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56 Romantic Hairstyles to Wear on Your Wedding Day

From soft waves to messy updos, these hairstyles are perfect for the romantic bride.

Bride with a romantic wedding hairstyle

Photo by KAYLEE CHELSEA PHOTOGRAPHY/Design by Julie Bang

From your vows to the first dance, there will be no shortage of romantic moments on your big day. Brides often incorporate romantic elements into everything from the wedding decor to their gowns and, yes, even their lovely locks. Because what's a wedding if not romantic?

Whether it's tousled, touch-me waves, a swoon-worthy updo, or dainty floral embellishments, a romantic wedding hairstyle can be created in endless ways. Want to show off your shoulders? Rock a romantic style with your strapless wedding dress by opting for a messy updo with face-framing tendrils. Throwing a boho bash? Tuck bits of floral and foliage into your lush curls for some seriously romantic vibes. With a ton of ways to incorporate some romantic elements into a wedding hairstyle, there's a 'do out there for every personal style, wedding theme, and gorgeous wedding dress.

Need some inspiration? Scroll down to see our picks for the most romantic wedding hairstyles.

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Effortless Sophistication

A bride smiling on her wedding day with romantic hairstyle

Getty Images

To add an effortless touch to a sleek and sophisticated updo, leave a few face-framing pieces of hair cascading down. What's more romantic than that?

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A Low Chignon

Newlyweds embracing with bride with a low bun

Photo by Sara Lobla

When model Shanina Shaik wed Gregory “DJ Ruckus” Andrews in the Bahamas, she chose a chignon with loose tendrils for her romantic wedding hairstyle. Elegant yet understated, you can't go wrong with a timeless look like this.

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A Tender Display

Bridal portrait with beaded cape

Photo by Stephania Campos; Event Planning by Daryl Wilson of D Concierge Events; Hair by Nikki Garcia; Makeup by Stacy Kent

Lillian's ethereal look included a combed-back 'do that let her gorgeous face be the shining star. The hair flowed in gentle waves that played up the softness of the style.

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Ribbon Romance

Bridal hair with a pretty posy and ribbon in hair

Photo by Tom Leung Photography

A gauzy ribbon and a pretty posy make for a romantic combination. You can really play around with different hues and fabrics to create a look that aligns with your own bridal style.

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A Full Ponytail

Bride with ponytail getting veil put on

Photo by Robin Harper; Event Planning by Tara Cathcart of TMC PR; Hair by Matilde Campos

Ponytails can be oh-so-flirty and super romantic. Gathered at the base of the head, Christina's pony erupts in a full show of curls without detracting from her intricate lace dress.

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A Messy Alternative

Bridal hair with flower crown

Photo by Volvoreta

Undone messy buns are trending among brides everywhere—and we're certainly not complaining. This tousled style exudes effortless elegance in the most breathtaking way.

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A Floral Tuck

Bride and bridesmaids getting ready

Photo by Kerry Jeanne Photography 

Dotting a classic chignon with dainty pink roses is an easy way to amp up the romance in your look. Pair it with a simple (but sparkly) earring, and you're ready for that walk down the aisle.

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A Feminine Tie

Bridal hair fastened with a pink velvet ribbon

Photo by Red Aspen Photography 

For her romantic ranch nuptials, bride Samantha opted for a chic low ponytail tied with a pink velvet ribbon. Both feminine and unexpected, this is a pretty look we're obsessed with.

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A Delicate Gather

Bride with partially pulled back hairstyle

Photo by BFA Weddings 

New York–based accessories designer Arden Wohl wore her long locks in a simple, partially pulled-back hairstyle. Giving you the best of both worlds, this look allows a bride to achieve the romance of soft waves while also keeping her hair tucked away.

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A Little Glitz

Bride with a romantic wedding hairstyle

Photo by Treebird Photography

This bride went for a romantic wedding hairstyle that was effortlessly feminine. Thanks to the face-framing soft strands and a sparkly hairpiece, her beautiful face instantly became the focal point.

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A Classic Case

Elegant bridal half-up, half-down 'do

Photo by Ryon Lockhart Photography

Nothing beats a classic: This half-up, half-down 'do is a surefire style. You'll never question an elegant look like this.

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On the Low

Bride with a sleek low bun

Photo by KT Merry Photography 

Let your accessories take center stage with a sleek updo like this one. This beautiful bride's glossy low bun is proof that a romantic wedding hairstyle can be perfectly polished.

