Bridesmaid hairstyles can be tricky as all of your bride squad will have different shaped faces and suit different styles. From bridesmaid up-dos to boho braids, here’s everything you need to know about your bridesmaids’ hair and choosing the best bridesmaid hairstyles with your bride tribe.
Bridesmaid Hairstyles for 2023: Your Ultimate Guide
Have you saved loads of bridesmaid hair ideas to your Pinterest board and are still no closer to choosing your bridesmaids’ hairstyles for the wedding?
Just like picking the best bridesmaid dresses for your girls, choosing how you want your bridesmaids’ hair to look can be tough. We asked celebrity hairstylist, Vicki Lord, for her favourite bridesmaid hairstyles for 2023 and how to achieve them.
Pick Your Own Bridal Hairstyle First
Choose your bridal hairstyle first and then the hairstyle of your bridesmaids. A good hairstylist will be able to come up with wedding hairstyles that suits all of your bridesmaids and still be in keeping with your bridal theme. TikTok is a great place to get inspiration.
Choose a Bridesmaid Hairstyle That Won’t Clash With Your Own
Even though you want your bridesmaids to look pretty, ensure that they enhance your look, rather than overpower it. Remember it’s your wedding and you are the main focus of the day.
Keep to Your Wedding Theme
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Make sure your bridesmaids’ chosen hairstyles tie-in with your wedding theme. It’s important for your bridesmaids’ hairstyles to complement their bridesmaid dresses and the overall look and feel of your wedding. If your bridesmaids have matching dresses, why not opt for mismatched hairstyles?
Wedding Hair Accessories are Key
It is nice to have a uniformed look for the bridesmaids (perhaps a prettier adapted look for the younger flower girls, and a slightly different look for the Maid of Honour) and this can be as simple as changing the hair accessory or adding an extra braid.
If you’ve opted for mismatched hairstyles for your bridesmaids, why not bring them together with coordinated wedding hair accessories?
Think About Your Bridesmaids’ Hair
Every bridesmaid will have different hair – some of your bridesmaids may have fringes, some may have side partings, middle partings, or be accustomed to wearing their hair away from their face, and some bridesmaids may need hair extensions for your chosen style.
The bridesmaids’ hair will almost definitely vary in style, length and texture, and so all of these factors must be considered when choosing your bridesmaids’ hairstyle. But your hairstylist should be able to tweak each hairstyle to suit each bridesmaid.
Does the Bride Choose the Bridesmaids’ Hairstyles?
As the bride often chooses the bridesmaid dresses, the bridesmaids tend to choose their own hairstyles for the wedding. But remember, it’s your wedding, so just as the bridesmaids’ dresses should complement your wedding dress, their hair needs to complement yours.
Allowing your bridesmaids to choose their own hairstyles allows them feel more involved in the wedding and to express their individuality – especially if you’ve had full control over their bridesmaid dresses.
And if all of your bridesmaids are wearing the exact same dress, contrasting bridesmaid hairstyles can look fabulous – and help to highlight your unique bridal look.
Do Bridesmaids Have the Same Hairstyle?
If some of your bridesmaids have long hair, and others have short hair, they won’t be able to have perfectly matching hairstyles. While your bridesmaids’ hair styles don’t need to be identical, they should all follow a general theme.
If you want your bridesmaids to have the same hairstyle, keep the style simple, so that it can be adapted.
For example, if you were to choose a half-up half-down style, you would then look at each bridesmaid and consider how it can be adjusted slightly to make it suit their face shape and hair type.
If your bridesmaids are choosing their own differing hairstyles for your big day but you’re really keen to coordinate all of your girls and still have an element of control, why not go with matching hair accessories?
What do Bridesmaids Wear in Their Hair?
When choosing wedding hair accessories for your bridal party, look at your overall wedding theme and your vision for their looks. For example, if you’ve got a boho wedding theme running throughout, weaving real or artificial wedding flowers into your bridesmaids’ plaits or braided hairstyles could work really well.
Like with your wedding dress, choose the bridesmaid dresses and hairstyles first and then look for accessories after you have decided on them.
