50 Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Every Type of Wedding

bridesmaid zipping up the back of a bride's dress — PHOTO BY COURTNEY SIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Bridesmaids have a big responsibility on the wedding day: standing by the bride’s side while she exchanges vows with her future spouse. Since this role entails walking down the aisle and positioning yourself in front of the crowd, it’s only natural to want to look and feel your best. Besides your dress, your hairstyle is one particular element that will help accomplish this. While the bride may have a specific vision for her bridal party’s hairdo, oftentimes, the woman of the hour will let you and the rest of the crew select a style of your choosing.

Meet the Expert

Anna Breeding is a hair and makeup artist specializing in modern, minimal beauty. Since establishing her eponymous business in 2016, she's styled countless brides’ hairstyles for their wedding day.

When deciding on your bridesmaid hairstyle, the most important factor to consider is a ‘do that embodies your personal style and makes you feel beautiful. Other than that, hair and makeup stylist Anna Breeding suggests keeping your hair type, your dress neckline, your face shape, and the climate into account as you make your decision. For instance, if your mane is long and full, wearing your hair down will highlight your length and volume. Perhaps your bridesmaid dress is strapless; in that case, an updo will show off your neckline. If your friend or family member is tying the knot in a humid locale or season, Breeding says curls fall flat more easily and down-styles may accumulate sweat, which can quickly ruin your hairdo and provide discomfort. When in doubt, talk to your hairstylist about the best hairstyle for you.

Still having trouble nailing down the perfect look for your locks? We’ve rounded up 50 stunning bridesmaid hairstyles that are sure to inspire you for any type of wedding.

01 of 50

Slicked-Back Ponytails

Bride in High-Neck Lace Dress and Bridesmaids in Champagne Dresses With Ponytails — Photo by The Lockharts

A sleek, polished ponytail exudes sophistication and shine, especially at glamorous nuptials like this French inspired wedding in Texas and with detailed necklines. To imbue body and texture into your hairstyle, inject a few glamorous waves into the shaft of your 'do.

02 of 50

Romantic Chignons

Brides and Bridesmaids in Gray Gowns and Suits — Photo by Kristin La Voie Photography

There's nothing more romantic than chic chignons with loose, twisted pieces for bridesmaid hairstyles. This idea is an especially apt choice for garden soirées in the summer, such as this personalized garden-themed affair in Chicago.

03 of 50

Polished Tresses

Bridesmaids in Mismatched Champagne Dresses With Bride in the Middle — Photo by Samantha Leto Photography

There are so many ways to wear your hair down, whether it's pin-straight locks, bouncy waves, or natural ringlets (such as the ones demonstrated at this modern barn wedding in Virginia). Whatever texture you go with, be sure to prep your style with a blow dryer and finish it off with a hydrating product, so your strands look silky and smooth.

04 of 50

Modern Middle Parts

Bridesmaids With Middle Parts and Black Dresses and White Bouquets in Front of Skyline — Photo by Niki Marie Photography

Both refined and demure, a middle part has the ability to add a contemporary flair to any bridesmaid hairstyle—and it suits any face shape. By opting for a down-style, such as these bridesmaids at this moody winter affair in Manhattan, you'll elongate your face and accentuate your features.

05 of 50

Tucked-Back Pieces

Bride in Strapless Lace Dress With Bridesmaids in Champagne Cowl-Neck Dresses and Hair Down — Photo by Ben Smith

Want to draw attention to your facial features? Wearing your tresses down and tucking the front strands behind your ears (as seen here at this classic wedding in Napa Valley) will showcase your face in a refined way. Plus, this style will keep your hair out of your face, which is a bonus in our book.

06 of 50

Tight Ringlets

Bride and Bridesmaids in Blue Gowns With Curly Hairstyles — Photo by Kelley Williams Photography

With an array of curl pattern types, there is an unending number of curly bridesmaid hairstyles to choose from. Tight ringlets are one variation of this style. Springy spirals, whether worn up or down, has a formal feel, which makes it ideal for upscale celebrations, such as this traditional function in California.

