29 Elegant and Easy Wedding Guest Hairstyle Ideas

Getting invited to someone’s wedding is one of the highest honors and usually cause for serious celebration. Whether you’re attending a casual backyard wedding or a glam, white-tie event, you’ll probably put some thought into your day-of attire.

Even though selecting your wedding hairstyle might be one of the last steps to pulling together your wedding guest look, it’s a vital one that makes you look put together and cohesive.

Here, we’re breaking down everything you need to know regarding easy wedding guest hairstyles, so you feel good about your ’do on the dance floor and beyond.

What to Consider When Selecting a Wedding Hairstyle

While you’re not the one getting married, the couple and wedding party is going to look their best (for example, the wedding party will likely get their wedding hair and makeup professionally done)—so while you don't need to rock full-on bridesmaid wedding hair when you're a guest, it is important that you dress to impress for the special day. Here’s what to consider when deciding how to do your hair for the celebration.

Consider the Season

The very first step to choosing the best wedding hairstyle is to consider the season. If you’re attending a celebration in the springtime or summer, you’ll want to be wary of the heat and humidity. Nothing can deflate curls or an updo like heavy air or an afternoon thunderstorm. Check the weather before deciding on your look, and consider how your style will look after the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and dancing—especially if you’ll be outside.

Consider the Wedding Venue

Next, you’ll want to consider the celebration venue, formality, and wedding colors. A casual beachy wedding might make you lean toward something a little more casual than a formal celebration at a rooftop club.

If you’re outdoors, be sure to take things like weather and exposure into account if you think wearing your hair down or adding hair extensions will get too hot or uncomfortable in the environment. “Anything with an outdoor environment greatly affects how the hair should be styled for longevity,” says Heather King-Labeur, senior stylist at Radio London.

Consider the Wedding Theme

If the celebration has a specific theme—such as beachy, fairytale, or boho—consider subtly leaning into the vibe. Perhaps adding a shell clip for a wedding on a sandy shore or an art deco gold headband for a Gatsby wedding. While you don’t want to be too flashy, adding a little something extra to highlight the theme is a great nod to the hard work the couple went through to pull the event together.

Consider Your Attire

Naturally, you want to consider what you’re wearing to the wedding to ensure your hairstyle complements it instead of detracts from it. If you’re unsure, pay attention to the neckline of your outfit. Higher necklines look great with your hair pulled back. That said, it all depends on your preference, comfort, and aesthetic.

Consider Your Hair Length

Naturally, your hair length will play a factor in the style you choose, but if you have a vision that doesn’t work with your length, feel free to get creative. Things like weaves, wigs, and extensions can give you longer-looking locks and some artfully-placed pins can make your hair look shorter if you’re after a cropped style. Just keep in mind your comfort level before adding extensions or opting for a wig, especially if you’re new to the style.

Consider Your Hair Type

Finally, when choosing your wedding guest hairstyle, you’ll want to consider your hair type to determine the best look that will hold all night long. If you’re not sure what type of hair you have—or what type of wedding guest hairstyles work best depending on the setting—read on for the full breakdown, complete with ideas and inspo.

The Different Types of Hair and Their Style Ideas

Hair types are typically broken down into four types, ranging from straight, to wavy, to curly, to kinky.

1. Straight

Type 1 is straight hair that’s anywhere from fine and fragile to coarse and thin. One of the main factors here is that it’s curl-resistant and doesn’t curl naturally.

1. Half-up, half-down with either your ends or tendrils curled
2. A loose fishtail, French, or side braid hairstyle
3. An understated low ponytail with hair wrapped around the elastic
4. A simple, messy bun with some soft tendrils framing your face

2. Wavy

Type 2 is wavy hair that’s fine and thin to coarse and frizzy. If your hair has a little body to it and doesn’t dry straight, it’s probably wavy.

5. Some simple sea salt spray in clean hair for beachy waves
6. Wand-enhanced waves with one side pinned back with bobby pins or a clip
7. A sleek, wavy high or low ponytail
8. A half braid, half bun

3. Curly

Type 3 is considered curly hair, which could be anything from loose curls to corkscrew curls that are more defined than casual waves.

9. Rock your free-flowing loose curls and add a headband or clip
10. A loose, one-shoulder scooped braid
11. An intricate, double-braided hairstyle with a halo bun or pony
12. A sleek, high bun for a dash of sophistication

4. Kinky

Type 4 hair is considered kinky and showcases natural, tight coils and Z-angled coils.

13. An afro updo with some formality-specific clips
14. Curl your dreadlocks for a fun, flirty change
15. Rock some free fall coils in a high or low pony
16. Opt for a cornrow bun by braiding your coils up in a knot and securing them with pins or themed hair clips

Ideas By Hair Length

While hair type is important to consider when deciding on a hairstyle for a wedding, your length will play a major role as well. Whether you rock your natural locks or incorporate extensions, weaves, or wigs, here are a few of our favorite options broken down by hair length:

Short Hair

You might not think you have a lot of options with short hair, but that’s totally false. From fresh cuts, to sparkling hairpieces, to different parts, there are tons of ways to dress up your look. Here are a few of our favorite short hair looks for wedding guests:

17. Create a chic, curly mohawk by adding a few curls to your top layer
18. Utilize a deep side part to give you some volume and up your elegance
19. Get a fresh buzz or bob for a polished, sophisticated look
20. Opt for some soft curls or tassels to turn up your pixie cut

