The top wedding hairstyles for long hair create an elegant accessory for brides and maids of honor on their special day. You might wear your hair in a variety of ways – sleek and straight, dramatic with waves, styled “up” and effortless, Hollywood glam and classic, and so forth.
Chicago-based stylist Angelica Mirela Tanta kindly agreed to meet with me to discuss this hair concept. Take a look at what she has to say about it.
Key Things to Know First
- A consultation is crucial to determine your hair’s quality and the ideal style you can wear on the big day.
- The greatest benefit of having a beautiful appearance is that it can enhance 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 explain how to maintain the style throughout the event.
Browse this photo gallery and uncover stunning wedding hairstyles for long hair. You should prepare well for the big day!
#1: Bohemian Half Up Half Down Style
Embrace a romantic and bohemian half up half down hairstyle. This enchanting look is ideal for any bride wishing to have her hair down and flowing while showcasing beautiful details in the back. The highlight of this style is the twist and prominent braid at the back. Loosening the braid adds wonderful movement and texture to the hair that will be eye-catching both in person and in photographs.
This style will be an excellent choice if you’re having an outdoor wedding! Long hairstyles for wedding occasions are perfect for anyone who prefers a more effortless, relaxed appearance compared to a tightly styled look. It shines on longer, highlighted hair, allowing the braid and twist details to truly stand out.
#2: Elegant Twist
Choose a classic, elegant, romantic, and timeless hairstyle. What I adore about this look is its versatility, making it a great match for any wedding theme!
When wearing your hair half down for your wedding, take into account your hair texture, how well it holds a curl, and the expected weather on your big day!
It’s vital to select a style that makes you feel entirely at ease! If you typically wear your hair down or feel uneasy with it up, this will be the ideal look for you!
#3: Relaxed Bridal Updo
This is a relaxed bridal updo. This bride wanted to have the option of wearing her hair to either side or tucked behind her back. To achieve this style, you’ll need long hair. You might consider using clip-in extensions if your hair is not long enough. This style is particularly flattering for those with medium to coarse hair. It complements any dress style beautifully.
#4: Classic Vintage Bridal Elegance
This look resembles the 1940s-inspired Old Hollywood Glamour vintage brushed-out waves style. The best aspect of it is its sophistication and shine. It creates a timeless silhouette with a softer finish than the traditional wave set. It’s an incredibly wearable style that flatters various face shapes and adds a touch of refined elegance to your appearance.
When planning their next cutting service, I recommend someone choosing wedding hairstyles for long hair like this to aim for a one-length cut. Layers tend to stick out and disrupt the uniformity of the waves. Alternatively, an even better cutting option would be to choose a traditional horseshoe shape perimeter. This style allows for improved brush-outs and gives a consistent vintage finish to any curl set by framing the cut around the face where the hair is shortest and allowing the classic curved pageboy teardrop shape around the back.
Consider blow-drying a high-quality amplifying mousse product into the hair before curling, and use a pomade to help eliminate any frizz during the brush out.
#5: Stunning Mermaid Braid
Various styles of beautiful mermaid braids are perfect for long wedding hairstyles. You can opt for a voluminous look like the example, or create a sleek and tight finish depending on your taste for the event. Utilize a firm-hold hairspray to achieve these braids. For extra volume, use a texture spray before you start braiding.
#6: Beautiful Messy Braid Adorned with Flowers
A beautiful messy braid adorned with flowers is the ideal up style for an elegant occasion. If you usually prefer wearing your hair down and aren’t entirely comfortable with your hair all the way up and pulled back, this serves as a lovely compromise. Your hair will resemble a half-up style, while still sitting low. The style will last throughout the event, so be ready to remove a lot of pins at the end of the night, but it’s truly worth it for this gorgeous look!
#7: Stylish Side Braid Combination
This braided look is a personal favorite! I blended a braid at the top with a loose fishtail braid trailing down the remaining hair. The shorter strands on the crown were intentionally left out to enhance volume and add extra texture to the overall appearance. This hairstyle is ideal for weddings and various formal occasions.
For achieving this style, I would advise the client that texture plays a crucial role. It can be achieved by preparing the hair with a volumizer (Redken Guts 10 is my top choice) and blow-drying it in. A curling iron paired with a heat-protecting spray (I prefer Redken Iron Shape 11) can help add movement. While braiding, I tend to use a flexible hairspray (Pureology Strengthening Control is my favorite) to gently separate the braid and ensure it remains looking luscious and soft.