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A Regal Finish

Gorgeous bride with tousled curls

Photo by Juanlu Real 

Bride Jimena let her tousled locks cascade down onto her shoulders and added an incredible headpiece. "My headdress was made with more than 800 natural tiny pearls intertwined to make the whole tiara," she said of her romantic hair accessory.

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A Twisted Take

Bride with a twisted ponytail

Photo by Cynthia Chung

Searching for a romantic wedding hairstyle that's out of your face? Try a twisted ponytail like this bride. You can even accessorize it with some sparkly hairpins.

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Stick to the Basics

Newlyweds Kissing

Photo by A Heart String

Sometimes, you just have to keep things simple. Case in point: This bride's romantic wedding hairstyle consists of just her gorgeous, voluminous spirals and a center part.

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Keep It Soft

Bride with romantic soft curls

Photo by Carmen Santorelli Photography

Use a big-barrel curling iron to create soft, romantic curls like this bride. Then, add a smattering of blooms.

For an undeniably romantic hairstyle, brides should aim to keep things soft and relaxed (think loose curls and texturized, wispy updos). Feel free to accessorize with delicate bits of sparkle or ethereal blooms.

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Glam Factor

Vow exchange outside with bride in romantic hairstyle

Photo by Lauren Alexandra 

Voluminous curls and a crystal hairpiece are glamorous additions to a romantic wedding hairstyle. A look like this is both striking and memorable.

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Woven Wonder

Newlyweds with dog with bride in long, loose waves

Photo by Clayton Austin

Weave a braid into an otherwise down 'do for a romantic touch. With proof that it keeps your face free of any flyaways, it's ideal for any smooching you may be doing throughout the day!

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Crowning Glory

Bride rocking a bridal crown

Photo by Cinzia Bruschini

A romantic bride can still be a princess bride. This lovely lady accented her face-framing tendrils with a regal crown.

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Shine On

Newlyweds posing for photos with bride in long, wavy hair

Photo by Gianny Campos 

We're head over heels for Haniya's soft, shiny curls and chic center part. She kept it polished and clean with a hint of drama by adding statement pearl earrings.

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A Halo of Greenery

Vow exchange amongst greenery

Photo by Cinzia Bruschini 

When Breana McDow wed Matthew Helders of the Arctic Monkeys, she accessorized her updo with a few sprigs of fern and greenery. This look complements the outdoor nuptial space perfectly.

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A Rosy Disposition

Newlyweds embrace for photo wit bride with large flowers

Photo by Two Twenty by Chi Chi 

Two single rose blooms accented this bride's gorgeous natural coils. The substantial size of these blooms adds the most dramatically romantic touch.

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Green Goddess

Bride accessorized her wavy hair with greenery

Photo by Peyton Rainey Photography and Chelsea Denise

This bride weaved a bit of greenery into her effortlessly wavy locks. Adding contrast and dimension, this is a combo we can't get enough of.

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Dainty Details

Bride putting on shoes with romantic updo and headband

Photo by Sally Pinera

A delicate, modern tiara and a few wispy face-framing pieces soften this princess style. This updo is lovely for the bride seeking ultra-feminine features and delicate details.

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Bring on the Bounce

Bride showing off veil and gown with shoulder length waves

Photo by Chi-Chi Ari; Event Planning by Tiffany Rivera of Simply Breathe Events; Hair by Hair by Fran 

Anita's strong, blunt lob was softened with brushed-out finger waves through the midsection to add bounce. How fun and flirty is that?!

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A Bevy of Curls

Bride with a bevy of gorgeous curls

Photo by Suzi Jacobs 

Sharrah paired her beaded blush dress with lush and loose half-up curls. The voluminous body of her hair instantly elevates this effortlessly dramatic look.

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A Braided 'Do

Bride and groom dancing at wedding

Photo by KLC 

Carissa was all about the relaxed romance with her braided updo. Her beaming smile is an accurate representation of how we feel about this gorgeous bridal style.

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An Organic Crown

Bridal floral crown

Photo by Emilie White 

This London bride's wild waves and crown of rosebuds and olive leaves meld the romantic with a touch of boho. We picture this free-flowing look in a garden ceremony or for mountaintop nuptials.

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A Gilded Touch

Bride's hair accessorized with a gold hairpiece

Photo by Greg Finck

This bride topped off her tresses with a pair of chic golden hairpins. This reminds us why we love the asymmetrical placement of a pretty hairpiece.

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Touchable Tendrils

Bride with gorgeous soft waves

Photo by Becca Lea Photography 

Tousled, touch-me waves completed this bride's romantic wedding-day look. Uncomplicated and soft, this style screams romance.

