52 Wedding Guest Hairstyles You'll Want to Try (2024)

Whether you're a friend of the soon-to-be newlyweds or a relative flying in for the wedding, you'll need a special hairstyle to mark the occasion. From easy updos to next-level ponytails, the right wedding guest hair idea can help you feel your best on your loved one's big day—and can even help take the gown you carefully selected for the occasion to the next level. No matter how casual or formal the celebration, we have all the attendee hairstyle inspiration you need to look good, feel even better, and make an incredible impression when the wedding arrives.

Here's the thing: A wedding guest hairstyle doesn't have to be complicated to look good—in fact, we'd argue the simplest options are best and should come together easily with the right products, a few hair ties and pins, and sweet accessories. Looking for some inspiration? Go ahead and try your hand at a knotted updo—or pull out your curling wand and keep things classic with loose waves (this is a great option for a coastal affair on the beach). A twisted ponytail is the perfect fit when the sun is shining during those outdoor summer ceremonies (and keeps all the attention on that bright sundress you're wearing). If you do opt for wedding guest hair that's more intricate or statement-making (like a voluminous high bun or bubble braids), take a more curated approach with any extras: You can probably skip the jewelry and let your 'do be the accessory that tops off your outfit.

Below, we've rounded up the best wedding guest hairstyles for all hair types and lengths; they run the gamut from classic to trendy and are sure to get you excited for your next celebration.

20 Half-Up, Half-Down Wedding Guest Hairstyles

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A Curly, Twisted Bun

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If you're wearing a wedding guest dress with an interesting neckline, you'll want to show it off. Do so by keeping your hair off your neck, like this attendee did at a spring celebration in North Carolina. Her undone, curly updo featured a few twists that let her natural texture shine—and allowed her stunning pale blue co*cktail dress, complete with an illusion eyelet bodice, to take center stage.

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A Chic Cropped Look

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Now this is about as chic as it gets: We love how this wedding guest styled her cropped curls with oversized floral earrings. She wore this effortless, breezy ensemble to a destination wedding in the French Riviera—and was arguably the best-dressed attendee there.

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A Mix of Up and Down

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Attending a black-tie wedding in the near future? Let all three of these guests, who donned fancy floor-length gowns for a formal outdoor fête in Italy, inspire your wedding guest hair. Look to their neckline and hairstyle pairings in particular: The attendee on the left opted for a swept-back, all-down style to highlight her embellished strapless attire; the woman in the middle opted for a wispy updo to keep the focus on her asymmetrical gown; and the guest on the right styled her bob into a half-up, half-down style with bangs that didn't detract from her dress' twisted halter top.

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A Polished Low Bun

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This female guest's polished ensemble is proof that an intricate, embellished dress is best paired with a sleek, timeless hairstyle. From the reflective sequins and feather accents to the slinky neckline's straps, her gown was a stand-out at a fashion designer's French chateau wedding—and her sleek low bun, which she styled with a deep side part, kept all of the attention on those stunning details.

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A Wavy Bob

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The best thing about short hair is that you don't have to do much to it to make your strands look stylish and sleek. Take this attendee's wavy bob, for example. All you need to do to recreate her look is get strategic with your hair straightener. Simply iron the ends of your hair outwards (you want to flick strands away from your face) and then tuck one side behind your ear. Add a pair of statement dangling earrings for extra flair.

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A Stylish Crew

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Braids, a high bun, and soft waves—let this wedding guest crew, who had a blast on the dance floor at this black-tie wedding in Brooklyn, inspire your own wedding guest hair the next time you need some ultra-formal inspiration.

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An Elegant Chignon

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All of these bridesmaids are rocking matching chignons gathered ultra low at the base of their heads. Paired with dramatic side parts and side-swept bangs, these ladies are the very essence of sophistication.

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A Low-Key Pin

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Shorter lengths with bouncy curls look instantly retro-chic with the addition of a sparkly hair accessory. Use the hairpins to pull some pieces away from the face on only one side for a vampy curtain-like effect on the other.

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A Textured Bun

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Embrace your natural hair texture, from straight strands to waves to curls and coils, by tossing it all into an easy laid-back bun. Just let it do its own thing for a sexy, relaxed look that is all your own.

