15 Stunning Bridesmaid Hairstyle Ideas for Your Future Wedding (2024)

Gone are the days of telling your friends to all wear their hair the same way.

By Janell M. Hickman-Kirby
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As your wedding date approaches, your list of to-do's is getting shorter and shorter. You’ve picked out your dress, coordinated your makeup trial, tested out a few up- (or maybe down-) dos, booked your nail appointment—the list goes on. But now, let's think about your bridesmaids. Yes, you’ve helped them pick dresses (and ideally let them choose their own from a wide range of colors, styles, and prints), but no matter the size of your party, your friends will appreciate a little guidance on great hair ideas.

And, it seems, gone are the days of telling your friends to all wear their hair the same way. "Wedding hair has come a long way," explains owner of Beauty Can and stylist, Laura Rugetti. "In the past, everyone would do the same up-do, but now, brides are wanting hair that is more on trend whether that be bohemian hair vibes or old Hollywood glam. There’s so much more to choose from." In short: Gone are the days of stuffy, identical styles; the mood is all about individuality—and embracing what each unique woman brings to the table. "I think now more than ever, it is important that we portray our sense of self, not only through the causes that we support, and the issues that we fight for, but in how we present ourselves to the world," Rugetti continues. "So,, I encourage brides to choose a look that can be personalized to each individual so that everyone feels comfortable in their own skin."

To help, we've curated 15 flattering, celeb-inspired bridesmaid hair ideas perfect for every length, texture, and hair type.

1

Tiered Chignon

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What would a wedding be without a classic chignon? Add some character with multiple layers and freeform loops to make it look more 2020 than...1920.

Get the Look: Think beyond bobby pins (which are still a must-have) and reach for a light-hold spray—like KÉRASTASELaque Couture Medium Hold Hair Spray—for a secure style from brunch until last-call.

2

Sleek Middle Part

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Sometimes, opting for something simple is sexiest. Take the drama out of your bridesmaids looks and return to the classic, sleek middle part. Our tip? Secure the hair behind the ears for an effortless feel that works double duty to show off earrings, and elongate your neck.

Get the Look: A smoothing serum, like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, will keep frizz and flyaways at bay from midday portraits to the after-party.

3

Feed-In Braids

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These feed-in braids are super sleek, elegant, and a great bet for a style that will stay put in more humid climates.

Get the Look: Miss Jessie’s Hold Me Down Super Edge Control Hair Gel holds down baby hairs and perfects artfully-designed edges.

4

Short Wavy Bob

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Simple and statement making—a short, soft, wavy bob feels gamine, romantic, and edgy all at once. For even more ease, pair this look with an off-center part.

Get the Look: Create airy waves with a lightweight texture spray, like Joico Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher made with a blend of beeswax and coconut oil for a hydrating hold.

5

Structural Top Knot

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If you’re feeling nostalgic, this structural '90s top knot is the moves—especially for those sporting sleek slip dresses. This look feels edgy yet sleek, will outlast the dance floor, and brings back tendrils in a fresh way to frame the face.

Get the Look: Make sure your style stays put with a few spritzes of strong-hold, flake-free spray—like Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray.

6

Curly Bun

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Embrace the texture of natural waves and curls with a simple-yet-dramatic bun rather than insisting on a smoothed-out chignon.

Get the Look: Enhance texture with a moisturizing and defining curl cream or gel. We’re obsessed with Adwoa Beauty Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel.

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7

Braided Halo Updo

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A regal updo (like this braided halo version) keeps the focus front and center on the face, and opens up the neckline. Those with shorter hair can hack the style by using extensions for length.

Get the Look: Adding a little dry shampoo, like R+Co Death Valley Dry Shampoo, to your style helps keep the look stationery and provides a little grip for finer hair textures.

8

Loc'ed High Pony

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Locs are super versatile and can be easily twisted into a bun or pulled into an elegant ponytail. Round off the look by wrapping a few locs at the base of the pony for extra oomph.

Get the Look: Keep locs in pristine condition with OOLI LOC’D & LOADED Loc Gel. It can help maintain signature styles in between twisting sessions, without annoying flakes.

9

The Soft Bob

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Waves don’t have to be uber-defined to be romantic or wedding-worthy. We love this look that feels unfussy yet wedding-worthy. Add a chic accessory, like a barrette or a fresh flower, for hint of whimsy.

Get the Look: Add some texture with salt spray for movement, like Amika’s bushwick no-salt wave spray that won’t dry out hair.

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10

Ornate Top Knot

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Ditch a boring bun in favor of something more daring this wedding season. This eclectic twisted top knot instantly lifts the face, opening it up for bold makeup moves, like this pop-colored lip.

Get the Look: Keep stray strands in place with Redken’s Water Wax to smooth down edges and add shine—without any residue.

11

Bombshell Blow-Out

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A bouncy blowout is a super glam, foolproof option for your 'maids. It's sexy, it's fun, and most of all, it's unforgettable, yet effortless.

Get the Look: A hard-hitting volumizing mousse like Living Proof Thickening Mousse helps add desired fullness without weighing hair down.

12

Something Pink

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For the most daring of 'maids, adding a pop of color to call out the tones of their look can help unify your party, without sacrificing personality. We don't suggest having all your 'maids sport this style (unless they're all the type to go for a bold hue), but we're all about letting those who feel inclined to sport a signature color showcase their personal style down your aisle.

Get the Look: Muvo's Ultra Rose color-depositing shampoo (or temporary spray) adds just the right hint of pink without a permanent commitment.

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13

Zig-Zag Part

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Take a traditional low ponytail and flip it on it's head for a look that's fresh and fun. Skip the jagged, haphazard parts that come to mind from our teenage years in favor for something more sleek and intentional for a grown-up feel—like this exaggerated zig-zag style.