07 of 50

Half-Up, Half-Down Styles

Bride and Bridesmaids in White Gowns With Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle — Photo by Hannah Miller Photography

A combination of a ponytail and a down-style, a half-up, half-down bridesmaid hairstyle is the perfect mix of romantic and elegant yet fun and playful. To take this look to the next level, pull back half of your tendrils and let a few strands fall loose before curling the ends, which is what these bridesmaids did at this Barbie-inspired soirée in Alabama.

08 of 50

Pulled-Back Updos

Portrait of Bride and Bridesmaids in Champagne Dresses and Updos — Photo by Andre Brown

A slicked-back bun looks suave and stylish at any type of wedding, especially paired with satin gowns (like these champagne dresses at this timeless fête in Atlanta). With all of your baby hairs held into place and your head of hair off of your neck, this bridesmaid hairstyle is also breathable, comfortable, and unfussy—the winning combination.

09 of 50

Contrasting Textures

Brides in Strapless Mermaid Dress and Bridesmaids in Dusty Rose Dresses — Photo by Glorianna Chan

Debating between two different hairstyles? Why not combine two different textures into one look? At this fall affair in Atlanta, these bridesmaids demonstrated that both glossy strands and textured waves can work together. For instance, a slicked-back ponytail with tight coils or loose barrels with tucked-back pieces juxtapose two opposing textures for a visually striking look.

10 of 50

Updos With Loose Tendrils

Bride Waking in Front of Bridesmaids in Updos and Champagne Halter Dresses — Photo by Jenny Quicksall

Bridesmaid hairstyles that are universally flattering? Low buns with loose, face-framing pieces (such as the ones demonstrated at this dinner party wedding in California). Not only does a soft updo look beautiful, but it's also functional. "You have hair to soften around your face, but the rest is out of the way, so you don’t need to worry about it," Breeding says. "With your hair out of the way, you can focus more on taking care of and celebrating the bride."

11 of 50

Silken Strands

Portrait of Bride and Bridesmaids in White Gowns Holding Bouquets — Photo by Elizabeth Austin Photography

Bridesmaid hairstyles that feature smooth, glass-like tresses (like the ones at this stylish wedding in Atlanta) aren't solely reserved for straight styles. Your tendrils can also exude brilliance and softness with wavy hairdos; the key is applying hydrating products and using a blow dryer before doing any additional styling.

12 of 50

Timeless Romance

Bride and Bridesmaids in Mint Dresses Holding Yellow Bouquets — Photo by Jose Villa

Low buns are one of the most timeless and versatile bridesmaid hairstyles. In addition to the universality, this hairdo is a smart choice for statement-making necklines, such as the plunging, strapless, and off-the-shoulder varieties at this multi-hued wedding on a farm in Tennessee.

13 of 50

A Retro Touch

Bride and Bridesmaids With Colorful Bouquets and White Dresses — Photo by Move Mountains Co

If you're at a loss for which bridesmaid hairstyle to don on the big day, look to the aesthetic for inspiration. This bride threw a retro-inspired fête in Palm Springs that transported her guests to the 1950s, so each bridal party member selected a vintage style, from voluminous bouffants to side-pinned locks.

14 of 50

Face-Framing Cuts

Bride in Strapless White Wedding Dress Posing With Bridesmaids in Pink and Brown Dresses With Large Tree in Background — Photo by Lexie Hand

Parting your hair down the middle and having your strands cascade down both of your shoulders (which is shown here at this yellow-toned wedding in California) will frame and define your face. If the length of your mane errs on the longer side, take note that your locks may conceal some of your dress, particularly your shoulders and neckline.

15 of 50

Bouncy Blowouts

Bride and Bridesmaids in Colorful Gowns and Hair Down — Photo by Liz Andolina Photography

For a velvety texture that's movable and full of magnitude, try a blowout with bouncy ends for your bridesmaid hairstyle. With this hairdo, your locks will look hydrated and luscious, but they won't fall flat (which is evident with these bridesmaids at this sherbet-colored Indian wedding).

16 of 50

Various Curl Types

Portrait of Bride and Bridesmaids in Blue and Purple Gowns — Photo by Sophie Epton

There are so many different types of curls to consider for your bridesmaid hairstyle. At this regal affair at a castle in Portugal, the bridesmaids modeled some of the various possibilities, from kinky curls to barely-there waves. When you and the other bridal party members each rock a different type of curl, your looks will maintain individuality and personality.