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A Simple Twist

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To create this stunningly minimalistic wedding guest hair look, loosely (but securely) gather your hair at the base of the neck and twist into a simple loop. You can even rock a statement earring for a mega-watt ensemble.

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Braided Ponytail

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These fun braids are not only über cool but also incredibly pragmatic for a night of dancing and celebrating. Just be careful if you decide to whip that hair back and forth as these babies can do some damage.

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A Deep Side Part

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Switch up your part placement from a soft and romantic center part to a bodacious, va-va-voom side part. The deeper you go the edgier it gets.

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Floral Embellished Curls

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This bridesmaid accented her tight spirals with drapey flowers that mimicked her hair's natural springiness. The best part? This wedding guest hairstyle works on ringlets of any length.

Brushed-Out Waves

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Brushed-out waves are oh so romantic and look incredible on ultra-long lengths and chic lobs and bobs alike. We love the added dimension from these tonal highlights.

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Twisted Tresses

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A tousled half-up, half-down hairstyle gets a refreshing upgrade with the addition of an unexpected twist—literally. This bride and her maid of honor each twisted their front pieces backward before securing them into place.

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A Sweet-As-Can-Be Bow

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Incorporate a ribboned bow into any hairstyle for an oh-so-sweet touch. You can tie it around a half-up, half-down hairstyle or ponytail, loop it around a bun, or even weave it throughout a braid for an added dose of color.

Play with various textures to change up the feel of the bow and the resulting aesthetics. Tulle is ultra-bridal, of course; velvet adds softness; leather is edgy and masculine, and burlap can be very rustic.

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Beach Waves

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You can never go wrong with beach waves—the style works on just about any hair length or texture. Change up the look by experimenting with a side part versus a center part.

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A Classic Low Ponytail

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A low ponytail can be so many things. It can take on a soft and feminine appeal or you can add tons of texture and waves for a lush, runway-ready alternative. These laughing ladies perfectly showcase the versatility of the style with each of their individual hair textures.

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A Fishtail Updo

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What better way to wear your hair for a coastal wedding than by incorporating a fishtail braid? This fishtailed tuck is absolutely enchanting, particularly with that crystal floral hairpin.

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A Ribboned Ponytail

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While bows are tender and sweet, we also love the drama of a free-flowing ribbon. A simple low ponytail can take on a whole new aesthetic with the addition of long ribbon tied at the base.

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An Easy Floral Braid

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This loose braid is set slightly askew, draping over one shoulder in a darling manner. Nestle in a few buds or pops of baby's breath for a refreshing touch.

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Curled Ends

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Instead of straightening your hair into a sheath of pin-straight locks, slightly curl the ends inward for a more glam aesthetic. Add a little bit of volume throughout the strands to keep the look soft and not too sleek.

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Easy Half-Up, Half-Down Styles

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Long lengths and brushed-out waves can stand on their own and need little embellishment, but for some added freedom, a simple gather can make a world of difference. Each of these ladies showcases the sheer range of this style with different textures and hair lengths.

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A Short Side Braid

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Plait your hair in a slightly asymmetric fashion and sweep it over to one side for a playful vibe. This stunner secured the braid a few inches above the ends for a youthful feel.

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Straight Sheath

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Pin-straight locks that look silky smooth and glossed out are the perfect match for slip dresses of the same texture. These ladies prove that simplicity sometimes really is all you need to make a statement.

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A Whimsical Fishtail

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This sweet fishtail braid is dotted with bits of tiny flowers for an enchanted, storybook princess vibe. We deem this wedding guest hairstyle totally swoon-worthy.

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A Statement Headpiece

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The easiest way to jazz up a 'do? Add a headpiece. Even the simplest and most perfectly undone of styles get a serious injection of elegance and glam from the addition of a gorgeous hair accessory.

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Wet Look

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The combed-back wet look makes for a runway-ready contrast to an otherwise soft and feminine ensemble. We love the sleek, minimalism of the style on shorter strands, but the mermaid vibes of longer lengths can be equally alluring.

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A Big Ballerina Bun

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An ample topknot makes for an appealing complement to a high neckline as it draws the eyes upwards and elongates the neck. Don't be intimidated by its size, this bodacious bun is easy to create with a hair sponge.