Get the Look: For a precise part and texture that will last the night, use a heavy duty hold spray once you've landed on the look, like Got2b High Insta Hold Hairspray.

14

Sophisticated Pixie

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Calling all of our short hair girls! There’s no need to grab extensions to participate in the bridal party. Add glamour to your crop with shiny, polished bangs. Or, slick your style back for something even more sleek.

Get the Look: A mini flat iron paired with a heat protectant spray, like CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protectant Spray, are a match made in hair heaven for shorter styles.

15

Wet Slick Back

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Hot, humid weather can become a recipe for disaster for certain styles, like drop curls. Lean into wet-look styles for a chic solve that any hair type and length can pull off like a pro.

Get the Look: After washing hair, apply a gel and cream mix—like Moroccanoil Strong Gel and Pantene Gold Series Pro-V Hydrating Butter Cream—to lock-in the look and add much-needed moisture.

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Janell M. Hickman-Kirby

Janell M. Hickman-Kirby is a writer and editor based in New York.

15 Stunning Bridesmaid Hairstyle Ideas for Your Future Wedding (2024)

FAQs

What is the best hairstyle for wedding bridesmaids? ›

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.

How should a bridesmaid wear her hair? ›

A tousled up-do is one of the most popular updos for brides and bridesmaids. You can also complete it with any hair accessory, depending on your wedding style! Add some loose curls to frame the face and add definition to the look! Up-dos are also a perfect style for weddings in the heat of the summer season!

Should bridesmaid hair be different to bride? ›

Does the bride select the bridesmaids' hairstyles? As the bride often selects the bridesmaid dresses, the bridesmaids tend to choose their own hairstyles for the wedding. But remember it's your wedding, so just as the bridesmaids' dresses should complement your wedding dress, their hair needs to complement yours.

Should bride pay for bridesmaid hair? ›

The answer is that it depends.

In some scenarios, it makes sense for the bride to cover all the hair and makeup expenses for her wedding party. In other scenarios, it makes more sense for the wedding party to cover their hair and makeup costs.

Should I wear my hair up or down as a bridesmaid? ›

If the dress is strapless or has a low back, an updo may be the best option to show off the dress. If the dress has a high neckline or intricate details on the back, a half-up, half-down style may be more appropriate.

Who pays for bridesmaids hair? ›

That said, the bride or the bridesmaids will pay for the bridal party's hair and makeup. Some brides cover the cost of glam as a “thank you” to their friends for supporting the wedding. However, this isn't always the case. Weddings are expensive, and some brides can't afford hair and makeup for a large bridal party.

What not to do as a bridesmaid? ›

10 Things a Bridesmaid Should Never Do-But Always Unknowingly...
  • Complain about how she looks on the wedding day. ...
  • Drink too much. ...
  • Forego sunscreen. ...
  • Harp about costs. ...
  • Buy a size-too-small bridesmaid dress because she's sure she'll lose weight. ...
  • Play the martyr. ...
  • Weigh in on wedding decisions.
May 26, 2014

Do brides pick bridesmaids hair? ›

Make the decision for them and ask them nicely to wear the hair the way you would like them to while also giving them some wiggle room to add their own personal touch. It will make things a lot easier on wedding day for everyone.

Do brides and bridesmaids have the same hairstyle? ›

The bride should wear an elevated style that suits the event. Accessories can also be useful here – for example, you may all wear your hair down, but maybe only the bride will wear a statement accessory. You could also opt for an updo where your bridesmaids wear theirs down, or vice versa.

Should bridesmaids have their makeup done? ›

Treating your bridesmaids to professional hair and makeup is a thoughtful gesture that shows your deep appreciation for their support. It makes them feel cherished and pampered, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their role in your special day.

Should bridesmaid dresses be same style as bride? ›

While sharing some details of your bridal outfit is great, ensure the bridesmaid dresses don't match your wedding outfit too closely. After all, it's your day, and you must steal the spotlight! If your outfit features a gorgeous neckline, choose something different for your girls.

Should bridesmaids wear the same material as bride? ›

Don't try to get all matchy-matchy with the fabric. Choosing a bridesmaid style that features the same fabric as your bridal gown will make you all look as if you have been cut from the same mould. Instead, choose fabrics for the bridesmaid dresses that complement your bridal gown.

What does the maid of honor pay for? ›

"We often see the maid of honor assist in covering the cost of the bridal shower (often in conjunction with a family member of the bride), covering her own costs and some of the costs of the bride for the bachelorette party (in conjunction with the rest of the bridesmaids), her own travel to and from the wedding, a ...

Who pays for bridesmaid dresses? ›

In the US, the tradition is for the bridesmaids to each pay for their own dress, regardless of who is making the final call on what the dresses will look like. The bride should try to be flexible about the kind of dresses she chooses for her girls.

Who pays for bridal shower? ›

In short, the host is the one who pays for the bridal shower—or at least some of it. Most commonly, this is the maid of honor, but the couple's relatives, friends or even the to-be-weds themselves can all pitch in to cover the cost of the wedding shower.

Should bridesmaids have similar hairstyles? ›

No rule says your bridesmaids have to rock an identical look, although that's one of the options available to you (and is more traditional). These days, just like many brides are choosing to follow the mismatched bridesmaid dress trend, they're also allowing their bridesmaids to wear a hairstyle of their preference.

Who chooses the bridesmaids hairstyles? ›

Etiquette states that aside from the dress, if there is any specific detail of your bridesmaid's appearance that you want to dictate, you have to pay for it. This goes for jewelry, shoes, makeup and hair. So yes you can require an up-do, if you pick up the tab for the stylist.

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