Lisa from The Bobby Pin says: “I always think that bridesmaid accessories should be dainty and pretty with that touch of sparkle. Nothing too over the top as the bride needs to take the spotlight.”
Getting wedding hair accessories right for all your bridesmaids can be a difficult task when they all have different hair lengths and colours. Keep it simple with a delicate comb or pin that can be added into any hairstyle.
Who Pays For the Bridesmaids’ Hair?
It completely depends on the bride and the wedding budget when it comes to whether the bride should pay for her bridesmaids’ hair and makeup. If paying for your bridesmaids’ hair is something that fits into your wedding budget then go for it!
Some brides opt to cover the cost of the bridesmaids’ dresses to thank their friends for their support and make it more affordable for them to be a part of the wedding, then leave the hairstyle choice and payment of hair and makeup to them.
But if you’re insisting on choosing your bridesmaids’ hairstyles and that they wear their hair a certain way, make sure you put aside a bridesmaid budget to pay for them to have it done professionally, to alleviate the stress of them doing it themselves and it not looking right.
Bridesmaid Hairstyle Trends for 2023
Hair expert and educator Chloe Whittle at hair care professionals Salon Promotions reveals the top five bridal hair trends set to make it big across weddings throughout 2023.
Chloe comments: “We’ve previously seen brides wanting more natural, relaxed, boho looks for their big day and this is definitely going to continue throughout this year, however, we expect we will start to see more brides wanting polished finishes, modern classics, simple/elegant ‘minimalist bridal’ looks. 2023 will definitely see the comeback of traditional looks, with a fresh new twist.”
Sleek Low Bun
The low bun is not something we’re unfamiliar with when it comes to bridal looks – it’s simple, elegant and a great, practical choice to show off any impressive dress detailing.
This year we expect to see people opt for a sleek low bun where shine and precision is key, ensuring all hair is pinned back away from the face. The way the low bun is manipulated can vary from a larger, textured bun to a cohesive sleek, twist secured with pins.
Glam Waves
For anyone wanting to show off their thick locks on their wedding day, glam waves provide all the drama and volume a bride could need. Elevating a classic 20s look means that this style can suit both traditional and modern brides and will look timeless in your wedding photos.
The nature of the large waves work best with mid-long, healthy hair, which can then flow elegantly over your shoulders with an enviable shine.
The 90s Bun
Nostalgia is still very much making its way into weddings this year, and hairstyles aren’t an exception. The 90s high bun is a flattering style for those who aren’t used to having their hair up.
With height and volume, as well as face-framing pieces that fall from a centre parting, this look is the perfect youthful, fun style to accompany a modern wedding that strays from tradition. Depending on how playful you would like the look to be, taking the bun higher will add more drama and placing the bun at the centre of your crown achieves a more subtle look.
Effortless Ponytail
Great for lowkey vibes or a summer wedding, the effortless ponytail is a flattering option for those who want to feel comfortable and avoid anything too adventurous for their big day.
As well as keeping hair from getting tangled in your veil, jewellery, buttons or zips, this practical option will also make the overall wedding look fun and playful.
The Braided Half Updo
Half updos are a firm bridal hair favourite but this year we expect to see many of these updos incorporating braids or creative twists of the hair. While usually half updos are done on wavy locks, the 2023 take on this style is going to see much tighter curls to achieve a beachy glam look.
You can really amp up the nostalgia with this look and incorporate braids into the rest of the hair, going for a few bigger braids or more smaller braids. It’s also worth thinking about whether you’d like to add any hair accessories to your look, in which case a half updo is the perfect style to opt for!
Braided Up-Dos
Braids continue to be the ‘in thing’ for 2023, too. Best worn loose or wrapped around the back, the mark of a good bridal hair specialist is how well they can plait!
Bridesmaid Braids & Fishtail Plaits
Is it even a wedding hair round-up without a boho braid in the mix? Even if your bridesmaids’ hair is quite short, hair pieces can be fitted which means that they too, can rock this trend.
Summer brides should think about using real or fabric flowers to give their girls’ hairstyles a fun and feminine finishing touch.
