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Updated Jul 16, 202454 Gorgeous Bridesmaids Hairstyles for Every Wedding Vibe
Up or down, formal or casual, we've got you.
As a bridesmaid, your main goal is to stand by the bride and do whatever she needs. That said, you can still put some focus on looking great yourself. Finding the perfect bridesmaid hairstyle is a big part of that. In some cases, the bride might know exactly how she wants you to wear your hair, which makes things easier for you. But oftentimes, brides tell their bridesmaids to pick whatever style they want, leaving you open to an overwhelming amount of options.
While there are plenty of different bridesmaid hairstyles to choose from, you want to focus on what works for you. This means picking something that looks great but also feels comfortable. For example, if it's going to be very hot and humid, you may want to opt for an updo. If you're someone who feels awkward with their hair pin straight, make sure you choose something curly. Ensure the hairstyle fits the vibe of your dress and the wedding (a slicked-back bun may not be ideal for a bohemian dress) and use the below photos for inspiration. We've put together a list of more than 50 gorgeous bridesmaid hairstyles to choose from.
Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair
When you have long hair, that means you have lots of options. You can easily do a purposefully messy updo, something more sleek and put together, long curls or waves, or a half-up style. Just be sure to keep the weather in mind: long hair can feel suffocating on really hot days, so you may want to put it up if you're in a wedding in the summer.
A Loose Updo
Pile your long hair up on top of your head with this mussed-up, loose updo. This is the kind of casual messy bun that we all strive for, made possible with plenty of hairspray and bobby pins. The result is something elegant that also doesn't feel like it's trying too hard.
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A Braided Low Bun
If you have long, thick hair, then a low braided bun is the perfect versatile hairstyle. This one features a French braid on one side leading into a loosely braided bun. Leave some curled tendrils out around the face and leave the bun low and relaxed for a look that works with so many different types of dresses.
A Low Ponytail
Photo: @sarahwhair / Instagram
If you want your hair off of your face but still want to feel it down your back, do a low ponytail. This one is made to look more dressed up with the loose waves, some added volume at the roots, and face-framing pieces left out in front. Wrap some hair around the hair tie as well to make it look even more formal.
A High-Volume Ponytail
A low ponytail can feel more low-key, while a higher ponytail can offer more energy and glam. This one started with textured hair and loose waves so that it doesn't feel too slicked back. A lot of volume at the base creates that bouncy look and elevates the whole ponytail.
Hollywood Waves
Go for old-school Hollywood glamour with carefully created uniform waves. This looks beautiful with long locks and creates that vintage feel. Add some volume at the roots and, if you'd like, you can keep your hair off of your face with a bejeweled headband or hair clip.
A Barbie Ponytail
If you're in a vintage-inspired wedding, then it makes sense to rock a vintage-inspired hairstyle. This ponytail is reminiscent of the old-school Barbie doll (you know, the one in the striped black and white bathing suit) and is so cute for a bridesmaid. Lots of volume and a little flip at the ends make it stand out.
A Bejeweled Low Ponytail
Make a low ponytail even more elegant and exciting by adding tiny jewels throughout. This one features a wrap-around feel near the hair tie that keeps it looser and low-key, with tiny jewels near the roots for some added bling. Leave your hair textured or wavy.
Down and Wavy
Want to keep things low-maintenance? Go for something simple: brushed-out curls make gorgeous waves, and with your long locks, you can just leave them as is. This hairstyle features a middle part and some glam waves that will look great at almost any type of wedding.
Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Medium Hair
Medium-length hair is versatile and allows for almost any kind of hairstyle, whether you want to opt for up or down. It's a great length for half-up hairstyles, but it also works for updos.
A Sleek Twist
Think of this as a sort of mix between a braid and a twist. It sounds odd, but comes together for a cool and unique updo. With no face-framing pieces or much texture, this one is more sleek and elegant, and it's great for a formal wedding.
A Modern Beehive
This high updo looks like the more modern version of a vintage beehive style, with a little bit of texture and plenty of volume. Leave out a section of hair in the front on one side for added glam.
