When it comes to weddings, every bride wants long hair. Why? Because there are so many options! You can do pretty much anything with long hair. So before you decide which hairstyle to wear for your wedding day, take a look at these creative and unique wedding hairstyles for long hair!
Adorned Crown
Look even more charming with this icy blonde waves adorned with simple yet charming loose braids. You’ll surely be fit for royalty and a place on the throne!
Voluminous Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braided hairstyles like this look even more amazing when you add in subtle pops of flowers.
Waterfall Braids with a Twist
Q&A with style creator, Martina Jägr
Freelance Hairstylist & Makeup Artist in Prague, Czech Republic
How would you describe this look?
This wedding hairstyle for long hair is called waterfall braid is an interesting version of an ordinary down style. It is perfect if you love braids, but you feel the best when your hair is down. It is suitable for various occasions, not only for a wedding.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This version with straight hair is the best choice for ladies who don’t feel well in curly or wavy hair. I recommend this style to those who love to wear an elegant style but also want to be a little cute and not too serious.
If you don’t have straight hair naturally, use heat protection and blow dry or iron them first. If you have dry, frizzy hair, make sure that you used smoothing milk or serum at least for your ends before using heat. I also love to use spray Sparkler by Osis for a shinier finish. Skip this step if you have fine hair with no volume.
Vintage Wedding Updo
Q&A with style creator, Jen Vanderzalm
Owner / Operator @ Dames and Dolls Makeup in Maple Ridge, BC
How would you describe this look?
This hairstyle is a vintage-inspired faux bob up-do. My client needed it for her dance routine so it had to stay put! Her hair was medium thickness and to her mid back.
I braided the bottom part first so that the rest could be rolled and secured onto the braid. I love doing the pin curl as it adds romance and the vintage touch. That’s probably my favorite part about it.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Styling-wise, I curled her hair with a 1.5″ curling iron, spraying and setting as I went. All curls in the same direction. I created a slight finger wave on both sides and started pinning from the bottom up.
This look would be stunning on a bride who loved the flapper era or if you were heading to a themed party where you needed to stand out. I like to think that classic hair looks never go out of style.
Romantic Side Ponytail
Q&A with style creator, Inna Enns
Mobile Bridal Stylist in Cologne, Germany
How would you describe this look?
The big curls look airy (light and fluffy) and fit well with a romantic playful bridal look that may show a pretty back neckline. I like the fact that it does not look too stuck and the bride can wear her hair as a piece of jewelry.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look is well suited for a bride with very long hair which she would like to show. If the client has too fine hair or it is too short, but she still fell in love with this variant, it can be incorporated very well with clip extensions. The hairstyle is ideal for strapless (off-shoulder) dresses or dresses with specially designed back that should not be covered by the hair.
Braid-Wrapped Twist
Q&A with style creator, Cameron Kyzer
Freelance Artist in Bentonville, AR
How would you describe this look?
This look is simple yet still elegant, sleek, and beautiful. Braiding is one of my biggest passions and I love that it allows styles to be unique and artistic. For instance, the bun in this style isn’t just your regular bun. It’s braided and twisted and I love that!
Any advice for someone considering it?
I would recommend this look to someone who is maybe wearing a one-shoulder dress or just wants some of their hair out of their face. It’s going to be a great look for someone who is more on the minimal side but it will still be a beautiful and unique look.
Vintage Glamour Wedding
Q&A with style creator, Carl Brown
Hairstylist / Owner @ Russell & Browns in Liverpool, UK
How would you describe this look?
I’d describe this look as 1940s inspired Old Hollywood Glamour vintage brushed out waves look. My favourite thing about it is its elegance and shine. It’s a way of creating a classic silhouette with a softer finish than the more traditional wave set I sometimes create.
It’s an extremely wearable style that flatters most face shapes and really brings a sense of sophisticated elegance to your look.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My advice for someone considering wedding hairstyles for long hair like this is to aim for a one-length cut when considering their next cutting service. Layers tend to poke out and mess with the uniformity of the waves. Or, an even better cut option would be to opt for a traditional horseshoe shape perimeter. This type of shape allows for better brush outs and gives a consistent vintage finish to any curl set by framing the shape around the face where the hair is shortest and allowing the classic curved pageboy teardrop shape around the back.