#8: Elegant Loose Braids Adorned with Pearls
Discover loose braids embellished with pearls for a look that exudes elegance with a hint of boho flair. The pearls bring an additional element of sophistication to this effortlessly stunning style. Consult with your stylist about incorporating clip-in extensions for added volume and length, particularly beneficial for fine and short hair.
#9: Waterfall Braids with a Twist: A Unique Take
This delightful hairstyle for long hair, the waterfall braid, offers a creative spin on a classic down style. It’s ideal for those who adore braids yet prefer their hair hanging loose. This look works well for a variety of events, not just weddings.
This rendition with straight hair is the perfect option for individuals who don’t feel comfortable with curly or wavy styles. I suggest this hairstyle to anyone who wishes to maintain an elegant appearance while still looking playful and approachable.
If you don’t naturally have straight hair, make sure to apply heat protection and blow dry or straighten it beforehand. For those with dry, frizzy locks, be sure to use a smoothing milk or serum, particularly on the ends, before applying heat. I also enjoy using Spray Sparkler by Osis for a glossier finish. You can skip this step if you have fine hair lacking volume.
#10 Cascading Waves
Different from a typical side-swept updo, the majority of these curls are pinned up with some left cascading down the shoulder so you can still show off your length. This style works best on brides with medium to thick hair to enhance fullness from top to bottom. This style will complement any face shape. If you have a long or square face, keep some fringe or curls out around your face.
When it comes to a curly bridal hairstyle like this, the last thing you want is frizz. My favorite product for smoothing down frizz is Enjoy Creamy Pomade. For this style, the longer and thicker the hair, the better. If you weren’t born with the right hair type, get some clip-in extensions for your wedding day.
#11: Delicate & Charming
This look is delicate, charming, and contemporary. My favorite thing about this wedding hairstyle is that it’s versatile and can be used for all occasions, ages, and hair types.
My advice to a client who is considering this style would be to have a blow-dry and set beforehand to make sure the curls last all day.
The best product for this style is texture spray for the volume. My favorite is Wella’s EIMI Dry Me. I also recommend a smoothing serum to smooth the braid and curls. The best one I have found is Osmo Blinding Shine Definer.
#12 Elegant Retro Curls
These are elegant curls for longer hair. My favorite aspect of this style is the fabulous volume and bounce it instantly brings to the hair! It delivers that authentic Hollywood glam appearance.
I suggest using a strong hold hair spray, dry wax spray, and shine spray is essential! I rely on all Eufora products.
I endorse this look for any client with medium to thick hair. Long hair wedding styles are adaptable and can be showcased for various occasions.
#13: Half-Up Half-Down Style
An elegant half-up half-down hairstyle is a fantastic alternative to your usual look. You can display your locks while maintaining a chic appearance and managing your tied hair.
#14: Delicate & Bohemian
This style embodies a delicate and bohemian vibe. I maintained a simple structure to achieve a more effortless appearance. My favorite aspect of this look is its versatility; it can easily be styled for a bridesmaid event or toned down for a festival aesthetic.
This hairstyle suits any hair type, particularly for those who prefer their hair to appear styled yet understated. The use of products is minimal, and it requires little upkeep to maintain its look throughout the day. The more piecey and relaxed it becomes, the more appealing it looks!
#15: Elegant Twisted Waves
This is an enchanting bridal look. I love how it incorporates the latest braid trend while maintaining a classic half-up silhouette, ensuring it remains timeless.
This is a fantastic option for someone who wishes to wear a veil for the ceremony and photos but wants the flexibility to remove it for dinner and dancing, all while keeping the style intact.
Since cascading length is the true highlight, consider adding extensions for enhanced volume and effect.
#16: Stunning Creamy Blonde Bohemian Look
A stunning creamy blonde bohemian look is the ideal choice for wedding hair. One of the best ways to achieve a bohemian style is by incorporating an elegant yet simple braid into your hair. Creamy blonde tones beautifully highlight braids by showcasing different shades and depth in your locks. Remember to leave the braid loose to maintain that effortless boho aesthetic.
#17: Stylish Low Updo Enhanced with Accessories
One of the most beautiful options for your bridal look is a stylish low updo enhanced with accessories. You can face all weather and avoid messing up your hair while enjoying a fun night of dancing. To give your stylist a plan for your final look, try to have some accessories like your veil or a hair comb nearby.
#18: Stunning Curls for Long Hair
Stunning curls for long hair create a breathtaking look suitable for various occasions. Whether it’s a formal event or you simply want to bring more elegance to your hairstyle, 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.
#19 Waterfall Braid
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
The waterfall braid adds a unique touch to an all-down style. Each side is twisted towards the middle in the back and secured together with hair. Enhance your curls with more movement and texture using spray wax. I recommend the Play Dirty spray wax.