A Low Side Ponytail
A low ponytail looks great with medium-length hair since the placement means you get to keep the length. With brushed-out curls, it's a glamorous and low-maintenance look that will keep you comfortable all night.
Twisted Back
Half-up styles are perfect for medium-length hair, and this one is no exception. Curl your hair, then grab two sections and twist them back, leaving a few tendrils out in front. This is a simple and versatile look you can wear to almost any wedding.
Glamorous Waves
If you want to keep your hair down, you can keep things simple with big, bouncy waves. A side part and some teasing will create just enough volume, and the waves look super glamorous and formal. This is a beautiful look, especially if you're wearing a strapless dress.
Sleek Curls
Those who want glamorous, soft curls but also don't want to be dealing with their hair in their face all night will love this look. Make a center part, then slick back the front sections of your hair and clip them behind your ears. Leave the rest of your hair wavy with some volume on top. This is a look that seems inspired by Kim Kardashian's wedding hair, and it's great for a bridesmaid.
Waves and Volume
A slightly different take on this style is to try a little less volume and a more brushed-out wave rather than a soft curl. It's just a bit more easygoing but still has that Old Hollywood feel to it that will make you look glam.
Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Short Hair
Shorter hair can be a little tricky when it comes to different hairstyles – depending on the length of your hair, you may have to skip an updo altogether and keep things simple. That said, there are still plenty of beautiful options. You can also always opt for a sparkly, pretty hair accessory to add some drama.
Short and Spiky
For super short locks that are almost more like a buzzcut, your best option is to add some volume. Flip the top pieces up for a spiky look that is equal parts daring and glamorous, and still looks put together enough for a wedding.
Beach Waves
Photo: @maythehairipist / Instagram
Textured beach waves look extra cool and trendy on a bob or lob. Use a curling iron to create barrel curls in your hair, then run through them with your fingers to create more low-key waves. This looks effortlessly beautiful.
Sleek and Straight
Another great option for a bob is to keep your locks pin straight. Smoothing cream and some shine spray will make this look so sophisticated and sleek. If you're feeling up for it, go for a slightly asymmetrical cut for even more interesting detail.
Embellished Braids
Hair: @wildrose_hairartistry / Instagram
,Photo: Liv Vincent Photography / @livvencentphotography
If you're in a wedding that takes place on the beach, in a garden, or just has a more bohemian feel to it, this is the perfect hairstyle. Pull half of your hair back into a thick braid or a fishtail braid, then add one or two tiny other braids for added texture. Embellishing the style with a metal headpiece only makes it look more special.
Pulled Back Flowers
A great option for a daytime wedding, spring wedding, or garden wedding is to add flowers to your hair. It works especially well with this twisted half-up style. Adding a few small flowers into the back can make the look pop.
Side Part and Waves
Soft waves are always a hit: they're simple yet elegant, and versatile enough to work with almost any style of dress. You can add a slight side part so that there's more volume on one side, and be sure to use plenty of hairspray so it stays in place.
Multiple Hair Clips
Hair accessories are an excellent way to add sparkle to your hair and elevate your look even if it's very basic. This looks great with curly short hair but would work for any texture. Slick back the front section on one side, then add four glittery hair clips around your ear for some instant drama.
Bubble French Braid
Want to stand out? Choose a unique updo like this bubble French braid, which looks more formal than a regular bubble ponytail and is more fun than a basic French braid. It adds volume and looks so cool from the back.
Bridesmaid Braid Hairstyles
Braids are a great option for bridesmaids because they're so versatile. Doing a sleek, tight braid can look more formal and feel more low-maintenance. A loose, slightly messy braid can give off more of a casual, bohemian vibe that still works with a formal gown.
Shoelace-Inspired
This unique updo is a great option for a more casual wedding – it's more playful than super formal. Three French braids down the back of your hair end in pigtails, and you can add colorful ribbon in between the braids for a look that no one will forget.
