Elegant Wedding Hairstyles for Bridesmaids

Low Chignon Bun

Honestly, I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a low chignon bun for bridesmaids. I’ve used this style in so many weddings I’ve styled, and every single time it looks classy without stealing attention from the bride. That’s the key, right? As a bridesmaid, you want to look polished but still supportive of the overall bridal vibe. I usually recommend this style for formal or evening weddings because it photographs beautifully from every angle.

To create it, I tell my girls to start with smooth, lightly curled hair for texture. Gather everything at the nape of your neck, twist it gently, and pin it into a soft bun. Don’t pull it too tight — to be fair, a little looseness makes it look romantic, not strict. Leave a few face-framing strands out. Add a pearl pin or tiny floral clip, and you’re done. Simple, elegant, and honestly timeless.

Soft Romantic Waves

If the bride wants something dreamy and effortless, soft romantic waves are my go-to suggestion. I’ve found this style works especially well for outdoor weddings or garden venues. It gives that “I woke up like this, but actually didn’t” vibe. Bridesmaids love it because it feels natural, and no one looks overdone.

I usually curl sections away from the face using a medium barrel iron, then brush the curls out slightly. This part is important — don’t skip brushing. It turns tight curls into soft waves. Add a light hairspray, but not too much because stiff hair ruins the softness. If you’re matching dresses in pastel shades, these waves look absolutely magical in photos. In my opinion, this is the easiest style to DIY at home without stress.

Braided Crown Updo

Okay, this one is for the bridesmaid who wants something a little extra but still elegant. A braided crown updo always makes people say “wow,” but it’s not as complicated as it looks. I once had a bridesmaid panic about it, and after we finished, she couldn’t stop smiling at herself in the mirror.

To do this, create two braids from each side of your head and wrap them across the top like a crown. Secure with bobby pins and tuck the ends underneath. I’ve found adding texture spray first helps the braids hold better. It works beautifully for rustic or boho weddings. Honestly, if the bride is wearing florals, this hairstyle ties everything together perfectly.

Sleek Low Ponytail

Now, if the wedding theme is modern or minimalist, I always suggest a sleek low ponytail. It sounds simple, but when done right, it looks incredibly chic. To be fair, it’s one of those styles that depends on smoothness, so prep matters.

Start by straightening your hair and applying a smoothing serum. Gather it at the nape and secure it tightly. I like wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it — that tiny detail makes a big difference. In my opinion, this style works beautifully with statement earrings. It keeps the focus on makeup and accessories while still looking polished and wedding-ready.

Half-Up Twisted Hairstyle

This one feels sweet and romantic without being too “bridal.” I’ve suggested half-up twisted styles to so many bridesmaids who wanted to keep their hair down but still structured. Honestly, it’s the perfect balance.

Take small sections from each side, twist them back, and pin them together at the back of your head. Curl the remaining hair softly. I’ve found that teasing the crown slightly adds volume and makes the style last longer. It’s ideal for daytime weddings. Plus, if someone has highlights, the twists really show off dimension. It’s simple but looks thoughtfully styled.

Messy Textured Bun

In my opinion, the messy textured bun is for fun-loving bridal parties. It’s relaxed but still stylish. I remember one beach wedding where every bridesmaid wore this style, and the wind actually made it look even better. That’s when I knew — perfection isn’t always perfect.

To recreate it, curl your hair first for texture. Gather it loosely into a bun, letting pieces fall naturally. Don’t overthink it. Pull a few strands out near the face and at the crown. Add texture spray so it holds but doesn’t look stiff. Honestly, this style feels effortless and modern at the same time.

Side-Swept Curls

Side-swept curls always give that soft, glamorous look without trying too hard. I’ve found it works especially well if the bridesmaid dress has an off-shoulder or one-shoulder neckline. It frames the collarbone beautifully.

Curl the hair in medium sections and sweep everything to one side. Secure discreetly with pins at the back. I usually tell bridesmaids to check the balance in the mirror — you want volume on the swept side, not flatness. A light shine spray finishes the look. To be fair, this one looks amazing in close-up wedding portraits.

Fishtail Braid

If the wedding has a boho or outdoor vibe, I honestly love recommending a fishtail braid. It looks detailed and stylish but still feels soft. Bridesmaids often think it’s complicated, but once you get the rhythm, it’s pretty manageable.

Split your hair into two sections and pull small strands from the outer edge of one side to the other, repeating until you reach the end. Secure it and gently tug the braid apart to make it fuller. I’ve found this “pancaking” trick makes it look more bridal and less tight. Add small flowers or pins for extra charm.

Classic French Twist

This one is pure elegance. Whenever I style bridesmaids for formal ballroom weddings, I almost always think of the classic French twist. It feels refined and very put-together.

Start by smoothing the hair back, twist it upward along the back of your head, and secure with pins tucked inside the roll. Honestly, it takes a bit of practice, so maybe try once before the big day. A little hairspray keeps everything neat. In my opinion, this style pairs beautifully with bold lipstick and structured gowns.

Hollywood Glam Waves

And finally, Hollywood glam waves — my absolute favorite for evening weddings. Every time I see this style, I think red carpet. It’s dramatic but still bridal-party appropriate.

Use a large barrel iron and curl all sections in the same direction. Brush them out gently to create that smooth, flowing wave pattern. I’ve found using a shine serum makes it look extra luxurious. To be fair, it does take time and patience, but the final result is stunning. If the bride wants a glamorous theme, this hairstyle completes the whole look perfectly.