42 Easy Wedding Guest Hairstyles That Are Totally Stunning
Attending a wedding and not sure how to style your hair? You’re not alone. Finding the perfect hairstyle that’s both elegant and easy to create can be challenging. Whether you’re heading to a black-tie affair or a casual beach ceremony, your hairstyle should complement your outfit while being practical enough to last through the celebration. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of easy wedding guest hairstyles that you can create yourself, no matter your hair length or texture.
This Website contains affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Quick and Elegant Updos for Wedding Guests
Updos are a classic choice for wedding guests, offering elegance while keeping hair off your face and neck—perfect for dancing the night away. These styles work for various hair lengths and can be dressed up with accessories for added glamour.
A sleek low bun offers timeless elegance for any wedding dress code
1. Classic Chignon
The chignon is a timeless updo that works for any wedding dress code. This low bun sits at the nape of your neck and can be as sleek or textured as you prefer.
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure with an elastic
Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic
Secure with bobby pins, tucking in any loose ends
For a more polished look, use a small amount of hairspray to tame flyaways
For a messier look, gently pull out small sections to create texture
2. Sleek Low Ponytail
A sleek low ponytail is sophisticated yet simple to create. This style works beautifully for medium to long hair and pairs well with statement earrings that might otherwise be hidden by loose hair.
Sleek Low Ponytail Steps:
Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair before blow-drying straight
Create a center or side part depending on your face shape
Gather hair at the nape of your neck and secure with an elastic
Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic
Secure with a bobby pin and finish with a light-hold hairspray
3. Romantic Topknot
The topknot is perfect for showing off your dress’s neckline while keeping your hair elegantly styled. This versatile updo works for various hair textures and can be adjusted from sleek to messy depending on the wedding’s formality.
A romantic topknot with face-framing tendrils adds softness to your look
Effortless Half-Up, Half-Down Styles
Half-up, half-down hairstyles offer the best of both worlds—they keep hair out of your face while still showcasing your length and texture. These versatile styles work for almost any wedding setting.
4. Half-Up Boho Waves
This relaxed style pairs beautifully with outdoor or rustic wedding settings. The half-up portion keeps hair from your face while the waves add romantic texture.
Half-up boho waves create a romantic look perfect for outdoor weddings
Creating Half-Up Boho Waves:
Create loose waves using a 1-1.5 inch curling iron
Take two sections from each side of your part
Twist each section back and secure with bobby pins where they meet
Gently pull on the crown area for added volume
Finish with a light-hold hairspray for lasting waves
5. Half-Up Fishtail Braid
This style adds an intricate detail to an otherwise simple half-up style. The fishtail braid creates visual interest while keeping the overall look elegant and wedding-appropriate.
Half-Up Fishtail Braid Steps:
Create loose waves throughout your hair
Take a section of hair from each temple
Create a fishtail braid with these sections
Secure the end with a clear elastic
Gently pull on the edges of the braid to create fullness
Beautiful Braided Styles for Wedding Guests
Braids add texture and interest to wedding guest hairstyles while keeping hair secure throughout the celebration. From simple side braids to more complex crown braids, there’s a braided style for every skill level.
A crown braid creates a regal look perfect for formal weddings
6. Crown Braid
A crown braid creates a regal, romantic look that’s perfect for formal weddings. This style works best on medium to long hair and can be adjusted to be more or less structured depending on the wedding’s formality.
Creating a Crown Braid:
Part your hair down the middle
Create a Dutch braid (crossing sections under rather than over) along one side of your head
Continue the braid around the back of your head
Secure with bobby pins and hairspray
Gently pull on the edges of the braid for fullness
7. Side Braid with Volume
A side braid with volume at the crown creates a romantic yet practical style that works beautifully for both formal and casual weddings. This style is particularly flattering for those with round or heart-shaped faces.
A side braid with volume at the crown offers romantic elegance
Easy Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Short Hair
Having short hair doesn’t limit your styling options for weddings. From textured pixies to adorned bobs, there are plenty of ways to create wedding-worthy styles with shorter lengths.
8. Textured Pixie with Accessories
A pixie cut with added texture and a decorative hairpin or headband creates a chic, wedding-appropriate look that requires minimal styling time.
A textured pixie with decorative pins creates an elegant short-hair look
Styling a Textured Pixie:
Apply a small amount of texturizing paste to dry hair
Use your fingers to create piece-y texture throughout
Add a decorative hairpin or small headband for wedding-appropriate glamour
Finish with a light-hold hairspray
9. Sleek Bob with Side Part
A sleek bob with a deep side part creates a sophisticated, polished look that’s perfect for formal weddings. This style is particularly flattering for those with oval or square face shapes.
Creating a Sleek Bob with Side Part:
Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair
Create a deep side part
Blow dry using a round brush for smoothness
Use a flat iron for extra sleekness if needed
Tuck one side behind your ear and secure with a decorative clip if desired
Finish with a shine spray
Stunning Wedding Guest Styles for Natural Hair
Natural hair offers incredible versatility for wedding guest styles. From defined curls to protective styles, there are numerous options that showcase your natural texture while being event-appropriate.
