7 Simple Wedding Hairstyles to DIY at Home (2025 Guide)
Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest of honor, mastering a few simple DIY wedding hairstyles can save you money and help you look just as polished as if you’d sat in a salon chair. And guess what? You don’t need a lot of tools or fancy skills. Just a mirror, a few essentials, and a little bit of practice. In fact, recent bridal trends show more people are embracing budget-friendly beauty options—and hair is no exception. According to The Knot’s 2024 report, nearly 4 in 10 brides are opting for DIY hairstyles to keep things affordable and more personal. So whether your vibe is boho-chic, vintage glam, or effortless modern elegance, these 7 easy wedding hairstyles are here to help you shine. Ready to become your own glam squad? Let’s dive in.
1. Romantic Low Chignon
The low chignon is a timeless bridal favorite—and for good reason. It’s chic, sophisticated, and works beautifully with everything from cathedral veils to floral combs. Best of all? You don’t need a hairstyling license to pull it off. Start by parting your hair down the middle or to the side (whichever flatters your face shape). Then, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it loosely, and secure with bobby pins. A light-hold hairspray will help tame flyaways and keep things neat.
What makes this style ideal for DIY brides is its flexibility. You can keep it sleek and polished for a formal look or gently pull out face-framing strands to soften the effect. Pair it with delicate pearl pins or a vintage brooch, and voilà—you’ve got bridal elegance without the salon price tag. This hairstyle works wonders for medium to long hair and holds up well during hugs, dances, and “just married” moments. Pro tip: practice the twist a few times before the big day to lock in your muscle memory.
2. Boho Braided Crown
If your wedding is set against a backdrop of mountains, fields, or beachy shores, this bohemian braided crown might just be your perfect match. It’s earthy, effortless, and screams romantic whimsy—without screaming for help from a professional stylist. To create it, part your hair down the center and braid two sections from each side of your head. Then, wrap each braid over your head like a headband and pin them in place. The look mimics a halo effect, perfect for pairing with flower crowns, tiny blooms, or greenery sprigs.
Loose curls or waves add volume and texture underneath the braid, while a bit of dry shampoo gives grip and hold. Not only is this one of the easiest wedding hairstyles to DIY, but it’s also incredibly photogenic from every angle. And don’t worry if a few pieces fall loose—that’s part of the charm! The beauty of a boho hairstyle is its imperfection. The goal is romantic, not rigid.
3. Sleek High Bun
Sometimes simplicity makes the loudest statement—and the sleek high bun is living proof. Ideal for urban, contemporary, or minimalist brides, this hairstyle radiates grace and poise. Think Audrey Hepburn vibes, minus the salon chair. Begin by brushing your hair into a high ponytail. Use a smoothing serum or pomade to eliminate frizz and create a polished finish. Once you have a clean ponytail, twist the hair tightly into a bun and secure with bobby pins. Use a firm-hold spray to keep flyaways in check.
What’s wonderful about the sleek bun is how it lets other accessories shine. Bold earrings, a dramatic backless dress, or a glimmering veil—this hairstyle complements them all. Plus, it keeps your neck and shoulders cool if you’re tying the knot in a warmer climate. For added volume, you can wrap your ponytail around a bun donut or foam insert before twisting it up. This adds that little extra “wow” without much extra effort.
4. Soft Waves with Side Clip
Not every wedding hairstyle needs to be an updo. If you’re a fan of romantic simplicity, soft waves with a sparkly side clip can create a look that’s graceful, modern, and refreshingly easy to DIY. Using a curling wand or flat iron, curl medium sections of your hair away from your face. Alternate the direction for a more natural, tousled finish. Once cooled, gently run your fingers through the waves to soften them, then apply a light hairspray to hold.
Now here’s where the magic happens: choose a stunning side clip, barrette, or comb—something with a little glam, like rhinestones, pearls, or even vintage enamel. Pin it just above your ear to pull back one side and frame your face. This look is ideal for all hair lengths and textures. It’s also great if you’re doing a last-minute DIY, since it doesn’t take long and still looks polished and intentional. It’s effortlessly bridal with just the right touch of sparkle.
5. Half-Up Twisted Knot
Can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down? The half-up twisted knot gives you the best of both worlds—and it’s wonderfully easy to master at home. Start by curling or waving your hair to add texture. Then, take two small sections from each side of your head, twist them toward the back, and tie them in a loose knot. Pin the knot securely and let the rest of your hair fall naturally.
This style works beautifully with floral accents, baby’s breath, or dainty clips, and it flatters all face shapes. It’s perfect for brides who want a romantic, laid-back look but still want their hair away from their face. If you’re transitioning from ceremony to reception, this style can hold up all day with a few bobby pins and some flexible-hold spray. It’s effortlessly bridal, soft, and full of movement—which makes it perfect for twirling under twinkling lights.
6. Vintage-Inspired Finger Waves
Step aside, modern trends—finger waves are back, and they’re absolutely mesmerizing. If you’re going for a vintage or retro wedding vibe, this style delivers glamour in waves (literally). To DIY this 1920s-inspired look, start with damp hair and apply a generous amount of setting lotion. Using a fine-tooth comb and your fingers, sculpt “S”-shaped waves by combing hair forward, then back, and securing the ridges with clips. Once dry, remove the clips and lightly brush through the waves for a soft finish.
Finger waves are striking on short or bob-length hair, but they can also be adapted for longer locks with a bit of patience. Complete the look with a jeweled headband or feather accessory, and you’ll look like you stepped straight out of a Gatsby party. While it may take a few tries to get the shape just right, the payoff is stunning. You’ll turn heads and photographs will capture that timeless elegance forever.
7. Messy Low Ponytail with Texture
Last but not least, the textured low ponytail is for the modern bride who loves a little edge with her elegance. It’s quick, chic, and super easy to do yourself—especially for outdoor, boho, or beach weddings. Start by adding loose waves or curls to your hair. Tease the crown gently for volume, then gather your hair into a low ponytail just above the nape of your neck. Pull a few face-framing strands out for softness. Secure with a clear elastic, then wrap a small piece of hair around the base to hide the band and pin it underneath.
You can elevate this style with braids, twists, or floral accents, making it one of the most customizable wedding hairstyles around. The beauty lies in its relaxed, slightly undone vibe—it looks effortless but still put-together. This style is also a lifesaver for second-day hair or humid weather since it holds texture better than polished updos. It’s versatile, romantic, and perfect for dancing the night away.
Conclusion
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, laughter, and you. So why not reflect that in your hairstyle, too? These 7 simple wedding hairstyles prove that elegance doesn’t have to come with a high price tag—or a hairstylist. With a little bit of patience, the right tools, and your unique flair, you can create a show-stopping look that feels as good as it looks.
Whether you’re twirling in a ballroom, barefoot on the beach, or exchanging vows in your backyard, these DIY-friendly hairstyles will help you feel confident, beautiful, and completely ready to say “I do.” And remember: it’s not about perfection—it’s about celebrating your moment, your way.