Read More:
- The Best Bridesmaid Dress Trends and Ideas for 2023
- Wedding Hair Accessories to Suit Every Season
- Fun and Unique Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas
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FAQs
Bridesmaid Hairstyles for 2023: Bridesmaid Hair Ideas | Wedding Ideas? ›
Another idea is for your bridesmaids to wear their hair the opposite to yours. For example, if you are wearing your hair up the bridesmaids wear their hair down, and vice versa. Bridesmaids play a very important role on your wedding day, and of course you want them to look beautiful.
How should a bridesmaid wear her hair? ›Another idea is for your bridesmaids to wear their hair the opposite to yours. For example, if you are wearing your hair up the bridesmaids wear their hair down, and vice versa. Bridesmaids play a very important role on your wedding day, and of course you want them to look beautiful.
Should bridesmaids have the same hair style? ›One question you may be asking is whether all of your bridesmaids should have the same hairstyle. The answer is not necessarily. The hairstyles do not need to be identical, but they should have something that ties the look together such as a headband or roped braid.
Do bridesmaids choose their own hair? ›Depending on their ability, a bridesmaid may choose to do either their hair or makeup on their own to save herself or the bride money, says Shackleton. "Weddings can get expensive on both ends, and having a few options is great for everyone," she says.
How to look good as a bridesmaid? ›- Bring blush with you. ...
- Highlight everywhere. ...
- Outsmart chipped polish. ...
- Take a cleanser for your jewels. ...
- Pack a few unsexy things, too. ...
- Get rid of bags, stat. ...
- Pre-Photoshop yourself. ...
- Get unreal volume.
If your bridesmaid are required to pay for their own hair and makeup, they must also tip the standard amount for each of them as well. The amount of tip should be calculated by the total amount of the service fee.
Should bride pay for hair and makeup for bridesmaids? ›The bridal party is responsible for covering their own hair and makeup costs (or doing it themselves) unless the bride requests that hair and makeup be done in a certain way or by the same artist. In that case, it's the bride's responsibility.
Can the mother of the groom be in the same color as the bridesmaids? ›The short answer: Yes, but you've got to get it right. Some may think it's gauche for a mother of the bride or groom to too closely match the bridesmaids, but tradition actually dictates that the moms should wear attire that complements what your bridal party will be wearing.
Should the bridesmaid hair be different than the bride? ›The perfect match
The bridesmaids' styles should be part of the same 'theme' as the bride's own style, in the same way that their dresses should be in a similar style to the wedding dress. Contrast the bridesmaids' style with that of the bride, but keep the overall idea the same.
Generally speaking, bridesmaids are expected to pay for their own dresses and accessories as well as potentially hair and makeup appointments and transportation to the wedding. According to Gottsman, bridesmaids should be prepared to cover the costs for these expenses once they accept the offer.
What are three classic Updo techniques? ›
- Pompadour. This style describing the top of the hair can be applied to your choice of braid, bun, or ponytail. ...
- Chignon. A low, bun or bun-like style that sits at the nape of the neck.
- Bouffant.
On average, bridesmaids and other wedding party members should expect to pay about $125 to $250 per person for hair and makeup. It's up to the bride if she will pay this cost, or if her attendants will cover it themselves.
Do bridesmaids get their nails done? ›Bridesmaids should get their nails done. While there is no standard rule about this, it is recommended for the bridal party to get their nails done a few days before the wedding.
Should you pay for your bridesmaid hair? ›A: No, you aren't expected to pay. Your bridesmaids can take care of their own hair and makeup. Some brides, of course, are able to absorb the fees as a thank you to their attendants.
Is it rude to ask bridesmaids to pay for hair? ›If it's being required by the bride, bride should pay. If bride makes it optional, bridesmaid pays. Full say = you pay. But expecting them to pay if they elect to get their hair/makeup done - totally acceptable.
What color bridesmaid dresses look good on everyone? ›- Emerald green. Not every shade of green looks great on everyone. ...
- Black. You didn't think we'd leave off black, did you? ...
- Navy. If black feels too boring, switch it up just a bit and pick its slightly lighter cousin, navy. ...
- Red. Are you surprised? ...
- Teal. ...
- Blush. ...