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Milkmaid Plaits

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These milkmaid braids are whimsical and feminine, making them a great choice for any summertime wedding. Nestle a few buds at the base for a truly enchanted look.

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A Cascading Braid

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This is the plait of all our bohemian fantasies come to life. Draped twists, tiny floral hairpins nestled throughout, playfully curled ends—what more could we possibly ask for?

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Easy High Ponytail

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Don't completely discount a high ponytail as a wedding guest look. The style can inject some youthfulness into any ensemble and still convey an air of elegance.

For an ultra-chic ponytail, take a strand of hair from the bottom and wrap it around the base covering the hair tie. Secure the twisted piece in place with a well-camouflaged bobby pin tucked underneath.

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A Knotted Braid

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How cool is this style? A knotted braid weaves itself down to the nape of the neck before twisting into one large, interwoven chignon.

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An Easy Side Sweep

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We're totally swept away by these romantic locks. Pull your hair to one side and let it all cascade over one shoulder, sensuously exposing your neck and collarbone on the alternate side.

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Big Texture

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Embrace your natural hair texture for a larger-than-life 'do. Disclaimer: The bigger the hair, the funkier the dance moves!

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Tousled Tresses

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These slightly undone, tousled locks emanate a relaxed and laid-back vibe that's sure to cause a stir. Shine and bounce of this caliber will have everyone begging for your hair secrets.

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A Boho Braid

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Be still, our boho-loving hearts. This thick bohemian braid elegantly swoops into a low knot for a sweet yet fuss-free style.

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A Beachy Lob

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Give your shorter length a sexy dose of volume and add some texture with beachy curls for this luscious look. Try a matte texturizing spray for added fullness that won't deter from the easy vibe.

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A Half-Up Messy Bun

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A tousled half-up, half-down hairstyle gets a refreshing upgrade with the addition of a fun, messy bun. If you've mastered a traditional half-up style, this one's just as easy to recreate. Just swirl the gathered ends into a little bun and pin in place.

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Easy Side-Swept Ponytail

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While we're on the subject of small adjustments that make a big difference, let's shoutout this sophisticated ponytail. All the ease and beauty of an ultra-low ponytail with the additional funkiness that a subtle, off-center grip creates.

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A Bevy of Goddess Braids

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Frankly, we have a bit of an obsession with the vivacious dimension and texture that goddess braids can bring to traditional styles. These bridesmaids stunningly showcase the range of their braids from a low chignon to a loose coif to a sky-high ponytail.

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A Sleek Knot

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The most beloved hairstyle of the fashion-forward is without a doubt the sleek knot. Minimalist, chic, and almost deceptively easy to create, this wedding guest hair coif is compatible with almost every hair length and never detracts from a fab outfit.

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Glam Topknot

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Consider a topknot, ladies! How gorge is this ultra-sleek and glossy one for all the glam vibes?

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French Fringe and Curls

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Wispy french fringe and relaxed curls couldn't be more effortless and cool. We love the aesthetic paired with the contrasting femininity of a silky slip dress.

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Perfectly Imperfect Updo

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For a low-maintenance coif that looks anything but consider the tried-and-true perfectly imperfect updo. The beauty is all in the intentionally disheveled details, so this is one hairstyle that just gets better and better as the night goes on.

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Side-Parted Bombshell Curls

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Old-Hollywood romantics, this one's for you. A sultry side-part and bombshell curls never go out of style.

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A Sophisticated Pixie

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Long locks aren't the only tresses we're fond of. This elegant pixie is absolutely exquisite. We love how the cut is full of choppy layers that still look soft and touchable rather than overly edgy.

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Relaxed Updo With Full Bang

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With a full bang and gorgeous features to flaunt, little else is needed when it comes to a hairstyle. This stunner let her fringe take center stage with a relaxed and easy updo.

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Half-Up, Half-Down With Peekaboo Braid

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A well-placed braid can do so much for a humble half-up, half-down wedding guest hairstyle. This peekaboo plait grips the hair into the coif in the most aesthetic way.

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Center-Parted Fro

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This fresh-faced beauty let her ample mane do all the talking. We love the addition of the center part for face-framing balance.

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Woven Hairstyles Two Ways

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Okay, so you may need a little bit of help recreating either of these woven wedding guest hair looks—but we think these intricately gathered styles are well worth the extra effort.

