55 Best Wedding Hairstyles for Brides

Bride's low bun hairstyle featuring twisted braids from the back — Photo by Jessica Mangia

If you’re getting ready to say “I do,” you’ve probably spent a great deal of time and energy choosing the perfect wedding dress for your big day. But while your gown certainly plays a pivotal role in showcasing your personal style, the hairstyle you select is just as important as it has the power to take any look to the next level.

From chic ponytails to voluminous waves, there are so many different hairdos to consider for your big day. More specifically, if you’re hosting a glamorous black-tie soirée, soft, romantic curls spilling over your shoulders might suit the occasion best. As for a beachy bohemian bash, effortless waves tied up in a half-up coif will definitely complement your aesthetic. You can also never go wrong with a classic chignon, which works nicely with any wedding dress silhouette or party style. But that's not all: To further elevate your big-day ‘do, dynamic accessories, like a pearl-studded headband or a crown of fresh flowers, can make any hairstyle that much more special.

Need some more inspiration? Here, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite wedding hairstyle ideas straight from real brides. Scroll on to see 55 coifs to consider right now.

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A Bouncy Blowout

A smiling bride in a robe getting her bouncy curls sprayed with hairspray — Photo by Flora & Fauna

Silky smooth, effortlessly bouncy, and soft to the touch, a blowout is a beautiful option for any type of bride. While your hairstylist can use this heating technique to create any type of style, we love the curled edges that this bride rocked on her big day in the Berkshires. Sweep your strands to the side for a luxurious look.

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A Slightly Messy Bun

Bride in White Gown and a messy but polished updo — Photo by Benjamin Smith

This high, slightly messy bun is the ultimate "quiet luxury" hairstyle for contemporary brides. At once effortless, chic, and stylish, this 'do is one to know (and emulate), no matter if you're getting married during a summer Napa Valley ceremony or a winter mountainous affair.

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A Delicate Feat

bride in a low bun with front tendrils and an open-back wedding dress — Photo by JENNIFER DARLING

A low bun with face-framing tendrils is a romantic look for any affair, and that's true whether you’re tying the knot at a vineyard or by the beach. This bride's low chignon at her Maine nuptials was kept clean, polished, and classic—a beauty look that matched her romantic wedding dress. To provide some structure and opulence, consider topping it off with a crystal headpiece.

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Polished Pearls

Bride with a low bun hairstyle and pearl headband smiling at her groom on their wedding day — Photo by Alicia Mink Photography

Pearls are always a timeless accessory, and they aren’t just reserved for your wedding-day jewelry. At her regal wedding in California, this glowing bride exuded drama and elegance in a sleek and sophisticated chignon, paired with a pearl-studded headband.

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A Trendy Top Knot

Black bride in a tulle ballgown by Allure Bridals and pearl hair clip, holding bouquet of white florals and greenery — Photo by Phillip Van Nostrand

Not only does a top knot look chic, but it’s also a practical ‘do for warm-weather weddings where sweat is the enemy of a polished style. This bride went with a high updo for her bridal hairstyle at her soirée in New York City, and she embraced her natural texture without the use of styling tools. Affix beaded floral hair accessories if you’re wearing a floral wedding dress or exchanging vows in a garden.

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A Blunt Bob

Bride posing in a bob with brushed-out waves and a side part — Photo by Chi-Chi Ari

If you have short hair, you don’t have to conceal your length with hair extensions. This bride, who tied the knot during a modern celebration in Newport, Rhode Island, is proof that your everyday hairstyle can look just as stunning on the big day. With a sleek side part and brushed-out waves, her look was decidedly chic yet understated.

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A Fishtail Braid

bride in a custom jumpsuit with removable cape holds a bouquet of coral florals — Photo by Brett Seay

Looking for a unique bridal hairstyle? A fishtail braid, as this bride wore on her special day in North Carolina, is a fun and whimsical option that emphasizes texture. It's a look that'll keep your tresses off of your neck and out of your face, which is ideal for withstanding the summer heat.

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Silken Simplicity

Bride walking to the altar with a bouquet and a cathedral length veil in her low bun — Photo by Lisa Poggi

To show off your neckline or the back of your dress, settle on a silky updo. This bride's simple and sleek chignon, which she chose for her intimate wedding in Tuscany, let her lace choker and low back be the stars of the show (had she decided to wear her hair down, the flowing style likely would have overshadowed these details).

