Bridesmaid Hair: Tips For The Perfect Hairstyle

There are many factors to consider when deciding how your bridesmaids should style their hair for your wedding. While the bride may have a specific vision for her bridal party's hairdo, it is also common for the bride to let her bridesmaids select a style of their choosing. If you are a bridesmaid, your main goal is to stand by the bride and fulfil her needs, but you can also focus on looking great yourself.

If the bride has a specific hairstyle in mind for you, this makes things easier. However, if she has left the decision up to you, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options available. When deciding on your hairstyle, it is important to consider your hair type, dress neckline, face shape, and the climate. For example, if you have long and thick hair, wearing it down will highlight its length and volume. On the other hand, if your dress is strapless, an updo will better show off your neckline.

If the bride has given you complete freedom over your hairstyle, the sky's the limit. Whether it is a beautiful blowout, a braided updo, romantic curls, or an elegant updo, opt for a style that works for your hair length and face shape.

Long hair: up or down?

Long hair provides the most options for bridesmaids, from updos to braids, curls, waves, and looks that expose the neck and shoulders. Here are some ideas for long hair, up or down:

Long Hair Up:

• A purposefully messy updo is a great, casual option. This could be a loose bun on the top of the head, secured with hairspray and bobby pins.
• A low braided bun is a versatile choice, especially for those with thick hair. This can be a French braid on one side, leading into a loose braided bun with some curled tendrils left out around the face.
• A high-volume ponytail can add energy and glamour. Start with textured hair and loose waves, adding volume at the base.
• For a vintage wedding, try a bejewelled low ponytail. Add some tiny jewels throughout the hair, with some waves and volume at the roots.
• A sleek, sophisticated ponytail is a refined choice. Slick back the top strands and straighten the hair for a lustrous look.

Long Hair Down:

• Long, loose curls or waves are a simple, yet effective choice.
• For a vintage-inspired wedding, try a ponytail with volume and a flip at the ends.
• For a relaxed, boho vibe, wear your hair down with a centre or side parting and some soft curls or waves.
• For a formal wedding, add some Old-School Hollywood glamour with uniform waves and volume at the roots. Keep hair off the face with a bejewelled headband or hair clip.
• For a low-maintenance option, simply brush out curls for gorgeous waves.

Ultimately, the decision on hair up or down will depend on the weather, the dress, and personal preference. For very hot days, an updo might be preferable, while a down hairstyle might be a better option for a formal wedding.

Medium hair: half-up styles

Half-up, half-down hairstyles are a great option for bridesmaids with medium-length hair. This versatile style allows you to show off your length while keeping your hair out of your face. Here are some ideas for styling medium hair in a half-up, half-down look:

• Add some texture to your half-up, half-down hairstyle by incorporating braids or twists. You can try a mix of braids and twists, or go for a unique combination like a braid and twist.
• Curl your hair and then grab two sections to twist and pin back, leaving a few tendrils out in front. This simple and versatile look can be worn to almost any wedding.
• If you want more volume, try backcombing the top section of your hair before pinning it back. This will create a stylish, modern look.
• For a more romantic and elegant feel, try a waterfall braid. This style features a braid that weaves through the hair like a cascading waterfall and is perfect for outdoor or fairy-tale-themed weddings.
• To add some glamour to your look, use decorative bobby pins, small flowers, or a sparkling hair accessory.
• If you're looking for a sleek and chic style, opt for a middle part with straight hair. This classic look is perfect for contemporary or minimalist weddings.
• For a fun and playful touch, try a loose braid around the crown of your head, paired with loose curls. This boho style is perfect for outdoor or garden weddings.

Short hair: add volume

If you're a bridesmaid with short hair, you might be looking for ways to add volume to your locks for the big day. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve that full-bodied look:

Use Volumizing Products

A quality volumizing spray can be your best friend when it comes to adding instant bounce and lift to your hair. Look for weightless formulas that will give your hair a natural volume boost while lifting the roots for extra movement. Apply the spray to wet hair before styling for best results. You can also try a volumizing mousse, which can add a significant volume boost while keeping your hair feeling light and fresh.