Consider blow drying a good quality amplifying mousse product into the hair before curling and use a pomade to help smooth through any frizz during brush out.
Simple Twist
Q&A with style creator, Michelle Senour
Independent Hairstylist in Milwaukee, WI
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as classic, simple, romantic and timeless. My favorite thing about this look is that it is so versatile, it will fit perfectly with any wedding theme!
Any advice for someone considering it?
When choosing to wear your hair half down for your wedding, consider your hair texture, how well it holds a curl and what the weather will likely be that day!
I also feel its essential to pick a style you will feel completely comfortable in! If you usually wear it down or feel uncomfortable with your hair up, this will be the perfect look for you!
Twisted Back Waves
Q&A with style creator, Alison Espinoza
Stylist / Owner @ Bombshell Hair Design in Ottawa, ON
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this as a romantic bridal look. I love how it incorporates the current braid trend, but still keeps a classic half-up silhouette which will allow it to remain timeless.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This is a great look for someone who wants to wear a veil for the ceremony and pictures but wants to be able to easily remove it for dinner and dancing, and have the look really last.
Since cascading length is the real show-stopper here, consider adding extensions for maximum volume and impact.
Loose Bridal Updo
Q&A with style creator, Crystal Carter
Bridal Specialist & Owner @ Muah Studio in Tomball, TX
How would you describe this look?
This is a loose bridal updo. This bride wanted to be able to wear her hair to either side or behind her back.
Any advice for someone considering it?
In order to achieve this style, you’ll need long hair. If she doesn’t have long hair, then she could use clip-in extensions.
This style works best with someone who has medium to coarse hair. It can be worn by anyone with any dress style.
Extravagant Bridal Hairstyle
Q&A with style creator, Katlevu Baires
Bridal Hair & Make-up Artist @ Belle Creations by Katlevu in Houston, TX
How would you describe this look?
This is an extravagant bridal hairstyle.
It is the most requested updo from my brides, and my favorite thing about this particular hairstyle is that it represents me and my company, Belle Creations by Katlevu. It’s a very extravagant look and I love that I can achieve it. Many a hairstylist has told me they look up to me because this style is so difficult to create.
Makeup: Elite Beauty Company
Photo: Blanca Duran Photography
Any advice for someone considering it?
To achieve this look, I recommend having long, thick hair with extensions, lots of bobby pins, a hair bun for the volume, and a curling iron. As a hairstylist, I recommend taking your time to bring out every detail before pinning each curl and lightly use my favorite hairspray from Lóreal. This is what makes the hairstyle stand out and have a lot of detail.
I recommend this for brides that love that extravagant look.
Soft & Pretty
Q&A with style creator, Laura Hughes
Hairdresser @ Hairbylauraa at Sacci in Coventry, UK
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as soft, pretty, and modern. My favorite thing about this wedding hairstyle is that it’s very versatile and can be used for all occasions, ages, and hair types.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My advice to a client who is thinking about choosing this style would be to have a blow dry and set beforehand to make sure the curls last all day.
The best product for this style is texture spray for the volume. My favorite is Wella’s EIMI Dry Me. I also recommend a smoothing serum to smooth the braid and curls. The best one I have found is Osmo Blinding Shine Definer.
Combination Side Braid
Q&A with style creator, Christie DeVoe
Elite Stylist @ Madison Avenue Salon & Day Spa in Chandler, AZ
How would you describe this look?
This braided style is one of my favorites! I incorporated a Dutch braid at the top and a loose fishtail braid into the remaining ends of the hair. The shorter pieces on the crown were left out to create volume and give extra texture to the style.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This type of style is perfect for weddings and other formal events.
For this look, I would inform the client that texture plays an important role. It can be created by prepping the hair with a volumizer (Redken Guts 10 is my favorite) and blow drying it into the hair. Use a curling iron with a heat protecting product (I used Redken Iron Shape 11) to create movement.
While braiding, I like to use a flexible hairspray (Pureology Strengthening Control is my go-to) to help pull apart the braid and keep it looking and feeling soft.
