute slept in waves with a center braid woven with a ribbon to bring out the vintage effect.
#7 Side fishtail braid woven from the crown and stopping midway down, perfect for a romantic bride.
#8 Pulled back chignon worn with a sparkling white accessory at the bun.
#9 Glamorous up do with a beautiful accessory running around the forehead.
#10 A voluminous up do with stunning accessory clasped on one side.
#11 Glamorous top note bun with a Chinese bang that enhances a stylish appeal and accentuates your beauty.
#12 Romantic waves matched with a flower crown and cute hangings that blend into each other.
#13 A well-done waterfall braid
#14 A dark waterfall braid
#15 A gorgeous colorful waterfall braid. I’m LOVING that Ombre effect!
#16 Hair left down, with a simple side-swept curl to the front.
#17 Beautiful half-up/half-down hairstyle, with an elegant headband.
#18 A romantic braid crowns these stunning curls for a “Disney princess” look
#19 An elegant bun
#20 A long sparkling ponytail for a sporty look
#21 A loose braid blended into sea-swept very loose waves, perfect for a beach wedding.
#22 A very vintage glamourous look, with loose waves and a simple accessory.
#23 A loose bun that captures the bride’s elegance.
#24 A beautiful classic French braid swept to the side
#25 A short and cute braid tucked into a loose bun for a playful vibe.
#26 A classic side-swept braid that launches into voluminous wavy curls.
#27 A classic wavy style made elegant with a simple accessory
#28 Unique colorful braided bun with side-swept bangs
#29 A simple bun with a show-stopping floral accessory.
#30 A beautiful fishtail braid
#31 An amazingly done braid to bun
#32 High and loose bun, perfect for a night wedding.
#33 A simple yet elegant low bun
#34 A small waterfall braid crowning beachy waves
#35 Glamorous vintage waves
#36 Beautiful flowers on top of waves
#37 A creatively done combination of French and fishtail braids.
#38 A gorgeous braided bun
#39 Don’t have an idea on how to do a free waterfall braid? Here is an idea!
#40 A lovely fishtail braid with a simple accessory that matches her hair color.
#41 Another idea of doing an attractive waterfall style
#42 Simple yet beautiful short bun
#43 A tall bun that works great with shorter hair.
#44 A loose braid with a gorgeous white accessory that pops against her dark hair.
7 Brides Who Really Rocked Colored Hair
As I reflect on weddings, one aspect that truly makes an impression is the incorporation of color. In fact, it’s what often elevates a wedding from ordinary to extraordinary in photographs. For many brides, the process of selecting wedding colors begins long before the big day, and this decision-making typically extends to other essential elements like flowers, invitations, food menus, and more.
If, like many brides, you’re still undecided on your hairstyle, rest assured that there are countless photos available to inspire your choice. But what if I told you that adding some color to your natural hair could be the perfect way to add a touch of uniqueness to your wedding look? With this idea in mind, let’s take a closer look at 7 unconventional brides who boldly showcased their colored locks on their special day.
# 1 Pink/orange hair
What we can’t get enough of is the bride’s stunning hair color, which not only captures the warm glow of the sunbeams but also exudes a sense of sophistication with its subtle shading.
#2 Purple streaks
The bride’s hairstyle is truly stunning, with the luscious curls drawing attention to her bold purple hue. Her overall appearance exudes a sense of effortless chic, making her look undeniably captivating.
#3 Pastel blue hair
In this captivating photograph, the warm sunlight beautifully accentuates the bride’s locks, drawing attention to her stunning coiffure. While the love shared by the couple is undoubtedly the primary focus, the bride’s hair takes center stage, with its understated style perfectly complementing her radiant beauty.
Jewel-tone hair is beautiful!
Why settle for a single hue when a kaleidoscope of colors is at your fingertips? This radiant bride opted for a vibrant, jewel-toned hair color scheme that effortlessly complemented her overall aesthetic, resulting in a truly show-stopping look.
Rose gold hair in out of this world!
The allure of rose gold hair has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s easy to see why – the soft, understated hue is simply captivating. When paired with a blushing bride, the result is nothing short of breathtaking. What truly sets this look apart, however, is the addition of floral accents, which add a whimsical touch that’s uniquely memorable.
Green hair works too!
While a misstep in incorporating green hair can result in an appearance that’s overly bold or even washed out, this bride’s hunter green streak was a masterclass in integration. Paired with the woodland and bohemian elements of her wedding, the subtle splash of green added a delightful touch of cohesion. We’re also impressed by her headpiece, which perfectly encapsulated the whimsical essence of her special day.
The easiest something blue
In a delightful fusion of whimsy and romance, this bride’s striking pastel blue locks perfectly complement her captivating gaze. The soft blue hue not only adds a touch of uniqueness to her overall aesthetic but also cleverly incorporates the traditional ‘something blue’ element in a refreshingly modern way.
10 Beautiful Wedding Hairstyles
To cater to a diverse range of hair types, we’ve curated an additional 10 exquisite wedding hairstyles that will ensure your big day’s coiffure is nothing short of breathtaking.
