Bridesmaid hairstyles are elegant trends if you’re in someone’s bridal party. Whether you have long or short tresses, there’s always one perfect look you can pull off!
A high bun updo or loose waves down-do? Is it textured or sleek? You won’t go wrong with any of these!
Chicago-based licensed hairstylist Kim Maychszak says to wear the most comfortable look. You can even go for a half-do if you like. She guarantees that it’s the kind of style that’s perfect if you are between wanting an updo and a full-down look.
Consider the event’s theme as you plan which hairstyle you should wear. Will the motif be glam, retro, whimsical, or boho? Will your look complement the dresses of the other bridesmaids?
Maychszak also emphasizes that proper prepping is a big factor in getting your desired look. She notes, “I prefer clean hair within 24 hours of having your hair styled and 100% dry.” Creating wedding hairstyles for bridesmaids is just the first step to celebrating a memorable day.
Before the big day, check out these pictures of the trendiest and most stunning bridesmaid hairstyles.
#1: Fishtail Braid Half-Up with Tousled Waves
There’s a looseness to this braid that makes it feel more like a weekend in the countryside than a formal event, and I think that’s exactly what’s appealing about it. The fishtail has been pulled wide so it reads as a chunky, textured piece running down the center, and the waves on either side are relaxed and slightly undone. The caramel highlights woven through the dark brown base show up beautifully in the braid’s openings, giving it this layered depth that a single-tone hair color wouldn’t quite achieve. This would be a lovely choice for a garden or vineyard wedding where the dress code leans natural.
#2 Half-Up Bun with Cascading Curls
There’s something so naturally pretty about this one, the kind of style that doesn’t announce itself but photographs beautifully from every angle. The bun sits high enough to feel intentional but it’s loosely wrapped, not tight or fussy, and those honey-toned highlights running through the curls give the whole thing warmth. What I notice most is the way the face-framing pieces have been left out with real thought, not too many, just enough to keep it from feeling severe. If you have medium to thick hair with some length, this could be done without extensions, and it would hold up well through an outdoor ceremony.
#3 Low Bubble Ponytail with Polished Waves
Sometimes the quietest style in the group is the one you can’t stop looking at. This low ponytail sits at the nape with the elastic wrapped and hidden, and the hair falls in these perfectly placed waves that look like they belong in a perfume ad. What I appreciate about this as a bridesmaid option is that it’s genuinely comfortable, nothing pulling at the temples, no pins digging in, and yet it reads as completely polished. The subtle dimension in this blonde, slightly warmer at the ends, slightly ashier near the roots, gives the waves real definition without any visible highlights. It’s the kind of style you’d still feel like yourself in, which is maybe the most important thing.
#4 Romantic Half-Down Curls on Dark Hair
On hair this dark, the curls create dimension entirely through shape rather than color, and it’s gorgeous. The twisted section at the crown has been gently crossed over itself to create a soft gathered effect, and then everything below just falls in these full, springy ringlets. This is the kind of style that looks especially beautiful with a backless or low-back dress because it gives you length and movement without obscuring the neckline. A light mist of flexible hold hairspray would be essential here because you want the curls to bounce, not freeze.
#5 Sculpted French Twist with Soft Tendrils
I keep coming back to this one because the architecture of it is really beautiful. It has the bones of a French twist but it’s been reimagined with more volume and texture at the crown, and the way the sections overlap gives it almost a woven quality without being a braid. The dark blonde root fading into lighter ends makes the movement in the twist more visible, which is a detail a lot of people wouldn’t think about but absolutely matters. Those two tendrils framing the face are perfectly imperfect, the kind of thing that reads as effortless in photos even though someone placed them very deliberately.
#6 Sleek High Ponytail with Old Hollywood Waves
This is the kind of ponytail that makes you rethink whether ponytails belong at weddings, because the answer with this one is obviously yes. The base is smoothed back with no flyaways, which takes more skill than it looks like, and the waves falling from it are deeply set, almost sculpted, with that classic S-pattern that catches light in the most flattering way. You’d want a good smoothing brush and a generous amount of shine serum for that kind of glass-like finish at the roots. This is the style for the bridesmaid who wants to feel polished without sitting in a chair for two hours.
#7 Textured Upswept Bun with Warm Strawberry Tones
That color, this warm strawberry-copper blonde, does so much of the work here. The updo itself is made up of twisted sections that have been pinned into a full, rounded shape at the back of the head, and each twist catches the light a little differently because of those tonal variations in the hair. A single face-framing wave has been left out on one side, which keeps it from looking too buttoned up. I’d imagine this took a fair number of bobby pins and a patient hand, but the result feels organic rather than constructed, which is the whole point.
