Bridesmaids' Hairstyles: Choosing The Perfect Look For Your Girls

Choosing a hairstyle for a bridesmaid look can be a fun yet challenging task. There are many factors to consider, such as hair type, face shape, wedding theme, and personal style. Here are some tips and ideas to help you select the perfect bridesmaid hairstyle:

- Consider your hair type and texture. Different hairstyles work better with certain hair types. For example, loose waves or curls can soften a square face, while side-swept styles can elongate a round face.

- Think about the wedding theme and dress style. For a boho or summer wedding, loose waves, beachy braids, and floral accessories might be a good choice. For a formal or elegant affair, glossy, slicked-back styles with glam touches like sparkly clips or pearl hairpins can be more appropriate.

- Decide on the level of complexity. If you're doing your own hair or helping each other, it's best to choose a style that is easy to achieve and maintain. Practice the hairstyle beforehand and have the necessary tools and products on hand.

- Accessorize! Hair accessories can elevate your look and tie in with the wedding theme. Options include headbands, flower crowns, hairpins, clips, and combs.

- Discuss and coordinate with the other bridesmaids. While you don't all have to have the same hairstyle, choosing a theme or adding similar accessories can create a cohesive and unified look.

- Braids: A side braid, French braid, fishtail braid, or a braided headband are all beautiful options.

- Updos: A classic bun, chignon, top knot, or a messy bun can be elegant and practical, keeping the hair off your face and neck.

- Half-up, half-down: This style offers the best of both worlds, combining elegance and ease. You can add twists, curls, or braids for extra flair.

- Ponytails: A sleek, high, or low ponytail with volume and face-framing strands can be a simple yet stylish choice.

- Waves and curls: Loose, beachy waves, glossy curls, or romantic barrel curls can add movement and texture to the hair.

- Flowers and greenery: Fresh or dried flowers, baby's breath, or floral hair accessories can bring a natural, whimsical touch to your look.

Choosing a hairstyle that suits your face shape

Oval Face Shape:

Oval faces, like those of Sonam Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, are considered the most versatile as they can pull off almost any hairstyle. To complement their slightly longer foreheads, oval-faced bridesmaids can opt for a top knot, heavy bun, braids, or a side-swept fringe. It's best to avoid centre partings and very sleek or long styles as these can make the face appear longer. Instead, go for messy or voluminous hairstyles to break up the length of the face.

Diamond Face Shape:

Diamond-shaped faces, such as Nargis Fakhri and Malaika Arora, feature a mix of heart and square shapes, with angular jaws and high cheekbones. To soften these sharp features, go for voluminous hairstyles. Create height at the sides to accentuate the cheekbones, and opt for loose curls or waves to add softness around the jawline. Messy updos with some loose strands are a great choice for diamond-shaped faces.

Round Face Shape:

Round faces, similar to Vidya Balan, tend to have a little plumpness, and the goal is often to elongate the face and add definition. While most open hairstyles work well, it's best to avoid tight, sleek styles that can emphasise roundness. Leave some pieces of hair loose on one side, and opt for loose, voluminous styles. Side-swept bangs or layers can also help elongate the face.

Heart-Shaped Face:

Heart-shaped faces, like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt, are characterised by broader foreheads and narrower chins. To balance the proportions, go for hairstyles that add volume around the chin or neck, such as side-swept styles, loose curls, and soft updos with volume at the bottom. Avoid heavy, blunt bangs that draw attention to the forehead.

Square Face Shape:

Square faces, such as Kareena Kapoor and Anushka Sharma, have strong jawlines and chiselled cheekbones. To soften these features, choose hairstyles with soft waves, curls, or flicks. Updos with face-framing layers or side-swept bangs can also balance the angular features. Avoid centre partings and sharp, straight styles that draw attention to the jawline. Instead, opt for a side parting to break up the width of the face.

Picking a style that complements your dress

When it comes to choosing a hairstyle that complements your dress, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, think about the style of your dress and the overall theme or vibe of the wedding. For example, if you're wearing a bohemian dress to a boho-chic wedding, a loose, natural hairstyle with braids or floral accessories might be a perfect choice. On the other hand, if you're attending a formal winter wedding, a sleek updo or a glossy, slicked-back style might be more appropriate.

The neckline of your dress is also an important consideration. If you're wearing a strapless or off-the-shoulder dress, an updo can showcase your neckline beautifully. Similarly, if you have a statement back or a deep V-neck, an updo can highlight these delicate details. Additionally, consider the length of your dress. If it's long, you might want to avoid hairstyles that completely cover your neck, as this can conceal some of the dress's features.

The weather and climate are also key factors. If it's going to be hot and humid, an updo can help you stay cool and comfortable. In contrast, if it's a winter wedding, loose styles or sleek ponytails might be a better option to keep you warm.

Lastly, don't forget to consider your hair type and face shape. If you have long and full hair, wearing it down can highlight your length and volume. Conversely, if you have short hair, you might want to add some volume or opt for a simple blowout to enhance your look. Ultimately, choose a hairstyle that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Selecting a hairstyle that suits your hair type

When choosing a hairstyle for a bridesmaid, it's important to consider the hair type, dress neckline, face shape, and climate. Here are some tips for selecting a hairstyle that suits your hair type:

For Long Hair

Long hair provides the most options for styling. You can choose from a variety of accessories, combine styles like updos and braids, or go for looks that expose the neck and shoulders while still showcasing your long locks. A low ponytail, high ponytail, or loose tendrils are all great options for long hair. You can also try a half-up, half-down style, or go for a sleek and sophisticated ponytail. If you're looking for something more casual, beachy waves or loose curls are always a good choice.

