15 Stunning Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair

• Strapless or sweetheart: Wear your hair down, or try a half-up style.

• Halter or high neck: Choose an updo — loose hair clashes with the neckline and looks busy.

 

Wedding Theme and Venue

That elaborate braided style you saved? It may not withstand a blustery outdoor ceremony or a humid summer reception.

• Beach settings: Wind and salt spray are updo killers — pick secure, well-pinned braids.
• Garden receptions: Go for a romantic, softly undone finish; it suits the setting.
• Formal venues: This is where you can lean into full-on glamour without weather worries.

 

Work WITH Your Hair Type

• Fine hair: Needs texture and hold — braids and tousled looks work best.

• Thick hair: Can carry intricate styles but requires proper support; use elastics and strong pins — don’t bank on kirby grips alone.

• Curly hair: Skip the straighteners and embrace your natural curl pattern.

 

15 Stunning Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair

These classic styles never go out of style.

1. Side-Swept Chignon

 

Think of this as the bridesmaid hair equivalent of a little black dress — it suits everyone and looks luxe in photos.

Why it works: A soft side sweep flatters most face shapes, and the low placement lets your earrings take centre stage.

Best for: Square or round faces, formal settings, and classic gowns.

Pro tip: Leave a few soft, face-framing strands for a gentler, more romantic finish.

 

2. Low Bun with Braided Detail

A plain low bun can feel a bit flat — add plaited detail and it suddenly looks bespoke.

How to do it: Work in a side plait that wraps around the bun, or thread a few slim plaits through the up-do.

Best for: Medium to thick hair.

 

3. Old Hollywood Waves (When Done Right)

Hollywood waves are glorious when done properly — and unforgiving when they’re not.

The key: A mirror-gloss finish and perfectly even, sculpted S-waves throughout.

Best for: Black-tie weddings and vintage/Old-Hollywood themes.

 

Bohemian and Relaxed Styles

4. Loose Fishtail Braid

Ditch the tight, picture-perfect fishtail plaits. The relaxed version looks cooler and is much easier to pull off.

The key: Keep it loose and slightly undone. After plaiting, gently pull at the sides to add texture and fullness.

Best for: Outdoor ceremonies, boho themes, bridesmaids with medium to thick hair.

 

5. Half-Up Twisted Crown

You get up-do polish at the crown while keeping length and movement through the back.

How it works: Twist slim sections from each temple and pin them at the back to form a soft crown, leaving roughly 70% of the hair down.

Best for: Bridesmaids who want flow in photos but need a bit of structure framing the face.

 

6. Messy Side Bun with Tendrils

The funny thing? This “effortless” look takes a good 20 minutes to nail — but it’s worth it.

The key: Artfully undone. Leave soft, face-framing strands and pack texture into the bun itself.

Best for: Outdoor weddings, laid-back venues, and bridesmaids who prefer a not-too-polished finish.

 

Modern and Trendy Options

Fancy something more current? These modern looks are ideal for fashion-forward bridesmaids who want to make an impact.

 

7. Dutch Braid into Low Ponytail

Delivers a striking contrast: textured plait up top with a sleek ponytail.

Why it works: A Dutch plait (inside-out French) adds structure and detail, while the pony keeps it clean, modern and wearable.

Best for: Modern weddings; straight to softly wavy hair.

 

8. Textured Top Knot

Skip the ultra-sleek ballet bun — today’s top knots are all about deliberate volume and texture.

Key elements: High placement, artfully undone finish, plenty of lift at the crown.

Best for: Thick hair; bridesmaids keen to show off statement earrings; receptions with lots of dancing.

 

9. Waterfall Braid with Curls

It’s essentially wearable art. The plait frames the face while curls spill through the woven detail.

The effect: Show-stopping photos from every angle.

Best for: Romantic weddings; bridesmaids with natural curls or waves; outdoor ceremonies.

 

Vintage-Inspired Bridesmaid Looks

For themed weddings or brides who adore retro glamour, these vintage-inspired looks will whisk everyone back to a more elegant era.

 

10. Victory Rolls with Pin Curls

These 1940s-style victory rolls add height and drama without veering into fancy dress.

Modern take: Pair with soft, brushed-out waves instead of tight pin curls.

Best for: Vintage-themed weddings and bridesmaids who don’t mind making a statement.

 

11. 1920s Finger Waves (Updated)

Pure Art Deco polish: sculpted S-waves sitting close to the head for true Old-Hollywood glamour.

Pro tip: Wear it as a deep side sweep on one side for maximum impact.

Best for: Gatsby-inspired weddings, evening dos, and vintage gowns.

 

12. Gibson Tuck

Roll the lengths under and tuck them for a polished low up-do that shows off length while creating a refined silhouette.

Why it’s ideal: Highlights very long hair yet keeps everything secure and photo-ready.

Best for: Classic weddings; bridesmaids with hair past the shoulders.

 

Statement Styles for Bold Bridesmaids

Certain bridesmaids want impact without overstepping the day — these striking styles suit those with confidence to be seen.

 

13. High Ponytail with Volume

Not your gym pony — add lift at the crown and keep the lengths sleek for a polished, modern finish.

Bonus: Perfect for showing off statement earrings.
Best for: Contemporary weddings; younger bridesmaids; sleek, minimalist gowns.

 

14. Braided Crown with Loose Waves

Gives a goddess vibe: a plaited crown acts as a natural headband while loose waves fall freely.

Best for: Boho weddings; outdoor ceremonies; bridesmaids after something ethereal.

 

15. Asymmetrical Side Braid

A deep side part with a braid on one side, keeping the other smooth and sleek.

Why it works: Adds asymmetry and texture for interest without tipping into anything too avant-garde for a wedding.

Best for: Modern ceremonies; bridesmaids who want something distinctive yet appropriate.

 

FAQs

Q: Who Pays for Bridesmaid Hair and Makeup?

A: Traditionally, the bride covers hair and make-up as a thank-you for standing with her. In practice, that custom’s fading fast—most couples are already stretched by wedding costs. Best bet: sort it early. No one wants a surprise bill when you’re already paying for the dress and shoes.

Q: How far in advance should I book my bridesmaid hair appointment?

A: Book at least 6–8 weeks ahead. In spring and summer, make it 10. Popular stylists get booked up fast, and you don’t want to be scrambling with a random pick right before the big day.

Q: Should all bridesmaids have the same hairstyle?

A: Most brides want a coordinated feel, not carbon copies. Pick a shared theme—say, braids—with different takes, or go for up-dos with some high, some low, some sleek, some tousled. Set the overall vibe and let each bridesmaid interpret it.

Q: What if my hair won't hold the style I want?

A: After a few hair mishaps, here’s the takeaway: stop battling your hair’s natural texture and work with it. Fine, slippery hair? Braids and twists are your best bet. Curly hair? Please don’t straighten it for a wedding — embrace the curls.