Tatyana Kochnova, Bhumika Sharma
The perfect bridal hairstyle doesn’t just flatter your face, it enhances the neckline, highlights your dress's embellishments, and completes the full vision from head-to-toe. Whether you have a hair consultation coming up or simply don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. Below, we break down the best bridal hairstyles based on your gown’s neckline and silhouette, ensuring you walk down the aisle picture-perfect from every angle.
Danielle Frankel, For Love & Lemons
Down & Dreamy for
Off-the-Shoulder Silhouettes
Off-the-shoulder gowns are made for movement. With floaty sleeves, exposed collarbones, and a touch of vintage femininity, hair worn down and natural brings balance to the neckline without competing with it. Think long, dreamy waves or brushed-out Hollywood curls that fall just below the shoulders.
Kyha Bride, Amsale, Wed Studio,
Cinq, Danielle Frankel, Chana Marelus
Playful Ponytails
for Backless Dresses
When your dress makes a statement from the back, a playful ponytail is the ideal finishing touch. Soft texture, gentle volume, and a few face-framing strands to keep things romantic will allow the back of your gown to take center stage. Plus, you'll still feel bridal and styled—never too perfect, always just right.
Danielle Frankel, Cagteks, Amsale
Dramatic Updos
for High Necklines
High necklines command attention, so pair them with a hairstyle that’s equally considered. A dramatic updo—whether a twisted bun, coiled chignon, or sculptural style—elongates the neck and keeps the look elegant. This choice is especially striking for winter weddings or vintage-inspired gowns with lace or beading at the collar.
Danielle Frankel, Zuhair Murad, 1811 Eighteen One One,
Tatyana Kochnova, Odylyne the Ceremony, Immaclé
Slicked-Back Chignons
for Beaded Ballgowns
A heavily beaded or embellished bodice calls for a hairstyle that’s sleek and minimal. A slicked-back chignon is as regal as it is timeless. Plus, it keeps all the attention where it belongs—on your shimmering gown. For a bonus, it works beautifully with veils.
Kelly McDermott / Kim Kassas Couture, Tatyana Kochnova, Margot Bridal
Half Updos
for Square Necklines
A square neckline offers clean, architectural lines that feel balanced and refined. A soft half-updo plays into this symmetry, offering the best of both worlds—some hair up for structure, some left down for romance. Opt for soft waves or face-framing tendrils to add movement without overpowering the neckline.
Danielle Frankel, Cinq, Rooibos Photography,
Rozalina, Cagteks, Rozalina
Tousled Updos
for Halter Necklines
A halter gown accentuates shoulders and draws attention up. The key is keeping the hair off the neck but still light and touchable. A tousled updo—slightly imperfect with loose strands—feels effortless but intentional. It flatters the neckline and gives you that “just threw it up” look with a lot more polish.
Sau Lee, Romanivanov, Danielle Frankel
Ethereal Waves
for Basque Waist Gowns
The feminine curves of a basque-waist silhouette pair beautifully with soft, ethereal waves. Worn long and flowing, this style enhances the fairytale quality of your gown. Whether styled with a floral comb, a dainty headband, or nothing at all, the look is soft, dreamy, and utterly romantic.
Kyha Bride, Enaura Bridal, Cinq,
Nicole + Felicia Couture, Cult Gaia, Cagteks
Classic Slicked-Back Buns
for Minimalist Styles
For a minimalist dress, you’ll want a hairstyle that exudes quiet sophistication. A classic, slicked-back bun offers just the right amount of polish and structure. Its sleek simplicity lets the clean lines of your gown shine while keeping the look refined and timeless. Whether it’s a low chignon or a neat top knot, this style complements the minimalist vibe of your dress perfectly.