30 Simple Wedding Hairstyles That Prove Less Is More

Updated 10/06/20

Sometimes, it’s best to keep it simple. This rule of thumb can apply to your wedding guest list (you don’t always need to invite third and fourth cousins), your menu (two signature cocktails are enough!), and even what kind of hairstyle you rock on the big day. Simple wedding hairstyles can be just as stunning as their more intricate counterparts.

These looks suit brides who have a more minimalist sense of style. Not to mention, if you're doing your own hair for your wedding, simple 'dos can be a saving grace. We’re confident that you’ll be able to pull off most of these looks yourself. Just remember that practice makes perfect and to give yourself plenty of time on so you don’t feel the pressure of a time crunch.

What It's Like to Do Your Own Hair on Your Wedding Day

Now let’s take our own advice, keep things simple, and cut right to the chase: Here are 30 simple wedding hairstyles we just love.

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Cool-Girl Middle Part

Rocked by celebs like Zoe Kravitz and all of the Kardashians, middles parts are effortlessly cool. But it's not just the celebrity set who subscribe to this style. Brides love it as it's both face-defining and versatile. Check out the loose curls this bride paired hers with.

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Double-Twist Ponytail

Another alternative to just a plain pony? This literal twist on the hairstyle that's chic and sexy. Be sure to use a thickening product like a dry texturizing spray or powder to give your hair some grip before forming the double twists.

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Crown Braid

A simple crown braid totes plenty of bohemian charm. Like many styles, this one works best on dirty hair that has a bit of a grip to it, so resist the urge to wash it the night before your wedding.

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Minimalist Metallic Barrette

Sometimes, a simple barrette is all a bride needs! Just take it from this beauty who tucked away a lock of hair with a slim, single hairpiece.

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Classic Half-Up Half-Down

Bride smiling in half up half down hairstyle — Mel Barlow; Event Planning by Carole Grogan of Bright Blue Events; Makeup by Megan Lombardi & Megan Mortenson

The tried-and-true half-up half-down hairstyle has never failed a bride! Why? Because it’s universally flattering, complementing all face shapes and most personal styles and wedding dress necklines.

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Messy Bun

Take a page out of Meghan Markle’s royal wedding playbook with a messy bun. It's a softened version of a classic chignon that’ll look lovely and effortless.

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Big Bouncy Curls

How gorgeous are these glossy curls? Big, lush curls are undeniably glamorous and are achievable via a larger barrel curling iron. (We recommend one with a 1 ¼ inch or 1 ½ inch barrel!)

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Half-Up Braided Bun

This hairstyle is the definition of simplistic chic! By pulling back some of your locks, you’ll keep the attention on your face and a braided half bun, as seen here, is such an unexpected way to do it.

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Crowning Moment

Give an otherwise simple wedding hairstyle the royal treatment by topping it off with a bridal tiara. We love the halo-like headpiece this beauty donned.

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Easygoing Ponytail

This bride made sure to show off the stunning sheer back of her wedding dress by rocking a simple ponytail. Smooth away any flyaways by spraying a comb with hairspray and pulling it through your strands before gathering them into the ponytail.

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Big and Bold Blooms

If you feel that your simple wedding hairstyle could use a little...something...big, bold florals might fit the bill. The statement-making florals can instantly level up any bridal ‘do.

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Pinned-Up Curls

We love the way this bride wore curls piled and pinned on top of her head. What an easy (and pretty!) way to get your hair out of your face so you can show off all your best dance moves at the reception.

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Soft Waves

Newlyweds embracing — Tamara Gruner Photography; Event Planning by Isabelle Kline Design; Hair by Melanie Ortiz of Priv

Soft, beachy waves are a summertime staple and a gorgeous choice for brides. If you’re styling your own tresses, curl 1 to 2-inch sections of hair using a 1-inch wand. Vary the direction of the curls to keep the finished look natural and effortless.

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Wrapped Ponytail

Who knew the ponytail you rock at the gym could become so romantic? Hide hair elastics by wrapping the hair around them, and pull out a couple of tendrils for a soft and ethereal vibe.

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Sleek High Knot

Does your dream wedding dress boast a beautiful neckline or back? Wearing your hair in a sleek high knot will let those details shine without competing with them.

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Romantic, Wispy Updo

We’re obsessed with this soft and romantic updo. When going for a similar style, remember to keep things relaxed and textured—not every hair has to lay perfectly in place.

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Braids Meet Ponytail

Here, two dainty braids meet a ponytail in holy matrimony. Who knew they’d make such a perfect pair?! It’s a great choice for a boho bride.

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Cropped and Curled

You can still rock some curls with a shorter ‘do by focusing a curling wand on just the ends of your hair. This will give it body and bounce. Follow with a flexible hold hairspray and you’re good to go!

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Lustrous Low Bun

You can’t go wrong with a classic chignon. This iconic iteration is set low on the head and shines bright thanks to that sleek middle part and glossy tresses.

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Face-Framing Twists

For an easy half-up half-down hairstyle, simply twist locks of hair to frame the face. Secure with matte bobby pins.

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Sleek Simplicity

Rest assured that a sleek and shiny hairstyle will never go out of style. After parting your hair (try going straight down the middle like this bridal beauty!), spritz on a shine-boosting spray before blow-drying to achieve this minimalist look.

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Show Off Your Natural Texture

Bride smiling in dress and veil — Amy Anaiz; Event Planning by We Do! Collective by Fallon Carter; Hair by Modimel; Styling by Vainglorious Brides

Keep the rest of your style simple and let your natural texture be the star of the show.

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A Boost of Volume

A little volume at the crown of the head can make a world of difference in formalizing a simple wedding hairstyle. Try using a volumizing powder at the roots to give your tresses just the right amount of oomph.

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Throw on a Flower Crown

No matter what wedding hairstyle you choose, you can add some extra bridal vibes by throwing on a flower crown. Ask your florist if she can create one using the same flowers that’ll be in your bouquet to pull the whole look together.

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Prettified Ponytail

With twisted, intertwining locks, tons of volume, and an embellished hair comb, this bride’s ponytail is taken to the next level.

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Simple Faux-Hawk

Looking for something with a bit of a modern edge? Take note of this faux-hawk. It’s crafted from easy-enough braids and twists, and totes all the cool-girl vibes you’ve been searching for.

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Old Hollywood-Inspired Waves

Complement a vintage wedding dress with some Old Hollywood-inspired waves. The unique texture alone is simply stunning.

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Loosely Wrapped Updo

To mimic this lovely loose updo, first, create a rope braid before loosely wrapping it around the base. Secure with bobby pins, untucking it a bit here and there so it looks elegantly effortless.

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Slip in Some Sparkle

Leave it to a sparkly hairpiece to instantly dress up any wedding hairstyle. As if this bride’s romantic, loose curls weren’t pretty enough, the addition of her glittering hair accessory makes it extra special.

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