45 Hairstyles for a Strapless Wedding Dress

photo of a bride in strapless wedding dress with half-up, half-down hairstyle — Photo by Jenn Ocken Photography

Depending on the silhouette and neckline of your big-day getup, some types of wedding dresses are more difficult to style than others, especially regarding your bridal hairstyle. With a strapless wedding dress, however, virtually any hairdo will work. Since these gowns really show off your collarbone and shoulders, they suit almost any hair option, whether that be an elegant updo, a chic ponytail, or long, loose waves. Ultimately, when it comes to hairstyles for a strapless wedding dress, you truly can't go wrong.

There are several factors that should inform the bridal hairstyle you choose—and while your gown's neckline is arguably the most important one, there are a few other things to think about, too. "We always say the dress dictates the style of your hair and makeup—we style the glam to your dress to create balance in your overall look," say special event hair experts Mariana McGrath and Andrea Ortega Costigan. "The silhouette and neckline of the dress determine if we are going for big hair or sleek hair [and helps us decide] what shape would be the most fitting. Beyond dress considerations, we help you determine which hairstyle would be a better fit for your specific bone structure, hair type, and what would last best throughout the day, depending on the climate your wedding will be in."

Meet the Expert

Mariana McGrath and Andrea Ortega Costigan are the co-founders of Salt Spell Beauty and have over a decade of experience in the beauty industry.

Not exactly sure which hairstyle suits you and your dress best? If you really want all eyes on your gown, choose a look that gets your strands off your shoulders. Not only is this option timeless and elegant, but it's also comfortable and easy. If you don't mind leaving your hair down, opt for glamorous Hollywood waves or curls—or do something more low-maintenance and simple, like a soft bend or curve that mimics your hair's natural texture. While all of these looks are different, they're all sure to make a huge impact.

Looking for some inspiration? Scroll on for 45 stunning hairstyles for a strapless wedding dress.

01 of 45

Natural, Soft Waves

bride in strapless white lace wedding dress with hair down posing in vintage chair — Photo by Oliver Fly

Many brides want to look like themselves on their wedding day, regardless of their gown type or silhouette—and this woman of the hour's hairstyle, which Reina Kim styled for her chic Paris soirée, is proof that you can rock your everyday 'do with a decidedly formal (and strapless!) ensemble. With a gentle side part and loose waves, this hairdo is natural yet sophisticated.

02 of 45

A Voluminous Ponytail

bride in strapless white wedding dress with sequins and cut-outs with ponytail posing next to groom — Photo by Elizabeth Austin Photography

Arguably one of the best hairstyles for a strapless wedding dress? A ponytail. This updo ensures all attention stays on your gown. But that doesn't mean this 'do has to be simple or boring: We love this bride's take on the seemingly casual style, which she sported for her timeless affair in Atlanta. She and her hairstylist, Chaise Debow, upped the formality factor by adding bouncy waves, covering the elastic with a loop of hair (which instantly elevates the look), and left a few pieces out to frame her face for texture.

03 of 45

A Slicked-Back Bun

bride wearing ruffled white strapless wedding dress with low bun and pink bouquet — Photo by Elias Kordelakos

If your strapless wedding dress is particularly detailed or voluminous—like this ruffled number—it's best to keep the rest of your look, from your accessories to your hairstyle, minimal. This bride accomplished just that at her fashionable Greece nuptials: Her sleek low bun, paired with pearl studs, let her tulle gown do all of the talking.

04 of 45

A Wavy Half-Up, Half-Down

bride in strapless blue wedding dress and half-up, half-down hairstyle looking out window — Photo by Elizabeth Cecil

The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a bridal favorite, and for good reason—it works with most wedding dress silhouettes and necklines, including strapless ensembles. This bride, who stunned in a tiered, pale-blue gown with ruching at the bodice, opted for the romantic look at her backyard, beachfront nuptials. Her hairstylist, Jasmine Burnside, even added a side part and touch of volume at the crown for extra romance.