Change Your Parting

If you usually part your hair to one side, try switching it up! Your hair can get used to the same parting over time, causing it to fall flat. By changing your parting and securing it in place with a holding hairspray, you can create an instant lift at the roots and add some volume.

Dry Shampoo to the Rescue

Dry shampoo is a quick and effective way to revive flat hair and add instant volume. Apply a small amount to your fingertips and massage it into your scalp, focusing on the roots. This will help absorb any excess oil that can weigh your hair down. For an extra boost, flip your hair upside down and rub some dry shampoo into the roots underneath.

Tease Your Tresses

If you're looking for a wilder look, gently teasing your hair can give it instant volume and plumpness. Use a comb to backcomb your hair section by section, starting at the roots. Once you've achieved the desired volume, spray a layer of hairspray to set the style, and then softly comb out any tangles.

Beach Waves for Days

If your short hair is on the longer side, you can try creating beach waves for instant volume. Use a curling wand or, if you're in a hurry, a hairdryer with a diffuser attachment. Scrunch your hair into the diffuser and let the heat work its magic. You can also use a volumizing spray or mousse to add extra body and movement to your locks.

Opt for a Haircut

Sometimes, the best way to add volume to short hair is to get a haircut. A shorter cut can remove weight from your hair, giving it more body and even a bit of wave. Bobs, pixie cuts, and layered hairstyles can all create the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.

Curly hair: natural texture

Curly-haired bridesmaids, there are so many ways to showcase your beautiful natural texture on the big day. Here are some ideas to help you decide how to style your hair for the wedding:

Voluminous curls with a side part

Add a crystal hair accessory to sweep your curls to the side. This look is perfect for a sleeveless, open-back wedding dress silhouette.

A classically styled low bun

A low bun is a classic style for curly hair. To achieve this look, deep condition and care for your hair in the month leading up to the wedding. Hydration is vital for textured hair, so be sure to use products that will nourish and hydrate your curls.

A slicked-back bun with pearls

This easy and elegant hairstyle is a great option for textured hair. You can choose a low or high puff, or a big, low bun supported by extensions that match your hair texture. Gel down the front of your hair and opt for a middle or side part.

A curly lob with fresh blooms

Pretty blooms are the perfect accessory for curly locks. This bride sported lush, lob-length ringlets to create a perfect anchor for her flowers.

Long spiral curls with a headband

This bride proves that long curls and pearl headbands go together effortlessly. Headbands are also the perfect accessory to pair with a simple tulle veil for a stylish and modern look.

A low chignon with long twist outs

Long twist-outs add a fresh feel to the traditional chignon. Thick spirals add gorgeous texture and a fierce side part with face-framing curls will take this look to the next level.

A romantic loose updo

Curly tendrils are perfect for a romantic, effortless vibe. Leave out a side bang for added fun, like this exuberant bride.

Swept-back half-up, half-down style

This easygoing style is ideal for an organic summer wedding. Drench your hair with oils high in fatty acids, like coconut, to deeply penetrate the hair shaft and loosen the coil. Then sweep your locks back to let your beautiful features take center stage.

A no-fuss natural style

Embrace your natural curls like this bride, who let her curls shine for her Santa Barbara wedding. "Currently, natural, untouched hair is trending," shares Rose Ovensehi, a natural hair specialist and the founder of Flora & Curl. "Many people now prefer to embrace their authentic texture rather than creating a perfectly-placed up-do."

Half-up, half-down with sunny highlights

When in doubt, pull a few tendrils back to expose your features while letting the rest fall around your shoulders for a classic and sophisticated bridal moment. Honey-hued highlights will call attention to your natural wavy texture.

A voluminous ponytail with a birdcage veil

This curly ponytail is nothing short of epic. The generous spirals come together to create the fluffiest of glam updos, and a birdcage veil adds the perfect finishing touch.

