The top wedding hairstyles for long hair serve as an elegant accessory for brides and maids of honor on a memorable day. You can wear your hair in numerous styles – sleek and straight, dramatic with waves, styled “up” and effortless, Hollywood glam and classic, among others.
Chicago-based stylist Angelica Mirela Tanta kindly agreed to meet with me to discuss this hair concept. Explore what she has to share about it.
Key Things to Know First
- A consultation is crucial to assess your hair’s quality and identify the best style for your big day.
- The most significant advantage of looking gorgeous is that it can elevate your mood and self-esteem.
- The issue arises when you select a hairstyle that doesn’t complement your face shape, features, hair texture, and density.
- The stylist should be very willing to clarify how to maintain the style throughout the event.
Check out this photo gallery and discover breathtaking wedding hairstyles for long hair. It’s time to get ready for your special day!
Stunning Infinity Braid
There are many intricate methods to twist and secure the hair. One of my favorites is the infinity braid. You can use this to gather your hair for wedding events or to elevate a casual occasion. Several elements make the style achievable. For instance, light-colored hair highlights the design. Additionally, a lack of layers helps the braid maintain its shape. Yet for styles like this, you must have length to implement a design.
Half-Up Hairstyle
The hair is gently curled and pinned up halfway in barrel curls at the back, while the sides are swept away from the face.
To ensure your half-updo remains secure, backcomb it at the roots first so the bobby pins have something to hold onto. Adding volume on the sides will enhance the appearance of this hairstyle when viewed from the front. Before you blow-dry, apply Big Hair Root Pump Plus Mousse.
Hair that is medium to fine texture works best for this hairstyle. If your hair is too thick, you may require assistance to keep your barrel curls intact. Sweeping the sides down and back in front of this will complement square, oval, or heart-shaped faces.
Classic Vintage Glamour Bridal Look
This hairstyle captures the essence of the 1940s-inspired Old Hollywood Glam vintage brushed-out waves aesthetic. The remarkable aspect of this look is its elegance and luster. It forms a timeless silhouette with a gentler finish compared to the conventional wave set. It’s an exceedingly versatile style that complements various face shapes and adds an air of sophisticated charm to your appearance.
When contemplating their next haircut, I recommend individuals seeking wedding hairstyles for long hair like this to aim for a one-length cut. Layers may disrupt the uniformity of the waves. Alternatively, a traditional horseshoe shape perimeter would be an even better option. This shape facilitates improved brush-outs and delivers a consistent vintage finish to any curl set by contouring the face with shorter hair and crafting the classic curved pageboy teardrop silhouette in the back.
Consider blow-drying a high-quality amplifying mousse product into the hair before curling, and utilize a pomade to assist in smoothing away any frizz during the brush-out process.
Ideal Choice for a Bridesmaid
A half-up style with curls is an ideal choice for a bridesmaid with long, thick hair. An updo stylist can create the shape you desire, with more or less volume or beachy waves versus glamour waves. Bring options for ornamental accents to discover what complements your look best. A hairstylist can conceal the pins within the curls for a flawless style.
Elegant Double Ladder Braid Design
The double ladder braid offers a distinctive and charming way to enhance the beauty of any hairstyle. This braiding technique complements various hair textures and can effortlessly be incorporated into any look to create visual interest.
Elegant Low Ponytail for Long Hair
An elegant low ponytail would be perfect for a long hair upstyle. This style enhances volume and texture to your long locks. If your long hair features curls, a firm hold spray would be useful to keep them in place.
Stylish Combination Side Braid
This braided hairstyle is among my favorites! I incorporated a braid at the top and a loose fishtail braid into the remaining ends of the hair. The shorter pieces on the crown were left out to create volume and add extra texture to the style. This type of hairstyle is perfect for weddings and other formal occasions.