05 of 45

A Piecy Low Bun

bride in white strapless wedding dress with embellished bodice and romantic updo posing in front of a glass wall — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography

Though your hairstyle should be partially informed by your neckline, you'll also need to consider the weather. This bride, who said "I do" in balmy Hawaii, knew she wanted a style that would keep her hair (and the heat) off her neck, which is why she asked Meili Autumn Beauty to style her locks in a sleek bun. The elegant updo paired perfectly with her strapless tulle ball gown, complete with an embroidered bodice.

06 of 45

Slicked-Back Curls

bride wearing strapless A-line wedding dress with pulled back hair and waves posing in ceremony space with greenery — Photo by Amy Anaiz

This bride's 'do, which Modimel Studios styled for her jungle-chic New York City nuptials, combines the hair-down look with the sleek vibe of a slicked-back bun—and it was the perfect hairstyle choice for her intricately embellished strapless wedding dress. The style kept her tight curls between her shoulders, so her strands wouldn't affect her gown's clean neckline.

07 of 45

Romantic Curls

bride in tan strapless wedding dress with long, curly hair looking at groom — Photo by Greg Finck

Tucking both sides of your hair behind your ears is another great way to keep your strands away from the front of your strapless wedding dress. This bride, who stunned in a tan gown designed to complement her exact skin tone, did just that for her wedding in California—a vision that Shea beautifully executed.

08 of 45

An Intricate Chignon

bride wearing strapless white wedding dress with floral embroidery and low bun hairstyle — Photo by Stetten Wilson

A wrapped chignon will keep your hair out of your face during your celebration—and if you're wearing a strapless wedding dress, it will also show off the neckline (and the long line of your neck!). We love how this bride kept a few face-framing pieces loose for her rainy garden party in Charleston; the wavy strands added a natural, romantic vibe to the intricate bun.

09 of 45

Pin-Straight Tresses

bride in strapless wedding dress with hair down and gold statement earrings — Photo by Lindsey Shorter Weddings

For this old-Hollywood inspired wedding, the bride opted to keep her long hair glossy and straight, a look that Jacob Rozenberg created. "If the strapless wedding dress is structured, geometric, and architectural, you'll want more of a sleek look, like a soft, silky wave with hair tucked behind the ears or a slick, minimal updo," McGrath and Ortega Costigan note. They recommend using an anti-frizz spray to maintain the smooth style.

10 of 45

Hollywood Waves

Want to wear your hair down with timeless Hollywood waves, but don't want your curly strands to interrupt the neckline of your strapless wedding dress? Copy this bride's hairstyle, which B Flyy Experience constructed for her timeless Atlanta nuptials, and tuck one side of your hair behind your ear and push those curls over your shoulder; you could even add a sparkly hair accessory to ensure the style stays in place. While the curls on the other side of your face will hang free, keeping that one half tucked down and swept away from your gown will do the trick.

11 of 45

A Cool-Girl Ponytail

Smiling bride in strapless dress in front of blue printed wallpaper — Photo by Sylvie Rosokoff

Instead of a low bun, why not go for a low ponytail? It's unexpected and so versatile. For this bride's colorful Brooklyn wedding, stylist Christophe Belkacemi at John Frieda added some volume in the front of ther hair before pulling it back at the nape of her neck. "I’m a huge Blake Lively fan when it comes to all things beauty and fashion," the bride says. "My dress definitely suited an updo, but I wanted something a bit lighter and more modern and playful.”

Elevate a ponytail by wrapping a piece of hair around the hair tie to conceal it.

12 of 45

A Bouncy Blowout

For a look that's simple and versatile, ask your hairstylist to blow-dry your mane before injecting some loose waves throughout, which is what Beth Washington did for this bride before her New Orleans nuptials. You can even ask your stylist to loosely pull back a portion of the top, leaving some pieces out to frame the face, for an extra ounce of romance. With this hairstyle, you can easily pile your hair on top of your head as the night wanes.