Boho Half Up Half Down
Q&A with style creator, Jackie Romero
Professional Makeup Artist & Hairstylist @ Makeup and Hair by Jackie Romero in Sherman Oaks, CA
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as a romantic yet bohemian half up half down style. This is a perfect look for any bride who wants to leave her hair down and loose, while still maintaining some special detailing in the back.
My favorite thing about this look would have to be the twist and big braid in back. Since I stretched out the braid it creates a lot of movement and texture in the hair that will stand out both in real life and in photos.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you’re getting married outdoors, this look would be a perfect fit! I definitely recommend this style to anyone who likes a more undone and relaxed look versus something tightly pulled back and structured. It works great on longer, highlighted hair so you can really see the dimension in the braid and twist details.
The must-have products for this look include a great texture spray and a large barrel curling iron. I used the Drybar Triple Sec spray to prep before hand with a Babyliss Pro 1 1/4-inch curling iron.
Soft & Bohemian
Q&A with style creator, Cassadi Shirk
Stylist @ The Bride Bar in Columbus, OH
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as soft and bohemian. I tried to keep the structure at a minimum to give more of an effortless look.
My favorite thing about this look is how versatile it can be. It could be dressed up for a bridesmaid or dressed down for a festival look.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style will work for any hair type, but I would recommend it for someone who wants their hair to look styled but not overdone. The product use is very minimal and requires very little maintenance to last all day. The more piecey and undone it gets, the better!
Long Retro Waves
Q&A with style creator, Nicole Scaffedi
Freelance Wedding Hairstylist in Suffolk, NY
How would you describe this look?
These are retro waves for long hair. My favorite thing about this is the volume and bounce it instantly gives the hair! It gives that real Hollywood glam look.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I recommend using a strong hold hair spray, dry wax spray, and shine spray is a must! I use all Eufora products.
I recommend this look for any client with medium to thick hair. This style is so versatile and can be worn for all different events.
Sleek Faux Hawk
Q&A with style creator, Megan Kelley
Licensed Hairstylist / Colorist @ Caryn and Company Salon and Spa in Moorestown, NJ
How would you describe this look and what is your favorite thing about it?
I would describe this look as a sleek faux hawk. My favorite thing about it is the height and luminous shine.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
For this look, I used Oribe Super Shine cream for the blowout. After straightening, I added height by backcombing the top section before securing with bobby pins. For a finishing touch, I used Oribe Shine Spray.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I recommend this look for someone who wants to keep their hair out of their face but still have a polished sophisticated look. It is a great style for fine hair and oval faces.
Cascading Curls
Photo by Lindsey Shaun Photography
Different from a normal side swept updo, the majority of these curls are pinned up with some left cascading down the shoulder so you can still show off your length.
Recommended Products:
When it comes to a curly bridal hairstyle like this, the last thing you want is frizz. My favorite product for smoothing down frizz is Enjoy Creamy Pomade.
Hair Type:
This style works best on brides with medium to thick hair to help with fullness from top to bottom.
Face Shape:
This style will work with any face shape. If you have a long or square face, keep some fringe or curls out around your face.
Tip:
For this style, the longer and thicker the hair, the better. If you weren’t born with the right hair type, get some clip in extensions for your wedding day.
Sleek Updo
Photo by Blush Photography
This look is all about class. Hair is softly swept away from the face and pinned to the middle of the back of the head in a sleek shape.
Recommended Products:
When going for a sleek wedding Hairstyles for long hair, make sure to add some shine to your hair to help it look polished. My favorite shine spray is Unite Eurotherapy Shina-Mist.
Hair Type:
Healthy, shiny hair is what this bridal style needs.
Face Shape:
Since this style is completely pulled away from the face, it works best on an oval face. If your face is longer, add extra body to the sides. If it is round, add extra body to the top.
Tip:
Even though this is all taking place in the back of the head, don’t ignore the front. Make sure to create a flattering shape in the front and add some wave in the sides to keep it interesting.
Half Up Half Down
An intricate half-ponytail is a great variation to your common hairstyle. You can show off your tresses while keeping a fresh face care of your tied hair.