For this look, I would inform the client that texture is essential. It can be created by prepping the hair with a volumizer (Redken Guts 10 is my favorite) and blow-drying it into the hair. Use a curling iron with a heat-protecting product (I used Redken Iron Shape 11) to create movement. While braiding, I like to use a flexible hairspray (Pureology Strengthening Control is my go-to) to help pull apart the braid and keep it looking and feeling soft.
Stunning Mermaid Braid
Various types of lovely mermaid braids complement long wedding hairstyles beautifully. You can style them with volume like in the example, or opt for a sleek and tight look depending on your preference for the event. Use a firm-hold hairspray to set these braids in place. For extra volume, apply a texture spray before you start braiding.
Elegant Crown Style
These frosty blonde waves styled with simple yet delightful loose braids look even more enchanting. You’ll undoubtedly feel like royalty and worthy of a place on the throne!
Distinctively Styled Ponytail
If you’re a bride-to-be with long locks, a distinctively styled ponytail could be your perfect wedding hairstyle. This chic look involves pulling the hair into a braided, twisted, or accessorized ponytail. This adds dimension and texture. It’s ideal for those who want a more relaxed and effortless look. To achieve this style, consider adding hair extensions for length and volume. Use a strong-holding hair spray to keep your hair in place all day and night!
Elegant Side Ponytail
Hair is curled, twisted, and pinned into a low-side ponytail with pin curls resting on top. Keep the curls in your ponytail maintained with serum. I love Moroccan Oil. Extra long hair is best for this style. Curling hair makes it shrink, so the extra length will keep hair looking long even after it’s curled and put into a ponytail.
The gentle curls in this style will soften a square jawline. Avoid this look if you have a round face. It will only add more volume to the sides. Backcomb underneath the hair that will go into the ponytail to enhance body.
Flowing Curls
Distinct from a typical side-swept updo, this hairstyle features some curls pinned up while others cascade gracefully down the shoulder, allowing you to showcase your length. This look is ideal for brides with medium to thick hair, enhancing fullness throughout. It complements any face shape, but if you possess a long or square face, consider leaving some bangs or curls framing your features.
When opting for a curly bridal hairstyle like this one, ensuring a frizz-free finish is crucial. My go-to solution for controlling frizz is Enjoy Creamy Pomade. For this look, having longer and thicker hair is advantageous. If your hair type isn’t quite right, try clip-in extensions for your special day.
Beautifully Unkempt Braid Adorned with Blooms
A beautifully unkempt braid adorned with blooms is the ideal updo for a sophisticated occasion. If you usually wear your hair down and feel uneasy about fully pulling it back, this is a wonderful compromise. Your hair will resemble a half-up style, yet it will sit low. The style is designed to last all night, so be ready to remove plenty of pins at the end of the evening, but it’s certainly worth it for this lovely look!
Elegant Loose Bridal Updo
This hairstyle features an elegant loose bridal updo. This bride preferred the versatility to style her hair to either side or behind her back. To achieve this look, you’ll need long hair. Clip-in extensions can be used if you don’t have long locks. This style is most flattering for those with medium to coarse hair textures. It complements all types of dress styles.
Elegant Twist
Choose a classic, chic, romantic, and timeless hairstyle. What I adore about this look is that it is so adaptable that it will harmoniously fit with any wedding theme!
When styling your hair half down for your special day, take into account your hair texture, its curling ability, and the expected weather conditions!
It’s crucial to select a style in which you will feel entirely at ease! If you typically wear it down or feel uneasy with your hair up, this will be the ideal look for you!
Twisted Waterfall Style
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
The twisted waterfall style adds a little something extra to an all-down look. Each side is twisted towards the center at the back and secured with hair. Enhance your curls with added movement and texture using spray wax. I recommend the Play Dirty spray wax.
This style works best for those with long layers and thick hair. If your hair is fine, the twist may be less pronounced. It suits any face shape, softening and flattering everything from square to heart to round. Secure your twisted waterfall with a clear elastic, then conceal the elastic with a section of hair.
Classic Retro Waves
These are classic waves for long hair. What I adore about this style is the volume and bounce it instantly imparts to the hair! It radiates that authentic Hollywood glamour feel.
