From classic rock to bumpin' new pop songs, here's a curated list of crowd-pleasers.
Updated Mar 06, 202538 Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Every Hair Type, Texture and Length
Inspo photos and advice, right this way.
Of the many duties that come with being in your bestie's wedding, picking out bridesmaid hairstyles is easily one of the most fun. That said, it's a task that often gets overlooked until the big day, which can leave you frantically scrolling through Pinterest while the glam squad patiently awaits your instructions. To keep this from happening to you, we've compiled tons of bridesmaid hair inspiration for every hair type, length and wedding vibe. Plus, we're answering your top questions about wedding hairstyles thanks to the help of Liza Ray, professional hairstylist and founder of Beauty Icon NYC, and Emily Wright, LA-based hairstylist and founder of Emily Lynn & Co. Read their top tips for picking out the perfect bridesmaid hairstyle, then keep scrolling for all the dreamy hair inspo you could ever need.
In this article:
Experts Answer Your Bridesmaid Hair Questions
Whether you're seeking advice about picking out the perfect hairstyle or wondering how to prepare before your appointment, we've got you covered. With the help of Wright and Ray, we're answering your biggest bridesmaid's hair questions ahead. If your bestie is still on the lookout for wedding hairstylists, we've got you covered there, too. Head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to discover pros she'll love.
How should I choose a bridesmaid hairstyle?
First thing's first: Before you actually choose a bridesmaid hairstyle, it's important to chat with the bride about her vision. "Some brides have a very clear idea of what they want, while others may be more flexible," says Ray. Even if the bride doesn't have any specific wishes, understanding her wedding theme and vibe will help set the tone and guide everyone toward a cohesive aesthetic. "A castle wedding might call for more romantic, structured styles, while a garden or beach wedding may lend itself better to looser, more effortless looks," Ray adds.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
Next, think about what you'll be wearing—the neckline of your dress can play a big role in how a hairstyle complements the overall look. "Strapless or off-the-shoulder styles often pair beautifully with loose waves or soft updos, while high necklines tend to work better with elegant updos or sleek ponytails to keep the focus on the dress," says Ray.
Finally, don't forget to be practical. If the wedding is taking place in a hot or humid climate, putting your hair up might be a good idea. "Bridesmaid updos or half-up styles can help prevent frizz, keep hair off the face and neck and ensure the style lasts all day, which is especially important during outdoor ceremonies or summer weddings," says Ray. This also isn't the time to test the waters with something new. "Stick with styles that feel like 'you' to avoid any last-minute disappointment," she adds. "If your hair never holds a curl, it likely won't magically last all day just because it's styled professionally. Be honest about your hair's texture and limitations so we can work with it—not against it."
What should I do to prepare for my bridesmaid hair appointment?
According to Ray, hair that's been thoroughly washed and dried is the best canvas for a long-lasting, beautiful bridesmaid hairstyle. "Don't fall for the 'second-day hair' myth," she says. "It is not true that dirty hair helps a style last longer. In fact, it can make your hair harder to work with." Unless you plan on getting a blowout, make sure to wash and dry your hair before you start getting ready.
Another important prep step? Gathering inspiration. If you're paying for hair and makeup, having photos of the bridesmaid hairstyles you like is a great way to ensure that you look and feel great while you're standing by your BFF at the altar. "Take some creative agency and bring together multiple images of looks you love and make it your own by combining elements of your everyday aesthetic along with a more formal or different look," says Wright.
Should maid-of-honor hairstyles be different?
While the maid of honor can certainly go her own direction, her hairstyle doesn't have to be different from everyone else's. Maids of honor—and bridesmaids, for that matter—should go with a hairstyle that makes them feel confident and jives with their hair type, texture and length. "Most of my brides and bridal parties are choosing different hair, makeup and outfit looks and really embracing individuality," says Wright. To keep things feeling cohesive, brides can offer flexibility within a shared style direction. "Instead of assigning one exact hairstyle to everyone, brides can offer a few options that align with the same theme," says Ray. Maybe that means soft, romantic updos or half-up styles, with each bridesmaid giving it her own spin based on her hair type and length. "This allows individuality while still keeping the group's look consistent and polished."