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Epic Goddess Braids

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Long hair don't care? These epic goddess braids demand a moment in the spotlight.

FAQ

Should I go to a hairstylist or create my own wedding guest hairstyle?
While practice makes perfect, there are some hairstyles that may be too difficult to do on your own. When in doubt, don't be afraid to enlist the help of a professional hairstylist.
Do I need to try out my hairstyle before the wedding?
Not just reserved for the bride-to-be, a wedding hair trial is a great way to see your hairstyle perfected before the big day. Beyond mastering your 'do, you'll also make sure that you know how to keep it in place all day.

16 Beautiful Petite co*cktail Dresses for Wedding Guests

52 Wedding Guest Hairstyles You'll Want to Try (2024)

FAQs

How should I wear my hair as a guest at a wedding? ›

Formal wedding guest hair etiquette

Hair should be well groomed. You want to look dressy, sleek and polished - aim for short, slick side partings, barrel tonged waves, ballerina buns and textured updos.

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What is a medium length hair style for wedding guests? ›

Medium Length Hairstyles for Wedding Guests

Try a half-up, half-down style, but instead of pulling some of the hair back, braid it instead. It will still show off your length while giving you plenty of textured goodness. Look for medium-length wedding hairstyles for guests.

What is the most popular wedding hairstyle? ›

Half Up, Half Down Hair

Half up, half down hair is one of the most popular wedding hairstyles for short and long hair. This timeless look will never go out of style. Half updos are the perfect fit for veils and other accessories. It can also be paired with all the styles mentioned above.

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How do I know how to wear my hair for a wedding? ›

Consider Your Wedding Dress Neckline

"If you are wearing a strapless dress, either hair down or half up, half down will look pretty and feminine while still showing off the neckline," advises Mar. Loose waves and a soft, flowing style is key. If your dress has a higher neckline, our pro says to consider an updo.

Is it better to wear hair up or down for wedding? ›

In my opinion, the most successful option is to wear your hair UP on your wedding day. Your hairstyle needs to last a long time at your wedding – at LEAST 6 or 8 hours – and it needs to be able to endure all kinds of conditions. Think sweat, humidity, sun, breeze, and hugs from many, many loved ones.

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Is a ponytail appropriate for a wedding guest? ›

A pitch perfect ponytail is always the right choice. To help make it wedding-worthy, opt for slicked texture at the crown, a midi positioning, and a brushed, polished ponytail. (And when it doubt, add a ribbon!)

Should you wear a long or short dress as a wedding guest? ›

Women wedding guests should wear full-length dresses, be it a ballgown, a sheath or an A-line dress. High heels are strongly recommended. Feel free to accessorize with opulent jewelry and even elbow-length white silk gloves.

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Can you wear your hair down for wedding? ›

Hair-down looks work great with strapless gowns or spaghetti straps. If your dress has a detailed back or a high neck, you may want to consider an updo or a half-up, half-down style. Be sure your stylist knows what your dress looks like, and they can help you find a hairstyle that works from all angles.

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What is the half-up half down style for wedding guests? ›

Half-Up, Half Down

The quintessential half-up, half-down wedding hairstyle features long, cascading locks and just a few pieces pulled back from the face. It can be styled to look classic and polished or loose and bohemian depending on the vibe of your wedding guest look.

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What is the number 1 hairstyle? ›

What Are the Numbers in Haircuts? If you ask your barber for a number one cut, you are asking them to cut your hair so it is an eighth of an inch long. If you ask for a number eight cut, the hair left on your head will be one inch.

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Which is the most elegant hairstyle? ›

Chignon Hairstyle

A classic chignon is effortlessly elegant and is the perfect hairstyle for a soiree.

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Who pays for wedding hair? ›

That said, the bride or the bridesmaids will pay for the bridal party's hair and makeup. Some brides cover the cost of glam as a “thank you” to their friends for supporting the wedding. However, this isn't always the case. Weddings are expensive, and some brides can't afford hair and makeup for a large bridal party.

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How many hours before your wedding should you get your hair done? ›

For the bride and a bridal party of four, we suggest starting to get ready four to five hours before the ceremony begins. This will provide ample time for hair, makeup, and photos. Add an hour and a half for each additional bridal party member (or subtract the same amount of time for smaller wedding parties).