For the girls by your side on (probably) the happiest day of your life, you want to make sure they both complement your style and look fabulous too. Deciding on the perfect bridesmaid hairstyle is an essential step for creating your desired aesthetic. And, with so many opinions and so much information out there, we know it can seem overwhelming to tick all the boxes. Here we'll deep dive into how bridesmaids should style their hair and share our favorite looks for 2024's wedding season.
How should bridesmaids wear their hair?
Whether you're planning a traditional do, a boho-beach vibe, or something a little wacky, it's important to consider your overall wedding theme, as this can help influence your decision. Another thing to consider is your bridesmaid's hair types, as you'll need to accommodate different bridesmaid hair types, lengths, and textures. You'll also want to think about the setting – I'm thinking maybe surfer-girl waves for a warm beach wedding or a slick bun for a chic city celebration. And, of course, you need to think about what your hair will be like, too and match or contrast accordingly.
55 Bridesmaid Hairstyles We Love
From hairstyle picks for natural hair types to stunning three-strand plaits and one-of-a-kind ponytails, read on for 55 bridesmaid hairstyles to try for 2024.
Dressy curtain bangs
Look no further if you're after an easy updo that flaunts your bangs. This stunning backcombed updo adds volume to your bridesmaids' hairstyles, while the curls at the front frame the face creating a super feminine look. What's more, you can add a gleaming clip, flowers, or other accessories to make this style your own.
Glossy Waves
If you're in need of a style that suits any hair length—and pairs with just about any bridesmaids dress—we suggest some classic, glossy waves. Use a shine spray like Redken Shine Flash Hair Spray to give your 'do a lightweight, high-shine finish while smoothing and taming flyaways.
Beach waves
Alternatively, if you're after something a little more relaxed, try this chilled coastal look. There's no need to tame flyaways as beach waves embrace that windswept charm. Why not try Pureology Beach Waves Style + Protect Sugar Spray to help achieve this breezy look?
Curled Ends
Curled ends are perfect if you want your mane to be free without too much hassle. This hair idea for bridesmaids is also good for DIYing your bridesmaid hair since it's so easy to achieve. Before you begin styling, be sure to use a heat protectant like Biolage Thermal Active Heat Protectant Spray.
Side-Swept Hollywood waves
Certain hairstyles perfectly match a dressy occasion, and a film-star side-swept look is sure a way to make a statement at weddings this season. To keep your bridesmaids' hair looking super shiny, add in for a glossy finish.
Loose Chignon With Face-Framing Pieces
Nothing is quite as elegant as a relaxed chignon complimented by face-framing pieces. Not to mention: This hairstyle is flattering for any face shape.
Textured Rolled Chignon
If you're going for a classic vibe, this textured tucked chignon is an elegant option for your bridesmaids. We recommend adding a floral accent to add a dash of color and femininity.
Spring Blooms
A beautiful way to incorporate your color scheme throughout your wedding scene is by using the same fresh flowers as your bouquets in your bridesmaids' hairstyle. Whether you opt for a chic chignon or loose curls, incorporating real roses, lavender, or bluebells can create a whimsical floral look.
Heart-shape
What better way to celebrate a day of love than this sweet-heart-shaped half-up 'do? Use Redken Control Addict 28 Hairspray to keep the shape in place. We love this dreamy style for adding volume and interest to your bridesmaids' hair, all while sharing the love.
French Twist
There are few wedding styles as timeless as the French twist. You, your bridesmaids, and your great-grandmother can all wear it.
Waterfall Braid
If you're looking for a simple yet elegant style for your bridesmaids, a waterfall braid is the way to go. Not to mention: it can be achieved in the comfort of your hotel suite.
Deep Side Part
Try a deep side part if you're searching for an easy way to amp up the volume. Switching up your part adds sophistication to your look and gives your roots a volume boost. Give your style even more body with Matrix High Amplify Wonder Boost Root Lifter. And, while you're at it, why not add a few curls to add even more volume?
Single Side Pin Back With Flowers
Try this classic single-side pin for a super-simple style that works with almost every length and texture of hair. All you need are a few bobby pins and some hair mousse. What we love about this look is you can do each other's if you wish. And you can personalize the look with a floral or sparkly accent. Why not try some whimsical baby's breath, or, for a dash of color and scent, we love adding a few sprigs of lavender to this look.
French Twist Ponytail
Ooh la la, the French twist-inspired ponytail is the epitome of elegance. This beautiful rolling style is undoubtedly a go-to for your bridesmaids. One of our favorite products to ensure this look stays in place all day long is the Biolage Freeze Fix Humidity Resistant Spray.
Fabulous Finger Waves
Chic, glamorous, and classic Hollywood—if this is how you want your guests to remember your big day, then have your bridesmaids wear finger waves. Because this style involves pre-planning and special skills to get it right, check in advance to ensure your chosen stylist has experience with the look.
