When you’re invited to a wedding, one of the first questions that pops into your mind (after what am I going to wear?) is: what am I going to do with my hair?
The truth is, wedding guest hairstyles can be just as tricky to choose as the perfect dress or shoes. You want something stylish and polished, but not so over-the-top that you outshine the bride.
It needs to match the formality of the wedding, complement your outfit, and—let’s be honest—survive hours of dancing, hugging, and maybe even a little happy-crying.
The good news? You don’t need to stress. In this guide, we’ve rounded up 50+ wedding guest hair ideas that work for every hair length, texture, and wedding style.
From elegant updos for wedding guests and playful wedding guest braids to timeless half up half down wedding guest hairstyles, you’ll find inspiration no matter your vibe.
Whether you’re headed to a formal black-tie affair, a breezy beach ceremony, or a rustic outdoor celebration, we’ve got the styles (and tips!) that will keep you looking polished and photo-ready all day long.
Quick Guide: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Guest Hairstyle
Before you dive into our list of 50+ looks, let’s talk about how to actually choose the right style for the wedding you’re attending.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule — wedding guest hairstyles should balance the event’s vibe with your personal comfort. Here are some quick things to consider:
Match the Wedding Style – A church wedding calls for sleek buns or polished twists, while rustic barn weddings pair beautifully with boho braids. For beach ceremonies, stick to easy wedding hairstyles that hold up against humidity and wind.
Consider Your Hair Length & Texture – Short hair shines with chic bobs and playful clips, while medium hair is perfect for half-up styles or soft curls. Long hair allows for updos for wedding guests, flowing waves, or intricate braids. Work with your natural texture for the most flattering look.
Keep Comfort in Mind – Weddings are long days! Go for styles that feel secure and last through dancing and photos. Accessories like jeweled clips, pearl pins, or headbands not only look chic but also help keep your style in place.
Complement Your Outfit & Makeup – Your hairstyle should complete your look. High necklines pair well with updos, while bold earrings shine with tucked-behind-ear waves. Match with a polished makeup look (see our makeup guides for wedding guests) for a cohesive finish.
Don’t Overdo It – Remember, you’re there to celebrate, not to compete. Keep formal hairstyles for wedding guests chic but understated — glamorous without upstaging the bride.
Wedding Guest Hairstyles by Hair Length
Short Hair Wedding Guest Styles
Short hair doesn’t mean limited options — in fact, it can be chic, modern, and surprisingly versatile for weddings. Whether you’re rocking a pixie cut, a bob, or a lob, these short hair wedding guest styles will make you stand out (without stealing the bride’s spotlight).
1. Pixie Glam Waves
Soft finger waves or light curls add instant glamour to a pixie cut. This timeless look is perfect for formal or vintage-inspired weddings.
2. Textured Bob with Side Pin
A tousled bob paired with a jeweled or floral hairpin keeps things playful and polished — great for rustic or garden weddings.
3. Sleek Bob with Tucked-Behind-Ear Look
Straighten your bob and tuck one side behind the ear for a sleek, modern vibe. Pair with statement earrings for extra drama.
4. Vintage Finger Waves
If you’re attending a black-tie or Gatsby-inspired event, finger waves bring that old-Hollywood elegance to short hair.
5. Accessorized Pixie with Jeweled Clip
A sparkling barrette or hair comb instantly dresses up a simple pixie, making it reception-ready in seconds.
6. Tousled Bob with Loose Curls
Loose, textured curls in a bob give a romantic, effortless feel that works beautifully for outdoor or beach weddings.
7. Half-Pinned Short Cut
Pin back the front section of your bob or pixie to create the illusion of a half up half down wedding guest hairstyle, even with short hair.
8. Faux Updo for Short Hair
Gather the back of your bob with hidden pins to mimic a chic updo. Perfect for guests who want the sophistication of an updo without the length.
9. Mini Braid Accents
Add small wedding guest braids to your short cut for a boho touch. A side braid or braided crown works especially well with shoulder-grazing lobs.
10. Curly Pixie with Volume
Play up natural curls or create defined waves with mousse and a diffuser. Volume at the crown gives this style a festive, photo-ready finish.
💡 Tip: Short hair looks especially stunning with accessories — think pearl pins, floral combs, or chic metallic headbands. They not only elevate the look but also keep your style in place all night.