13 of 45

Face-Framing Tresses

Bride in Strapless Wedding Dress With Half-Up Hairstyle Overlooking Lake Como — Photo by Oliver Fly Photography

Looking to elevate your hairstyle for a strapless wedding dress? Add face-framing pieces, like Kevin D’Ambrosi at The Studio Como did for Vivian Tu's wedding on Lake Como. The no-frills waves evoked playfulness, thanks to the loose strands that defined her face. McGrath and Ortega Costigan suggest using a texture spray to give your hair that coveted piecy look and much-needed hold.

14 of 45

Short and Sweet

Portrait of Bride in Strapless Lace Wedding Dress — Photo by Abby Jiu Photography

With short hair, you can pretty much let your locks do their thing on your wedding day—arguably the most seamless hairstyle for a strapless wedding dress. But if you want to make sure your everyday 'do is really wedding-worthy, hire a hairstylist to bring a newfound shine to your strands, like Shadows and Shears achieved for this bride's New York-inspired fête in South Carolina. We love that she even added a whimsical veil to complement her lace-embroidered frock.

15 of 45

A Woven Chignon

bride in strapless wedding dress and updo and groom kissing outside — Photo by Harwell Photography

For brides with very long hair, a soft braided chignon will bring an air of intricacy to your big-day look, while keeping all of your tendrils off your shoulders and back. "We love a bride in a cascading, low, and soft updo rather than a super-sleek look for strapless gowns," McGrath and Ortega Costigan share. "But it completely depends on your frame, the dress’ silhouette, and your face shape."

16 of 45

A Fashion-Forward Look

Bride in White Mini Dress Walking With Groom in Dark Grey Suit — Photo by Facibeni

If you're on the hunt for a fashion-forward hairstyle for your strapless wedding dress that sets the trends, take cues from this bride: She asked Ramon Fuertes to style her mane in a curly half-up, half-down hairstyle with a high placement and face-framing waves. The hairdo, which she wore for her castle soirée in Italy, reinforced the chic tea-length gown, complete with a corset bodice, that she wore for her big day.

17 of 45

Bold Accessories

Closeup of Bride in Old Hollywood Waves Parted to the Side and Sparkly Hairpiece — Photo by Glorianna Chan

Accessories will take your strapless wedding dress to the next level, according to McGrath and Ortega Costigan. If you're going for a glamorous look, consider pairing old-Hollywood waves with a sequined hairpiece, like Kiandra Franklin composed for this bride's pastel spring fête in Georgia. Want more standout accents? Go all out with a diamond tennis necklace and diamond drop earrings, too. "Earrings or a necklace will frame the face and adorn your exposed décolletage," they mention.

18 of 45

A Sleek High Ponytail

Close Up of bride in Strapless Wedding Dress With Hair in Ponytail — Photo by Erika Delgado Photography

A slicked-back ponytail is one of the best ways to rock a shoulder-bearing look. At this speakeasy-style wedding in Palm Beach, hairstylist Nicole Battle straightened the bride's locks before pulling it back in a tight, high ponytail. Not only did the sleek hairstyle draw attention to her exposed décolletage, but it also highlighted her pearl necklace.

19 of 45

A Restrained Coif

Bride in strapless wedding dress sitting in chair and looking out window — Photo by Mo Davis Photography

A sophisticated low bun is a versatile choice, but we especially recommend this hairstyle for strapless wedding dresses if you're getting hitched outside. "For humid, tropical weddings, a sleek updo is best," McGrath and Ortega Costigan note. "This will avoid frizz, flyaways, and hair losing its volume and curl pattern." For inspiration, look at this bride's chic braided coif that Faces of Virtue styled for her New Orleans nuptials.

20 of 45

Gracefully Veiled

Dallas Stars Goaltender Jake Oettinger's Wife in Sheath Wedding Dress With Long Veil — Photo by Duey Photo

Wondering how to rock a veil with a strapless wedding dress? This bride wore tousled waves with a middle part, which Anna Sullivan Hair pulled together for her minimalist soirée in Dallas, yet she didn't let the down-style prevent her for donning a cathedral-length veil. With an open back, a thigh-high slit, and an illusion neckline, her strapless wedding dress offered contrast and levity, which balanced out her long locks and veil.

