15 Romantic Wedding Hairstyles for the Big Day

Today’s brides are blending tradition with personal flair, and many are opting for hairstyles that reflect elegance without excessive salon intervention. According to a recent bridal survey, nearly 60% of brides prefer customizable, DIY-friendly hairstyles that feel both glamorous and authentic. Whether you’re planning a garden wedding or an intimate elopement, these romantic styles are crafted to flatter all face shapes, hair types, and themes.

Ready to feel like a vision walking down the aisle? Let’s explore 15 romantic wedding hairstyles that you can DIY or show your stylist for your unforgettable “I do” moment.

1. Classic Low Chignon

A low chignon is elegance in its purest form. It’s sleek, minimal, and timeless—perfect for brides who lean toward a more traditional look. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its versatility.

• Works beautifully with veils or bridal hairpieces
• Keeps the focus on your neckline and earrings
• Perfect for both structured and flowy gowns

To create this style, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a soft bun. Secure with bobby pins and hairspray, and you’re good to go. Add pearl pins or a jeweled comb for extra glamour.

2. Loose Boho Waves

For brides dreaming of a free-spirited, ethereal vibe, loose boho waves deliver that windswept romance. This style is perfect for outdoor weddings and pairs well with flower crowns, leafy accessories, or delicate veils

• Adds softness and volume
• Easy to DIY with a large-barrel curling wand
• Great option for mid-length to long hair

Start with dry, textured hair. Curl large sections away from your face and gently finger-comb them for a relaxed finish. Finish with texturizing spray for hold and movement.

3. Side-Swept Hollywood Curls

Channel Old Hollywood with voluminous, side-swept curls that exude classic romance. This glamorous hairstyle suits formal weddings and pairs well with bold lipstick or vintage gowns.

• Adds drama and sophistication
• Frames the face beautifully
• Ideal for one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder dresses

To achieve this look, curl your hair with a medium barrel curling iron, brush out for softness, and pin one side behind the ear with a glitzy barrette.

4. Braided Crown Updo

If you’re going for that “royal wedding” aesthetic, a braided crown updo is a dream come true. Romantic and whimsical, this style weaves natural charm with elegance.

• Keeps hair secure throughout the event
• Flatters all face shapes
• Ideal for rustic or garden weddings

Part your hair down the middle, create two braids, and wrap them around your head like a crown. Secure with pins and add dainty flowers or greenery.

5. Textured Ponytail with Volume

Looking for chic simplicity? The textured ponytail offers ease and flair, especially for modern brides who love a little edge.

• Great for humid or warm-weather weddings
• Adds height and polish
• Can be worn high or low, depending on your gown neckline

Backcomb the crown for volume, gather into a ponytail, and wrap a strand around the base for a clean finish. Use a curling wand for soft waves throughout the tail.

6. Half-Up Twisted Bun

Combining the elegance of an updo with the femininity of loose hair, the half-up twisted bun is a sweet spot for many brides.

• Keeps hair off the face while showcasing your length
• Works for straight, wavy, or curly textures
• Ideal for lace dresses or boho bridal themes

Twist back small sections from each temple, meet at the back, and create a small bun. Let the rest of your hair flow freely.

7. Soft Low Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils

A soft low bun with tendrils looks effortlessly romantic, as if you stepped right out of a period film. This look flatters round or heart-shaped faces particularly well.

• Offers a graceful, feminine feel
• Great for pairing with chandelier earrings
• Holds up well during long ceremonies

Loosely pull your hair into a low bun, leaving out front sections to curl. Pin gently for a lived-in, romantic finish.

8. Fishtail Braid Updo

Want something unique that makes a statement? A fishtail braid updo is intricate but totally doable, even for DIY brides.

• Stunning from every angle
• Ideal for thick or long hair
• Works beautifully with backless gowns

Create a fishtail braid, wrap it into a bun, and pin securely. You can even incorporate small flowers or twinkling pins throughout.

9. Sleek Modern Bun

Minimalist brides, this one’s for you. The sleek bun is clean, modern, and high-impact, especially when paired with bold makeup or structured gowns.

• Smooth and sophisticated
• No-fuss style that lasts all day
• Ideal for city or contemporary weddings

Use a smoothing serum and pull hair tightly into a mid or low bun. Pair with a sharp middle part or side part depending on your preference.

10. Voluminous Blowout Waves

Few styles feel more luxurious than a glossy, voluminous blowout. This hairstyle radiates confidence and is perfect for brides who want to wear their hair down.

• Big, bouncy waves that photograph beautifully
• Suits nearly all face shapes
• Requires minimal accessories

Blow-dry with a round brush for lift, then use large rollers or a curling iron to define the waves. Don’t forget to add shine spray for a luminous finish.

11. Twisted Halo Braid

This halo braid variation adds texture and grace without the need for full updos. It’s especially flattering on fine hair and works well with soft makeup looks.

• Delicate and fairy-like
• Suits outdoor or woodland weddings
• Ideal for mid-length hair

Twist or braid two sections from each side and pin at the back of the head. Curl the rest for a soft, dreamy finish.

12. Messy French Roll

Elegant with a touch of undone charm, the messy French roll brings sophistication without feeling overdone.

• Works best on medium-length hair
• Pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired gowns
• Holds well through dancing and movement

Roll your hair inward and up toward the crown, pinning as you go. Tease slightly and let small pieces fall naturally around the face and nape.

13. Curly Natural Updo

Natural curls deserve to shine! A curly updo enhances your texture and embraces your authentic beauty on your special day.

• Ideal for naturally curly or coily hair
• Showcases volume and structure
• Accentuates facial features and earrings

Pull curls into a high puff or loose bun and define edges with gel. Add fresh blooms or metallic pins for a radiant finish.

14. Braided Half-Up with Curls

This style blends the best of both worlds—structure and flow. A half-up braid with cascading curls looks feminine and fresh.

• Highlights both braid detail and your length
• Customizable with different braid styles
• Looks great with floral pins or hair vines

Braid the crown section of your hair and curl the loose bottom half. Tuck in decorative accessories for sparkle.

15. Romantic Bubble Ponytail

Looking for something playful yet sophisticated? The bubble ponytail offers a modern twist on a childhood favorite.

• Fun and trendy for non-traditional brides
• Works best on medium to long hair
• Adds volume and movement

Tie your hair into a low ponytail and place elastic bands every few inches, tugging each section to “puff” it out. Accessorize each bubble with small pearls or ribbons for extra charm.

Conclusion

Your wedding day is all about celebrating your love story—and your hairstyle should be a reflection of your joy, confidence, and personal flair. Whether you prefer a timeless chignon or a trendy bubble ponytail, these romantic hairstyles offer endless inspiration for your walk down the aisle.

The best part? Many of these styles are easy enough to DIY or tweak with the help of a trusted friend or stylist. Don’t be afraid to experiment during your bridal trial, blend styles, or add personal touches like heirloom pins or favorite flowers.