Bouffant Ponytail
Our first ponytail look: The bouffant. We'll be the first to admit it: The bouffant is a style that traditionally screams "wedding." Still, we love the added volume and retro vibe of the look, especially when it's used to create a low, sleek ponytail.
Woven braided ponytail
If you love the classic ponytail but want, well, a little more pizazz to your bridesmaids' hair, look no further than the woven braided ponytail. A sweet criss-cross pattern will have your guests in awe of this stunning look. Just make sure you use a high-hold spray, like Redken Max Hold Neutral Hairspray 32, to keep this lush pattern in place.
Half-up slick knot
For a simple statement, try the half-up knot. We love this style, as it takes a sleek twist on a traditionally messy bun and creates an elegant wedding-ready 'do. While we love it on long straight hair, it also works to add some sweet end curls.
Curly Braided Pigtails
Don't assume you've outgrown pigtails. These curly tails offer a seriously glamorous look when styled for maximum shine.
Festival Pigtails
This one's for the brides who can't get enough of that outdoor party vibe. Whether you choose to add glitter, prop sunglasses on heads, or embellish with vibrant flowers, Festival pigtails are the perfect way to add character to your wedding day.
Boho Pigtail Plaits
While you might picture these relaxed plaits as an everyday look, they're an attractive option for a wedding at a beach or farm. We love leaving some strands at the front loose and wavey to create a beautiful frame for the face. This look you can achieve yourself. Just use a spray to keep the plaits in place, like Fixer Hairspray by Matrix.
Embellished Twists
Adorning your bridesmaids' hair with clip-in pearls is an elegant yet effortless way to add a touch of luxury to the look. You can also carry the pearl theme throughout your wedding with matching jewelry or weave them into your bouquets, too.
Pearl-Embellished Up-do
Continuing our love for pearls, adding these embellishments to an up 'do add a touch of glam to a classic look. If you’re not sure how to craft a chignon like this, check out our tutorial here.
Fishtail braid ponytail
A flowing, fishtail ponytail is a versatile style suitable for all wedding themes. This works well for those in your bridal party with longer hair. At the end of the braid, you'll need to secure it with an elastic, but you could also try wrapping hair around the band or adding a ribbon for a chic finish.
Side-swept Fishtail
Alternatively, you could add a little more interest to your fishtail style by opting for a side-swept statement. For the best results, you'll want to ensure the braid is as tight as possible and use a spray like Matrix Builder Wax Spray for enough grit and hold so your braid lasts the full wedding day.
The Triple Fishtail
Getting excited by all these fishtail styles? If one braid isn't enough for you and your bridesmaids, why not try this stunning triple braid? This look is sure to impress your guests. Just note that this intricate look may take a little while to complete on all your bridesmaids, so make sure you schedule in enough time.
Double Ponytail Updo
We're in love with this textured, over-the-top dramatic ponytail. Although this seems like a standard, curled ponytail, it's actually two: The second tail is hidden under the first to create the illusion of extra volume and length. If your wedding is all about glamour or your bridesmaids have extra-long hair, give this look a go.
Pinned Accent
Embrace your natural hair with this understated look. Whether it's curls, waves, or dead-straight, a pinned accent adds a touch of sophistication to any natural look. Ask the stylist to use embellished hair pins for added flair.
Pineapple Updo
Show off your bridesmaids' jewelry with an authentic pineapple updo. Style the pineapple so curls fall gently around the face for an extra photogenic finish. Be sure to use a styling product like Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion to keep your ringlets looking their best all day.
Floral Crown
If festival vibes are just as welcome in your nuptials as at outdoor concerts everywhere, a beautiful crown is one of the prettiest bridesmaids' hairstyles. This can be worn on hair that's up or down!
Vintage Victory Rolls
Honey, it's vintage. If your dream wedding comes complete with a swing band, full skirts, and old-fashioned cocktails, deck your bridal party out with this 1940s-inspired 'do. Ask your stylist to give your bridesmaids face-framing victory rolls while leaving the bangs loose and curled. Use a spray like Redken Root Tease Backcombing Spray to ensure this look lasts all night.
60's Flipped Ends
While we are taking this step back in time, it would be rude not to pay our respects to this beloved flipped-ends look. You can easily achieve this charming retro look by simply passing a flat iron over your hair and flipping the end.
Half-Up Rope Braid
Keep things simple with this half-up rope braid hairstyle for bridesmaids. It works with a wide range of lengths and hair textures, plus it's easy to recreate.
Sleek Ballerina Bun
Achieve your dream fairytale wedding with a classic ballerina bun. It's also the perfect style for keeping your bridesmaids' hair off their faces while they pirouette around the dance floor! To keep hair sleek, use Matrix Mega Sleek Iron Smoother Leave-In Spray before styling.
