Wedding Hair: The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Hairstyles & Accessories
Your wedding hair is the cherry on top of a well-thought-out look. Bridal hairstyles vary as much as the outfit and, just like choosing the perfect wedding dress, you need to find the perfect style for your hair type and texture.
Whether you’re going for something timeless and romantic, boho cool, or contemporary chic, we’ve pulled together a load of bridal hair ideas to help you find your big-day look.
Read on to learn about all the different wedding hair styles for long, short, and medium-length hair, as well as how to choose and book the right wedding hairstylist for you.
We’ve even done an edit of our favourite bridal hair accessories to help you complete the look. Hairspray at the ready…
Half Up, Half Down & Updo Wedding Hairstyles
Looks that make you feel beautiful, confident and comfortable
- Classic half-up half-down. Still one of the most popular bridal hairstyles, worn by the Princess of Wales on her wedding day. Half up half down wedding hair gives structure and sweeps any heaviness away from the face, but maintains a softness overall.
- Low bridal bun. A sleek chignon or bridal bun are a canonical wedding hair choice for a reason: they never date.
- Modern high updo. A contemporary take on a classic, a bun or twist sits high on the head so you can see the hair from the front, with loose curled tendrils escaping from the structure. A popular hair up style for a wedding thanks to Kim Kardashian’s revival of the ‘Pammy bun’ (a nod to Pamela Anderson’s signature hairdo in the 1990s) and in reference to the ‘Austen-inspired bridal trends brought on by Bridgerton.
- Textured updo with face-framing tendrils. Softer than a sleek bun and like the modern updo, this classy and elegant wedding hair updo works well for outdoor or boho weddings.
- Ponytail. You can’t go wrong with a ponytail on your wedding day but the most popular take on this bridal hairstyle is a low, elegant pony wrapped in strands of their own hair. High ponies look great for the after-party.
Whether you’re having your wedding hair done professionally, going DIY, or even making a quick-change post-ceremony, we’ve got even more ideas in our guide to the best half-up half-down wedding hairstyles.
Down Hairstyles for Your Wedding Day
For the nearlywed who wants to let their hair down – quite literally…
- Hollywood waves. A beautiful and timeless choice for anyone looking for their red-carpet moment. Hollywood waves are structured, glossy, and polished.
- Loose, natural curls. An easy, versatile hairstyle for those who want to feel most like ‘themselves’ – think loose, long waves achieved with a curling tong and brushed out.
- Pinned front pieces. Popularised by Kim Kardashian during her 2014 wedding to Kanye West, this wedding hair look has since spawned 1000s of tutorial videos on TikTok. It’s a simple but effective way to wear long hair: with a big blow-out that’s neatened up by ‘ear tucked’ face framing pieces that are in fact pinned down to ensure they stay in place.
- Hair down with a veil. A classic option; make sure you discuss this with your stylist ahead of the day so they can ensure the veil is positioned correctly.
Remember, in the absence of pins and a set-it-and-forget-it style, wearing your hair down on your wedding day will likely involve a bit more maintenance – you’ll need to use the right products and techniques to ensure it’s still looking fresh when you hit the dance floor later on.
Chat to your hairstylist about what you can do to prevent frizz and maintain hold, and consider the option of structural support from extensions or similar to give thin or fine hair a boost.
Bridal Bun Styles
From classic to statement-making, bridal hair and buns go hand in hand
- Low bun. A classic and versatile choice, that works well with a veil. Also, one of our favourite wedding guest hairstyles.
- Messy bun. Effortless and easy-going, intentional loose tendrils give a relaxed, chill-bride vibe that works perfectly for outdoor and boho-inspired celebrations.
- High bun. The perfect style for keeping hair off your face and neck, making it a great choice for warmer weather or those who want a polished, no-fuss style that lasts all day.
Wedding Hairstyles by Hair Length & Type
Inspired wedding hair ideas for modern newlyweds, whatever your hair length or type
Wedding hairstyles for long hair
Stunning styles for those who have maximum hair real-estate to play with – from tousled waves to dramatic updos
- Long waves. Whether loose or Hollywood-inspired, the key to perfect wedding waves is a balance of definition and softness. After styling, gently brush through them with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to keep them looking effortless. Those with hair that doesn’t typically hold a wave should use the pin curl method (and plenty of hairspray) to set their style on the morning of the wedding. Or, as celebrity hairdresser Christopher Laird recommended to us: “For effortless waves, pin curl them before bed and sleep in a silk bonnet to set them overnight.”