#8 Waterfall Braid Crown with Auburn Curls
I have a soft spot for red hair at weddings because it photographs like nothing else, and this deep auburn with those copper-lit ends is no exception. The waterfall braid wraps across the back of the head in a way that’s both structured and romantic, letting pieces of hair drop through at intervals to blend into the curls below. It’s the kind of style that makes people ask “how did they do that?” even though the technique itself is fairly straightforward once you understand the crossing pattern. The curls have been set with a wider barrel, giving them that rounder, more vintage shape rather than tight spirals.
#9: Wavy Honey Blonde Balayage with Elegant Layers
This stunning balayage features soft, wavy layers that cascade down to mid-length, making it a perfect choice for those with a heart or oval face shape. The model’s fine to medium hair density allows for light, bouncy waves, enhancing the depth of the balayage. A unique twist is the blending of lighter tones at the ends with darker roots, creating a natural sun-kissed effect. Styling may involve a curling wand for added definition, but the low-maintenance color means fewer touch-ups. Enjoy effortless elegance with this captivating look!
#10 Elegant Voluminous Updo with Face-Framing Pieces
This stunning voluminous updo is perfect for special occasions. The model’s medium-length hair is expertly styled to create height and drama, ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces. The face-framing pieces soften the look, adding elegance. This hairstyle works beautifully for medium to thick hair textures, providing a chic silhouette while keeping hair secure. To achieve this style, use a volumizing mousse and finish with a strong-hold hairspray for lasting support without weight.
#11: Voluminous Ponytail with Soft Waves
Elegant and timeless, this voluminous ponytail with soft waves is a go-to for bridesmaids who want glam without going over the top. The lifted crown adds height—especially flattering for round or square face shapes—while the wrapped base hides the elastic for a clean finish. Great for long, thick hair, this style holds its shape beautifully but may feel heavy for fine hair or shorter lengths. The face-framing pieces soften the look and photograph beautifully.
#12: Half Up Half Down with a Gorgeous Barrette
Brides usually spend time finding the perfect hairstyle for their wedding. The bride has chosen a beautiful hairstyle where half of her hair is up, and the other half is down. The skilled stylist has pinned her hair back smartly. This enhances the curls as well as the color arrangement.
#13: Silver Hair Glitter on a Low Pony
Bridesmaids seeking to add glamour to their look should consider a low pony hairstyle with gorgeous silver hair glitter. The sleek and elegant low ponytail can be beautifully complemented with soft, shimmery silver glitter. To achieve this hairstyle, start by creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and securing it with an elastic band. Curl the ponytail with a curling iron and then gently brush out the curls. Sprinkle some silver hair glitter along the ponytail, particularly on the top layer, to create an eye-catching effect. Brush through the ponytail gently for even glitter distribution and a seamless blend.
#14 Textured Low Updo with Soft Tendrils
Romantic and effortlessly polished, this textured low updo is perfect for bridesmaids who want something soft but structured. The pinned twists in the back give it body without looking too formal, and those delicate face-framing tendrils really help soften stronger jawlines or high foreheads. It works beautifully on medium to thick hair and holds well all day with the right prep. The pearled pins add just the right touch of bridal elegance without competing with the overall style. It’s ideal for weddings where the dress code leans classic but still relaxed.
#15: Long Textured Curls
Long textured curls are a gorgeous bridesmaid hairstyle that will fit any dress you wear. Paired with a flowered tiara, people will turn their heads as you walk down the aisle! It’s one of the best bridesmaid hairstyles you must go for.
#16: Softly Braided Updo
A softly braided updo is a beautiful style option for your next special occasion. The soft, romantic feel lends this style an effortless elegance. Medium to long hair suits this braided style best because a loose braid won’t hold in shorter hair. Adding volume at the crown balances the style and makes your hair look fuller. After securing the style with hairspray, enhance its beauty by adding hair jewelry.
#17: Elsa-Inspired Side Braid for Long Hair
Winter weddings do need some more magic! With this Elsa-inspired side braid for long hair, you have the perfect enchanting option.
#18: Gorgeous Ponytail for Dark Copper Hair
This ponytail would be a great option, especially on a dark copper hair color if you want to wear your hair up! This ponytail could be worn to a formal event or just as an everyday look. To keep this look all day, use a firm-hold hairspray.
#19: Hollywood Waves for Long Ombre Hair
For bridesmaids with long hair, Hollywood waves will give them the perfect glam look. This hairstyle is about creating soft waves and adding that touch of luxury. You can style this look at home with the right technique and tools. The best thing about Hollywood Waves is that they complement all face shapes and hair types. Use a texturizing spray for added body and hold. Ask about which products will work best if you aren’t sure.
#20: Bohemian-Inspired Dark Long Braided Hairdo
A dark long Bohemian-inspired half updo braid is a style to consider. Ask for a secure boho braid with some twists for an effortless style that will last all day. I suggest finding fun hair accessories to dress up your style if you have a formal event. These bridesmaids’ hair styles pair well with a dress with an open back or hanging off the shoulders.