For Medium Hair

The most popular option for medium-length hair is the updo, as it allows for a cohesive look while still offering some personalization. Another great choice is the chignon, which is versatile and works for most wedding themes. Medium-length hair can also be styled in a half-up, half-down look, or loose waves.

For Short Hair

Today's trend is to sweep short hair to one side and complement it with an accessory on the other. Straight hair with a loose ponytail is another option for short-haired bridesmaids. For something more unique, try adding volume to your short locks with a spiky look or textured beach waves. If you want to keep it simple, opt for pin-straight hair with a smoothing cream and shine spray.

For Curly Hair

Embrace your natural curls! Curly hair can be styled in a braided updo with curly tendrils, a side-swept half-up, half-down style, or a messy bun with twisted braids. If you want to add some glamour, consider a statement hairpiece or delicate hairpins.

For Thin Hair

Thin hair can be styled in a classic low bun with a twisted braid, a sleek ponytail, or a voluminous updo with soft curls. To add volume, use volumizing products and consider hair extensions for added thickness. Delicate hairpins or a sparkly headband can also enhance your look.

Opting for an updo or leaving your hair down

When deciding whether to wear your hair up or down for a wedding, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, check with the bride to see if she has a particular hairstyle in mind for her bridesmaids. If she doesn't, then you can decide based on the season, venue, and your own preferences.

If the wedding is taking place during the summer or in a hot climate, an updo can help to keep you cool and prevent your hair from becoming unruly in the heat. Updos are also a good option for outdoor weddings, especially if it's windy, as they will keep your hair out of your face and neck. If you plan on spending a lot of time on the dance floor, an updo will also ensure your hair doesn't get in the way.

However, if you feel awkward with your hair pinned back or prefer to show off your long hair, there are ways to keep your hair down while remaining comfortable. For example, if you have very long hair, you could try a half-up, half-down style. This will keep your hair out of your face while still showing off your length. Similarly, if you have shorter hair, you could try a low-maintenance style with soft waves or curls.

Ultimately, the most important factor when choosing your bridesmaid hairstyle is that you feel beautiful and comfortable.

Adding accessories to your hairstyle

Accessories can make or break your look, so it's important to choose them wisely. Here are some tips on adding accessories to your hairstyle as a bridesmaid:

Opt for Minimal Accessories

Sometimes, less is more. If the bridesmaid dress is already embellished and iridescent, a sparkly necklace might be overkill. A simple pair of stud earrings or a single statement bracelet can often be enough to complement a sleeveless or strapless dress elegantly.

Choose Accessories Based on the Wedding Theme

If the wedding has a particular theme, such as boho-chic or cottagecore, choose accessories that fit that theme. For example, dried flower crowns are perfect for a boho bridal party, while crystal-studded bobby pins can add a touch of sparkle to any hairstyle.

Gift Accessories to Your Bridesmaids

If you want your bridesmaids to wear specific accessories, consider gifting them those items. This is a great way to ensure your ladies wear the accessories you have in mind, and it also serves as a thoughtful gift they can treasure long after the wedding.

Be Creative with Accessories

Think beyond traditional jewellery and hair accessories. For example, if baby's breath flowers are used in the ceremony, add sprigs of them to your bridesmaids' updos.

Prioritize Comfort

While you want your bridesmaids to look their best, it's also important that they feel comfortable. Avoid accessories that are too heavy or restrictive, especially if the wedding is outdoors or in a warm climate.

Match Accessories to the Dress

When choosing accessories, consider the style and colour of the bridesmaid dress. For instance, a sparkly headband might complement a simple dress, while a statement necklace could be the perfect touch for a strapless gown.

Consider the Venue and Season

The wedding venue and season can also influence your choice of accessories. For a beach wedding, loose waves and floral hair accessories might be more suitable than an elaborate updo. For a winter wedding, a glitzy headband or hair clip can add a cosy, elegant touch.

Mix Function with Style

Opt for accessories that not only look good but also serve a purpose. For example, crystal-studded bobby pins can add sparkle while also keeping flyaway hairs in place.

DIY Accessories

If you're feeling creative, consider making your own accessories with your bridesmaids. This can be a fun bonding activity, and you can create unique pieces that reflect your wedding theme and style.

Communicate Early

If you have specific ideas about accessories, communicate them to your bridesmaids well in advance. This will help them feel prepared and ensure their accessories complement their outfits and the overall wedding aesthetic.

Accessories for Different Hair Lengths

The type of accessories you choose can also depend on the length of your bridesmaids' hair. For long hair, consider hair vines, headbands, or loose waves with floral hair pins. For medium-length hair, a chic chignon or a braided headband can be a great choice. For short hair, a simple curl activator serum and some sparkly bobby pins might be all you need.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose accessories that make you and your bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable. It's your special day, so feel free to get creative and have fun with your choices!

Frequently asked questions