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A Twisted Bun

Bride turned around, showcasing her braided chignon and low back — Photo by Jessica Mangia

While an updo is always elegant, add some visual intrigue by incorporating small braids across the base of your head. This bride donned a voluminous bun with twisted strands, which perfectly complemented her garden wedding in a historic Italian castle.

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A Short Pixie

Always remember that your wedding is your day to shine, and how you wear your hair should reflect how you want to look. Case in point: We love how this bride leaned into her personal style and sported a short pixie for her Brooklyn winery wedding inspired by streetwear and good music.

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A High Ponytail

Pulling your hair back in a sweeping ponytail that sits on the crown of your head is the perfect balance between effortless and polished. To generate some edge, twist a few strands in loose waves, add face-framing pieces, and throw the pony over your shoulder. If you have a stunning neckline, like the one on this bride's gown—which she chose for her wedding along the Eastern Shore—this is a particularly viable option.

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A Fresh Accompaniment

A bride turned around in a half-up hairstyle and a pink flower that matched her pink floral dres — Photo by Alice Vicente

There's nothing more romantic than adding a sprig of fresh flowers to your hair on your wedding day. We love how this bride added pink blooms, that matched the floral design on her ethereal strapless gown, to her hair for her wedding in Lisbon. Although this bridal hairstyle works well for just about any aesthetic, it’s an especially strong candidate for garden-fresh nuptials in the spring.

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A Textured Lob

Bride in V-neck Galia Lahav wedding gown and Swarovski crystal clip in her hair — Photo by Franklyn K Photography

Instead of manufacturing pin-straight strands or bouncy waves, let your signature style shine. For her wedding in Paris, this bride rocked her natural curls and accented them with a Swarovski crystal clip for an additional ounce of glamour.

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A Halo of Blooms

A bride in a flower crown kissing her groom — Photo by Grace Gatto Photography

Since flowers are typically an integral component at weddings, why not wear an arrangement on top of your head? Flower crowns, like the one this bride wore during her Colombia wedding, are a natural fit for tropical functions, bohemian bashes, or beachside services. Pro tip: Use the same blooms as those in your bridal bouquet, ceremony installations, and reception centerpieces for a cohesive look.

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A Half-Up Style

Bride in a red sari with gold embroidery and a half-up hairstyle posing against a wall — Photo by Vinuthna Garidipuri

Instead of fully wearing your hair down, add layers with a half-up bridal hairstyle. For this bride's California nuptials, she first had her hair styled in barreling waves before her stylist clipped a portion of her tresses back. If you have statement earrings, like these dangling beaded jewels, a pulled-back look will call attention to them.

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Cascading Tresses

Bride with long blonde hair wears printed floral high-neck gown and holds a bouquet with pink, white, and orange florals and dried foliage — Photo by Hannah Baldwin Photography

Wondering how to style long locks? Wispy curls that cascade down your back and fall past your shoulders, like this bride donned for her maximalist disco wedding, will do the trick. Consider this bridal hairstyle for bohemian nuptials since the effortless curls will match the free-spirited aesthetic.

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A Bedecked Braid

Bride in a French braid adorned with white flowers touching foreheads with the groom — Photo by Edward Winter for READYLUCK

As another alternative bridal hairstyle for long tresses, a single French braid will highlight your length and thickness. For her New York Wedding, the bride made her voluminous braid even more special by adding in fragrant jasmine flowers. As a nod to her South Asian heritage, the intricate style was equally symbolic and beautiful.

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Jaw-Dropping Curls

Bride in a white robe having her voluminous curls done on her wedding day — Photo by Natura Collective

These striking waves brought all of the glitz and glamour to this bride's look for her rustic-chic wedding in Long Island City, New York. We love how modern her middle part looks here, and while you can shift yours to either side, this is a great way to keep an otherwise classic hairstyle looking fresh. To keep your tresses in place, remember to add a protective coat of a top-rated hairspray, especially if the weather is hot and humid.

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Floaty Waves

Bride in loose waves twirling in her wedding dress with flutter sleeves — Photo by Kelly Brown

A center part and a blunt, mid-length cut are the epitome of an ethereal dream. We can't get over how beautiful the flow of this bride's hair mimics that of her floaty lace dress. A look like this is always on trend, whether you’re getting married in a lakeside fête, ballroom celebration, or at a Los Angeles estate.