I suggest using a strong hold hair spray, dry wax spray, and a shine spray is essential! I exclusively use Eufora products.
I recommend this style for any client with medium to thick hair. Long hair wedding styles are versatile and suitable for a variety of events.
Effortless Braids Adorned with Pearls
Explore effortless braids adorned with pearls for a look that blends sophistication with a bohemian flair. The pearls bring an added element of grace to this uncomplicated yet stunning style. Consult your stylist about the possibility of integrating clip-in extensions for enhanced volume and length, especially for fine and shorter hair.
Elegant Braided Bridal Updo
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
A timeless updo gets a refreshed twist with a braid elegantly arching across the back. The longer and thicker the hair, the more striking the look! Braids don’t appear as prominently with fine hair. Updos for long hair at the back are a traditional selection for brides as they enhance nearly every face shape. When styling this look, create the braid at the end. If done first, it may get lost in the overall style, while leaving it for last will guarantee that the braid is highlighted.
Chic Low Updo Enhanced with Accessories
One of the finest options for your wedding style is a chic low updo enhanced with accessories. You can tackle all weather conditions and prevent your hair from getting messed up while enjoying a lively night of dancing. To provide your stylist with a vision for your ultimate look, consider having some accessories like your veil or a decorative hair comb on hand.
Gorgeous Braided Long Hair Adorned with Flowers
If you’re a bride with long locks, you might desire a hairstyle that endures throughout your wedding day. This exquisite long braided style with flowers is perfect for alleviating hair weight while ensuring a polished appearance for your special day!
Elegant Twisted Back Waves
This enchanting bridal style features the latest braid trend while maintaining a classic half-up silhouette, ensuring it remains timeless.
This charming look suits someone who desires to wear a veil for the ceremony and photos but wants to easily remove it for the reception and dancing while keeping the style intact.
Since cascading length is the true highlight, consider adding extensions for optimal volume and impact.
Elegant Extra Long Blonde Hairdo
After you’ve selected the perfect dress, it’s time to think about your hairstyle for the special day. If you prefer to wear your hair down but haven’t quite decided yet, consider enhancing your look with a halo set of extensions. They can elevate your long blonde hairdo beautifully. Be sure to check with your bridal stylist to see if they’re experienced with extensions. If they are, bring them for your hair trial.
Twisted Waterfall Braids
This wedding hairstyle for long hair, the twisted waterfall braid, offers a unique take on a classic down style. It is ideal for those who appreciate braids yet feel most confident with their hair flowing freely. This look is appropriate for a variety of events, not just weddings.
This variation with straight hair is the perfect option for individuals who prefer not to wear curly or wavy styles. I suggest this look to anyone who enjoys a chic aesthetic but also desires an element of playfulness without being overly formal.
If your hair isn’t straight naturally, be sure to apply heat protection and blow dry or straighten it beforehand. For those with dry, frizzy hair, it’s essential to use smoothing milk or serum, especially on the ends, before applying heat. I personally enjoy using Spray Sparkler by Osis for a glossy finish. Skip this step if you have fine hair lacking in volume.
Elegant Low Side Half Up Half Down
If you want to showcase your long hair at a special occasion, consider this sophisticated hairstyle: half up and half down on the lower side. The phrase ‘half up, half down’ describes a hairstyle where some hair is styled up, while the rest cascades down for added length. If you have medium-length hair, opt for extensions that complement your natural hue. Attach these extensions on the day of your event.
Gentle & Bohemian
This style embodies a gentle and bohemian vibe. I kept the structure at a minimum to give it more of an effortless appearance. My favorite aspect of this look is its versatility. It could easily be elevated for a bridesmaid event or toned down for a festival aesthetic.
This look is suitable for all hair types, but I suggest it for those who desire their hair to appear styled yet not overly polished. Product use is minimal and requires little upkeep to maintain its charm throughout the day. The more piecey and relaxed it becomes, the better!