A low messy bun with a flower crown

Even a simple messy bun can be elevated by a gorgeous curl pattern. This effortless, low tuck is as sweet as can be with rogue tendrils spilling out to emphasize the deep V-back of the wedding dress. Top it off with a tender flower crown of daisies and greenery for a magical look.

Bridesmaid input: their choice

When it comes to your bridesmaids' hair, there are a few different approaches you can take. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what will make you and your bridesmaids feel most comfortable and happy. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking of leaving the choice of hairstyle up to your bridesmaids:

Advantages of Bridesmaid Input:

Leaving the hairstyle choice up to your bridesmaids can have several benefits. Firstly, it allows them to choose a style that aligns with their personal taste and makes them feel confident and comfortable. This can be especially important if your bridesmaids have diverse hair types, textures, and lengths. By letting them choose their own styles, you empower them to select looks that work best for their hair and highlight their unique features.

Additionally, giving your bridesmaids this freedom can alleviate some of the financial burden associated with being a bridesmaid. They can decide whether to style their hair themselves or hire a professional, depending on their budget and preferences. This approach also saves you, the bride, from having to cover the costs of professional hair services for your entire bridal party, which can quickly add up.

Another advantage of letting your bridesmaids choose their hairstyles is that it reduces the stress of making decisions for everyone else. Planning a wedding is already a daunting task, so delegating some of these choices to your bridesmaids can help lighten your load.

Potential Challenges:

While giving your bridesmaids free rein over their hairstyles can be liberating, there are a few potential challenges to consider. Firstly, you may worry about your bridesmaids' choices clashing with your own hairstyle or the overall wedding aesthetic. This is a valid concern, especially if you're envisioning a particular look for your bridal party. However, you can provide some guidelines or suggestions to ensure some level of cohesion without taking away their agency entirely.

Another potential challenge is that some bridesmaids may feel overwhelmed by the endless options available. To mitigate this, you can offer them resources, such as hairstyle inspiration or recommendations for local hair stylists. You could also suggest a group trip to a salon for consultations and trials if your budget allows.

Tips for Successful Bridesmaid Input:

To ensure that giving your bridesmaids the choice goes smoothly, here are some tips to consider:

• Provide guidelines: While you want to give your bridesmaids freedom, providing some guidelines can ensure their choices align with the wedding's overall aesthetic and your vision. For example, you could suggest they wear their hair up or down, or provide a color palette for accessories if they wish to add any.
• Consider the dresses: The style and neckline of the bridesmaid dresses can help inform the choice of hairstyle. For example, if the dresses are strapless, an updo could showcase the neckline. Conversely, if the dresses have intricate back details, a hairstyle that pulls the hair to the side or back could complement the outfit.
• Think about the climate: The wedding's location and season can impact the choice of hairstyle. For example, if the wedding is in a humid climate or during the summer, certain styles may be more comfortable and practical.
• Discuss hair types: Encourage your bridesmaids to choose hairstyles that work with their hair type and texture rather than against it. This will ensure they feel comfortable and confident on the day.
• Offer recommendations: If your bridesmaids are unsure, offer a list of recommended hair stylists or salons they can visit for consultations and trials. This can be especially helpful if they're unfamiliar with the area or don't usually style their hair professionally.
• Encourage communication: Open communication is essential to ensuring everyone is on the same page. If any of your bridesmaids have concerns or allergies, they should feel comfortable discussing them with you and the hair stylists.
• Plan ahead: If possible, encourage your bridesmaids to plan their hairstyles in advance. This could include scheduling trials and rehearsals to ensure they are happy with their chosen look.
• Create a bonding experience: On the morning of the wedding, turn the hair styling session into a fun bonding experience for you and your bridesmaids. Enjoy the process and use it as an opportunity to create lasting memories together.

Remember, the most important thing is that you and your bridesmaids feel happy and confident. Leaving the choice of hairstyle up to them can foster a sense of trust and empowerment within your bridal party, contributing to a joyful and memorable wedding day.

Frequently asked questions