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A Chic Headband

bride in Marchesa wedding gown and a white headband with a bouquet of white orchids — Photo by Hana Gonzalez Photography

Switch up the classic wedding veil with a modern and trendy alternative: a white headband. This stunning bride wore a thick padded band across the crown of her head, which framed her face and brought a touch of sophistication to the updo she rocked for her tropical fête in Jamaica. Duplicate her dreamy monochromatic look with an all-white bouquet of orchids, white statement earrings, and a white corset gown.

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A Voluminous Ponytail

bride sitting on a couch in a white robe looking out the window — Photo by Elizabeth Austin Photography

A voluminous pony is a quintessential style for those seeking a hairstyle that's at once dramatic and pared-back. Draw inspiration from this bride who styled her 'do with face-framing tendrils for an elegant touch.

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A Throwback Look

Bride smiling with red lipstick and her short black hair in curls — Photo by Liz Fogarty Photography

Whether you’re hosting a vintage-inspired soirée or you simply want to channel your favorite look from a past decade, consider revamping your bob with tight ringlets thrown over to the side. You’ll create a look that’s both textured and playful. For the finishing touch, rock a bold red lip to fit the retro vibe.

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A Crystal Halo

Bride's interwoven bun and embellished hairpiece — Photo by Melina Wallisch Photography

Upgrade your low bun with a sparkly add-on; with a sequined piece, you’ll illuminate an interwoven chignon. This is perfect for brides looking for a romantic yet glamorous look.

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A Shiny Finish

brunette bride wears her hair down with winged eyeliner and bold red lip, diamond drop earrings and satin gown — Photo by Tess & Julia

Who doesn’t want to bring a radiant sheen to their locks? This bride's slightly wavy, super shiny strands complemented the sleek fabric on her silk wedding dress, which she donned for her New York City nuptials. A few coats of daring red lipstick and shoulder-length earrings will create a similarly contemporary-chic look.

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A Deep Side Part

bride in Badgley Mischka ball gown with her hair in curls thrown over her shoulder — Photo by Rossini Photography

Calling all romantic brides! A deep side part and tumbling curls will elicit a dreamy feel at your wedding. These voluminous ringlets that this bride wore at her Old Hollywood wedding in Rome are ideal if you prefer a classic yet vintage look. If you’re wearing a sweeping ball gown and tying the knot in a ballroom, this style will suit your aesthetic.

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A Braided Chignon

bride in V neck white silk charmeuse wedding gown standing outside, with updo — Photo by Tracy Burch

A low bun is beautiful on its own, but adding a braid into the mix really ups the ante. This lovely bride increased the visual appeal of her big-day hairstyle for her wedding in Malibu by twisting a strand into her chignon and then decorating the piece with pearl accents. Try this look if you love a classic ‘do but want to include some pizazz.

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Glam Factor

Bride in a wavy old Hollywood hairstyle putting on earrings on her wedding day — Photo by Lisa Poggi

Structured curls with ample amounts of shine and bounce had this bride looking like a real-life mermaid at her celebration in Tuscany. A deep side part plays up the volume for extra allure. If your aesthetic or personal style leans more glamorous, this sumptuous look won’t disappoint.

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A Feathered Flair

Bride wearing feathers in her bun and a matching feathered gown — Courtesy of Sidney Bensimon

One of the best places you can look to for hair inspiration is your wedding dress. For her fall wedding in New York, this bride first selected her playful ostrich-feather gown and decided to sport an accessory that matched. A textured accompaniment will also bring a fun flair to a minimalist dress.

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A Tousled Ponytail

Bride in a wavy high ponytail putting on white floral earrings — Photo by Mallory Dawn

A daring look for any type of bridal style or wedding aesthetic is a high ponytail with crimped waves. Increase the drama by adding volume to the crown of your head and rocking side pieces, like this bride at her Coachella Valley wedding.

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A Loc'd Updo

bride sitting in a chair in a white suit with loc'd hair that's styled in an updo with pearl accents — Photo by JOSHUA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

What's better than a perfectly styled updo? A high bun adorned with an eclectic mix of pearls. We truly love how this bride arranged her locs into a style that effortlessly complimented her bridal suit and her micro-wedding setting.

