Wedding season is not just coming—it's here, and that means you've got some major fashion moments to come on the calendar. Once you've determined the style of the wedding you're dressing for, and perhaps the venue's vibe, it's time to strategize your head-to-toe look—and how to style it.
Consider the wedding's locale and climate when choosing your wedding attendee ensembles. If you know you'll be somewhere warm and humid, plan accordingly by letting your hair embrace it's natural curl; or, wear a dress (or jumpsuit) that will look great with a high pony or top knot. Whether your agenda calls for a chic daytime soirée or a black tie affair, choose what works for you and show one of these key looks to your stylist. Here, all the hair inspiration you'll need from recent runways and red carpet events for a look that will wow—without showing up the bride.
1
The Tousled Chignon
Classic, sophisticated, and romantic. This mussed, low bun is as chic as can be—especially when paired with a brightly colored dress, a la Gemma Chan at the Oscars.
Try: O&M Frizzy Logic Shine Serum, $32, SHOP
2
Oh-So-High Pony
If you have long, luscious locks, a high pony is the perfect style to frame your face—and show off your killer hair and a gorgeous neckline.
Try: Amla & Olive, Heavy Creme, $21, SHOP
3
Pushed Back
Opt for a slicked-back style for a bit of edge, but finish off the look with a wave at the ends. Good to note: the key to achieving the I-just-got-out-of-the-shower trend isn't water, its the right hair oil.
Try: NatureLab Tokyo Smooth Hair Oil, $16 SHOP
4
Petite Blooms
Make like Elle Fanning at the Cannes Film Festival and channel your inner flower child with a chic, springtime look that is as romantic as it is festive. Accessorize halo braids with mixed blooms to mirror a floral gown, or opt for some scattered floral hair pins to achieve a similar look without using fresh flowers.
Try: Jennifer Behr Poppy Hair Pins, set of 2, $165 SHOP
5
Braid Remix
This intricate mix of braids pulled back into a looped bun is unique and chic when done with a sophisticated center part. Case in point: Mother of Dragons approved.
Try: Vernon Francois Scalp Nourish Spray, $18, SHOP
6
Twist It
Make a high or low bun more complex—with minimal effort, of course—by twisting your hair before pinning it place. Let some of the hair framing your face fall slightly, and subtly tuck behind the ears for a look that's less structured and more carefree.
Try: Virtue Labs 6-in-1 Styler, $32, SHOP
7
Cascading Braids
Wear braids like Issa Rae and leave them down, side-parted, and long enough to graze your ribcage. This look works well with a plunging neckline as it creates length and draws the eye vertically for a more elongated appearance that you'll love in photos.
Try: Oyin Handmade The Sugar Pomades, $14, SHOP
8
Fish Tail Braid
Amp up a side swept hairstyle with a chic fish tail braid. Skip the purple lip—or don't—you do you.
Try: Philip Kingsley Preen Cream, $34, philipkingsley.com. SHOP
9
Retro Glam
Use a 1-inch curling iron to get perfect Old Hollywood curls, but don't forget to pin them and let them cool for the neatest result. Pair this hairstyle with a retro-inspired dress to really drive home the look a la Lady Gaga's Rodarte ensemble.
Try: Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron, $50 SHOP
10
Ballerina Bun
A tight bun is perfect way to look put together if you're in a time crunch—be it from a delayed flight or too much time spent enjoying the wedding's destination. Dress it up in two seconds with a chic hair accessory, like a pearl, bow, or sparkly pin.
Try: Tasha 2-Pack Crystal Ponytail Holders, $25, SHOP
11
'70s Babe
Make like Zendaya at Tommy Hilfiger's Paris Fashion Week show and channel a boho vibe with beach waves that embraces a laissez faire attitude. This look is au natural, yet put together.
Try: IGK Next Level Nordic Cotton Volumizing Mist, $28 SHOP
12
Top Knotch
A top knot works well for any occasion, but dressed up for a formal affair it's sleek and chic. Let some wispy strands of hair fall out to frame the face and keep the look more low-key.
Try: Redken Quick Dry 18 Instant Finishing Hairspray, $20 SHOP
13
Love Is Love
This is Us actress, Eris Baker, has us head over heels with this playful hair style and accessory addition. Dress up a top knot with "love note" hair pins that will remind the other guests of the real reason you're all "gathered here today."
Try: Love to Love Hair Slide, $12 SHOP
14
Pick A Side
Sweep and part your hair—on your good side, of course—securing it with exposed bobby pins. Add some flat iron waves to give it an edgy, rocker-chic vibe.
Try: Fekkai Full Blown Dry Volume Texturizing Hairspray, $20 SHOP
15
Braided Bun
Twist braids into a high bun at the crown of your head—then add a pair of statement earrings to complete the wedding [guest] look.
Try: Cantu Natural Mega-Hold Styling Gel, $5 SHOP
16
Pump Up The Volume
Loose, big curls are a go-to for any formal occasion, but when it comes to dressing for a wedding, the key is finding the right mouse to hold your gorgeous locks from falling flat and lasting all night long.
Try: Kendra Professional Volume Mousse, $17, SHOP
17
Bardot Baby
Make like Hailey Baldwin at the Met Gala and wear a high, sleek ponytail with a chic black bow to finish off the look.
Try: Maison Michel Grograin Hair Tie, $250, SHOP
18
Curl Craze
Go natural and keep curls fresh from the ceremony to the after-party by using a styling cream to help tame frizz and keep them from falling flat. Dress up this look up with a pair of statement earrings.
Try: Kérastase Discipline Cream for Curly Hair, $26, SHOP
19
California Dreamin'
Beachy waves hit that sweet spot between effortless and glam. And if it works for Blake, it'll work wonders for you.
Try: L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Strong Hold Hairspray, $6, SHOP
20
Twisted Pony
Want to mix things up? Try a twisted crown at the top of your hairline to elevate a low ponytail. This look suits both daytime and evening wedding affairs.
Try: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, $46, SHOP