Medium Hair Wedding Guest Looks
Medium-length hair is the sweet spot — not too short, not too long, and incredibly versatile. From effortless waves to polished updos, these wedding guest hairstyles strike the perfect balance between casual and formal. Here are 15 ideas to inspire your look:
1. Soft Beach Waves
Loose, textured waves are a go-to for romantic or outdoor weddings. Add a spritz of sea salt spray for a natural finish.
2. Low Twisted Bun
A chic low bun with subtle twists looks polished without being too formal — ideal for church or garden ceremonies.
3. Half-Up Braided Crown
This half up half down wedding guest hairstyle combines the best of both worlds: secure hair with soft waves flowing freely.
4. Polished Blowout
A smooth, shiny blowout with a middle part is timeless and elegant, perfect for semi-formal and black-tie weddings alike.
5. Chignon with Side Part
The classic chignon gets a modern update when paired with a deep side part. Elegant yet understated.
6. Romantic Curls with Pins
Soft curls pinned back on one side with a jeweled barrette add instant wedding-ready glam.
7. Braided Ponytail
A sleek ponytail with a braid running down the center or along the side gives playful yet chic energy.
8. Sleek Low Pony with Wrap
Keep it simple and stylish: tie your hair into a low ponytail and wrap a small section of hair around the band.
9. Waterfall Braid
A cascading braid paired with waves creates a dreamy, romantic look — perfect for rustic or boho weddings.
10. Side-Swept Curls
Gather curls to one side for an elegant, asymmetrical style that frames your face beautifully.
11. Twisted Half-Up
Twist two front sections back into a half-up style for an effortless yet polished look.
12. Hollywood Waves
Big, glossy waves with a side part bring old-Hollywood glamour to medium-length hair — stunning for black-tie events.
13. French Twist Variation
Adapt the classic French twist to medium hair by keeping it looser and pinning at the nape for a softer finish.
14. Double Braids with Waves
Two small braids worked into loose curls add a boho touch while keeping hair out of your face.
15. Loose Knotted Bun
Tie hair into a soft knot at the back for a romantic, undone vibe. Add a few face-framing tendrils for extra charm.
💡 Tip: Medium hair works well with nearly any accessory — floral crowns, pearl pins, or sparkly combs can completely transform a simple style into a wedding-ready look.
Long Hair Wedding Guest Hairstyles
Long hair gives you endless styling possibilities — from cascading curls to intricate braids and polished updos. These long hair wedding guest looks are versatile enough to suit any wedding style, whether you’re heading to a formal black-tie event, a casual beach ceremony, or something in between.
1. Classic Low Bun
A timeless choice for long hair — sleek, simple, and perfect for formal hairstyles for wedding guests. Add pearl pins for a refined touch.
2. High Sleek Ponytail
A chic, pulled-back ponytail with wrapped hair hides the elastic and gives a polished finish that’s perfect for black-tie weddings.
3. Boho Fishtail Braid
A loose fishtail braid works beautifully for rustic or outdoor weddings. Pull out a few strands for a soft, boho vibe.
4. Half-Up with Volume
This half up half down wedding guest hairstyle adds height at the crown while letting curls or waves cascade naturally.
5. Loose Curls with Floral Pins
Romantic curls accented with small floral pins or clips create a whimsical, garden-party-ready look.
6. Side Braid with Waves
Braid one side of your hair and blend it into soft waves for a chic yet relaxed style — perfect for beach weddings.
7. Twisted Crown Braid
A braid twisted around the crown of your head adds instant elegance and keeps hair off your face while still showing off your length.
8. Mermaid Waves
Long, flowing waves with a glossy finish are stunning for both casual and formal weddings — especially outdoor ceremonies.
9. Hollywood Glamour Curls
Big, glossy curls swept to one side bring red-carpet energy to your wedding appropriate hairstyle.
10. Low Braided Bun
Combine the elegance of a bun with the detail of braids by tucking a side braid into a chic low bun.
11. Braided Chignon
A slightly more intricate version of the bun, with small braids woven into the chignon for added texture.
12. Loose Half-Up with Ribbon
Tie back half your hair with a velvet or satin ribbon for a soft, feminine look that works at both rustic and semi-formal weddings.
13. Voluminous Ponytail
Add texture and height to a ponytail for a dramatic, photo-ready style that’s perfect for reception dancing.
14. Layered Waves with Headband
Long, layered hair styled in soft waves looks gorgeous with a jeweled or floral headband — an easy way to elevate a simple look.
15. Polished Sleek Straight Look
Sometimes less is more — straightened, glossy hair with a center part can be one of the most striking long hair wedding guest hairstyles.