Related: Best half updos for formal events.
#21: Romantic and Dreamy Boho Hair
Try a messy pinned braid if you’re looking for an effortlessly looking down ‘do. I recommend starting with a loose braid at the nape of your neck to get the perfect look. From there, you can use bobby pins to secure freshly picked flower blooms into the braid. Let the rest of your hair flow down your back in effortless waves. To keep your hair looking lovely and fresh all day, use a light-hold hairspray to maintain its shape. You can add a few faux flowers to the look for an extra touch of romance.
#22: Cranberry Red Bohemian Half Up Style
Have a wedding event to go to this year? This cranberry red bohemian half-up style will give you tons of dimension to show off your red hair. Ask for tighter curls during your consultation for the best results. Ensure your style lasts all day and finish with a firm-hold hairspray.
#23: Elegant Twisted Braid Down ‘Do
When wanting a feminine down ‘do, ask for airy and softness, nothing stiff or structured. Always follow your stylist’s request on how to prep your hair before your appointment. This can make a huge difference to the outcome. Be sure to try hair accessories before the big day. They can change the feel of a look.
#24: Vintage-Inspired Hairstyle
Are you headed to a classy event this season? If so, check out this vintage-inspired hairstyle. The best way to ask for this style is to bring a collection of inspirational photos that you are looking to get. Work with your stylist to create a custom placement suitable for you.
#25: Easy and Messy Down Do
When you start piecing your inspiration for your big day, the first thing to consider is the dress. An easy and messy down ‘do is the best way to lift the hair off the neck and shoulders, ideal for open dresses. It’s also great for outdoor weddings where elements may affect the overall look.
#26: Stunning High Ponytail with Extra Long Bangs
A stunning high ponytail with extra long bangs is a nod to the early 2000s. We’re seeing these styles and shapes more and more as a resurgence of the new millennium pops up. If you’re looking for lots of volume with this style, add a claw clip to the back for extra height. You’ll need to add a deep part and use a shine spray to give it that sleek finish.
#27: Light Brown Updo with an Accessory
Whether you’re the bridesmaid or the bride, all you need to enhance this light brown updo is a dazzling accessory. Wear your hair with an elegant barrette right where you want the most attention to draw everyone’s eyes to your special wedding look. You must keep your bridesmaid hairstyles down if you have curly locks to show off the texture.
#28: Romantic Style for Long Hair
Long hair styled into a beautiful boho look is great for a bride going for a traditional romantic style. To get this look, consider hair extensions if you don’t have naturally long hair because it’s necessary to have long hair to create a braided, twisted masterpiece. Pin your bridesmaid hair up if you want to feel sexier and bolder.
#29: Stunning Blonde Tendrils
Modern stunning blonde tendrils are a perfect way to add softness to your updo. Leaving hair out around your face is one of the most beautiful ways to soften your bridesmaids updo. Wear your hair in an updo if you are wearing a high neckline or a detailed dress.
#30: Gorgeous Copper Boho Hair
Prepare for your big day with gorgeous copper hair and boho flower child braids. Bohemian looks never go out of style, so lean into messy twists and braids that are guaranteed to add dimension to your copper locks. Remember to use a working hairspray. It’s helpful if you want to keep your bridesmaid hair down and look fresh all day long.
#31: Waterfall Braid with Curls and Waves
Opt for a waterfall braid with curls and waves for bridesmaids with shorter hair. The half-up waterfall braid works so well on shorter lengths which can sometimes be trickier to up style. The braid falls perfectly into the waves in the hair and looks instantly wedding-ready.
#32: Amazing Tousled Side Braid
The tousled side braid is a great look for those with thick long hair for easy styling. Thick long hair can be a little more difficult to up style, so wearing braided hairstyles in a tousled fashion show off their luscious locks and allows the look to stay all day. A top tip is not to braid too tightly and then loosen the braid when fastened by gently pulling at the edges.
#33: Florals in a Fishtail Braid
Florals in a fishtail braid can add uniqueness and give any braid a boho feel. The floral bridesmaid hairstyle can be added to twists and braids using the flowers from your arrangements to keep a running theme. They are also a perfect addition to softer, looser looks. Pull out a few hairs around the ears and hairline to get the perfect finish.
#34: Classic Side-Swept Curls
Try side-swept curls hairstyles for a bridesmaid to give an updo extra life by swinging your hair over the shoulder. Hairstyles for a bridesmaid don’t all have to be identical, and those with longer lengths can sweep their loose tendrils to avoid bulky updo styles.
#35: French Braids for Bridesmaids
Go for French braids for bridesmaids for a classic elegant feel to your hair which suits the majority of lengths below the shoulder. French braids keep a soft feel to the bridesmaid’s hair and are easy to recreate on the big day. Play around with the look of the braid, whether worn on the side or at the back of the head, in keeping with the dress for your perfect bridesmaid style.