17 of 50

Low-Maintenance Waves

Bridesmaids in White Gowns and Tousled Hairstyles — Photo by St. Chelle

To bring a smidgen of texture to your bridesmaid hairstyle, opt for low-maintenance waves, seen on these bridesmaids at this fashion-forward wedding in California). All this entails is wrapping a few pieces around a curling iron before loosening the coil with your fingertips. The end result? A soft, loose style that's effortlessly elegant.

18 of 50

Embodied Personalities

Bride and Bridesmaids in Different Gowns and Hairstyles — Photo by For the Love of It

If the bride has given you the leeway to pick any outfit for the wedding, don a hairstyle that matches your look and represents your personality and unique style. For instance, at this stylish affair in Beverly Hills, one bridesmaid sported cascading waves to reflect her tiered skirt, while another chose straight strands with blunt bangs that complemented her gold dress with fringe.

19 of 50

Chic High Buns

Bride in Lace Dress and Bridesmaids in Sage Dresses With Updos — Photo by Jennifer Darling

Low buns are one of the most popular bridesmaid hairstyles, but opting for a higher placement at the crown of your head will create an entirely different feel. Situated at the nape of your neck, updos are classy and formal, but on top of your head, they become boho-chic, ideal for light and airy weddings like this floral-filled event at a barn in Maine.

20 of 50

Heightened Volume

Bridesmaids In Green Dresses Holding Up Glasses on the Stairs — Photo by Elisabetta Marzetti

Big curls that take up space, from Old Hollywood waves to natural coils, are a bridesmaid hairstyle idea that's brimming with volume. With enhanced magnitude, your mane will look thick, full, and lifted. (These bridesmaids at this garden wedding in Italy are evidence.)

21 of 50

Soft Curls

bridesmaids in all black attire and loose waves — Photo by Megan Robinson

Less structured than barrel curls and bombshell spirals, soft curls are a happy medium for any affair. If you want your textured strands to fall effortlessly and frame your face, consider parting your mane down the middle.

22 of 50

Wavy Lobs

bride and bridesmaids wearing black bridal party dresses — Photo by Amanda Donaho

As shown by this bridal party, shiny, touchable waves also suit shorter hair lengths. Adding a few curls to your lob will infuse your mane with texture and glamour. We especially love this look for formal and black-tie affairs.

23 of 50

Natural Locks

bride with bridesmaids in all white and natural hairstyles — Photo by Hana Gonzalez Photography

Embracing your natural hair texture, such as these braided updos, will bring a piece of your individuality to your bridesmaid look, especially if you and the rest of the group are donning the same dress. Plus, minimal styling is low-stress, low-maintenance, and cost-effective.

24 of 50

Classic Low Buns

a bride and her bridesmaids who are wearing green dresses — Photo by Sydney Noelle Photography

Bridesmaid hairstyles with low buns are versatile possibilities for any type of wedding, especially formal ones. If you're wearing a backless gown with a deep V-neck, an updo will show off these delicate details. For those with shorter hair lengths, you may want to consider adding extensions to pull off this look.

25 of 50

Mismatched Styles

bride in jacquard gown poses with bridesmaids in long black dresses holding classic white bouquets — Photo by Alicia King Photography

If the bride is giving you complete freedom to choose your own hairstyle, the sky's the limit. Whether it's a beautiful blowout, a braided updo, or romantic curls, opt for a style that works for your hair length and face shape.

26 of 50

Sleek Chignons

Bride and bridesmaids on bed in getting ready robes — Photo by Lisa Poggi

A sleek chignon with glossy strands and zero embellishments will look elegant and perfectly poised, especially with a sweeping bang. Plus, with your hair out of your face, you won't have to worry about any upkeep. These romantic updos work best for longer locks.

27 of 50

Shiny Down-Styles

barbiecore themed wedding with bridesmaids wearing various shades of pink dresses — PHOTO BY SOPHIE LIN BERARD

Starting with a shiny blow-dry is the perfect primer for any type of down-style. From there, you can straighten your strands for glass-like gloss or incorporate a few soft waves for added texture and volume.

