Top Hair Styling Tips for a Perfect Wedding Day Look
But with so many options—elegant updos, romantic waves, intricate braids, sleek ponytails—how do you choose the perfect style?
Choose a Style that Matches Your Dress
Your hairstyle should complement—not compete with—your wedding dress. The neckline, material, and vibe of your gown can all influence which hairstyle will look best.
- Strapless or sweetheart necklines: Soft curls, loose waves, or romantic updos work well to frame your shoulders and balance the bare neckline.
- High neck or halter dresses: Consider an updo or high bun to elongate your neck and show off the dress detail.
- Open back dresses: Low buns, side-swept curls, or braid crowns can beautifully highlight your back.
- Bohemian or beachy dresses: Loose, natural waves, floral accessories, or messy braids complete the relaxed vibe.
Tip: Bring photos of your dress to your hair trial to help your stylist design a look that harmonizes with your gown.
Consider the Weather and Venue
Planning an outdoor wedding or a summer ceremony? Humidity and wind can seriously affect your hair. Be sure to choose a style that can withstand the elements.
- Outdoor or beach weddings: Go for styles with a little texture—like soft waves or tousled buns. These can adapt better to wind or humidity.
- Indoor, formal venues: Structured buns, sleek ponytails, and polished chignons are perfect for elegant settings.
- Rustic or garden weddings: Braids, half-up styles, and floral crowns create a romantic, natural look.
Pro tip: Use humidity-resistant products and extra hold sprays if your ceremony is in a humid or breezy environment.
Think About Hair Accessories
Accessories can elevate any hairstyle and make it more bridal. Just don’t overdo it—choose one or two statement pieces that enhance your look.
Popular bridal hair accessories:
- Veils: Your stylist can secure it with your bun or underneath a half-up style.
- Pearl or rhinestone pins: Add elegance and sparkle to any updo.
- Floral crowns: Ideal for boho or garden weddings.
- Tiaras or headbands: Perfect for fairytale weddings.
- Combs or clips: Great for side-swept curls or tucking into low buns.
Tip: Always bring your accessories to your hair trial to see how they’ll look in your chosen style.
Schedule a Hair Trial (and Bring Inspiration)
Never go into your wedding day without a trial run. A hair trial gives you and your stylist the chance to test out different looks and find one that feels and looks right.
For your hair trial, bring:
- Pictures of hairstyles you like (Pinterest is great for this!)
- Your veil or any accessories
- A photo of your dress
- Honest feedback (your stylist wants you to love it!)
Try to book your hair trial 1-2 months before the wedding, and take plenty of photos from different angles to see how the style looks in pictures.
Prep Your Hair in Advance
To get the best results on the big day, you’ll want to prepare your hair ahead of time with proper care and planning.
Leading up to the wedding:
- Deep condition your hair weekly to boost moisture and shine.
- Trim dead ends 2-3 weeks before the wedding.
- Avoid drastic color changes right before the wedding—do it at least a month prior.
- Wash your hair the night before, not the day of (unless your stylist says otherwise). Slightly dirty hair holds styles better.
Pro tip: If you want to add length or volume, talk to your stylist about temporary extensions or clip-ins.
Choose a Style that Feels Like You
Trends come and go, but comfort and confidence never go out of style. Choose a hairstyle that fits your personality and makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
- If you usually wear your hair down, consider soft curls or a half-up look.
- If you're more comfortable with your hair up, go for a loose, elegant bun or twisted chignon.
- Avoid styles that are too tight or drastically different from your everyday look if you think it’ll make you feel uncomfortable.
Remember: You want to feel beautiful and like yourself in your wedding photos.
Coordinate with Your Bridal Party
If you're the bride, don’t forget to think about your bridal party! Their hairstyles should complement yours without overshadowing it.
You can:
- Choose a consistent style for everyone (like low buns or half-up curls).
- Let each person choose their own style, as long as it's cohesive with the theme.
- Add matching accessories like clips, combs, or flowers.
It’s also helpful to schedule a group styling session the morning of the wedding, so everyone gets ready together—plus it makes for great pre-ceremony photos!
Think “Photo-Ready”
Your hair should not only look good in person but also in pictures. Ask your stylist to check the style from all angles—front, sides, and back—so it photographs well.
Things to consider:
- Is your part in a flattering position?
- Will the veil stay secure during photos?
- Is the style too flat or too voluminous on camera?
- Is your hair smooth and frizz-free?
Bonus tip: Bring your photographer a few inspiration shots of the hair close-ups you want captured.
Have a Touch-Up Kit Ready
Even the best hair can lose shape after hours of dancing, hugging, and celebrating. Pack a small emergency kit just in case.
Include:
- Bobby pins
- Travel-size hairspray
- A comb or small brush
- Mini mirror
- Extra elastic bands
Give the kit to your maid of honor or keep it in your clutch for quick fixes throughout the night.