- Plum.
Green bridesmaids dresses are the all round popular choice, and works any time of year. It suits all skin tones and hair colours and becomes a sort of 'neutral' within a colour palette.
What is the most important bridesmaid? ›The Maid of Honour (or Man of Honour, where applicable) serves as the chief bridesmaid.
How much do you tip a hairdresser on $150? ›$50 service = $10 tip. $100 service = $20 tip. $150 service = $30 tip. $200 service = $40 tip.
Do bridesmaids makeup have to match? ›While it's important for the bridal party to look cohesive, their makeup absolutely does not need to match exactly. It's almost impossible to find a single look or lipstick, for example, that will suit a range of skin tones.
Who pays for groom's mother hair and makeup? ›
Who Pays for the Mother-of-the-Bride and Groom's Beauty Team? As with most beauty questions, there is no hard-and-fast rule. Some brides may offer to cover hair and makeup services in order to thank the wedding party for being a part of their special day.
Who pays for bridal shower? ›Standard etiquette dictates the person hosting the shower would be the one who pays for it. However, if multiple people are hosting the shower (or if multiple people want to contribute to the event), that's absolutely fine too.
What does the bride pay for when it comes to bridesmaids? ›It's standard for the bride to cover the cost of bouquets, transportation to and from the wedding venue, and a gift to her bridesmaids. Optional costs may include hair and makeup, hotel accommodations, bridesmaids' dresses, and a bridesmaids' luncheon (if hosted by the bride).
What does a bridesmaid do during the wedding? ›The list of bridesmaids' responsibilities includes: Emotionally supporting the bride at all times throughout the wedding planning and ceremony. Assisting the Maid of Honor in planning and paying for the bridal shower and bachelorette party, and of course, assisting the Maid of Honor throughout the wedding day.
What color is the mother of the bride's dress supposed to be? ›There's not one specific color the mother of the bride should wear. But unless you've received approval from the couple, it's best to steer clear from white, ivory or champagne hues as not to take attention away from the bride.
What color does the groom's mom wear? ›The Best Colors for a Mother of the Groom
"Wear a flattering color that compliments the color palette of the wedding," advises Valiente. For example, jewel tones and earthy hues are perfect for fall nuptials, while formal gowns in navy or silver would be ideal for black-tie weddings.
She can spend a little time with both the bride and groom.
If that's the case, she may want to start her morning with the bride and her group, then leave once she has her hair and makeup done. After, she can head to the groom's getting-ready area to help him prepare for his walk down the aisle.
"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.
How many bridesmaids looks best? ›On average, you'll find that most brides choose to have between 4 to 6 bridesmaids . Also, it is not necessary to match the number of bridesmaids to the groomsmen .
Is it still a bridesmaid if married? ›Can I have my married friend as a bridesmaid in the wedding? Yes, absolutely! The idea that a bride needs to be surrounded by unmarried women is ancient history, and unless all your closest friends do happen to be unwed, it might as well stay that way. There's no reason you can't ask a married friend to be a maid.
Who buys the brides dress? ›
The bride's side of the family traditionally pays for the bride's wedding dress and the bridesmaids' dresses. Increasingly, however, bridesmaids are paying for their own dresses.
Is it rude to ask bridesmaids to pay for their dress? ›Bridesmaid dresses
If you're on a tight budget and you can't afford to cover the cost of the dresses, it's reasonable to ask your bridesmaids to pay for them. These are some of your closest friends and family, so you'll probably find they are very understanding.
The tip for your makeup artist and hair stylist should be 15-25% of their total fee. You can tip your makeup artist and hair stylist after their services are finished.
What updo makes you look younger? ›A chignon is one of the most classic updos you could wear, and pulling the hair back from your face will naturally provide a lifted look which will help you to appear younger. “A classic chignon is a timeless style that has even the youngest of fans still on board.
Should a bride have hair up or down? ›"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.
Do bridesmaids wear flowers in their hair? ›Putting flowers in your bridesmaids' hair can be cute, glamorous, elegant or dazzling: there are limitless possibilities. White flowers look lovely on younger maids, and can add glamour to an older bridesmaid.