28 of 50

Formal Hairdos

bride and her bridesmaids wearing mismatched blush pink dresses — Photo by Hugo Coelho Photography

For formal weddings in the daytime, tousled waves and twists are easy bridesmaid hairstyles that will evoke whimsy. This array of hairdos proves you can exude your personal style, while still leaning into the black-tie aesthetic.

29 of 50

Beachy Glamour

Bridesmaids wearing mismatched dresses while posing on the beach — Photo by Kaity Brawley Photography

While beach nuptials usually connote laid-back vibes, if the affair is black-tie, updos with wavy textures will combine the effortless atmosphere of the location with the formal tone of the event. With this hairstyle, your locks will look relaxed and natural but still elevated.

30 of 50

Cohesive Coifs

the bride getting ready with her bridal party in white robes — Photo by Photo by Julieta

Perhaps the bride gave you instructions to sport a certain style, such as these brushed-out waves with a center part. By wearing the same hairstyle, you and the rest of the group will look cohesive, especially if you're wearing different dresses.

31 of 50

Crystal Accessories

maid of honor helping the bride put on her wedding dress — Photo by Courtney Simpson Photography

With the right hair accessory, you'll infuse any bridesmaid look with a serious dose of glamour. Crystal hair clips, in particular, will bring a romantic flair to your attire without looking too overstated. (Note that they work with all sorts of wedding-day hairstyles, too.)

32 of 50

Summer Styles

a bride in a white robe getting ready with her bridesmaids in pink robes — Photo by Leah Marie Photography

For tropical nuptials or summertime fêtes, the humidity will largely affect your chosen hairstyle. The safest bet is an updo that's out of your face and off of your neck, so you won't have to worry about unwanted frizz. But if your hair holds a curl well, loose waves will perfectly encapsulate the atmosphere.

33 of 50

A Perfect Blowout

a bride and 15 bridesmaids on the wedding day — PHOTO BY GIDEON PHOTOGRAPHY

For bridesmaid hairstyles that look beautiful but require minimal prep and planning, a fresh blowout is all you need. Since there are numerous types of blowouts, from sleek and straight to bouncy and wave, make sure to discuss your vision with your hairstylist.

34 of 50

Chic Ponytails

a bride and her bridesmaids who are wearing gold dresses — Photo by Amy Anaiz

One of the most refined bridesmaid hairstyles? A sleek ponytail. By slicking your top strands back and straightening the shaft, your mane will look lustrous. Not to mention, you won't need to worry about pesky flyaways.

35 of 50

Bombshell Curls

a bride and bridesmaids wearing pink bridal party dresses — Photo by Jessa Schifilliti

It's hard to go wrong with bombshell curls, especially when styled with a half-up, half-down 'do. We love how the long curls here maintain uniformity among the group, even though the gowns have a few subtle differences.

36 of 50

Relaxed Elegance

a bride and her bridesmaids wearing mismatched jewel toned bridesmaid dresses — Photo by Shannon Moffit

Relaxed waves, whether worn down or tied back in an updo, are effortlessly elegant. Since these looks are fresh and unfussy, they'll look stunning on display at outdoor nuptials in the spring or summer.

37 of 50

Unfussy 'Dos

a bride and her bridesmaids who are wearing green jewel-tone dresses — Photo by Dos MÃ¡s En La Mesa

You may want your dress to take center stage. In that case, a loose, simple hairstyle is supreme. Paired with a satin emerald dress, a pared-back style takes on a supporting role that lets the frock shine. What's more, casual styling infuses youthfulness into an otherwise fancy look.

38 of 50

Mermaid-Style Waves

Bride with bridesmaids in black dresses — Photo by Tamara Gruner

Smooth, beachy waves are classic bridesmaid hairstyles that work for so many hair cuts, lengths, and textures. Whether you have short, straight tresses or long, curly locks, mermaid-style waves will elicit romance and whimsy.