A Rapunzel Braid
Give off all of the Disney princess vibes with this braid that looks like it was worn by Rapunzel. It seems like a combination of twists, a French braid, and a fishtail braid, and the result is plenty of texture and volume and a really interesting look. This is ideal for long, thicker hair.
A Voluminous Fishtail
Another great option for long, thick hair is this mussed-up fishtail braid. This is loose, full of volume, and creates tons of texture. It's a beautiful way to keep your hair up and off of your face, but still has a relaxed, boho vibe to it.
Full Double Fishtail Braids
If you're a bridesmaid in a more casual wedding, this pigtail look can be playful and fun. This one is ideal for long, thick hair since the braids are supposed to be very full and on the bigger side. This keeps your hair off your face and neck, and it won't budge no matter the weather.
Sparkling Braid Crown
This braided updo is a stunning option that is equal parts practical and glamorous. A thick braid is wrapped completely around your head and pulled out a lot for tons of volume. If you're feeling daring, you can use glittery powder throughout for plenty of sparkle.
Short French Braid Pigtails
This hairstyle is proof that you don't need long locks to do a braided updo. A long bob or medium-length cut works great with these adorable tiny pigtails. Do a French braid on either side, then pull on it so it looks bigger. You can add fun accessories in the braid if you want more detail.
A Curly Braid
There's no reason to mess with your curly hair, even if you want a braid or the night of the wedding. Instead, use all of that texture to your advantage with a loose, wide braid that hangs over one shoulder.
Braided Space Buns
Who knew space buns could make such a beautiful bridesmaid hairstyle? Doing French braids into low, mussed-up little buns is the perfect way to make this whimsical look more formal. Add in some feminine floral clips for a beautiful touch.
Bridesmaid Updo Hairstyles
Updos are a go-to for bridesmaids, and for good reason. You have a very busy day ahead of you, whether that means fetching things for the bride, running around taking photos, or dancing your butt off. You need a hairstyle that will hold up for hours on end, no matter the weather, and that's often found in a cute updo. Whether you want something sleek and slicked back or more boho-inspired, there are tons of choices.
Multiple Mini Buns
Instead of sticking with a classic bridesmaid updo, go for something more unique and fun. That perfectly describes this hairstyle, which puts hair into cute mini buns down the center of the head, almost like a feminine faux-mohawk. Adding in cute flower clips adds some pretty detail.
A Loose Bun
It's hard to go wrong with a traditional low, loose bun like this one. Add some volume at the crown, then pull your hair back into a purposefully messy bun, leaving some tendrils out around the bun and by your face. This is meant to look messy and just effortlessly elegant.
Braided Low Bun
Thick French braids pulled back into a low bun is such a beautifully textured look. This is a great way to keep your hair off your back and face while still looking more low-key and maintaining that boho vibe. You can leave it as is or add some pretty clips.
Mid-French Twist
If sophisticated and timeless is the vibe you're going for, then a French twist is the way to achieve that. While you can go for a more tightly slicked-back look, you can also opt for something a little more loose and "messy." This one has lots of volume at the crown and sits lower on the back of the head, which makes it appear a little less prim.
A Simple High Bun
Think of this as an elevated version of the messy high bun you pile your hair into on relaxing days. The bun sits high at the crown of the head, but not exactly on top of the head, and is pulled a bit for added texture. Leave volume around the bun, and add some face-framing tendrils for a low-key but gorgeous look.
Milkmaid Braid
A milkmaid braid is such a beautiful boho option for a bridesmaid, and it's surprisingly versatile. It can be used in both formal and more casual weddings. Add some hair clips for extra detail, or leave it as is – it's striking on its own.
A Voluminous Low Bun
A sleek low bun can have a very different look than a messy low bun. This one is slicked back for a more elegant vibe, with a side part and some volume. The bun in the back is made to look large and almost twisted thanks to the clever use of bobby pins.