Fishtail Braid Headband
If you've been a victim of too-tight updos in past weddings, grant your bridesmaids a bit more slack with a loose fishtail braid style. They can remember all the details of your special day (and not a hairpin-induced headache).
Classic Chignon
The classic chignon placed at the nape of the neck is another sleek and timeless hair idea for bridesmaids. Simply split your bridesmaids' hair into three sections, create a bun with the middle section, and wrap the other two over and around the bun to hide the elastic.
Curly Ponytail
Ponytails are one of our top picks for showcasing natural ringlets. Use a hair gel like Matrix A Curl Can Dream Light Hold Gel to smooth the strands around your hairline while leaving the hair in the ponytail free and natural.
Thick Half-Up Braid
Hello, gorgeous braids! If your bridesmaids were blessed with thick hair—or if they're down for some extensions—this half-up thick braid will definitely make a statement. For tousled textures on the rest of the hair, use a touch of Redken Wax Invisible Texture Hairspray.
Half-Up Bouffant Pony
This half-up pony is taken to the next level with a slight bouffant at the crown, a wrapped ponytail, and loose waves. It's perfect for a bridal party! For the same sort of sparkling, silky finish, use Redken Oil for All before styling.
Beachy Undone Braid
Say Aloha to this relaxed undone braid. This might just be the perfect tropical bridesmaid hair for your girls. It's perfectly loose and textured, so you don't have to worry about anything coming "undone" in the tropical breeze.
Ornate Rosette
Add a regal charm to your bridesmaids' hairstyle with this ultra-romantic ornate rosette. Recreating'll take some time, but the impact is worth it.
Romantic half-up 'do
Are you seeking a timeless, versatile style that will flatter your bridal party? Look no further than this romantic half-up 'do. It's understated yet boasts a wealth of elegance. Plus, extra points for being a style that you can totally do without the help of a stylist.
The sleekest ponytail
Now, if you're looking for the style that will stay put come rain or shine, enter: the sleek ponytail. This is a style you can guarantee will look gorgeous all wedding long, especially if you plan on hitting the dance floor hard. You'll be after some strong-hold gel, like Redken Max Sculpting Gel, to keep the flyaways in check.
Snake Braid
Unless you plan on a reptile-themed wedding, I bet you didn't think we'd be talking about snakes. However, this half-up, half-down snake braid is taking weddings by storm in 2024. Simply create two braids on either side and push them backward with your fingers to create a snake-like effect.
Bubble Pony
For those whacky weddings I mentioned earlier, if you're after an unconventional style for your bridesmaids, try the bubble pony. Simply create a slicked-back ponytail and tie small elastics equidistance down the tail. You can also customize this by weaving through small flowers of sparkly thread for extra oomph.
Half-up heart
A style that will truly spread the love is this half-up heart. This beautiful style helps to create an ultra-romantic vibe on your special day. Just bear in mind you'll likely need a few bobby pins to keep this characterful look in place.
Halo Braid
You can thank the hair gods for this one. The most angelic style fit for the goddess's by your side on your big day. One braid circles around in a crown shape to create the halo effect. Don’t forget to add a floral accessory fit for the occasion!
Slick Front
Not only is a slick front simple to pull off, but it's a timeless style that flatters so many hair types. We recommend spritzing a bit of Redken Shine Flash Hair Spray tame flyaways.
Rosette half-up 'do
While you, the bride, are obviously the main character of your wedding day, that doesn't mean your bridesmaids can't share a bit of the wow factor. And they can absolutely do this with the half-up rosette. The intricate detailing and loose curls below create a stunning effect. Use Biolage Complete Control Hairspray to keep it all in place.
Blooming bouquet
And as if one rosette wasn't enough, why not keep the florals coming with this delicate bouquet style? It's completely up to you how many flowers you wish to add to this look, but for extra flower power, try adding your own leaves or sprigs of wildflowers to complete the look.
Voluminous Chignon
One word. Wow. This striking style is sure to turn heads. The voluminous chignon uses a hair donut or sock bun to boost the bun's size. You'll need some Redken Control Hairspray to keep this showstopper in place!
Mini accent braid
Accent braids are hotter than ever in 2024, plus they're a breeze to create. Have your bridesmaids craft a classic three-strand plait or a dainty fishtail braid on either side of their head. This is one you can do without the help of a professional stylist.
Bedazzled Updo
Make the whole place shimmer. For extra flair, bejewel your updo with miniature gems to pull the whole look together. We love how the jewels sparkle in the sunshine in the day but also have you disco-ready for when the sun sets.
Bombshell Curls
We're embracing big hair energy in 2024, so it's no surprise that bombshell curls made the list. Want to give the rom-com core trend a whirl? Bombshell curls may be the answer.
High ponytail
The high ponytail: Simple, elegant, and classy. To make an impact, use Redken's Root Lifter Volumizing Spray to achieve your high ponytail.
Interested in personalized advice about the best hair care routine for your mane? Use our salon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.