16 Stunning Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Long Hair
When it comes to bridesmaid hairstyles for long hair, you’ve got choices—lots of choices! From a messy loose updo to dreamy curled bridesmaid hair or that classic half-up half-down do, your hair needs to look as good as you feel on your bestie’s big day. After all, this isn’t just another night out, it’s a major memory in the making!
If you’re stepping up as the maid of honor, even more reason to bring your A-game with a hairstyle that’s Instagram-ready and dance-floor durable.
But don’t just take our word for it, we reached out to some seriously fabulous hair experts to come up with the most stunning styles for long bridesmaid hair. Check out their bios and links at the end of the article.
So, let’s take a look and find your signature style!
1. Romantic Waterfall Braid
Braids are timeless classics for formal styles, and for good reason. This waterfall braid gives off dreamy, ethereal vibes, making it perfect for outdoor or boho weddings. It’s a style that embraces long and thick hair, with braided sections cascading like a gentle stream through soft waves.
Kate Ross from Irresistible Me describes it best, “A cascading braid creates a dreamy, romantic feel. Paired with loose waves, this style highlights the length of long hair beautifully, making it ideal for outdoor or boho weddings.”
2. Effortless Waves
Sometimes the simplest styles have the biggest impact. Effortless waves deliver a relaxed, natural elegance that fits both beachside nuptials and formal ballroom ceremonies. Think of it as your go-to hairstyle if you want that “I woke up flawless” vibe.
Rachel Voss from Voss Salons explains, “Soft, flowing waves that add elegance and movement” are the key to this look. Add a floral headband or sparkly hairpins for a touch of flair, and you’re all set for a breezy, picture-perfect day.
3. Glam Updo
Channel your inner celeb with a glam updo that has a touch of whimsy. With hair gathered and styled off your face, you’ll feel effortlessly chic and ready for every camera flash. This style would make you red-carpet ready, and trust me, it’s a wedding crowd-pleaser too.
Plus, no worries about wind or humidity ruining your moment—this style can weather all conditions and will keep you fresh from the vows to the after-party.
4. The Full Top Half-Up Half-Down Enchantment
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is like the MVP of wedding hair—romantic, versatile, and dance-floor friendly. Gwenda Harmon from Power Your Curls points out, “The half-up, half-down style is very traditional. I prefer to make the top part of hair a bit fuller while letting the bottom section stay loose and natural. It’s romantic and timeless, plus it’s easy to move around in if you’re dancing!”
Whether it’s adorned with curls, braids, or delicate hairpins, this look delivers an effortlessly balanced combination of structure and flow.
5. Voluminous Ponytail
If you’re after a sleek yet bold look, the voluminous ponytail is your match. Big, bouncy curls take center stage, and adding a touch of volume to the crown gives you that chic, high-fashion finish.
Kate shares her tip for making it extra glam: “Wrapping a strand of hair around the base of the ponytail adds a polished, professional touch. Usually, for this type of style, ponytail hair extensions are a great idea.”
Perfect for someone who loves both comfort and style!
6. Bohemian Crown Braids
For the bridesmaid who wants a touch of boho magic, crown braids are your answer. These wrap-around braids create a halo effect, perfect for outdoor or garden weddings. Toss in a few small flowers or sprigs of greenery to complete the nature-inspired aesthetic. Ready yourself for endless fairytale compliments!
7. Messy Bun Magic
The messy bun is the go-to option for carefree and confident bridesmaids. It’s casual enough for a relaxed wedding but polished enough to work for more formal settings. Leave a few loose strands around your face to add that extra hint of softness. This look says, “I’m fashionable and fun,” and trust me, everyone will be jealous of how cool you look.
The messy bun is the go-to option for carefree and confident bridesmaids. It’s both stylish and relaxed, giving off a modern and chic vibe. Tip: leave a few strands loose for an effortless finish.