21 of 45

Sleek Romance

Bride twirling in nude frilly wedding dress — Photo by Abby Jiu Photography

There's something quite alluring about a center part and a strapless wedding dress with a sweetheart neckline. Go for ultimate glamour by curling your hair and brushing it out into big, loose waves. You can slick back just the front pieces and add tons of volume at the top for even more impact, like Kelsey Morgan Hair did for this bride's Chicago wedding.

22 of 45

An Effortless Chignon

bride in blush gown with effortless updo and pink bouquet — Photo by Jen Huang Bogan

To make a traditional chignon look less polished, loosen it around the edges for a bit of romantic, undone volume. "If too sleek or tight to the head, the look can skew quite severe and easily make your head look very small," McGrath and Ortega Costigan warn. This effortless updo, with its understated elegance and low-maintenance appeal, is a beautiful choice for any strapless wedding dress, especially one that's paired with an airy wrap.

23 of 45

A Playful Pony

bride in strapless wedding dress with ponytail and birdcage veil looking up — Photo by Kelly Giarrocco

If you have long, curly hair, consider a voluminous ponytail to pair with your strapless wedding dress. "Remember that you’re going to be photographed mostly from the front, so you want the hair to look best from the front," McGrath and Ortega Costigan advise. "Look out for the shape in 360 degrees, and make sure it’s flattering at every angle, as you will be seen and photographed from every angle on our wedding day." For this elegant destination wedding in Mexico, Natasha Bello Kosoko of Glow by Tasha pulled the bride's natural hair into a ponytail, teased it, and finished it off with a beautiful birdcage veil.

24 of 45

Tousled Waves

Portrait of Bride in Gown and Veil on Bed — Photo by Benjamin Smith

For an effortless look that still feels elevated, considered tousled waves. A center part with loose, bouncy waves (like this style that Yuma Bastet achieved for this bride's timeless Napa Valley nuptials) will bring lightness and romance to an ethereal strapless wedding dress. You can even tuck half of your hair behind your shoulders to avoid completely concealing your neckline.

25 of 45

A Brushed-Back Down-Style

Bridesmaids in Nude and White Color Dresses Helping Bride Put on White Wedding Dress — Photo by Danilo & Sharon

If you want to wear your hair down with your strapless wedding dress but don't want it to look boring or predictable, select a slicked-back down-style. Opting for pin-straight locks, sans part, will allow your facial features and shoulders to shine. Need some convincing? Get inspired by this bride's hairstyle, which was on display at her earthy affair in Ibiza. The best part? Her mane matched the linear lines on the pleated skirt of her strapless wedding dress.

26 of 45

A Curly Updo

bride in updo and strapless wedding dress holding white bouquet and posing with groom — Photo by Kristen Curette

Naturally curly hair looks so pretty when pulled up in a loose updo; textured curls give the traditionally polished style some body and character. Plus, the curls create plenty of grip to clip a veil into the back of your bun. By pulling out some tendrils, your hairstyle will even elicit a bohemian flair, perfect for embellished strapless wedding dresses.

27 of 45

A Classic Chignon

Bride in updo pulling in groom by the tie for a kiss — Photo by Peyton Byford

A chignon is a beautiful hairstyle for a strapless wedding dress, but make sure there's adequate volume to plump up the coif. "We always check in with our brides by having them stand in front of a mirror before locking in the hairstyle to make sure they like how it looks," McGrath and Ortega Costigan say. "A mirror always gives you a different perspective." When this bride said "I do" at her sentimental wedding in the woods of Northern California, her hairstylist, Whitney Whiting, injected magnitude by pulling out a few locks from her bun and loosening the grip.

28 of 45

Natural Locks

bride in strapless gown and hair down with greenery bouquet outside — Photo by Clean Plate Pictures

For brides with shorter lengths to work with, this hairstyle is a great option for a strapless wedding dress: A down-style with a deep side part that embraces your natural texture is brimming with volume and allure. To keep the part in place (and to incorporate a glitzy flair), consider adding a sparkly floral hair clip, too.

