Bridal hair has moved away from stiff, lacquered shapes towards styles with texture, air and personality. This short guide covers nine directions brides are choosing now: a French twist rebuilt with volume and loose texture, an undone chignon, curly updos that showcase natural pattern, glamorous finger waves, a cascading Elsa-style braid, a relaxed bohemian look for beach or barn venues, sculpted styles that are structured yet soft, braided updos and hair adorned with vines, pins and crowns.
The right choice depends on the dress, venue and how long the day lasts. A low chignon or textured twist keeps hair secure through dancing and suits high necklines; cascading braids and boho waves feel natural with open backs and outdoor settings. Curly hair holds pins well and needs less backcombing, while fine, straight hair often benefits from padding or clip-in extensions to create volume.
Whatever the style, a trial run several weeks before the wedding lets you test how it photographs, how it sits with a veil and how it lasts.
1. The “New” French Twist
Softer and less sculpted than the traditional roll, this French twist keeps the classic outline but adds texture, volume and airiness. Many brides prefer it to a tight, formal twist because it looks romantic rather than rigid.
Inspiration: @shelbyweatherholtzhair, @hairandmakeupbysteph
2. Accessory Adorned Hair
Accessories have become a major part of bridal styling, whether hair is worn up, down or half-up. Flower crowns, sparkling hair vines and jewelled pins all add personality, and many hair artists now design their own pieces.
Inspiration: @styles_by_reneemarie, @shelbyweatherholtzhair, @hairandmakeupbysteph
3. The Undone Chignon
Simple and sweet, an undone chignon can be as easy as a loose knotted bun or a relaxed, low twist. It suggests classic romance without feeling overdone, making it a lasting favourite. Gently pull a few face-framing strands loose to keep it soft in photos.
Inspiration: @tonyastylist
4. Play on Natural Texture
Instead of straightening or reshaping their texture, more brides are making natural curls the centrepiece of their updo. Pinning curls loosely shows off the pattern and gives the look volume and character. A curl cream applied the day before helps keep the pattern defined.
Inspiration: @hairandmakeupbysteph, @lalasupdos
5. Glam Waves
Old Hollywood glamour comes through deep, structured finger waves. Some brides brush them out for a softer finish, while others keep the sculpted ridges for drama that pairs beautifully with a vintage-inspired gown. Ask your stylist to set the waves the morning of the wedding for crisp definition.
6. The Cascading Fairytale
An oversized braid flowing down the back or over one shoulder evokes a fairy-tale princess look inspired by Elsa. It’s a showstopping choice for brides who want something romantic yet relaxed. Clip-in extensions can add the thickness needed for a dramatic braid.
Inspiration: @shelbyweatherholtzhair
7. The Relaxed Bohemian
Loose, effortless texture makes this bohemian style ideal for beach and rustic barn weddings. It may look like it could be done at home, but a professional ensures it lasts through the celebrations. Use a texturising spray to keep loose waves from falling flat in humidity.
Inspiration: @heatherchapmanhair, @shelbyweatherholtzhair
8. Soft & Structured
Detailed sculpting meets airy, open texture in a style that’s both soft and structured. The intricate shaping keeps it secure, while the lightness prevents it from looking heavy or stiff. Ask for a trial to see how the sculpted shape sits with your veil.
Inspiration: @shelbyweatherholtzhair, @verafursova, @tonyastylist
9. BRAIDS!
Braids remain a bridal staple, now appearing in unexpected forms that blend fairy-garden whimsy with modern romance. Woven into updos, they add beautiful texture and hold the style securely all day. Small pearl or crystal pins woven into the braids add extra sparkle.
Inspiration: @hairandmakeupbysteph, @shelbyweatherholtzhair
Planning your bridal hair trial
- Book the trial four to eight weeks before the wedding, ideally on a day you can wear the look for several hours.
- Bring photos of your dress, neckline, veil and any accessories, plus two or three hair references.
- Wear a top with a similar neckline so you can judge proportions.
- Take photos from the front, sides and back in daylight and with flash.
- Ask whether your hair should be washed the day before or the morning of; many updos hold better on second-day hair.
Choosing accessories that suit the style
Hair vines and delicate pins weave easily into braids and textured updos, while a single statement comb anchors a chignon. Flower crowns and fresh blooms suit boho styles but need florist advice on which stems last without water. Keep metal tones consistent with your jewellery, and secure veils with combs placed in a firm section of the updo so they don’t drag the style down.