15 Gorgeous Wedding Hairstyles to DIY at Home

“Your hair is the crown you never take off”—and on your wedding day, that crown deserves to shine. But what if you could skip the salon, the steep price tags, and still look like a vision walking down the aisle? According to The Knot, the average bride spends over $100 just on wedding hair. Add in a pre-trial, travel fees, and tips, and you’re suddenly dipping into your honeymoon budget. But here’s the great news: some of the most elegant and timeless bridal hairstyles can be done by you, in the comfort of your home. In this guide, we’ll walk through 15 gorgeous wedding hairstyles—from effortless waves to romantic updos—that you can DIY even if you’re not a pro. Each one includes styling tips, accessory ideas, and time-saving tricks to keep things stress-free and stunning. Ready to turn heads and feel like your most beautiful self? Let’s dive into the styles!

1. Classic Low Chignon

The low chignon is a forever favorite. Simple yet sophisticated, this look pairs perfectly with just about any dress neckline or wedding theme. To create it, part your hair down the middle or side, smooth it into a low ponytail, and twist the hair into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold spray to maintain its structure. You can tuck in a few decorative pins or a bridal comb for added elegance. This style works best on straight or loosely curled hair, making it versatile for most hair textures. The low chignon also complements veils beautifully, especially those placed beneath the bun for a seamless transition from ceremony to reception.

2. Romantic Loose Waves

If you’re leaning toward a more relaxed, romantic vibe, loose waves are your best friend. They create that soft, dreamy bridal look and photograph like a dream. Start by using a 1- to 1.5-inch curling wand. Curl small sections of your hair, alternating direction for that tousled, natural effect. Don’t forget to run your fingers through the curls after they’ve cooled to loosen them up. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep things flowy, not crunchy. Accessorize with a flower crown, jeweled pins, or even just a few small roses tucked behind one ear.

3. Braided Crown Halo

Fit for a fairy-tale bride, the braided crown halo is both whimsical and wearable. This look shines at outdoor or rustic weddings and works especially well with medium to long hair. To achieve it, braid two small sections of hair from each side of your head. Pull each braid over the top of your head and pin them in place like a headband. For an extra romantic touch, leave some face-framing strands loose. Add baby’s breath, tiny pearls, or small floral clips into the braid to elevate the look from casual to bridal-worthy.

4. Sleek Low Ponytail with Twist

Minimalist brides, this one’s for you. A sleek low ponytail with a twist is chic, polished, and fashion-forward. Start by straightening your hair and parting it cleanly down the middle. Gather it at the nape of your neck, then add a twist or braid before tying it into a ponytail. Wrap a small piece of hair around the base to conceal the elastic. This hairstyle looks amazing with statement earrings or a bold lip. Plus, it’s one of the easiest to touch up throughout the day.

5. Messy Bun with Tendrils

Nothing says romantic elegance quite like a messy bun. This laid-back yet luxurious style is perfect for brides who want a little softness without sacrificing glam. Pull your hair back into a loose bun, letting a few strands naturally fall out. Then, curl those tendrils for a soft, face-framing finish. Secure everything with pins and a medium-hold spray to keep it from unraveling too soon. The key here is balance—it should look intentional but not overdone.

6. Side Swept Curls

Dreamy, flirty, and full of drama, side swept curls are ideal for brides who want old-Hollywood glam. Use a curling wand or rollers to create voluminous curls. Once your curls have cooled, part your hair deeply to one side and pin the smaller section behind your ear. Pull all your curls to the other side and let them cascade over your shoulder. Finish with a sparkly barrette or bridal comb, and you’ve got a red-carpet-ready look!

7. French Twist Updo

Channel classic Audrey Hepburn elegance with a French twist—a sleek, sophisticated option that never goes out of style. Tease the crown of your hair to add volume, then gather and twist the hair upward, securing it vertically with pins. Tuck the ends into the twist and add a few decorative accents. This style is particularly great for structured gowns or high-neck wedding dresses, giving off timeless bridal energy.

8. Half-Up Boho Braid

For the free-spirited bride, the half-up boho braid is a winner. It blends a relaxed aesthetic with a hint of polish. Take two sections of hair from either side of your head, braid them, and secure them together at the back. Leave the rest of your hair in soft waves or curls. Top with a floral comb or leaf-shaped clip to drive home the bohemian vibe. Bonus: this one holds up well in wind or humid weather!

9. Fishtail Braid with Accessories

Intricate but surprisingly simple, the fishtail braid offers stunning texture and style. Divide your hair into two sections, then pull a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the opposite. Repeat this all the way down. Once done, pancake the braid by gently tugging it wider for more volume. Finish with crystal pins, ribbons, or tiny fresh flowers woven into the braid for a standout bridal look.

10. Twisted Crown Updo

If you want to feel regal on your wedding day, try the twisted crown updo. It offers a soft, vintage feel and works well with lace or retro gowns. Twist small sections from each side of your head and pin them in an overlapping crown shape. The rest can be loosely pinned into a bun or left down in waves. Add a bejeweled headband or tiara to truly feel like royalty!

11. High Bun with Volume

Clean, elevated, and elegant—the high bun is a classic for a reason. It works wonders for highlighting your face and elongating your neck. Start by teasing the crown of your head for volume. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, then twist and wrap it into a bun. Use pins and a light misting of hairspray to keep everything in place. This is perfect for brides wearing veils attached beneath the bun or those who want to show off statement jewelry.

 

12. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is as magical as it sounds. Ideal for brides with longer hair, this style gives a cascading, romantic effect. Begin braiding on one side of your head, dropping sections of hair every few crosses to create that “falling” look. It can be paired with soft curls or even a side ponytail for added charm. Slide in floral or crystal pins along the braid for a storybook finish.

13. Curly Bun with Side Part

This style combines vintage glamour with modern charm. The curly bun with a side part is structured, stylish, and full of personality. Start with voluminous curls, then sweep your hair into a low bun. A defined side part and curled bangs or tendrils help frame the face for a soft, timeless look. Perfect for brides who love a retro flair without going full vintage.

14. Loose Updo with Floral Pins

A loose updo adorned with floral pins screams romance. This style works especially well for spring or garden weddings. Pull your hair back loosely into a low bun or chignon. Instead of sleekness, let natural waves and volume shine through. Secure with pins and then embellish with delicate flowers or bridal clips. This hairstyle brings an effortlessly ethereal feel that complements outdoor settings beautifully.

15. Dutch Braid Bun

For a look that’s both playful and elegant, try the Dutch braid bun. It’s textured, eye-catching, and ideal for thick or medium-length hair. Start by Dutch braiding around the crown of your head—remember, that means crossing sections under rather than over. Once you’ve circled the head, gather the remaining hair into a bun at the nape. Decorate with pearl pins or a vine-style headpiece for maximum impact.

Conclusion

You don’t need a celebrity stylist or a four-hour glam session to feel radiant on your big day. With the right tools, a little patience, and some inspiration, you can create a bridal hairstyle that’s beautiful, budget-friendly, and totally you.

From sleek buns to boho braids, each of these 15 DIY wedding hairstyles brings its own flair and personality. Whether you’re saying “I do” in a grand ballroom or barefoot in the backyard, your hair can look just as dreamy as your dress.

So, grab your bobby pins, queue up a tutorial or two, and have fun trying these looks before the big day. You’ve got this—your crown is waiting