How do I find bridesmaid hairstyle inspiration?
Ahead, we're bringing you a roundup of bridesmaid hairstyle inspiration so you can be fully prepared once the big day comes. As you scroll through the inspo photos below, try to find ones that reflect your natural hair color, length and texture. "This helps set realistic expectations and gives your stylist a clear vision of what will work best for your specific hair type, making it easier to achieve a beautiful, flattering look," says Ray. Another professional-approved tip is to sift through red carpet looks for inspiration. "Celebrities often wear modern, elegant styles that work beautifully for weddings and offer a more current, fashion-forward perspective," says Ray.
The Best Bridesmaid Hairstyles to Inspire Your Look
Ahead, you'll find a roundup of fresh, of-the-moment looksbridesmaids' hairstyles perfect for 2025. The consensus? Minimal and simple bridesmaid hairstyles are having their moment—think half-up ponytails and undone updos. "I'm seeing a lot of bridesmaids embrace hair down or elevate a look that feels authentic to their day-to-day styles," Wright says. Ray's latest work has had a similar vibe. "My recent favorites for bridesmaids are half-up-half-down, messy Pam Anderson updos with face-framing pieces, messy low buns, ponies and soft waves," she says. For all these looks and more, scroll through the list of bridesmaids' hairstyles ahead and bookmark this article for future reference.
FOR YOU
How to Care For Your Hair Before the Wedding
Pro-approved suggestions to help you achieve your dream wedding hair.
Wedding Stress Hair Loss & Top Hair Loss Remedies
Here's what you need to know.
Everything to Know About Wedding Hair Extensions
Thinking about hair extensions for your wedding? It's not as complicated as you think.
1. Bouncy Wrap-Around Ponytail
A bun isn't the only way to keep your hair out of your face. Try this sleek bridesmaid ponytail instead, complete with bouncy curls and a small piece of hair wrapped around the elastic for a polished look.
2. Loose Updo With Face-Framing Waves
Cue the Pamela Anderson updo. If you don't want to wear your hair down but still want a bridesmaid hairstyle that feels relaxed and romantic, this twisted, piecey look will fit the bill.
3. Beachy Waves With Twisted Side Strands
These textured waves would be perfect for any beach or outdoor wedding ceremony. Even better? The twisted side strands will ensure they stay out of your face.
4. Coily Updo With Bangs
Embrace coily curls with a delicately done updo and loose pieces surrounding the face.
5. Bouncy, Half-Up-Half-Down Curls
Can't decide between wearing your hair up and wearing it down? Have the best of both worlds with half-up-half-down curls.
6. Messy Low Bun With Face-Framing Strands
A low and loose bun with face-framing curls is as classic as it gets. Plus, your hair will already be up once it's time to hit the dance floor.
7. Half-Up-Half-Down Box Braids
Cool girl wedding party hair, right this way. Upgrade the effortlessly chic vibe of small box braids by pulling a few strands back and loosely securing them into a half-up-half down look.
8. Soft and Voluminous Waves
If the bride prefers simple looks, you can't go wrong with soft and voluminous waves parted down the middle.
9. Half-Up-Half-Down Waves With a Twist
There's more than one way to rock a half-up-half-down look. Try switching things up by adding a single twist to the top half of your hair.
10. Soft Low Bun With Natural Curls
Pull your natural hair back into a voluminous bun with face-framing tendrils for a low-effort, high-impact look that exudes romance.
11. Old Hollywood Waves
Old Hollywood waves are all the rage—and they're a lot easier to pull off than you'd think.
12. Sleek and Simple Low Bun
With the right products, a sleek bun will work well for pretty much any hair type—and you can't beat the staying power.
13. Long Bob With Natural Curls
While you might feel like hairstyles for bridesmaids are tough with shorter hair, the options are aplenty when it comes to accessories. We love the bold floral detail this bridesmaid added to her naturally curly long bob.