- Classic bun or chignon. A classic up-do could be a bun, a French twist or the increasingly popular high ‘Pammy’ bun. Whatever takes your fancy, the important thing is that it feels secure and comfortable. This is where your hairstylist’s skills will really shine – a good updo is all about the foundation it sits on. Make sure you book a hairstylist who is up to the task.
- Boho-style braids. A beautiful, slightly undone hairstyle that’s full of texture and personality. Keep it clean and sleek or dot with flowers or pearls for a hint of glam. To start, prep your hair with a texturising spray or dry shampoo to give it some grip and volume. Then, loosely braid your hair, gently pulling apart sections to make it look fuller. A boho braid can be created using your preferred braiding method, whether it’s Dutch, fishtail, or three-braid, the key to nailing the look is to keep it a little loose.
Wedding hairstyles for medium-length hair
Medium length hair is any hair length between the jawline and just past shoulder length. These styles are perfect for those with a little length to play with…
- Half-up half down. This wedding hair look is really not as simple as gathering the top section of your hair and securing it at the back – a good stylist will do the ‘twist, tuck and pull-through’ trick to conceal the hair band and create a beautiful, seamless look. If you have a fringe, your hair will fall naturally around your face, but if your hair is one length it’s all about how you part it.
- Supermodel blow-dry. Shoulder-length hair is the perfect hair length for a ’90s-inspired blowout à la Cindy Crawford – longer hair tends to drag down the volume. This look can modernise any kind of wedding gown but looks especially good with hourglass silhouettes, fishtail hems and anything with a bit of sex appeal. This wedding hair is also best achieved with a proper hair dryer and rollers – so put the straighteners down!
Wedding hairstyles for short hair
Embrace cropped locks with these easy-to-recreate wedding hair looks
- Perfectly polished. Whether your hair is ultra-short or a trendy bob, a sleek wedding hairstyle looks stunning. Think a smooth, glossy finish, deep side part, or even a chic wet-look style for something modern. A well-placed accessory – like a pearl clip, sparkly pin, or directional birdcage veil – can also add a little magic.
- Tousled bob. A hairstyle that has been popularised in recent years, this look has a soft but relaxed vibe, with twists and loose curls going in different directions around the hair. This short wedding hairstyle is perfect with a singular hair clip or flower on one side or wear it solo with a middle parting.
- Tucked behind the ears. Hello, cheekbones! You may need to use a clip or a little pomade to keep ultra-short hair in place, but, otherwise, this effortless style is all about simplicity. If you want to elevate the look, try a delicate barrette, a dainty ear cuff, or a floral hairpin tucked just behind one ear.
- Textured pixie crop. All you’ll need is some texturising spray, some matt clay or putty, and your fingers to work a little magic. Play around with individual pieces to give your hair a cool, effortless vibe. A little lift at the roots can add some drama, while a side-swept fringe or a few playful spikes keep things modern.
Wedding hairstyles for thin or fine hair
If your hair is especially thin or fine, look for styles that naturally add volume. Loose locks tend to work better than slicked-back updos that can make the hair look sparser.
- Backcombed half up half down. Think loose, beach-inspired waves with a backcombed crown to add some height.
- Loose waves. Pin-straight strands will flatten your hair, but soft waves will naturally make it look more voluminous.
- Bubble braid. Updos are completely possible on thin hair, you just might need some invisible volume aids to create the look you want. A good hairstylist will have root crimpers, back-combing tools, bolstering extensions and tonal mesh in her repertoire to add volume and structure. We love this voluminous twist on a classic ponytail which can be created using various hair elastics to add dimension.
Wedding Hairstyles for Curly Hair
Did you know, only 15-20% of people have naturally curly hair? Whether you have afro texture, tight ringlets or type 2B waves, your curls are special. And since it’s important you feel like yourself on your big day, you might not want to tame your signature curls into a cookie-cutter wedding hair style – so how do you differentiate your curly wedding hairstyle from your casual everyday look?
- Natural curls styled as-is. No fuss, no stress – let your natural hair speak for itself. You know what it takes to make your hair look best, so follow your usual haircare routine whatever that looks like. Whether it’s a hydrating oil, your favourite leave-in spray, or a volume-boosting mousse, stick with your tried and tested methods.
- Pinned back. Pinning back your face-framing layers can keep your curls out of your face while still letting them take centre stage. This adds a touch of structure without losing that natural feel. All you need to do is take two small sections of hair from the front, gently twist or braid them, and secure them at the back with a clip.