29 of 45

Side-Swept Curls

bride in strapless wedding dress standing in door frame with flower girls — Photo by Ashlyn Cathey Photography

For a retro vibe, try a curled down-style with a sweeping side part for your strapless wedding dress. Then, throw all of your hair over the shoulder on the opposite side of your part, so it cascades effortlessly down half of your neckline. "If you want to have a more romantic, soft look, go for hair down or at least face-framing pieces or covering one shoulder," McGrath and Ortega Costigan say. Edge and Priss accomplished this look for this bride's dreamy Atlanta wedding.

30 of 45

Sweeping Side Bangs

two brides posing in car after wedding ceremony — Photo by Heather Waraksa

Looking for a hairstyle for a strapless wedding dress that's decidedly glam? Make like the bride on the left, who opted for big barrel curls and a chic, swooping side bang, courtesy of Amber Balaban, for her old-Hollywood wedding in Idaho. The curve of her side bang even reinforced her strapless sweetheart neckline.

31 of 45

A Brushed-Back Bun

bride smiling wearing strapless wedding dress and holding green and white bouquet — Photo by Sylvie Gil

Hairstyles for a strapless wedding dress don't have to solely focus on your shoulders. You can also draw attention to your eyes by pulling your hair back at your temples, according to McGrath and Ortega Costigan. "Make sure the focal points of the updo are a continuation of the bone structure of the face," they note. "Whether it’s a lower updo or a high one, always make sure it is aligned with the jawline or eye line."

32 of 45

Parted Waves

bride in strapless wedding dress and curly hairstyle getting ready with mother of the bride — Photo by Alixann Loosle

If you want to keep your hair down and curled without risking beach waves, try a middle part and tighter barrel curls, like hairstylist Kacey Gold did for this bride's Santa Barbara wedding. The results will give you a sleek look that's arguably more refined than loose curls. For shorter hair lengths, you also have the option of adding hair extensions, which will create volume and grip, McGrath and Ortega Costigan note.

33 of 45

Sweet Locs

Bride in floral strapless wedding dress looking up at groom in navy suit — Photo by Emily-Melissa Photo

For brides with locs who are wearing a strapless wedding dress, there's nothing more authentic than letting your hair down in its natural form. We especially love this idea for those whose gown is the focal point of their look—like this colorful, floral-printed number. If you want to add a bit of interest to your hairstyle, all it takes is pinning a few of your strands to the side.

34 of 45

Frilly Feathers

bride laughing in feather strapless wedding dress with updo accented with feathers — Photo by Sidney Bensimon

Just because your strapless wedding dress has a bold design doesn't mean you have to skimp on hair accessories. For a streamlined look that feels unique, choose a hairpiece that matches your gown; that way, neither element will overshadow the other. For instance, this bride wore a two-piece set covered in ostrich feathers for her wedding, so she chose a coordinating feathery accent in her updo. As an added bonus, her frilly bouquet also reinforced the textured look.

35 of 45

Cascading Waves

bride in strapless wedding dress with hair in long waves — Photo by Tamara Gruner

With ultra-long, silken tresses, like these glossy waves, why wouldn't you want to show them off on your wedding day? Letting your mane fall down your back will elevate the romantic feel of your look, and it won't conceal your neck and shoulders. If natural length isn't an option, extensions can provide an immediate fix. "Whether your hair is down or in an updo, extensions will give it a fuller look and give hairstylists more to work with," McGrath and Ortega Costigan point out.

36 of 45

A Curly Crop

bride with short hair posing in strapless wedding dress outside — Photo by Jessica Brees Photography

If you always keep your hair cropped, you don't have to select an ultra-styled hairstyle for a strapless wedding dress. Instead, flaunt your real hair texture (sealing it off with some product, if needed). A curly cut is stunning and simple, and the short 'do will keep all of the focus on your gown.

