17 Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair From Real Weddings

From braided updos to voluminous curls, these bridesmaid styles for long hair are sure to be bride-approved.
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by
Lauren Whalley
lauren whalley headshot
Lauren Whalley
Fashion Editor, Beauty & Inclusivity
  • Lauren writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, with a specialty in fashion, beauty and size inclusivity.
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Lauren worked in wedding editorial for Brides, Style Me Pretty and Enaura Bridal.
  • Lauren studied public relations and advertising at the University of Central Florida.
Updated Feb 20, 2023

Wedding hair trends come and go, but long bridesmaid hairstyles are here to stay. If you're a bridesmaid with longer tresses, you'll quickly see that there's a plethora of style inspiration out there to choose from. It can be overwhelming at first—but that's why we're here. We're sharing some of our favorite hairstyles for bridesmaids with long hair, from trendy tendrils and elegant updos to boho crowns and bouncy curls that you can save as inspo and show your stylist. If you're on a budget, we've included plenty of easy bridesmaid hairstyles to create a DIY 'do (even if you're not curling iron savvy).

Oh, and to make your decision easier, we tapped California-based wedding hairstylist and TikTok creator Jordan Hix, who's sharing her best expert tips for choosing a bride-approved look that will make you look and feel absolutely fab.

What To Consider When Choosing a Bridesmaid Hairstyle for Long Hair

Who Pays for Bridesmaid Hair and Makeup

If you're wondering who pays for bridesmaids' hair and makeup, know that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on the circumstances, such as how many bridesmaids are in the wedding party or what the budget looks like. This is where communication is key. Have open conversations with your maids to get everyone on the same page. "The majority of the time, the bridesmaids pay for their own hair and makeup services if they choose to receive any," says Hix. "If a bride ever requires their party to receive services, that is when the bride may offer to gift the services to their bridal party."

Hair Texture and Season

"Considering not only the season of the wedding but also how your hair responds during different times of year is super important," Hix says. "For example, a lot of hair textures are prone to static in the winter, and in the summer, some bridesmaids may struggle with humidity." To combat these potential issues, try using an anti-humidity or anti-frizz spray like the Kendra Professional Anti-Humidity Spray 5 or the COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray Anti-Frizz Treatment.

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Dress Style and Silhouette

Hix also notes that bridesmaids with long hair should consider the neckline of their dress when deciding on a hairstyle. "I do like to consider the dress neckline; however, at the end of the day, I always suggest that the bridesmaids choose a hairstyle that they feel most comfortable with," she says. If your neckline is higher or more detailed, consider wearing your hair in an updo to show it off. For more simple necklines, like a strapless sweetheart, let your long locks flow with soft curls or keep them sleek and straight. "Choosing a hairstyle that makes you feel good will ultimately enhance your confidence and allow you to feel beautiful as a bridesmaid."

Bridesmaid Down Wedding Hairstyles for Long Hair

1. Half-Up Braids With Flowers

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Having trouble deciding between wearing your hair up or down? Why not choose both? The half-up style keeps hair out of your face, while the down pieces keep your hair long and lengthy. Make this look your own with a fun braid, twist or some dainty floral accents.

2. Relaxed Waves With Pinned Bangs

Difficulty level: Easy

Sometimes less is more. Pin back your hair with two dainty hair pins for a look that's naturally gorgeous.

3. Boho Flower Crown With Curls

Difficulty level: Easy

Boho brides, take note. You can easily add free-spirited flair to your DIY curls by topping them off with a flower crown. No extra styling needed!

4. Loose Fishtail Braid

Difficulty level: Intermediate

This stunning fishtail braid gives off serious boho vibes. We love that this redheaded beauty left out a few wispy pieces in the front for an extra touch of romance.

5. Natural Curls

Difficulty level: Easy

A more minimalist approach to a long bridesmaid hairstyle is to let your loose curls do the work. A chic hair accessory is always a fab addition, but soft curls on their own are gorgeous enough.

6. Glam Side Swept Curls

Difficulty level: Intermediate

If Old Hollywood is more your vibe, consider side-swept curls. Pin back one side with an art deco-inspired hairpiece for added sparkle.

7. Half Up With Wispy Tendrils

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Get in on the modern hair trend with wispy tendrils to go along with your soft half-up curls. It's a style that is sure to look good on nearly any long-haired bridesmaid.

8. Straight, Casual Hair With Jewelry Piece

Difficulty level: Easy

Not a fan of floral hairpieces? Consider adding a bedazzled accessory (with the bride's blessing, of course) to your natural locks for an easy DIY bridesmaid hairstyle.

9. Voluminous Curls

Bridemaid wears her hair in bouncy, voluminous curls.
JUDY JAKUSZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Difficulty level: Intermediate

We've got two words for you: voluminous curls. Be sure to ask your stylist to tease the back of the hair toward the crown to achieve your ideal look.

Bridesmaid Updo Hairstyles for Long Hair

1. Curly Updo With Flower Crown

Model wears her hair in an elegant updo with a beautiful flower crown on her head.
LIZZIE RANDAZZO PHOTOGRAPHY

Difficulty level: Pro-level

There are a few reasons to love this updo: the crown adds some boho flair, the natural curls are still showing through and it will keep any bridesmaid cool on a summer wedding day. It's a win-win.

2. Swept Back Updo

Difficulty level: Intermediate

What's better than one updo? Two. While wearing similar updos, these bridesmaids made them their own with unique touches like braids and added volume. Unless otherwise stated, you and the rest of the wedding party don't have to be matchy-matchy.

3. Romantic Natural Updo

Difficulty level: Easy

This minimalist but breathtaking updo is perfectly imperfect in all the right ways. The strategically untucked pieces make for the ultimate romantic aesthetic.

4. Braided Updo

Bridesmaid wears her hair in a long pinned braid.
BASSOS WEDDINGS

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Summer bridesmaids with long hair: this one's for you. A braided updo will make you stand out while keeping you cool for outdoor ceremonies in hotter weather.

5. Elegant Updo

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Polished and refined, there is nothing quite like an elegant bun. It's a long hairstyle that will last you all day and through the night.

6. Boho Fishtail Ponytail

Difficulty level: Pro-Level

The fishtail braid pony was the combination we never knew we needed. It's a little bit modern, a little boho and a whole lot of perfection.

7. Matching Classy Chignons

Difficulty level: Intermediate

These bridesmaids opted for matching chignons that look so elegant and oh-so-classy in group photos. Plus, the style can be adjusted to accommodate multiple hair lengths.

8. Old Hollywood-Inspired Updo

Difficulty level: Intermediate

For an Art Deco-inspired wedding, ask your stylist to give your updo a Jazz Era upgrade with a sparkly diamond headpiece.

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