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Face-Forward

Bride in long romantic hair at vow exchange

Photo by A Heart String 

You can never go wrong with a classic half-up, half-down look. This Miami bride twisted her locks away from her face for a look that was totally effortless.

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A Fishtail Flourish

Fishtail braid with flowers

Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography; Event Planning by Novelty Events; Hair by Tiara Evans & Janet Miranda 

Jenneh's playful fishtail braid takes on a romantic twist with the addition of a swag of eucalyptus, pale roses, succulents, and greenery that matched her bouquet. The floral piece molds to the side of her head as wispy tendrils fall around her face.

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An Ample Updo

Newlyweds on motorcycle

Photo by Jose Villa 

When one of our fave wedding photographers, Jen Huang, walked down the aisle, she rocked a soft and romantic low updo. Simple and effortless, this style is just as low-maintenance as it is stunning.

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A Lovely Lob

Newlyweds dancing with bride in shoulder length waves

Photo by Kelly Anne Berry

Sherita's windblown waves make her stylish lob totally fitting for her backyard ceremony. She looks edgy, chic, and super romantic all at once.

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A Bridal Bun

Bride with an open back dress and wrapped low bun

Photo by Mariel Hannah Photography

We're swooning over this bride's wrapped low bun with face-framing locks and a gilded floral hairpiece. Seriously, what's not to love?

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Elegant Waves

Newlyweds posing for photo with bride with long wavy hair

Photo by Cassandra Castaneda; Event Planning by Sarah-Allen Preston Designs

Romantically rolled locks were the perfect finishing touch to this bride's wedding day look. Keeping her stunning face as the focal point, the tucked front pieces of hair keep it clean and chic.

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A Vintage Vibe

Bride with romantic curls holding a bouquet

Photo by Whitney Darling; Event Planning by RO & Co. Events; Hair by Dry Bar Del Mar 

Large barrel curls twisting away from the face are an oh-so-romantic touch to this bride's vintage style. Plus, the embellished hairpiece adds just the right amount of irresistible shimmer.

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Subtle Waves

Bride kissing bride on the forehead

Photo by Luna de Mar; Event Planning by Gold Leaf Event Design; Hair & Makeup by Gambuti Robsin Hair & Makeup

Barely-there waves flow beautifully about My Yen's face, accentuating her bridal glow. Two ivory rosettes secure a few tucked-back pieces in place.

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Raked-Back Curls

Bride getting ready with loose updo

Photo by Rebecca Yale; Hair by Trine Juel 

Claire embraced her naturally curly texture by simply finger-combing it back and securing it in a loose chignon. Her hair's natural shape adds so much volume and dimension at the crown but still maintains an effortless simplicity.

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A Beaded Braid

Bride with a whimsical loose braid

Photo by O'Malley Photographers; Event Planning by Valley and Co.; Hair by Misbehaven Spa & Salon

Allie's whimsical loose braid was dotted with beaded pins that resembled tiny floral buds for her vineyard wedding. This ultra-organic look is beyond dreamy for any outdoor nuptials.

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Tousled Texture

Bride with perfectly undone waves

Photo by Rachel Havel; Hair & Makeup by Kyrsten Bryant 

Ashley's perfectly disheveled, undone waves are relaxed in the sexiest way possible. She looked every bit the romantic bride for her mountainside Colorado nuptials.

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A Dreamy Bun

Bride in lace robe looking out window with updo

Photo by David Salim; Event Planning by Design Anarchy Studio; Hair & Makeup by Lala Barbie &  Marcela Bantea 

Felicia's Lake Como nuptials were just as dreamy as the hairstyle she chose to wear. Her glossed-out bun was accented with a floral headpiece that hugged the style just above the veil.

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A Bridal Blowout

Bride with a fresh blowout

Photo by Roey Yohai; Event Planning by JZ Events; Hair by Hair by Halli

With a smooth, bouncy blowout that features gently sculpted waves and tons of volume, Sydney's bright blonde mane created all the spotlight she needed for her wedding in the Hamptons.

Depending on the texture of your hair, be sure to consult your hairstylist prior to getting a blowout as there are different styles to consider. Whether the goal is to achieve extra bounce or you plan on rocking a sleek 'do, we recommend getting a blowout the day before or the morning of your wedding for the best results.

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A Touch of Gold

Bride with a pretty 'do looking out over balcony

Photo by Nancy Ebert; Event Planning by Estelle Kouma; Hair by Makeup Riviera  

Heather donned an intricately woven chignon with a tiny gold bloom peeking out of the top for her dreamy French Riviera wedding. We love how her hair's highlights add dimension and texture to this pretty updo.