#36: Casual Loose Curls for Black Hair
Try loose curls to add definition and volume to your shiny jet-black locks. This loosely waved, full-volume hairstyle enhances your dark base’s shape, giving an overall luxe finish.
#37: Easy Shoulder-Length Side-Swept Hair
The shoulder-length side-swept hair is stunning and lifts volume around the face. The deep part swept over creates extra height and entices a lifting and slimming effect on the face. Whether your tresses are wavy or straight, this would look great on all hair types.
#38: Boho Crown Braid with Accessory
A crown braid with an accessory can be your go-to wedding hairstyle when achieving full-on boho vibes. The loosely braided hair works best on longer hair lengths, which aren’t heavily layered for a seamless result. Add cute fresh flowers or glitz with a diamanté clip to finish the boho style.
#39: Stylish Loose Curls For Thin Hair
Opt for loose curls for thin hair to get a volumizing effect on your tresses. Curling creates more volume and bounce, making the thinnest hair look fuller.
#40: The Gatsby Look for Bridesmaids
Bring a modern twist to the Gatsby look. Pair it with loose waves on medium-length hair. The perfect way to curl the bridesmaid’s hair is by waving it all in the same direction and brushing your hair so it sits in the signature glamour of Hollywood waves.
#41: Easy and Low-Maintenance Side Ponytail Hairstyle
An easy side ponytail with a messy texture gives extra detail to long-length tresses. The style is low-maintenance, too. It starts by twisting two separate sections together and then allowing the long hair to stay in place all day. Easy-breezy!
See more wedding hairstyles for long hair.
#42: Chic Top Knot for Black Woman
A top knot for a black woman is a fierce look. The slick silhouette focuses on the face and gives a long-lasting hold. Be playful with finishing the top knot by adding twists, braids, or wrapping colored string around the bun to create a volumized shape. This could be one of the best maid of honor hairstyles to date!
#43: Cute Crown Braids
Cute crown braids are so beautiful at any length. The bridesmaids hair flows through the back and looks best in a loose wave, letting you show off your dress with gorgeous detailing.
#44: African-American Romantic Updo
Try an African-American romantic updo for full-on glamour for the big day. Stunning height and perfected waves contour the face in all the right places. Remember that bridesmaids’ hairstyles for black hair look better with a sleek and shiny look, so use a shine spray or oil.
#45: Playful Side Bun Wedding Hairstyle
Be playful with a low and loose style like this gorgeous side bun. It’s perfectly fitting for side partings. The side bun transitions from the side parting to allow a softening feel to the face. Such maid-of-honor hairstyles are perfect for women who like the security of their hair around their faces.
#46: Sleek and Straight
Why not try sleek and straight hairstyles for bridesmaids to show off a mirror shine on your locks? Using ceramic straighteners will keep your hair slick and sharp. For the perfect simple bridesmaid hair, try applying Aveda’s brilliant emollient finishing gloss to keep flyaways at bay and attract more shine.
#47: Gorgeous Mid-Length Soft Waves
Mid-length soft waves are a stunning idea if wanting easy bridesmaid hairstyles. The mid-length sits grazing the chest with beautifully loose waves that work with any bridesmaid dress. These hair styles for bridesmaids are suitable for any hair type.
#48: Short and Textured Waves
Short and textured waves create a classic yet modern style for any formal event, such as a wedding. This bob was created using precision and point cutting for the perimeter and vertical layering. The deep point cutting technique was used for the layers, too. For styling, choose Davines Volume Building Mousse or Volu Spray to add volume to any bridal hair styles.
See more wedding hairstyles for short hair.
#49: Curly Updo with Headpiece
A curly updo with a headpiece is for women with a naturally curly texture. It would look effortless and stunning on tousled curls. I diffused the hair for optimal volume. Using a bun creates an excellent base for pinning the hair and preventing it from falling out during the day. Finish off such bridesmaid hair styles by pinning a hair accessory for a more festive touch.
#50: Elegant Twisted Updo
A twisted updo makes a more relaxed and romantic hairstyle. It’s one of the great hair styles for weddings and ladies with any hair type and length. To achieve the look, start by creating the volume and height. I finished the look by sectioning the hair into two. I wrapped it by twisting, pinning, and pulling it out to create this elegant low bun.
#51: Long and Simple Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle
The long, simple half-up, half-down hairstyle gives your look a fun, contemporary twist. These bridesmaids hairstyles for long hair are also very suitable for wedding guests. I used a 26mm curling iron to put a loose, stretched-out curl through the lengths of the hair. I combed through the hair to break up the curls, which gave them an undone, tousled look. The twisted baby bun adds greatly to such lovely wedding bridesmaid hairstyles.
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