This technique is ideal for those with long layers and thick hair. If your hair is fine, the twist may not stand out as much. This style is versatile for any face shape. It’s gentle enough to complement everything from square to heart to round. Secure your waterfall braid with a clear elastic, then conceal the elastic with a strand of hair.
#20: Chic Half Up Ponytail
A chic half-up ponytail will always remain fashionable! Half up, half down bridal hairstyles are the top choice. The pulled-back sections enhance the soft waves and curled pieces that beautifully frame the face.
#21: Half-Up Hairstyle
The hair is gently curled and pinned halfway up with barrel curls at the back, elegantly sweeping the sides away from the face.
To ensure your half-updo remains secure, backcomb it at the base first so the bobby pins have something to hold onto. Creating volume on the sides will enhance this hairstyle’s appearance from the front. Prior to blow-drying, apply Big Hair Root Pump Plus Mousse.
Hair that is medium to fine works best for this style. If your hair is too heavy, you may require assistance to keep your barrel curls secured. Sweeping the sides down and back in front of this will flatter square, oval, or heart-shaped faces.
#22: Long Blonde Hairstyle for Special Occasions
Once you have the dress, you can start planning your hairstyle for the occasion. If you are thinking about wearing it down but haven’t made a decision, consider adding a set of halo extensions. This option will enhance your long blonde hairstyle beautifully. Be sure to check with your bridal stylist if they are experienced in working with extensions. If they are, don’t forget to bring them along for your hair trial.
#23: 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 perfect 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 secure all day and night!
#24: Elegant Side Ponytail
Hair is styled with curls, twisted, and secured into a low-side ponytail featuring pin curls on top. Maintain the curls in your ponytail with a quality serum. I recommend Moroccan Oil. Extended hair length works best for this look. Curling creates some shrinkage, so having extra length will ensure your hair appears long even once curled and styled into a ponytail.
The gentle waves in this style will soften the appearance of a square jawline. It’s best to avoid this look if you have a round face as it may enhance volume at the sides. Tease the hair underneath that will be incorporated into the ponytail to create additional body.
#25: Classic Vintage Updo
A low, sleek bun in the back is adorned with vintage pin curls on each side. Use a high-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 look. This style is most flattering 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 pronounced features.
This is just the start regarding bridal hairstyles for long hair. Whether you flaunt your length or opt for a lovely, full updo, these innovative and charming wedding hairstyles for long hair ideas have inspired and guided you in the right direction.
#26 Elegant Braided Wedding Updo
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
A timeless updo receives a fresh twist with a braid extending across the top at the back. The longer and thicker the hair, the better! Braids don’t prominently feature with thin hair. Updos for long hair in the back are a traditional choice for brides because they enhance nearly every face shape. When creating this style, attach the braid as the final step. If you do it first, it can become obscured in the updo, whereas completing it last will ensure that the braid is highlighted.
#27: Elegant Low Side Half Up Half Down
If you’re looking to showcase your long hair at a special occasion, think about this lovely hairstyle: half up and half down on the lower side. The phrase ‘half up, half down’ denotes a hairstyle where some strands are pulled up, while the remaining hair cascades down for a beautiful effect. If you have naturally medium-length hair, consider using extensions that complement your hair color. You can attach these extensions on the day of your celebration.
#28: Graceful 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 accents of color help to create a delicate 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 ideally. Speak with your hairstylist for tips and tricks to keep your style in place throughout the day!
#29: Elegant Double Ladder Braid Technique
The double ladder braid presents a distinctive and charming method to enhance the beauty of any hairstyle. Braids serve as a versatile styling technique that suits all hair textures and can be incorporated into various hairstyles to add visual interest.
#30: Elegant Fishtail Braid with Volume
Fishtail braided hairstyles like this appear even more stunning when you incorporate delicate flower earrings.
#31 Elegant Bridal Hairstyle
This is an elegant bridal hairstyle. It is the most requested 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 suggest bringing out every detail before pinning each curl and lightly using my favorite hairspray from Loreal. This makes the hairstyle stand out and has a lot of detail. I recommend this for brides who adore that elegant style. This look is perfect for the average wedding guest with long hair.
#32: Elegant Low Ponytail for Longer Tresses
An elegant low ponytail would be ideal for a long hair upstyle. This look adds volume and texture to your lengthy locks. If your long hair features curls, a strong hold spray may be beneficial to keep them in place.
#33: Classic Wedding Updo
This hairstyle features a vintage-inspired bob updo. I braided the lower section first so the remainder 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 crafted a slight finger wave on both sides and began pinning from the bottom up. This look would be gorgeous on a bride who adored the flapper era or if you were attending a themed party where you wanted to make an impression. I like to believe that timeless hair looks never lose their charm.