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Flirty Finger Waves

Bride with picture-perfect curls

Photo by Erich McVey; Event Planning by Paper Diamonds; Hair by Alexandul 

Who wouldn't want to run their fingers through this waterfall of curls? This stunning style is ideal for brides with thick, luscious locks.

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A Beachy Bun

Bride with low, textured bun

Photo by Katie Ruther; Event Planning by Destination Weddings Tulum; Hair by Dahena Buhaya 

This low, textured bun with wispy flyaways framing the face was the perfect complement to this bride's beachside nuptials in Tulum, Mexico. And how stunning are those statement earrings finishing off the look?

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Simplicity Is Key

Bride with loose waves and a single blossom in hair

Photo by Henry + Mac; Event Planning by Unique Weddings by Alexis; Hair by Kacie Corbelle

Sometimes a single blossom is all you really need. Bride Nicole accented her loose, voluminous waves with a single white flower that blended magnificently with her modern, architectural gown.

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Center Stage

Bride with gentle waves and an off-the-shoulder dress

Photo by Kelly Brown; Hair by Sabrina Ranà 

True romance lies in a center part and gentle waves. But that ethereal Marchesa Notte dress doesn't hurt either.

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Deliberate Details

Bride with pearl-embellished straps

Photo by Abby Jiu; Event Planning by Strawberry Milk Events; Hair by Stephanie Harris 

A loose gathering can create a captivatingly undone look that's far more deliberate than messy. Candiace's wedding hairstyle allowed for locks of curls to flow freely in the front while the longer lengths were tucked away in the back.

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Captivating Curls

Bride with captivating curls

Photo by Rebecca Yale; Event Planning by Matthew Oliver Weddings; Hair by Ava Belle 

Monica's elegant half-up, half-down style is made more enchanting with thick sheaths of hair framing her beautiful features. She looked every bit like the princess bride at her French château wedding.

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A Perfectly Imperfect Chignon

Newlyweds embracing with bride in messy bun

Photo by Katherine Ann Rose; Event Planning by Lynden Lane Co.; Hair by Simone

Tracy's rich, tousled tendrils were loosely pinned back into an easygoing, just-messy-enough chignon, with tons of rogue wisps falling around her picture-perfect face.

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Au Naturel

Bride with all-natural waves

Photo by Rach Loves Troy; Event Planning by Tara Skinner Weddings & Events; Hair by Salon Aqua

This bride's natural curls were let loose to freely cascade about her shoulders in an unfussy style. The innocent and youthful appearance kept with the celebration's organic, whimsical theme.

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Tousled Waves

Couple dancing on their wedding day with one bride with tousled waves

Getty Images

Romantic and effortless, some tousled waves are an easy choice. Sweep back a section of your hair with some flowers or greenery for an organic touch.

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A Blooming Pony

Bride with a gorgeous blossoming ponytail

Photo by Kate Headley; Hair by The Village Parlor; Floral Design by Susan McLeary 

For her Detroit wedding, Diana gathered her ample spirals into a soft ponytail just at the nape of the neck. She then tucked a bouquet of freshly foraged, pastel flowers into the base.

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Bohemian Elegance

Bride holding bouquet by a window

Photo by Molly Peach; Hair by Leah Wilson

Chloe's woven chignon sat low at the back of her head, just grazing the nape of her neck. A dainty floral topper was added for a hint of sparkle as delicate waves framed her lovely features for a look befitting the elegant and boho Tennessee wedding.

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A Curly Chignon

Bride with a curly chignon

Photo by Lauren Baker

Adeline's traditional gather wasn't lacking in texture thanks to her natural curls. The spirals provided the perfect anchor for those stunning Jennifer Behr barrettes.

FAQ
  • How much does wedding hair cost?

    Professional bridal hairstyling can cost anywhere from $100 to $350—in some cases higher—depending on the complexity of the style and your geographic location.

  • Should I get a professional to style my hair?

    Depending on how elaborate your hairstyle is, you may want to hire a qualified hairstylist that specializes in bridal hair. Simpler styles can be done on your own but may require extra wedding-day time, effort, and stress that could outweigh the savings.

  • How do I choose a wedding hairstyle?

    Your dress, makeup, and venue are a few factors that may impact your wedding hairstyle. Ultimately, it's best to gather inspiration to share with your hairstylist, family, and friends—doing so will help you make an informed decision.

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