Defined natural curls create a stunning wedding guest look
10. Defined Curls with Side Accent
Showcase your natural curl pattern while adding a special touch with a side accent. This style celebrates your natural texture while being elegant enough for any wedding.
Creating Defined Curls with Side Accent:
Wash and condition hair with products formulated for your curl type
Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair
Allow to air dry or use a diffuser attachment
Once dry, pull back one side with decorative pins or a small floral accent
Finish with a light oil for shine
11. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots create a bold, stylish look that works beautifully for weddings. This protective style can be as uniform or creative as you like, making it versatile for different wedding settings.
Bantu knots offer a protective style that’s also wedding-appropriate
Accessorized Wedding Guest Hairstyles
Hair accessories can elevate even the simplest styles into wedding-worthy looks. From elegant pins to statement headbands, the right accessory can complement your outfit and the wedding’s theme.
12. Simple Waves with Decorative Pins
Sometimes, all you need are a few strategically placed decorative pins to transform everyday waves into a special occasion style. This works for any hair length and is incredibly easy to achieve.
Simple waves with decorative pins create an effortless elegant look
Creating Waves with Decorative Pins:
Create loose waves using your preferred method (curling iron, overnight braids, etc.)
Select 2-3 decorative pins that complement your outfit
Place pins asymmetrically for a modern look
Secure with a light-hold hairspray
13. Headband Updo
A headband can serve as both a styling tool and an accessory. This look works particularly well for those with medium-length hair who want an updo without extensive pinning.
A headband updo offers elegance with minimal effort
Elegant Styles for Long Hair
Long hair offers endless styling possibilities for wedding guests. From romantic waves to intricate braided styles, these options showcase your length while being appropriate for the celebration.
14. Old Hollywood Waves
Channel vintage glamour with smooth, S-shaped waves that are perfect for formal weddings. This style pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired dresses and red-carpet worthy gowns alike.
Old Hollywood waves create timeless glamour for formal weddings
Creating Old Hollywood Waves:
Apply a heat protectant to damp hair
Create a deep side part
Blow dry hair smooth
Use a 1-inch curling iron to create uniform curls, curling away from the face
Allow curls to cool completely before gently brushing through
Set with a medium-hold hairspray
15. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail offers a modern twist on the classic ponytail. This eye-catching style works for both casual and formal weddings depending on how sleek you make it.
A bubble ponytail creates a modern, eye-catching look
Essential Styling Tips for Wedding Guest Hairstyles
Creating a lasting wedding guest hairstyle requires the right preparation and products. These tips will help ensure your style stays put from ceremony to reception.
Prep Work for Long-Lasting Styles:
Don’t wash your hair the day of styling—second-day hair holds styles better
Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying for added texture and hold
Apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools
Consider the wedding venue’s climate—humidity-resistant products are essential for outdoor summer weddings
Pack a small emergency kit with bobby pins, a travel-size hairspray, and a small comb for touch-ups
“Always make sure that you feel beautiful and confident but never take away from the bride. A wedding guest should always follow the lead of the bride and the setting of the event.”
– Professional Hairstylist
Finding Your Perfect Wedding Guest Hairstyle
The perfect wedding guest hairstyle balances elegance with practicality. Consider the wedding’s formality, venue, and your outfit when choosing a style. Don’t be afraid to practice your chosen style a few days before the event to ensure you can recreate it with confidence.
Whether you opt for a classic updo, romantic half-up style, or accessorized waves, the key is to choose a style that makes you feel confident while being appropriate for the celebration. With these easy wedding guest hairstyles, you’ll be ready to celebrate in style!
Ready to Create Your Wedding Guest Hairstyle?
Find all the tools and accessories you need to recreate these stunning looks.
Creating a beautiful back patio doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With some creativity, smart shopping, and a bit of elbow grease, you can transform even the most neglected outdoor space into a cozy retreat that feels like an extension of your home. Whether you have a tiny apartment balcony or a spacious backyard…
The right outdoor lighting can completely transform your exterior spaces, creating a magical ambiance while enhancing safety and functionality. Whether you’re looking to highlight architectural features, illuminate pathways, or create a cozy atmosphere for entertaining, thoughtful lighting choices can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore creative outdoor lighting ideas that will…
Wedding season is upon us, and with the sunshine comes the exciting challenge of finding that perfect summer wedding guest dress. Whether you’re attending a beachside ceremony, garden celebration, or formal evening affair, the right dress can make you feel confident, comfortable, and appropriately festive. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need…
Tired of coming home to wilted, sad-looking plants? A self watering planter might be exactly what you need. These clever containers create a reservoir of water that your plants can access as needed, keeping them perfectly hydrated for days or even weeks without your intervention. Perfect for busy schedules, frequent travelers, or anyone who’s accidentally…
When it comes to symbolizing eternal love, few things capture that sentiment better than a timeless engagement ring. These classic designs have enchanted couples for generations, remaining as captivating today as when they first appeared. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant simplicity of a solitaire or the intricate details of vintage-inspired settings, timeless engagement rings…
Outdoor planters are the perfect way to add personality, color, and life to any exterior space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a cozy patio, or just a small front porch, the right planters can transform an ordinary area into a stunning garden retreat. From classic container gardens to innovative vertical displays, outdoor planters offer…