💡 Tip: Long hair can feel heavy — use lightweight styling products and secure with discreet pins or elastics to keep your look lasting from ceremony to after-party.
Wedding Guest Hairstyles by Wedding Style
Your hairstyle can (and should) reflect the overall vibe of the wedding you’re attending. A beach ceremony feels very different from a black-tie ballroom reception, and your hair should match the setting. Here are some wedding guest hair ideas curated for the most common wedding styles:
Formal Church Wedding Hairstyles
Classic, polished, and timeless — that’s the goal for a traditional church or chapel wedding. Think elegance without excess.
💡 Tip: Keep it simple and structured. Church weddings call for formal hairstyles for wedding guests that feel respectful and refined.
Sleek low chignon with pearl pins
French twist or braided chignon
Polished blowout with side part
Smooth half-up with volume at crown
Straight, glossy hair with subtle jeweled headband
Beach Wedding Hair Ideas
Humidity, breeze, and sunshine call for fuss-free yet beautiful styles. Loose and textured is your best friend here.
💡 Tip: Use salt spray or lightweight mousse for hold — easy wedding hairstyles are key for seaside settings.
Tousled beach waves with floral clips
Loose fishtail braid
Side braid woven into waves
Half-up style with soft curls
Messy bun with tendrils
Rustic/Outdoor Wedding Styles
Barns, vineyards, or garden weddings pair perfectly with soft, romantic, slightly undone looks.
💡 Tip: Rustic settings let you lean into wedding guest braids and floral accessories — embrace the natural vibe.
Boho braided crown
Loose curls with flower pins
Twisted half-up with ribbon
Double braids with waves
Low knot bun with greenery accents
Black-Tie Wedding Hairstyles
For a black-tie dress code, it’s all about glamour. Sleek lines, big curls, or intricate updos will complement evening gowns perfectly.
💡 Tip: Go bold with accessories — jeweled combs, crystal pins, or even a statement headband elevate wedding appropriate hairstyles for formal evenings.
Hollywood side-swept curls
High sleek ponytail
Braided low bun
Smooth French twist
Glossy straight hair with dramatic middle part
Hair Accessories for Wedding Guests
Sometimes the simplest hairstyle becomes wedding-ready with just the right accessory. Whether you’re wearing your hair down, opting for updos for wedding guests, or trying a half-up style, accessories can take your look from everyday to unforgettable. Here are some chic options to consider:
Jeweled Hair Pins & Combs
Sparkly bobby pins, pearl-studded combs, or crystal slides are perfect for adding elegance without overwhelming your look. Slip a jeweled comb into a sleek bun or pin curls with pearl bobby pins for a subtle but glamorous finish.
Headbands & Tiaras
A delicate headband or mini tiara can instantly elevate wedding guest hairstyles — especially if you’re attending a formal or black-tie event. Look for options with metallic finishes, rhinestones, or floral embellishments.
Floral Accents
Fresh or faux blooms tucked into your style work beautifully for rustic, garden, or beach weddings. A single rose or small cluster of baby’s breath can transform a simple bun into a romantic statement.
Ribbons & Bows
Ribbons are making a huge comeback in hair trends. A satin bow tied around a ponytail or half-up style feels both playful and wedding-appropriate. Stick to fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet for a luxe finish.
Decorative Clips & Barrettes
From oversized pearl barrettes to minimalist gold clips, these accessories are versatile and easy to use. They pair perfectly with half up half down wedding guest hairstyles or sleek, straight looks.
Seasonal Touches
Spring/Summer: floral crowns, pastel clips, seashell hair pins.
Fall/Winter: velvet bows, jewel-toned combs, metallic barrettes.
💡 Pro tip: Match your accessories to your outfit’s metal tones. If you’re wearing silver jewelry, pick hair clips or headbands with silver details to keep your look cohesive.
Wedding Guest Hair Don’ts (What to Avoid)
When it comes to wedding guest hairstyles, there are as many “don’ts” as there are do’s. A beautiful hairstyle should make you feel confident and polished, but it should also be respectful of the couple’s big day. Here are a few things to avoid when planning your look:
Don’t upstage the bride – skip elaborate tiaras or overly intricate updos that look bridal. Keep it elegant but understated.
Avoid overly casual styles – messy buns or plain ponytails look rushed (unless it falls in with the wedding vibe or setting, such as a boho beach wedding). However, even easy wedding hairstyles should feel intentional.
Skip extreme colors or loud trends – neon streaks, glitter overload, or festival-style space buns usually aren’t wedding appropriate hairstyles.