Braid-Wrapped Twist Hairstyle
This hairstyle is uncomplicated yet still sophisticated, sleek, and stunning. Braiding is one of my greatest passions, and I adore that it enables styles to be distinctive and creative. For instance, the bun in this look isn’t merely an ordinary bun. It’s intricately braided and twisted, and I find that fascinating!
I suggest this hairstyle for wedding occasions to someone sporting a one-shoulder dress or wishing to keep some of their hair off their face. It will be a fantastic choice for someone who prefers a more understated style, while still being a striking and original look.
Elegant Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braided hairstyles like this appear even more stunning when you incorporate delicate flower earrings.
Stunning Creamy Blonde Bohemian Look
A stunning creamy blonde bohemian look is the ideal wedding hairstyle. One of the best ways to create a boho look is by adding an elegant yet simple braid to your hair. Creamy blonde hair highlights braids beautifully by accentuating different tones and depth in your hair. Remember to keep the braid loose when doing a boho braid and organic style.
Stunning Curls for Long Locks
Stunning curls for long locks create a fabulous look perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a special event or you want to wear your hair with extra flair, these curls will enhance the beauty and length of your hair. To achieve these curls, prepare your hair with a heat-protectant spray. This will help to shield it from potential damage. Divide your hair into sections for easier styling. Wrap each section around the barrel using a curling iron or a wand with a medium-sized barrel. Start from the mid-lengths and work towards the ends. Hold the hair briefly before releasing it to create defined and bouncy curls. Use a texture spray or hair spray to finish.
Chic Long Champagne Blonde Hairstyle with Highlights
This long champagne blonde hairstyle with highlights is a beautiful choice for women. It’s perfect for those aiming to enhance their look for a wedding. The soft waves and subtle hints of highlight color help to create a refined yet striking effect. This style works best for those with shoulder-length to long hair. It can be achieved with a curling iron and texturizing spray. Consider which styling products will work best. Speak with your hairstylist for tips and tricks to keep your style in place all day!
Bohemian Half Up Half Down Hairstyle
Embrace a romantic yet free-spirited half up half down hairstyle. This is an ideal look for any bride desiring to keep her hair down and flowing while incorporating some beautiful detailing in the back. The standout feature of this style is the twist and oversized braid at the back. Loosening the braid adds significant movement and texture to the hair that will be eye-catching in both life and photographs.
This hairstyle will be an excellent choice if you’re having an outdoor wedding! Long hairstyles for wedding occasions are perfect for those who prefer a more carefree, relaxed appearance rather than something tightly secured and formal. It looks fantastic on longer, highlighted hair, showcasing the intricacies of the braid and twist elements.
Elegant Updo
This style embodies sophistication. Hair is gently swept away from your face and secured at the center of the back of your head in a sleek yet relaxed manner. When opting for a polished wedding hairstyle for long hair, incorporate some shine to ensure it appears refined. My go-to shine spray is Unite Eurotherapy Shina-Mist. Healthy, lustrous hair is essential for this bridal look.
As this style is entirely away from your face, it is most flattering on an oval face. If your face is longer, add additional volume to the sides. If it is round, create extra height at the top. Even though all the action is happening at the back of your head, pay attention to the front. Be sure to craft a flattering silhouette in the front and introduce some waves on the sides for added visual interest.
Golden Goddess Down Do
Whether you’re searching for a wedding, prom, or a girls’ night out hairstyle, consider this “down do”! You can never go wrong with a timeless beach wave look. The most effective way to achieve this style is by using a 1-1.5” wand or curling iron, ensuring to work with medium-sized sections. Once your hair has cooled down, gently brush through the waves with a flat brush. This technique will create a softer appearance. To prevent the curls from falling flat, apply a sea salt or texture spray for grip and hold. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray for a style that will endure all night.
Delicate & Charming
This style is delicate, charming, and modern. My favorite aspect of this wedding hairstyle is its versatility, making it suitable for all events, ages, and hair types.
My suggestion to a client considering this look would be to schedule a blow-dry and set beforehand to ensure the curls endure throughout the day.