#1 Fishtail Braid
A memorable experience that stands out in my mind is seeing a friend rock a beautiful loose fishtail braid on her wedding day. It was truly breathtaking! Fishtail braids exude elegance and simplicity, making them an excellent choice for showcasing your stunning dress while keeping your hairstyle understated.
#2 Long Waves
A beach wedding hairstyle wouldn’t be complete without a flowing, wavy mane. The style can be customized to suit your taste and occasion, whether parted in the middle, from one side, half-up or half-down. Adding a stunning tiara is the perfect touch to make it truly unforgettable. To achieve this look, consider using a curling iron to create loose waves or opt for beach waves hair spray for an effortless, sun-kissed vibe.
Messy Bun
A certain je ne sais quoi exists when it comes to a undone bridal updo, also known as a messy bun. This understated yet elegant hairstyle has the ability to highlight a bride’s best features – her makeup and accessories. The effortless charm of a messy bun creates a beautiful balance between simplicity and sophistication.
Half Up And Half Down
For the bride-to-be who craves a flowing, effortless hairstyle yet desires minimal facial coverage on her special day, this look is an ideal choice. With its soft, romantic waves and understated elegance, it’s a timeless beauty that exudes charm. The subtle movement of the curls adds visual interest without overpowering the overall aesthetic, creating a striking balance between whimsy and sophistication.
Flowers
Floral finery is an integral part of many brides’ big day. The possibilities for incorporating flowers into bridal hairstyles are endless, extending far beyond the traditional accentuating of a sleek bun. Instead, creative couples can opt to adorn their locks with loose crowns that add bursts of color and whimsy to their overall aesthetic.
Fascinators
In recent years, bridal fascinators have gained widespread popularity, offering brides a unique opportunity to showcase their personality and flair. Among my top picks is the elegant birdcage veil fascinator, yet I’m equally enamored with an array of other designs that cater to diverse tastes:
Pin Curls
The allure of pin-curled wedding hair lies in its effortless glamour. This timeless hairstyle exudes sophistication and is surprisingly versatile – it can be styled to complement both longer and shorter hair types.
Vintage
Step back into the enchanting world of classic wedding hairstyles, where timeless elegance meets effortless charm. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to the 1950s, an era when beautiful brides donned styles that exuded sophistication and glamour.
Pixie
A misconception surrounding wedding hair is that long locks are the only way to go. However, short wedding hair can be equally stunning, if not more so. When done well, a shorter hairstyle can beautifully frame a bride’s face, draw attention to her dress and jewelry, and ultimately, create a more polished and put-together overall aesthetic. For those with very short hair, there are plenty of fabulous pixie cut wedding hairstyles to explore.
Waterfall Braids
Waterfall braids are a timeless favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they exude elegance and sophistication, but they also require minimal maintenance throughout the day, making them perfect for special occasions like weddings. Whether you opt for a long, flowing hairstyle or a chic, short crop, your bridal style should leave you feeling like the most stunning woman on your big day.
5 Stunning Yet Simple Wedding Hair Ideas
While many brides opt for a unique, show-stopping hairstyle on their big day, there’s something to be said for honoring one’s everyday beauty with the same style. For those who have earned a compliment or two from their significant other regarding their natural look, incorporating that same style into their wedding-day aesthetic could be a lovely way to celebrate their love and connection.
#1 Sleek Wedding Ponytail
A ponytail on your wedding day may seem unconventional, but it can be a stunning and practical way to keep your hair in place all day long. Many styles feature beautifully curled or wavy locks gathered into the ponytail, ensuring it doesn’t hang limp. With some extra effort, you can even add volume at the crown for a ‘bump’ that adds a polished touch to the overall look.
#2 Loose Braided Bun
For those who prefer a more effortless yet polished look, a versatile hair styling approach involves creating a relaxed updo that exudes elegance without requiring an abundance of expertise. By securing a loose bun slightly higher on the head and then wrapping a single plaited braid around it, one can achieve a chic and cohesive overall appearance with minimal effort.
#3 Side Swept Messy Curls
Elevate your hairstyle with a effortlessly chic side-swept look that showcases a few delicate braids as subtle accent pieces. To achieve this style, gently curl the ends of your hair and secure them in place for a look that exudes effortless elegance while still maintaining a sense of polish.
#4 Classic Pinup Vintage Styles
Achieving the iconic pinup or vintage style of large waves and big curls requires a combination of skill and patience, but the end result is well worth the effort. With some practice under your belt, you can create a show-stopping wedding look that’s reminiscent of bygone eras. To complete this aesthetic, don’t forget to incorporate bold makeup elements like thick eyeliner and vibrant red lipstick for a truly unforgettable appearance.
#5 Half Up Loose Wavy Style
For longer locks, this classic look is a fantastic way to inject effortless elegance into any updo. Start by sweeping half the hair up and securing it with an elegant barrette or braid across the back. The bottom half can then be left loose, framing the face beautifully. To add some undone charm, use a curling wand to create relaxed, flowing waves that cascade down the shoulders. This timeless look is often elevated by delicate flourishes like a sprig of greenery or a dainty tiara, perfectly complemented by a flowing veil.