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A Relaxed Updo

brunette bride in strapless gown holds bouquet of white and blush florals — Photo by Larissa Cleveland

While this bridal hairstyle nails the “messy bun” look with tousled strands and a loose fit, at the same time, it also looks refined. The top knot makes the strapless sweetheart neckline and pearl drop earrings—which this bride wore to her glamping wedding in California—the focal point.

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Pin-Straight Strands

Bride in a half-up hairstyle and a strapless black floral wedding dress — Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography

Sophisticated updos and billowing curls are popular options for brides, but a straightened mane is just as romantic. Tresses that are styled with a flat iron or blow dryer add more shine to your locks. Consider pinning your strands back with a sequined accessory, like this bride did during her wedding in Guatemala. If your big day is taking place in humid climates, use hairspray to seal off your look.

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A Fabulous Fishtail

Bride with flower-adorned fishtail braid and a lace wedding dress — Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography

Fishtail braids can be so refreshingly unexpected in comparison to their traditional French and Dutch counterparts. For her California wedding, this bride adorned her sweet style with a swag of pastel roses and greenery that hugged the side of her head. A few intentionally placed pieces cascaded down to frame her face.

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A Crisp Middle Part

bride sitting on a lounge chair in a white long sleeve dress — Photo by 515 PHOTO CO.

While side parts get a lot of attention when it comes to wedding day hair, middle parts are just as popular in the bridal beauty space. Follow this bride's lead and sport your part in the middle to create a contemporary and sleek look.

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A Sequined Headband

Bride in a beaded headband and curls with rose gold eyeshadow and a glowy complexion — Photo by Larisa Shorina

Add some pizzazz to your bridal hairstyle with a beaded headband. This double band engulfed in crystals is the best way to hold Old Hollywood-style curls into place, which is what this bride did on her wedding day in Brooklyn. If you’re a vintage or glamorous bride, you’ll be drawn to this look.

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Classic Waves

Bride in wavy hair with a center part and a floral tulle wedding dress — Photo by Brandon Lata Photography

You don’t need a lot of volume or eye-catching accessories to make your hairstyle feel wedding-worthy. At her island wedding in South Carolina, this glowing bride exemplified a timeless style with a center part and soft waves that draped over her shoulders. Traditional brides will appreciate this classic look.

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A Beachy Bun

Bride putting on earrings while looking at herself in the mirror on her wedding day — Photo by Katie Ruther

Gathered as a low-slung braid, this chignon has an undone vibe that befits the style of this bride's sandy Tulum nuptials. With dimensional, caramel highlights accenting the weave and tons of exquisite flyaways, the bride nailed the effortless beach goddess look. An off-the-shoulder lace gown also complemented the bohemian look.

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A Soft Touch

A smiling bride with her hair tucked behind her shoulders and a beaded wedding dress — Photo by Stephania Campos

Who needs a distinguished part when you can fully showcase that bridal glow instead? For her Houston wedding, this bride chose a combed-back soft style that cascaded into gentle curls at the bottom. The swept-back look showcased the bride's décolletage and beaming smile.

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Thick Bangs

If bangs are your signature look, make them the basis of your bridal hairstyle. A half-up hairdo and slightly twisted strands, like this bride channeled at her fall wedding in California, will accentuate full forehead bangs.

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Curls Swept to the Side

bride standing at a mantle with a fully sequined wedding dress and side-swept curls — Photo by Claire Morris Photography

Featuring a dramatic side part, this bride stunned in soft waves at her wedding in Lake Como. With one side of her hair pulled back, it allowed the other side to embrace all of the volume and curls.

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Au Naturel

Bride in a wrap dress with her natural hair and orange drop earrings — Photo by Alex Tome Photography

A relaxed, late-summer fête calls for an unfussy hairstyle that speaks to the informality of the season. At her wedding in Portugal, this bride's natural hair texture needed no extra additions to shine. Her bold earrings and a laid-back wrap dress made for a stunning pairing.

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A Smooth Chignon

Bride wearing a low chignon with crystal hair pin and a white fur wrap — Photo by Laura Gordon Photography

Combing back your locks into a shiny chignon at the nape of your neck is timeless and versatile. We love a floral hairpin as the final touch for a garden wedding, but this style also brings an icy look to winter nuptials.