The ideal product for this style is texture spray for added volume. My top pick is Wella’s EIMI Dry Me. I also recommend a smoothing serum to refine the braid and curls. The finest one I have discovered is Osmo Blinding Shine Definer.
Elegant Half Up Half Down Style
An intricate elegant half-up half-down hairstyle is a fantastic option to elevate your usual look. You can showcase your locks while maintaining a polished appearance and managing your pinned hair.
Opulent Bridal Hairstyle
This is an opulent bridal hairstyle. It is the most sought-after updo from my brides. I recommend having long, thick hair with extensions, lots of bobby pins, a hair bun for the volume, and a curling iron to achieve this look. As a hairstylist, I advise bringing out every detail before pinning each curl and lightly using my favorite hairspray from Loreal. This makes the hairstyle shine and showcases a lot of detail. I recommend this for brides who adore that opulent look. This look is perfect for the average wedding guest with long hair.
Elegant Soft Curly Updo
This style appears intricate and sophisticated, but you might be surprised by how simple it really is! Gently curl your hair and gather it into a loose braid, and you’re good to go.
Charming Side Ponytail
The large curls appear airy (light and fluffy) and complement a romantic, playful bridal style that may reveal an attractive back neckline. I appreciate that it has a smooth finish, allowing the bride to adorn her hair like a piece of jewelry.
Consider bridal hairstyles for long hair. If the client has particularly fine hair or a shorter length but is still captivated by this option, it can be beautifully enhanced with clip extensions. This hairstyle is perfect for strapless (off-shoulder) dresses or designs with a specially crafted back that should remain visible.
Polished Faux Hawk
This hairstyle features a polished faux hawk. My favorite aspect of it is the height and radiant shine.
I used Oribe Super Shine cream for the blowout for this wedding hairstyle. After straightening, I added height by backcombing the top section before securing it with bobby pins. For a finishing touch, I used Oribe Shine Spray.
I suggest this style for someone who wishes to keep their hair away from their face while still enjoying a refined, elegant appearance. It is an excellent choice for fine hair and oval faces.
Contemporary Half Up Ponytail
A contemporary half-up ponytail will always remain fashionable! Half up, half down bridal looks are the most sought-after style. The pulled-back sections enhance the soft waves and curled pieces that frame the face.
Elegant Twisted Chignon
Photo by Julie Parker Photography
This chignon begins with a twist braid at the front, elegantly twisting across the back of the head and culminates in a low side chignon on the opposite side. Creating a twist braid on tangled hair can be quite challenging! Apply Unite 7 Seconds Leave-in Conditioner to simplify the process before blow drying. This style is most effective on hair with minimal layers. Excessive layers can interrupt the smoothness of the braid.
This style is particularly flattering for round or oval face shapes. If your face is round, add volume on top to create the illusion of length. Give your hair some lift by backcombing it first and gently holding the strands in your hands as you braid.
Classic Vintage Wedding Updo
This hairstyle is a classic vintage-inspired bob updo. I braided the bottom part first so the rest could be rolled and secured onto the braid. Styling-wise, I curled her hair with a 1.5″ iron, spraying and setting as I went—all curls in the same direction. I created a slight finger wave on both sides and started pinning from the bottom up. This look would be stunning on a bride who cherished the flapper era or if you were heading to a themed party where you needed to stand out. I like to think that iconic hair looks never go out of style.
Classic Updo
A low, sleek bun in the back is adorned with vintage pin curls on each side. Use a hard-hold hairspray such as TIGI Hard Head Hard Hold Hairspray when styling your hair. Medium to fine hair with at least medium-length layers works best for this style. This look is ideal for those with an oval face shape. Hair pulled back like this can be too severe for a square-shaped face or a face with more angular features.
This is just the start when it comes to bridal hairstyles for long hair. Whether you showcase your length or incorporate it into a lovely, full updo, these imaginative and charming wedding hairstyles for long hair concepts have inspired and guided you in the right direction.
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