Hairstyles for wedding: Your 2026 guide

Your wedding hairstyle can transform your entire look. It ties together your dress, accessories, and makeup while needing to hold up from ceremony to last dance.

The right choice depends on your face shape, neckline, venue conditions, and personal style. Here’s a detailed guide to the best wedding hairstyles for 2026, plus expert advice for planning your trial and keeping your look flawless all day.

Sleek buns and chignons

Sleek, sculpted buns are a timeless bridal choice and are set to remain a leading trend for 2026. The difference this year is in the finish. Brides are moving away from tight, hair-sprayed buns and leaning toward soft polish and healthy shine. A centre part with a low knot is the go-to for modern minimalists, while a slightly off-centre chignon creates balance for brides with softer, romantic gowns.

Ask your stylist for a “liquid hair” finish using lightweight serum rather than heavy spray. This ensures the bun looks smooth in photos without appearing stiff. Sleek buns are best suited to satin or structured gowns, cathedral-length veils, or formal city weddings where refinement is key.

Soft, undone waves

Relaxed, undone waves remain the most requested style among brides who want to feel elegant but not overdone. These soft waves work beautifully for beach, garden, and vineyard weddings. The secret lies in preparation: a good blow-dry, volumising mousse, and loose curling techniques that avoid ringlets.

To elevate the look, tuck one side behind your ear and secure with a statement clip or subtle pearl barrette. Consider extensions for added body if your hair is fine. Finish with a flexible hold spray so the movement stays touchable throughout the day. This look pairs well with modern bohemian dresses, low-backs, and off-shoulder silhouettes.

Ponytails with personality

The ponytail is evolving into a high-fashion bridal choice. It’s simple but can look incredibly polished when done properly. In 2026, expect to see wrapped bases, soft waves through the tail, and centre parts replacing the high-volume ponytails of past seasons.

A mid-height pony with a bit of lift at the crown gives an elegant profile, while a low pony with tucked-under ends feels refined and modern. Brides wearing high-neck gowns or statement backs often choose ponytails to showcase these details. Use shine-enhancing products to keep it sleek, or add texture powder for a matte finish if your style is more relaxed.

Half-up, half-down styles

The half-up, half-down hairstyle continues to be a bridal staple because it offers the best of both worlds. It provides structure for securing veils or clips while keeping length and softness. This year, stylists are favouring subtle twists or small braids to add dimension rather than the traditional teased crown.

For a balanced shape, ask for gentle volume at the top and loose waves through the ends. Avoid overloading the hair with hairspray or heavy oils, which can cause it to drop throughout the day. A light texture mist is ideal for hold. This look works beautifully with A-line, romantic, or lace gowns and photographs well from every angle.

Hollywood glamour waves

Classic Hollywood waves are never out of style, but in 2026 they are becoming softer and more wearable. Instead of rigid, uniform curls, stylists are brushing out the waves for a smoother, more natural finish. This creates volume and flow without the stiffness of vintage curls.

The key to success is shine. Ask your stylist for a glossy serum or lightweight oil to enhance the reflective quality. Brides wearing satin or silk dresses will love how this style mirrors the sheen of the fabric. For evening receptions, pin one side with a statement clip for asymmetry. A side part will elongate your features and flatter most face shapes.

Textured and braided hairstyles

Braids have graduated from festival-inspired to fully bridal. The trend for 2026 is intricate yet refined. Think soft fishtails woven into low buns, Dutch braids framing the crown, or micro plaits incorporated into half-up looks. These styles offer both structure and comfort, perfect for warm-weather weddings or long celebrations.

Texture sprays and light oils help define the braids while keeping frizz under control. Avoid heavy waxes that can dull the finish. Pair a braided bun with minimalist jewellery or let a single plait fall loosely for a more romantic feel. These looks are ideal for outdoor or destination weddings where humidity and wind can be unpredictable.

The modern bob

Short hair is no longer something brides grow out for the big day. The modern bob, whether chin-length or collarbone-skimming, is one of 2026’s most confident bridal statements. A sleek bob works best for contemporary city weddings, while a tousled version feels effortless and cool.

Volume and shine are essential for short styles to appear deliberate rather than everyday. Try a smoothing serum, light curl, or tucked-under ends for polish. Hair accessories such as pearl slides, thin headbands, or velvet bows add bridal detail without overpowering the simplicity of the cut. A defined lip colour or statement earrings complete the look.

Natural curls and coils

Brides embracing their natural curls are setting a strong tone for 2026. The goal is not to tame but to define. This means plenty of moisture, a solid curl routine, and working with a stylist who specialises in textured hair. A good prep session with hydrating shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in products makes a huge difference.

Diffusing the curls with low heat preserves shape and bounce. Consider soft updos that allow curls to frame the face, or wear your hair out with a side part for drama. A simple accessory like a crystal comb or silk scarf can highlight your texture beautifully. This look shines on brides who want authenticity and ease while maintaining polish.

Accessory and veil pairing tips

Your hairstyle choice should always consider your accessories. Veils, headbands, and hairpieces can change the balance of a look.

• For long, cathedral veils, low buns or soft waves keep the veil sitting flat.
• For fingertip or detachable veils, half-up or ponytail styles add height and prevent tangling.
• For statement headbands, go for smooth or tucked-back styles so the accessory remains the focal point.
• If you’re wearing fresh flowers, make sure they are wired by your florist for durability and misted with water before placement.
• When in doubt, bring your accessories to your hair trial so your stylist can plan the shape and volume around them.

Hair trial and timing tips

Book your hair trial around three months before the wedding. This allows time for adjustments and any colour or cut tweaks. Arrive with clean, dry hair, and wear a top that mimics your dress neckline. Bring inspiration photos, but keep an open mind to your stylist’s suggestions based on your features and texture.

Take photos from all angles under natural light to review later. If possible, schedule your makeup trial the same day to see the complete look. On your wedding morning, allocate at least one hour for your own hair and 30–45 minutes for each bridesmaid. Always have a backup plan for bad weather and keep a small touch-up kit with extra pins, travel hairspray, and a mini brush.

2026 bridal hair trends to watch

Looking ahead, expect to see a rise in high-shine finishes, natural movement, and practical styles that can transition from ceremony to reception. Brides are focusing less on overly structured hair and more on enhancing their features and personality. Think soft edges, low-maintenance textures, and polished simplicity that lasts through the night.