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A Black Bow

While white is a quintessentially bridal color, work black into your bridal hairstyle for a daring edge. The juxtaposition here is powerful: The dark hue provides a stark contrast when paired with the ethereal tulle sleeves and delicate floral embroidery, which this bride donned at her art-inspired wedding in Mexico. Plus, the ribbon used to secure her ponytail also matched her earrings and the piping on her waistband, which evoked a coordinated look.

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Side-Swept Looks

Portrait of Bride in White Gown with Olh Hollywood curls and a side part — Photo by Andre Brown

A bridal hairstyle parted to the side is always elegant and romantic. These side-swept curls and dramatic side part created a swirl of luscious locks that gave Old Hollywood vibes. This style is perfect for those who'd like a super glam look.

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A Natural Pony

Bride in a structured strapless dress looking to the side while holding a bouquet — Courtesy of Kelly Giarrocco

A voluminous pony is the epitome of chic. For her Mexico City wedding, this bride proved to be just that with her gorgeous, textured updo that called attention to her structured bodice. Keeping your natural mane instead of a contrived look will feel even more special on your big day.

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Long Lengths

a bride looking out the window while wearing a lace robe — Photo by SILENT CAPTURE

Have thick, long locks? Take advantage of it by sporting tousled waves that fall down your back. This romantic ‘do will complete a tulle or floral-appliquéd gown at a swanky ballroom or lush garden venue.

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Fashionable Fringe

Bride in a flowing dress with blunt bob and bangs and holding a bouquet — Photo by Norman & Blake

There's nothing quite like an ultra-glossy bob to evoke a fashion-forward persona. The full fringe matches the soft drama on this wedding dress, which showcases a composed look.

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Long Layers

Bride with long black hair in a side part and waves while looking at her white pumps — Photo by Tamara Gruner Photography

For a romantic look, opt for a waterfall of cascading curls. Go for big-barrel waves and brush through your hair for an even more effortless look. Long locks parted to the side will look especially alluring with a billowing strapless ball gown.

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A Retro Crop

Bride with a short cropped hairstyle smiling in her strapless floral dress — Photo by FunkyTown Photography

Lengthy locks aren't always needed for a captivating bridal hairstyle. A delicate finger-waved crop evokes a retro appeal that is a stunning choice for a vintage theme. A short cut will accentuate an exposed neckline and dangling earrings.

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A Silky Chignon

Bride looking to the side, showing off her low chignon and low back — Photo by Leila Brewster

A smooth, voluptuous low bun is classic yet chic. This bridal hairstyle will bring a sophisticated edge to a city wedding and highlight an off-the-shoulder neckline and low back.

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Layered Waves

Bride and groom posing, with the bride in a lace dress and long waves — Photo by Melissa Marshall

A center part with draped waves is a gorgeous choice for bohemian, beachy nuptials. We love this laid-back look for destination weddings in Tulum or Cabo to match the natural environment and chic ambiance.

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Wispy Strands

Bride looking off to the side with her hair in a center part and tousled waves — Photo by Rachel Havel

Perfectly loose, voluminous locks parted down the middle are effortless and timeless for any bridal hairstyle. Complement the pared-back look with natural makeup, complete with a luminous complexion.

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A Bleached Blonde Blowout

Bride in white lace robe and platinum blonde hair looking down — Photo by Roey Yohai Studios

A bright blonde mane—whether it’s natural or dyed—brimming with bouncy waves is an elevated choice for a special celebration. The layered look with strands twisted in different directions creates depth and dimension.

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Floral Jewels

Bride's natural curly updo with delicately embellished hair pieces — Photo by Mashaida Co.

Natural curls swept up in an elegant updo are even more striking when decorated with floral hair pins, as this bride selected for her intimate New Orleans wedding. Scatter the delicately embellished hair accessories throughout your waves for a glimpse of shimmer. Then, finish it off with falling face-framing ringlets.

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An Embellished Plait

Bride's long braid decorated with beaded floral hair pins — Photo by O'Malley Photographers

Increase the romance factor of a braided mane by adding floral pins. Nestle these accessories into a loosely plaited ‘do to inject a touch of whimsy and dimension. For organic nuptials at a vineyard or garden, these hairpieces will suit your venue.

50 Romantic Wedding Hairstyles to Wear on Your Big Day