Don’t ignore the weather – humidity, wind, or rain can ruin styles like loose curls. Opt for braids, buns, or waves that hold up outdoors.
Avoid neglecting prep – oily roots, frizz, or skipping heat protectant can make even polished styles fall flat. Healthy, prepped hair lasts all day.
💡 Pro tip: Your hairstyle should complement your outfit and the wedding vibe — chic and photo-ready, but never competing with the bride.
Step-by-Step Tutorials (5 Easy Styles)
These quick tutorials are simple enough to do at home — no professional stylist required! Here’s how to recreate some of the most popular wedding guest hairstyles:
1. Twisted Half-Up for Medium Hair
Start with loosely curled or wavy hair for texture.
Take a small section from the front left side, twist it backward, and pin it at the back of your head.
Repeat on the right side, crossing it over the first twist.
Secure with bobby pins and add a decorative clip if desired.
Lightly mist with hairspray to keep everything in place.
2. Low Chignon Bun for Long Hair
Brush hair back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
Twist the ponytail into a loose bun, wrapping it around itself.
Pin the bun in place with bobby pins, leaving a few tendrils loose if you want softness.
Tuck in pearl pins or a jeweled comb for extra elegance.
Finish with hairspray for hold.
3. Braided Crown for Short/Medium Hair
Part your hair in the middle and take a small section from one side near the temple.
Braid that section and secure with a small elastic.
Repeat on the other side.
Cross the braids over the top of your head like a headband.
Pin them in place and gently loosen for a softer, boho look.
4. Beach Waves with Curling Iron
Start with dry hair and spritz with heat protectant spray.
Wrap 1-inch sections of hair around a curling iron, holding for 5–8 seconds.
Alternate directions (toward and away from face) for natural texture.
Run fingers through curls to loosen them into waves.
Finish with salt spray or texturizing spray for hold.
5. Sleek Low Ponytail with Hair Wrap
Straighten your hair for a smooth base.
Gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
Take a small strand of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it.
Secure the wrap with a discreet bobby pin.
Finish with shine spray for a glossy, polished effect.
Wedding Guest Hairstyles: Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the easiest wedding guest hairstyle to do yourself?
The easiest DIY styles are soft beach waves, a sleek low ponytail (hair wrap), or a
twisted half-up.
They’re quick, camera-ready, and work for most lengths and textures.
Prep with heat protectant, add light hairspray, and finish with a shiny clip or pearl pin for a polished, wedding-appropriate look.
2) Can I wear my hair down to a wedding?
Absolutely. Wedding guest hairstyles can be worn down — think Hollywood waves, glossy straight hair, or
mermaid waves.
For formal or church ceremonies, keep it refined (smooth finish, side part, subtle headband).
For outdoor or beach weddings, add texture so it holds in humidity and wind.
3) How do I choose a hairstyle that matches the wedding dress code?
Match the vibe:
• Black-tie – sleek buns, French twists, glossy waves
• Rustic/outdoor – boho braids, soft curls, floral pins
• Beach – textured waves, side braids, secure low buns
When in doubt, go simple and add a chic accessory.
4) What hair accessories are appropriate for wedding guests?
Guest-friendly options include pearl pins, crystal combs, slim headbands, ribbons,
and floral accents.
Avoid oversized tiaras or bridal-level pieces.
Match metals to your jewelry (silver with silver, gold with gold).
5) How can I make my hairstyle last all day (and night)?
Start with clean, dry hair, add light mousse or texturizing spray, and let curls cool to set.
Use strong bobby pins, finish with flexible-hold hairspray, and carry a mini kit (travel hairspray, pins, anti-frizz sheet).
6) What are some quick last-minute wedding guest hair ideas?
Quick fixes include a sleek low pony with hair wrap, a low chignon, or a
half-up with jeweled clip.
All three are chic and take under 10 minutes.
7) Are braids appropriate for wedding guests?
Yes. Subtle wedding guest braids like a side braid with waves, a braided crown, or a braided low bun are stylish.
Keep them neat and add light accessories so they don’t feel too “festival.”
8) Should I get my hair professionally done or DIY?
Book a stylist for black-tie weddings or if you want a complex updo.
For most guests, DIY waves, half-up looks, or low buns are achievable with some practice and the right products.
by Tanya Guilfoyle
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tanya has been an active contributor and planner in the wedding industry since 2016. When not writing useful content for brides and wedding professionals, she can be found designing templates for her Etsy shop, TWCprintables.
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