#34: Elegant Soft Curly Updo
It appears intricate and sophisticated, but once you attempt it, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is! Gently curl your hair and gather it into a loose braid, and you’re good to go.
#35: Ideal for a Bridesmaid
A half-up style with curls is ideal for a bridesmaid with long, thick hair. An updo stylist can create the shape you want, with more or less volume or beachy waves versus glamour waves. Bring options for decorative accents to see what works best for your look. A hairstylist can hide the pins within the curls for a seamless style.
#36 Elegant Twisted Chignon
Photo by Julie Parker Photography
This chignon starts with a twist braid in the front, twisting across the back of the head and ending in a low side chignon on the opposite side. Doing a twist braid on tangled hair is nearly impossible! Apply Unite 7 Seconds Leave-in Conditioner to make your job easier before you blow dry. This style works best on hair with little to no layers. Too many layers will disrupt the flow of the braid.
This style works best on round or oval face shapes. If your face is round, give it enough volume on top to add length to your face shape. Give your hair some volume by backcombing it first and holding the hair gently in your hands as you braid.
#37: Incredible Infinity Braid
There are quite a few detailed techniques to twist and secure the hair. One of my personal favorites is the infinity braid. You can utilize this style to elegantly tie back your hair for wedding occasions or to enhance your look for a casual event. Certain factors make this design achievable. For instance, lighter hair can highlight the braid’s pattern. Additionally, having no layers helps the braid maintain its form. However, for styles like this, having sufficient length is essential to create a visually appealing design.
#38: Chic Faux Hawk
This style is a chic faux hawk. My favorite aspect 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 final touch, I used Oribe Shine Spray.
I suggest this style for anyone who wants to keep their hair away from their face while maintaining a refined, elegant appearance. It’s an excellent choice for fine hair and oval faces.
#39: Elegant Updo
This hairstyle exudes sophistication. Hair is gently swept away from your face and pinned at the center of the back of your head in a sleek yet relaxed shape. When opting for a polished wedding hairstyle for long hair, incorporate some shine to enhance its luster. My top choice for shine spray is Unite Eurotherapy Shina-Mist. Healthy, glossy hair is essential for this bridal look.
As this style is entirely drawn away from your face, it is most flattering on an oval face. If your face is elongated, introduce more volume to the sides. If it is round, increase volume on the top. Even though the focus is on the back of your head, don’t neglect the front. Ensure to craft a complementary shape in the front and incorporate some waves on the sides for added interest.
#40: Charming Side Ponytail
The large curls appear airy (light and fluffy) and complement a lovely, playful bridal aesthetic that can highlight a beautiful back neckline. I appreciate that it looks polished and the bride can adorn her hair as if it were a piece of jewelry.
Choose bridal hairstyles for long hair. If the client has overly fine hair or a shorter length, but she still adores this style, it can be seamlessly enhanced with clip extensions. The hairstyle is perfect for strapless (off-shoulder) gowns or dresses with uniquely designed backs that should remain visible.
#41: Beautifully Braided Long Hair Adorned with Flowers
If you’re a bride with long hair, you may seek a hairstyle that endures through your wedding day. This gorgeous long braided hairstyle with flowers is ideal for minimizing hair weight while keeping a polished appearance for your special occasion!
#42: Crowned Elegance
These frosty blonde waves enhanced with delicate yet delightful loose braids appear even more enchanting. You’ll undoubtedly be ready for royalty and deserving of a spot on the throne!
#43: Braid-Enhanced Twist
This hairstyle is effortlessly elegant, sleek, and stunning. Braiding is one of my greatest passions, and I appreciate how it facilitates unique and artistic styles. For example, the bun in this design is not just an ordinary bun. It’s intricately braided and twisted, which I adore!
I recommend this hairstyle for wedding occasions to someone wearing a one-shoulder dress or preferring some of their hair away from their face. It’s perfect for those who lean towards minimalism while still achieving a beautiful and distinctive look.
#44: Radiant Blonde Down Style
Whether you’re searching for a hairstyle for a wedding, prom, or a fun girl’s night out, consider this stylish “down do”! You can’t go wrong with timeless beach waves. The best way to achieve this look is by using a 1-1.5” wand or curling iron, taking medium-sized sections. Once your hair has cooled, gently brush through the waves with a flat brush. This technique creates a softer appearance. To help maintain the curls without them falling flat, apply a sea salt or texture spray for added grip. Complete your style with a strong-hold hairspray for enduring results throughout the evening.
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