14. Curly Updo With Face-Framing Strands
Want to emulate the effortless vibe of your hair when it's thrown up in a claw clip? Meet the black-tie equivalent.
15. Voluminous Dutch Fishtail Braid
Traditional wedding updos aren't your only option when it comes to hairstyles for bridesmaids. Add interest to a simple dress and keep your hair out of your face with a voluminous fishtail braid.
16. High Ponytail With Hollywood Waves
Combine the glamour of Hollywood waves with the practicality of a high ponytail. Wrap a small strand of hair around the elastic for a polished look.
17. Ultra-High Updo With Locs
Twisting your locs into an ultra-high, Janelle Monae-inspired updo will add instant interest to your bridesmaid beauty look. Plus: It'll keep your hair out of your face while you take over the dance floor.
18. Sleek Braided Bun With Face-Framing Strands
Add an eye-catching twist to an otherwise simple bun with a braid and face-framing strands.
19. Beachy Waves With Crown Braid
Add a crown braid to beachy waves to keep them out of your face at a seaside ceremony. Once your braid is in place, pull each strand outward to give it a loose, undone look.
20. Sleek Pretzel Bun
While it might look complicated, a pretzel knot is one of the easiest variations on a sleek bun. Simply split your ponytail into two sections and wrap them around each other as you twist them into a bun.
21. Soft Half-Up-Half-Down Waves
Have straight hair? Keep your look simple by tossing half of it up and curling just the ends.
22. Twistout With Bold Accessories
One of the easiest hairstyles for bridesmaids? Top off a teeny twistout with a bold accessory just like this bride did.
23. Sleek Infinity Bun
Think you've seen every variation of the slick-back bun? This bold infinity bun begs to differ.
24. Classic Curls With Pinned Sides
Get the glamour of classic curls and the ease of an updo when you add a few bobby pins to the sides.
25. Classic French Twist
This classic French twist exudes cool '90s vibes. If the bride is okay with bridesmaid accessories, add a bit of interest with a French hair pin.
26. Textured Pixie Cut
The coolest hair designs for bridesmaids don't require long hair. Take this cool, textured pixie cut for example—just add a little texturizing spray or pomade and run your fingers throughout.
27. Wavy Fishtail Braid With Pearl Embellishments
Sprinkle pearl-embellished bobby pins throughout a fishtail braid with loose waves. Just make sure you get the okay from the bride first.
28. Curly Bob WIth Headband
Curls work just as well on classic bobs as they do on long hair. Top off your look with an embellished headband for even more interest.
29. Messy Top Knot With Curls
A messy top knot, but make it chic. Curl your hair first for extra volume, then pull out a few front pieces to frame the face.
30. Sleek High Ponytail With Ribbon
A simple high ponytail doesn't have to be boring. In fact, adding a ribbon instantly makes it feel party-ready.
31. Classic Curls
If the bride wants relaxed, laidback bridesmaid hairstyles, classic curls with a large-barrel curling iron are a great option.
32. Straight Bob With Bangs
This straight bob with short bangs is one of the easiest bridesmaid hairstyles to achieve, and it looks great with or without a headband.
33. Loose Low Bun With Face-Framing Strands
Pull the back half of your hair into a low, loose bun, then incorporate the remaining pieces with bobby pins for a super romantic effect.
34. Romantic Curls
Curly hairstyles work great for long, layered cuts. For an ethereal vibe, use a medium-barrel curling wand.
35. Half-Up-Half-Down Natural Curls
For a sleek touch and lots of practicality, pull your natural curls back into a half-up-half-down style.
36. Simple Low Bun
If you have fine, limp hair, give it a bit of volume by teasing the top. Then, pull it out of your face and lock it in place with a low, loose bun.
37. Soft Waves With Twisted Front Pieces
Want soft waves that can withstand hours on the dance floor? Section off a few front pieces, twist them back and secure them with bobby pins.
38. Relaxed Infinity Bun With Face-Framing Pieces
If you have full, thick hair or plan on bringing some clip-in extensions, try an infinity bun for a unique look.