37 of 45

A Sleek Topknot

bride in strapless wedding dress kissing groom beneath umbrella in vineyard — Photo by Kelsey Combe

Want to keep your hair out of the way? Twist it into a sky-high bun. You can aid in the functionality of this look by smoothing down any stray flyaways—plus, a slicked-back style will look incredibly sophisticated. McGrath and Ortega Costigan recommend this hairstyle for brides who are shorter in stature, using the topknot to create height. "If you have a shorter neck and want an updo, have your hairstylist create a look that lifts up and back from the jawline or follows your eye line, depending on the desired height," they suggest.

38 of 45

A Classic Half-Up, Half-Down

bride in strapless wedding dress and half-up sitting on yellow velvet couch with bouquet — Photo by Imogen Xiana

With a classic half-up, half-down hairstyle, you don't have to commit to putting your hair up or leaving it down—you can have both! For a hairdo that's casual yet elegant, go for beachy waves with brushed-out spirals—an apt look for a bohemian-style wedding dress.

39 of 45

A Voluminous Low Bun

bride and groom smiling at each other while holding hands outside — Photo by Heather Jowett

You can never go wrong with a hairstyle that embraces a bit of body for a strapless wedding dress. Curled locks twisted into a braided bun will bring optimal magnitude to your mane. Not to mention, this 'do will draw attention to your décolleté and leave plenty of room for accessories. We love how this particular coif shows off the playful bodice while still adding balance.

40 of 45

A Tight Bun

bride in updo and strapless wedding dress posing outside while holding large bouquet — Photo by Kurt Boomer

With a tight bun, your hairstyle will really show off the neckline of your strapless wedding dress. It's also a great choice for backless gowns or those with a low back. "A tight chignon accentuates your back and shoulders," McGrath and Ortega Costigan concede. If you're donning a minimalist frock, a neat updo will complement the clean silhouette.

41 of 45

Beachy Waves

bride looking off to the side in strapless lace wedding dress with wavy hairstyle — Photo by Rach Loves Troy

For a hairstyle that manages to be both glamorous and low-maintenance, go for soft beach waves. This effortlessly elegant look pairs especially well with a lace gown at a seaside setting. Just make sure to keep frizz at bay and maintain glass-like strands by adding hairspray for a soft, malleable hold.

42 of 45

A Crimped Bob

bride in strapless red tulle wedding dress with plunging neckline — Photo by Samm Blake

If you're looking for a hairstyle that doesn't compete with a bold strapless wedding dress, choose an unfussy, natural-looking 'do. A crimped bob is a simple style that will keep all eyes focused on the gown. Plus, it frames the face while still upholding a modern appeal and showing off some skin.

43 of 45

A Glitzy Bun

bride and groom looking at each other and holding hands — Photo by Laura Gordon

Instead of just a plain chignon or low bun, up the ante with a pretty hair accessory, such as this icy floral hair pin. If your strapless wedding dress leans more simple, rather than decked out, a sparkly accessory will incorporate a bit of tasteful pizzaz. With a no-frills frock, you can even include statement-making jewelry, like these drop earrings.

44 of 45

Polished Waves

Bride walking down stairs in strapless wedding dress with hair down in waves — Photo by Roey Yohai Studios

Want something slightly more elevated than beach waves? Keep your hair smooth and polished before bringing in a few loose curls. The end result will look soft and sophisticated. "Hair down with a strapless gown can add an element of modesty to the look by creating balance in the amount of skin that you show," McGrath and Ortega Costigan add.

45 of 45

A Soft Lob

Bride in strapless dress and lob sitting and smiling — Photo by Sergio Sandona

Those with lob-length tresses won't have to do much to make their hair look beautiful with a strapless wedding dress. For one idea, try a simple side part and some loose texture, which will make a formal getup—especially one that's decorated—look a bit more laid-back. "If the dress has a lot of fabric, you don’t want a hairstyle that’s too slick to the head," McGrath and Ortega Costigan note. "You must create balance."

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