8. Sleek and Glam
Sometimes long and chic is all you need to look polished and refined. This hairstyle works for both modern and minimalist aesthetics. With a glossy finish, your hair will look polished from aisle to dance floor. It’s a subtle yet powerful style—perfect for bridesmaids who believe less is more when it comes to glamour.
9. Half Up Half Down with flowers
This is the hairstyle that practically whispers, “romance.” By incorporating flowers—delicate blooms or tiny vines—you elevate the half-up, half-down look with a fresh, natural touch. It’s a perfect fit for outdoor ceremonies or spring weddings where everything feels soft and magical. You’ll look like you just stepped out of a dream.
10. Slicked Headband
Glamorous and a little vintage, this look involves sleekly styled hair headband combined with some soft waves. Brooke from @brookiegbeauty loves this take, noting, “A soft Hollywood wave style with a slicked back ‘headband’ is a very popular style!”
And aren’t those pearls a beautiful touch? Perfect for those aiming for understated glamour with a hint of retro flair.
11. Boho Braid Beauty
Nothing captures effortless cool quite like a loose, boho braid. Gwenda suggests adding beachy waves for that relaxed, free-spirited feel: “For hair that is longer, I am liking a gentle braid that goes down your back. The braid adds some nice twist but still lets the length of your hair show nicely.”
It’s ideal for rustic weddings or any celebration that embraces boho-chic vibes.
12. Smooth High Ponytail
Sleek doesn’t have to mean boring. A high, smooth ponytail can be ultra-stylish, especially when you wrap a small piece of hair around the base to cover the elastic. Gwenda advises, “For a neat ponytail, I suggest keeping it smooth and high up on the head. It’s simple but looks fresh and clean!” Perfect for bridesmaids who want modern, minimalist glam.
13. Blowout Hair
A voluminous blowout is the definition of glam. Kate explains, “A sleek, voluminous blowout adds instant glam to long or medium-length hair. The smooth finish and bouncy ends create a chic and polished look that’s perfect for modern weddings.” If you want big, shiny, movie-star hair, this style is your go-to.
14. Twisted Low Bun
For bridesmaids attending a more formal or black-tie affair, a twisted low bun adds an air of sophistication. Kate highlights how this style brings depth and texture: “Long hair is gathered into a low bun with soft twists that add texture, while face-framing strands complete the look.” It’s sleek, artistic, and absolutely unforgettable.
15. Braided Half Up Half Down
We love adding timeless braids to different hairstyles! This style takes the beloved half-up, half-down look and spices it up with gorgeous braiding. It’s a playful yet romantic hairstyle that works beautifully with soft curls or waves. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between polished and carefree.
16. Sleek Half Up Half Down
If you’re after modern glam with a hint of tradition, go for a sleek variation of the half-up, half-down look. With a smooth, polished finish, it’s perfect for bridesmaids who want to be effortlessly elegant without too much fuss.
Your Dream Hair Awaits …
There you have it—16 stunning bridesmaid hairstyles for long hair. Whether you opt for chic waves, a voluminous pony, or an elegant updo, your perfect style is waiting. Find the one that makes you feel radiant and confident, then let the compliments and selfies roll in!
Thanks to Contributions from:
- Gwenda Harmon is a hair and beauty expert at Power Your Curls. With over 10 years of experience, Gwenda specializes in providing expert advice on hair care, styling, and beauty techniques.
- Rachel Voss of Voss Salon began her journey as a passionate hairstylist, dedicating herself to the art of hair and her beautiful guests. Over time, she transitioned into a role focused on teaching and development, and has since opened several successful salons.
- Kate Ross is a Hair Specialist at Irresistible Me, a beauty company specializing in hair extensions and wigs.
- Brookelyn from @brookiegbeauty, a hair and makeup artist specializing in color and curly hair.
- Lacey from lacedoeshair.com and @lacedoeshair, a whimsical luxury bridal hair specialist and makeup artist.
- The talented Fort Worth Tx Hair & Makeup Team at @modernmua and www.themodernmua.com
UP NEXT: Do Bridesmaids Pay for Hair and Makeup? Or Does the Bride?
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