- Decorative hair combs or pins. Naturally curly hair is the perfect texture for holding a decorative comb in place, making it an effortless way to elevate your bridal hairstyle. Whether you’re going for a classic, vintage, or boho-inspired look, a beautifully placed comb can add instant elegance without taking away from your natural curls.
Wedding Hair Accessories
Some people build their wedding hair around their accessories, others pop them on as a finishing touch. Either way, your hairpiece needs to feel part of the whole look – outfit, hairdo, all of it – so it’s not something to sort at the eleventh hour.
Here are some of the wedding hair accessory types to consider when planning your wedding hair style:
Hair combs and pins
These can take centre stage if it’s something bold and statement or be subtly folded into the hair to create stability.
Large pins can take the form of sculptural gold-tone and silver metal pieces for a contemporary look, or ornate Edwardian-inspired filigree designs. Then, there are flower-adorned, crystal and pearl-embellished combs, like this one from John Lewis, that add a touch of sparkle.
Hair vines
Designed to be versatile enough for both half-up half-down hairstyles and sleek updos, this boho-leaning option is woven into the hair and looks effortlessly elegant. This delicate design from Debbie Carlisle comes in both antique gold and silver.
Tiaras
Those who take the term ‘princess for the day’ quite literally might opt to wear this regal accessory as part of their wedding look.
The tiara trend comes and goes in the bridal realm, but it’s back as a focal piece for 2026 – it was seen on the spring runways at Simone Rocha, at couture week in Paris courtesy of Schiaparelli, and even celebrities such as Teyana Taylor, Olivia Rodrigo, Lily Allen, and Suki Waterhouse have been spotted elevating their evening wear with this sparkly accessory.
Bridal headbands
Not only do bridal headbands look incredibly chic, but they’re a surprisingly versatile hair accessory that can be added to your everyday wardrobe post-wedding.
They’ll work just as well with a structured bridal power suit as they will a traditional gown, whether decked out in pearls, feathers or crystals.
Floral crowns
The flower crown can be fresh, faux, or dried like this one from Luna & Wild, and looks best with loose curls because it’s an inherently whimsical and bohemian piece, but can also work with messy low buns, plaits, and ponytails.
Fresh or silk flowers
If a flower crown isn’t for you, there are so many other ways to wear fresh or faux flowers in your hair – tuck gypsophila into your braids, pin a blooming peony behind your ear, or decorated a chic chignon with delicate rosebuds.
Pearl clips
The pearl clip is a category all on its own because it can take on myriad forms and translates from the traditional to the directional – bridal designer Simone Rocha has created a punky, more playful take on Edwardian daisy designs whereas Jennifer Behr has strung hers into a sizeable eighties-inspired bow.
Veils and veil-compatible pieces
If you go with a classic comb veil, you need to work out which length (fingertip, cathedral, or elbow) will suit which hairstyle, then you need to decide whether it will sit at the top of your head or be slotted into the folds of a half-up-half down do or into a bun.
If you’re going for a mantilla or Juliette veil – both big for 2026 – keep in mind your hair needs to be worn down for the cap to sit flush to the head.
How to Choose Your Wedding Hairstyle
There are multiple factors that will come into play when you’re choosing your wedding hair, and your starting point should be your dress (or outfit).
If you have a high-neck or off-the-shoulder dress, an updo will show this detailing off nicely. If you’re opting for a plunging neckline or backless detail, long flowing waves might soften the striking display of skin.
The detailing on your outfit matters too; romantic ruffles are bang on trend for 2026, but when paired with corkscrew curls, they might look a little fussy. Elsewhere a minimalist gown might deserve an equally as contemporary hairstyle, so make sure you consider the detailing before going to your hair trial.
Your hair length and texture will also dictate your look somewhat. Be guided by your everyday style so you still feel like yourself. Your wedding day is a great opportunity to create a fantasy look, but you don’t necessarily want to look like a different person altogether. If you have a bob, for example, opting for waist-length extensions may feel a little odd when you look back at your photos in years to come.
Similarly, we’re now blessed with many a tool and hot iron to change our hair texture, but again you don’t want to feel like a totally different person on your wedding day. So, while those with a 2B wave can pretty much opt for any hairstyle, those with a tight curl might prefer to enhance with accessories and clips rather than chemically relaxing their strands.
