39 wedding guest hairstyles so you can show up and show out (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.

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.

The most popular hairstyle for wedding guests includes the tousled chignon, high ponytail, pushed-back sleek hair down, cascading braids, fishtail braids, and Old Hollywood waves. You can also wear a ballerina bun, top knots, wavy bun, side-swept waves, braided bun, or volumized hair down waves.

For outdoor scenarios where wind is a consideration try to stay away from sleek finished styles and tightly pinned up-dos. Opt for loose up-dos, beachy waves, long loose curls, a pony tail, and half up/half down looks, all work brilliantly with the breeze.

Should a wedding guest do hair or makeup first? Simple: “Hair always goes first,” Jafri says. “Usually, washing or application of product is involved, both of which could disturb makeup.”

Unless the bride has made specific demands of her guests/bridal party, you are free to wear your hair in any style that makes you feel beautiful. The only thing you need to avoid is any outfit/hairstyle/makeup that could possibly outshine the bride. Keep it tasteful and simple, and you'll be just fine.

Women are more than welcome to wear a floor-length dress, but if you prefer a dressy, knee-length co*cktail dress, then feel free. Just make sure the dress isn't too revealing.

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.

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.

How long should you do your hair for a wedding? ›

For your typical wedding hair, allot this time for each party member or guest: Brides: 60 to 90 minutes. Bridesmaids: 30 to 45 minutes. Mother of the Bride and Mother-in-Law: 30 to 45 minutes.

If you're going with a simple look, feel free to get your hair cut up a week before your wedding day. However, if you're going for a more intricate style, make an appointment the morning of your wedding day to ensure your barber or stylist can make you look flawless for your big day.

Unless the bride has made specific demands of her guests/bridal party, you are free to wear your hair in any style that makes you feel beautiful. The only thing you need to avoid is any outfit/hairstyle/makeup that could possibly outshine the bride. Keep it tasteful and simple, and you'll be just fine.

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.

There's nothing more classic than a little black dress. If you're going to a formal function then updos will work perfectly. They're elegant, sophisticated and classy. But if you want to stand out for a co*cktail party, go with something that lays low as most other people will have gone up.

It's a rule that only a bride wears a tiara at a wedding or any kind of crown in her hair (like flowers). You may love that festival look and want nothing more than to wear a crown of flowers to your best friend's wedding but leave that part up to her.