A Spikey Bun
Trendsetters will love this Gen Z-inspired hairstyle. Slick your hair back into a very tight-knotted bun at the middle of your head, and then add some drama by leaving the ends out. If you need to, you can use gel to make them stick out instead of flopping over. This is cool, a little edgy, and fun.
Bubble Ponytail
While not exactly the perfect hairstyle for a formal wedding, a bubble ponytail can be a fun choice for something more casual. It works especially great with long hair. Slick your hair back into a ponytail, then use a few different hair ties, and then pull on each section to create a bubble look. It's funky and different.
Wavy Low Ponytail
One way to immediately elevate your ponytail is to add some texture to the hair. In this case, creating soft waves in your hair before the ponytail is the way to go. Pull your waves back into a low ponytail, wrapping some pieces around the hair tie to disguise it. This is a simple, low-key look that is still elegant.
A Tucked In Twist
A low-twist updo is so chic and classic, especially when you add an understated hair accessory. This look features hair that has been twisted back, then tucked into a sort of low bun situation. You can add a unique hair accessory or headband to step it up.
A Curly Low Updo
With tight curls this beautiful, you really don't need to do much to look great for the big day! A low, loose bun that helps maintain your hair texture is the perfect choice. Add a pretty clip if you feel like it needs something extra.
Curly Bridesmaid Hairstyles
Curly hair is so beautiful on its own that you don't have to do a lot to it to make it look wedding-ready. Whether you want a convenient updo or a more casual look, there are a few different ways you can show off your locks.
Braided Curly Updo
Leaving out some face-framing tendrils, pull your hair back with tiny braids into a bun that doesn't sit too low. With a lot of curls, you won't really need to do much besides maybe add a hair accessory and some volume.
Free Curls
Why put a lot of effort into a hairstyle if you don't really need to? Make your curls look as shiny and bouncy as possible, then just leave them. The result is a low-key style that will go with almost any style of dress and wedding.
Curly Bangs
With curls like this, a simple ponytail can end up looking gorgeous. This hairstyle features a high ponytail with curly bangs. It's easy, pretty, and can be dressed up with a hair accessory if needed.
A Curly Updo
Instead of trying to smooth out your hair for an updo, you should just use your natural texture to your advantage. This updo has tons of texture and volume with just some curls and bobby pins, leaving you with an effortlessly elegant look.
Half-Up Bridesmaid Hairstyles
Half-up/half-down hairstyles are another bridesmaid go-to. There are so many ways to make this look your own: you can go for something more slick and chic, or you can keep your hair loose and flowy.
Half Braid Crown
If you don't want to commit to a full braid crown or full milkmaid braids, opt for a half crown. Leave the rest of your hair long in loose waves for a boho-inspired hairstyle.
A Half-Up/Ponytail Combo
This look is described as a mix of a half-up hairstyle and a ponytail, which is interesting and unique. The twisted pieces make it look like a messy low ponytail, but it's a half-up hairstyle with lots of texture and some volume.
Waterfall Braid
A half-up look is the best way to show off a cool waterfall braid. Keep the rest of your hair in loose curls, and leave some face-framing tendrils out. This is a beautiful way to keep your hair down around your shoulders.
Half Pony
Elevate their everyday look by slicking back your hair and leaving the rest looking as shiny as possible. Pull half of your hair back into a high half-ponytail, wrapping a piece around the hair tie, then curl the rest of your hair so it's bouncy and big.
Straight Half Ponytail
For a look that is a bit more casual, keep your hair straight and sleek when you do a half ponytail. This one features a high ponytail with a lot of volume at the base. You can add a hair accessory if you want, but it looks great as is too.
Half French Bubble Braid
A half-French bubble braid is still fun, but it's a little less bold than a full one. This one features two little bubbles ending in a ponytail, and it's a great way to stand out in the bridal party without feeling over-the-top.
Curly Half Ponytail
If you don't want to just leave your hair once you've curled it, put it in a half-up ponytail. This keeps it out of your face but is still really easy to achieve. This is low-key and beautiful, and you'll want to wear it outside the wedding too.