Half Up
Photo by Lindsey Shaun Photography
Description:
The hair is softly curled and halfway pinned up in barrel curls in the back, sweeping the sides away from the face.
Recommended Products:
Volume in the sides will help this hairstyle look better from the front. Before you blow dry, apply Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus Mousse.
Hair Type:
Hair that is medium to fine is best for this hairstyle. If your hair is too heavy, you might have a hard time keeping your barrel curls in place.
Face Shape:
Sweeping the sides down and back in the front of this will compliment square, oval or heart shaped faces.
Tip:
To help your half-updo stay in place, backcomb it at the base first so the bobby pins have something to grab onto.
Twisted Chignon
Photo by Julie Parker Photography
This chignon starts with a twist braid in the front, twisting across the back of the head and ending in a low side chignon on the opposite side.
Recommended Products:
Doing a twist braid on tangled hair is nearly impossible! Make your job easier by applying Unite 7 Seconds Leave-in Conditioner before you blow dry.
Hair Type:
This style works best on hair with little to no layers. Too many layers will disrupt the flow of the braid.
Face Shape:
This style works best on round or oval face shapes. If your face is round, just be sure to give it enough volume on top to add length to your face shape.
Tip:
Give your hair some volume by backcombing it first and holding the hair gently in your hands as you braid.
Braided Bridal Updo
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
A classic updo gets an update look with a braid going across the top in the back.
Recommended Products:
Big Sexy Hair Powder Play is an amazing product you have to try. This product will add grip to your roots making bobby pins stay in place better.
Hair Type:
The longer and thicker the hair, the better! Braids don’t show up as well with thin hair.
Face Shape:
Updos in the back are a classic choice for brides because they flatter nearly every face shape.
Tip:
When doing this style, create the braid very last. If you do it first it can get lost in the do while doing it last will ensure that the braid stands out.
Side Ponytail
Photo by Lindsey Shaun Photography
Hair is curled, then twisted and pinned into a low side ponytail with pin-curls resting on top of it.
Recommended Products:
Keep the curls in your ponytail maintained with serum. I love Moroccan Oil.
Hair Type:
Extra long hair is best for this style. Curling hair makes it shrink, so extra length will keep hair looking long even after it’s curled and put into a ponytail.
Face Shape
The soft curls in this will soften a square jaw. Avoid this style if you have a round face. It will only add more body to the sides.
Tip:
Backcomb underneath the hair that will go into the ponytail to add more body.
Soft Curly Updo
It looks difficultly elegant but once you try it, you’ll be surprised at how easy this is! Just softly curl your hair and put them in a loose braid and you’re all set.
Waterfall Twist
Photo by Ciara Richardson Photography
The waterfall twist adds a little something more to an all down style. Each side is twisted to the middle in the back and tied together with hair.
Recommended Products:
Give your curls more movement and texture with spray wax. I like the Short Sexy Hair Play Dirty spray wax.
Hair Type:
This will work best on those with long layers and thick hair. If your hair is thin, the twist won’t be as noticeable.
Face Shape:
This can work on any face shape. It’s soft enough to flatter everything from square to heart to round.
Tip:
Tie your waterfall twist together with a clear elastic, then hide the elastic with a strand of hair.
Vintage Updo
Photo by Amber Weimer Photography
A low, sleek bun in the back is dressed up with vintage pin-curls coming down each of the sides.
Recommended Products:
A style like this cannot budge! Use a really hard hold hairspray such as TIGI Hard Head Hard Hold Hairspray.
Hair Type:
Medium to fine hair with at least medium length layers works best for this style.
Face Shape:
This style works best on oval face shapes. Hair pulled back like this can be too harsh for a square-shaped face or a face with harsher features.
Tip:
To really glue a pin curl in place, form it with your fingers, shoot it up close with hairspray and then blow dry it on low. The curl won’t go anywhere after that!
This is only the beginning when it comes to bridal hairstyle options for long hair. Whether you decide to show off your length or use in a nice, full updo, hopefully these creative wedding Hairstyles for long hair ideas have given you inspiration and pointed you in the right direction.