Finally, take into consideration where you’re getting married and your wedding aesthetic. If you’re getting married abroad in potentially humid climes, sleek waves won’t stay sleek for long, while the style of your day impacts whether your choice of hairstyle looks out of place; a barefoot woodland ceremony lends itself well to messy updos and fresh flower crowns, for example.
How to Find & Book Your Wedding Hair Stylist
Unless you’re particularly well-versed in styling your own hair (and even then, you may want to consider the added stress of doing that on your wedding day) or opting for something low-key, calling in a professional hairstylist for your wedding is always something we’d recommend.
Having a wedding hair trial is also something that can make a huge difference on the day: even though you might have seen reviews and photo evidence of your chosen stylist’s work, knowing that they understand what you want on the day, are able to cater to specific requests, or work with your specific hair texture will put you at ease.
- Book a hair trial. Ideally a few months before the wedding.
- Bring reference photos and any accessories you’re considering. Including the veil, so the stylist can see how the whole look works together.
- Wear makeup to the trial. A style can look very different against a bare face.
- Confirm timings for the morning of the wedding. Factor in the rest of the getting-ready schedule, too.
- Decide hair and makeup together or separately. Some hair stylists offer both; note that this will impact morning timings and your stylist may need to arrive extra early to accommodate everyone.
How to prepare for a bridal hair trial
- Take along inspiration photos and make sure they are congruent, so they don’t confuse the stylist.
- Give a very specific brief, and don’t leave the style too open-ended as once your stylist gets started, it may be hard to manipulate your hair all over again.
- Bring all the accessories you are considering, including the veil, to ensure the hair style works in tandem with these additions.
Here’s what to watch out for during your bridal hair trial
- Is your stylist competent and confident?
- Does your stylist take suggestions and constructive criticism?
- Does your stylist prep your hair sufficiently?
- Is your stylist friendly to you and your company? It is important that your bridal glam team bring a good vibe on the big day as you need to remain calm and positive.
Wedding Hair FAQ
How far in advance should I book a wedding hair trial?
Aim to book your wedding hair trial 2-3 months before the wedding – this will give you enough time to try out styles you love without feeling pushed for time.
The closer you get to the wedding, the busier you’re likely to be, so scheduling early ensures you’re happy and confident with the final look.
What’s the best wedding hairstyle if I’m wearing a veil?
Almost any wedding hairstyle works with a veil, including half up half down styles, low buns and chignons, French twists, and even loose waves. Remember, you’ll typically only wear a veil for the ceremony, so you’ll want to choose a hairstyle that looks equally great without it.
Choose the veil before you decide on your hairstyle, as the style, length and where it sits on your head will impact your final choice.
Should I wash my hair before my wedding hairstyle appointment?
The best thing to do is wash your hair the day or night before your wedding hair trial. The day-old texture can make it easier to style.
How can I stop my wedding hairstyle from falling out during the reception?
Wedding hair that lasts all day starts with good prep, which any good wedding hairstylist will be well-versed in. Wash your hair the night before your wedding (ultra-clean hair can sometimes be too soft for curls to hold), prep the hair with moisture-blocking treatments to prevent potential frizz and use hairspray to set the style.
Sometimes an emergency kit featuring extra pins or kirby grips, a travel-sized hairspray or texturising spray, and smoothing brush can help for quick touch-ups, too.
Can I do my own wedding hair instead of hiring a stylist?
Hiring a wedding hairstylist isn’t a necessity and you can, of course, do your own wedding hair. However, a stylist will have the right tools and products to ensure your wedding hair lasts all day and night, can advise on the best looks to wear with your dress and accessories, and save you the potential stress of doing it yourself on the day.
How much does wedding hair styling cost in the UK?
According to the Bridebook UK Wedding Report, produced by Bridebook, the UK’s #1 wedding planning platform used by over 2.8 million couples, the average UK spend on wedding hair is £417, inclusive of hair trials and pre-wedding treatments.
Depending on the kind of hairstyle you want, costs for wedding hair on the day itself can start from £120, but highly skilled and sought-after stylists can charge as much as £300 or more.
Ready to find your wedding hair stylist?
Browse hair and makeup artists near you on Bridebook’s supplier marketplace, where you can search by location, service type, and read real newlywed reviews.
Why Trust Bridebook
Bridebook is the world’s #1 wedding planning platform, used by over 2.8 million couples. Our content is informed by real data from the Bridebook UK Wedding Report, which draws on responses from thousands of couples planning their weddings each year. Where expert input is included, contributors are named and their credentials verified. We update our articles regularly to ensure prices, statistics, and advice reflect current market conditions.
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