Whether you’re walking beside the bride or seated in the front row, your hairstyle should be just as thoughtfully chosen as your outfit. From relaxed waves that echo the ease of a flowy maxi to sleek buns that sharpen a black-tie silhouette, the right hair moment can transform your entire look. It’s all about harmonising your hairstyle with the neckline, the mood, and the movement of your dress. In this curated guide, we’ve paired every major bridesmaid and wedding guest dress style with its perfect hair match – so you’ll never have to second-guess whether to go up or down, soft or slick, ever again.
Old Hollywood Glamour Waves
for a Black Tie Look
Think like a starlet of the Golden Age of Hollywood: a side sweep paired with a refined softness and shape that make elegant gowns come alive. Glossy, cascading locks fall with just enough structure to enhance every movement, every turn of the head. This look lends a refined, luminous romance to any silhouettes, whether you're draped in silk or shimmering in sequins.
Kaia Gerber, Eiza Gonzalez, Lily-Rose Depp
'90s-Inspired Updos for
Halter & Plunging Necklines
Few pairings feel as effortlessly chic as a dramatic updo with a vintage-inspired gown. Think gravity-defying shapes – twisted knots, sculpted French twists, or Bella Hadid–style curly buns – that add structure and statement to '90s minimalist silhouettes – think plunging necklines, sultry slip dresses and backless halternecks. The effect is both polished and powerful, echoing the '90s love for quiet drama. This look is made for bridesmaids and guests who favor iconic references and unapologetic elegance.
De La Vali, Rrredkatt, Bryce Scarlett
Bryce Scarlett, Margot Robbie, Drenusha Xharra
Romantic Soft Waves for
High-Neck Dresses
Opting for a high neckline? This one calls for softness around the face, so brushed-out waves with a hint of volume strike the perfect balance. These romantic, face-framing waves add texture and movement without overwhelming the gown’s silhouette. Whether worn loose or styled half-up, they lend an effortless elegance to more modest necklines. The result is graceful, refined, and quietly captivating.
New Arrivals, New Arrivals, De La Vali
Relaxed Blowouts for
Romantic Maxis
Ethereal maxi dresses float with every step – your hair should echo that same sense of ease. A tousled blow-dry brings natural volume and movement without feeling overly styled. It’s polished enough for the ceremony, yet relaxed enough to carry you through the dance floor. Best paired with soft layers and a lived-in texture, this look is made for beach, garden, or destination weddings where the vibe is breezy but elevated.
Hanna Janic, Margot Robbie, Zimmermann,
Daisy Edgar Jones, De La Vali, Margot Robbie
Messy Top-Knots for
Open-Backs
If the back of your dress is the focal point, your hair should step aside – gracefully. Enter the world of the messy bun: slightly slicked or softly undone, but always perfectly imperfect. This barely-there style strikes the ideal balance between ease and intention for a black tie affair. It feels effortless, yet thoughtfully styled – perfect for a backless dress moment to add a bit of texture and dimension to an otherwise simple silhouette.
Staud, Saoirse Ronan, Lara Runarsson
Chic Slicked-Back Buns
for Sultry Styles
A slicked-back bun paired with a floor-length gown and statement earrings – sounds like the perfect choice for the ultimate wedding guest look. This sleek, center-parted style with mirror-finish smoothness exudes intention, control and an elegant sultriness. It elongates the neck, sharpens the jawline, and can elevate even the most classic of silhouettes.
Bryce Scarlett, Magda Butrym, Hailey Bieber,
Bryce Scarlett, Jourdan Sloane, Matters Store
Full-Bodied Texture for
Sleek Column Silhouettes
To break the simplicity of column gowns, introduce texture with full-body waves that bring movement to clean lines. Voluminous, natural waves add drama without heaviness, softening even the most minimalist looks. Glamorous yet understated, this style is ideal for fashion-forward guests or bridesmaids looking to make a subtle statement.