39 of 50

Alternating Hairstyles

Bridesmaids in black dresses with bride — Photo by IVASH Studio

Some brides may give you a few hairstyle options to choose from. If that's the case, select one that you love and that works for your unique hair type. For instance, updos are better for long, frizz-prone hair, while down-styles are suitable for pliable textures in any length.

40 of 50

Loose Barrel Curls

brides and bridesmaids toasting champagne while wearing getting ready robes — Photo by Rossini Photography

These bridesmaids opted for big, glossy barrel curls, which is a style that's adaptable for different hair lengths, styles, and textures. While this hairdo pairs well with any type of wedding, glitzy functions—especially Old Hollywood-inspired—with formal dress codes are superior.

41 of 50

Simple, Straight Locks

Bridesmaids and bride with simple, sleek hairstyles — Photo by Forged in the North

If you and the rest of the bridesmaids will be clad in curated bridesmaid ensembles, a full-volume hairstyle will detract from your look. So, instead, keep things sleek and simple, starting with straightened locks and finishing with a mix of low-key, pulled-back 'dos.

42 of 50

A Pearl Headband

a bride's maids of honor in ethereal dresses and the groom's best man in a black tuxedo — Photo by Michelle Beller Photography

A pearl-encrusted headband imbues an almost princess-like quality—no tiara required—no matter which hairstyle you choose. Loose waves and a middle part, however, will keep the look young and fresh.

43 of 50

Beautiful Braids

Bridesmaids in beige with bride — Photo by Korrie Leigh Crowley of Photography by KLC

Textured down-styles and elegant updos are common bridesmaid hairstyles, but for a twist (literally), consider a braided style. From waterfall braids to twisted buns, this hairdo is whimsical, playful, and unexpected. It also isn't limited to a certain hair type.

44 of 50

Versatile Buns

bride with her bridesmaids in floral dresses and elegant hairstyles — Photo by Amanda K. Photography

A simple bun is extremely versatile: You can style it in tight or loose configurations and in high or low placements, depending on your preferences. Equal parts clean and elegant, this is a style that will last all day and night—with hardly any maintenance needed.

45 of 50

Intricate Updos

Bridesmaid putting veil on bride's bun and other bridesmaids helping around her — Photo by Laura Gordon

While a simple coiff is always charming, adding curls, twists, and accessories will really up the ante. This intricate updo has a French braid that extends into a bun, complete with a sparkly accessory, at the nape of the neck. With the various details, this look is visually interesting and attention-grabbing.

46 of 50

A Floral Flair

Blonde bridesmaid in pink dress and half-up, half-down hairstyle looking at bride — Photo by Logan Cole

Is the bride saying "I do" in a garden or boho-chic fête? Pinning a flower in your hair will pay homage to the theme and locale, while adding a lush touch to your mane. To ensure the bloom stays intact and in place, this accessory works best for updos or half ponytails.

47 of 50

A Regal Twist

Bride and bridesmaid with elevated updos — Photo by Merari Photography

Depending on how they're styled, updos can look traditional and formal or loose and laid-back. For bridesmaid hairstyles that fall somewhere in the middle, twist a thick strand of hair from your crown into an updo. Your 'do will look polished yet playful.

48 of 50

Corresponding Hues

Bridal party with mismatched hairstyles — Photo by Brumley & Wells

To present cohesiveness on the big day, some brides designate bridesmaid hairstyles in a highly organized way. Maybe the woman of the hour has assigned you a hairdo based on the color of your dress, such as the long, tumbling locks with blue gowns and braided updos with pink frocks shown here. This is a clever way to tie a mismatched bridal party together.

49 of 50

Tousled Strands

Bridesmaids with half-up 'dos and bride — Photo by Carmen Santorelli

One of the most effortless types of curls is loose, tousled strands. Instead of tight coils or voluminous waves, consider having your stylist run a curling iron through a few pieces of your hair before brushing them out. You'll still have a textured look—but with optimal shine and length.

50 of 50

Ethereal Vibes

Bridesmaid hairstyle with a flower crown — Photo by Katherine Ann Rose

Loose, mermaid-like waves and a flower crown of white blooms are an ethereal choice for bridesmaid hairstyles, especially for bohemian nuptials. For a color-coordinated look, be sure to match the tone of your lush accessory with your gown.

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