Medium Length Hair

If your hair falls anywhere between your collarbones and your shoulder blades, you land in the “medium length hair” category. Consider choosing a medium length style that accentuate your facial features or change up your usual look by incorporating a french braid or bun. Here are a few fun medium length wedding guest hairstyles to consider:

21. If your hair is layered, pull the longer portion up into a miniature bun
22. If your hair’s not naturally wavy or curly, add some body and finish the look off with a headband
23. Twin french brains—either pinned up or merged into one braid hairstyle for a boho look
24. A loose bun, whether low or high, can look effortlessly elegant while working with whatever texture you’ve got
25. Go classic and chic with a chignon

Long Hair

Long hair—which is any length past your shoulders—gives you a lot of options by way of style. That said, if it’s a warmer month or you’ll be outside most of the time, you might want to opt for a hair up or back style, so it’s off your neck to keep you cool.

26. Long hair is the perfect length for half updo wedding guest hairstyles. For an on-trend look, opt for a half-up top knot and add some curl to your bottom layers
27. Use a straightener for sleek, straight locks, and pin back one side with a gleaming clip or flower
28. Sweep your hair to one side and form it into a loose, unstructured braid for a touch of boho style
29. A braided low ponytail with curled or straight ends makes for a chic-meets-classy style

Pro Tip: Go to the Salon Before the Occasion

If you’re unsure how to do your hair or don’t want to worry about spending extra time in front of the mirror, consider setting up your usual cut a day or so before the event. This way, you’ll have fresh, healthy locks, and your look will still be sleek and styled from your appointment.

Another great option is heading to a blowdry bar the day before or the day of the event. Not only will your hair be sleek and celebration-ready, but oftentimes they also offer services like makeup application, nail services, and even complimentary refreshments.

Wedding Guest Hairstyle Ideas Based on Event

While you’ll want to consider your hair length and type as well as the season and the venue, the formality of the celebration can give you an idea as to how you should style your hair. From themed parties, to casual events, to formal affairs, here’s a look at some hairstyle options depending on the specific event.

Come as You Are

This is one of the newer wedding themes we’ve been seeing, which might throw you for a loop if you find it on an invite. A “come as you are” event means the couple wants you to be entirely comfortable and yourself. Take note of the venue—whether it’s the beach, a backyard, a park—and dress how you would if you were going there on a date. As for your hair, feel free to style it how you normally do or spice it up with some waves or braids. No need to get fancy when you’re just supposed to show up as you.

Themed

Themed events are becoming more common, and we love to see guests lean into the celebration’s vibe. Opt for a vintage hairstyle like pinup curls for a roaring ‘20s or vintage celebration or some carefree waves and braids for a beach or boho wedding.

Festive

A festive-themed event means the couple wants you to get a little creative and out-of-the-box with your attire. Depending on the venue (and formality, if that’s included) consider multiple braids, fun clips, extreme curls, or even a little glitter to make your style sparkle.

Tropical

The key to a tropical celebration is making sure your style will not only stay, but you’ll feel comfortable in the humid weather and heat. If you have long hair, consider wearing it up in a loose bun or ponytail, or weave into a braid or two to keep it off your neck.

Casual

A casual celebration is just that: casual! Don’t feel like you need to do anything out of the ordinary with your hair. Clean, brushed, and styled as you would for going to a nice lunch or dinner is perfectly acceptable in this formality.

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual

A semi-formal celebration is a step up from casual, so think of it as if you were going to a church, a nice brunch, or an interview. You want your hairstyle to be a little more elevated than your everyday look. Consider adding a few loose waves or pulling one side back with a barrette for a quick-yet-elevated take on your normal style.

Cocktail

If you’re heading to a cocktail event, you’ll want a hairstyle that’s elevated yet understated. This isn’t the time for an elaborate updo, but something a little more styled than your standard look is a safe bet. A loose, low bun, some big waves, or a fresh blowout are all fantastic options for a cocktail wedding.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

A formal celebration calls for a special ‘do, so whip out your curling iron or favorite clips. A sleek low ponytail, half-up, half-down with curls, curled dreadlocks, or defined curls pinned back will all elevate your look for a more elegant event.

Black-Tie

One of the most formal occasions, a black-tie affair is the perfect time to up your elegance and opt for a fancy hairdo. Thick braids, artfully twirled buns, and sleek, straight ponytails are all appropriate for a night full of opulence and splendor.

White-Tie

It doesn’t get any more formal than a white-tie event. The most elegant of dress codes is reserved for events like White House dinners and red carpets, so if you’re going to this type of event, now’s the time to pull out all the stops. If you have the means, head to a salon for an updo, full curls, or a sleek style that will last all night (hairspray is a must!) and add to your extremely formal ensemble.

6 Hair Accessories for Wedding Guests

One of the best ways to really add to your celebration style is with accessories. Not just necklaces and earrings, but wedding hair accessories as well.

Whether you add some curl to your hair, straighten it out, or stick with your usual style, clips, flowers, and artfully-placed pins can really change your look. Here are a few of our favorite hair accessories for wedding guests:

Headbands

From jeweled options to braided crown pieces that look like your own hair, headbands are a chic and unique way to elevate your hairstyle for any special event. Consider one in a color that matches your outfit, your hair, or your other accessories for a quick addition to your look. A few options we really love are crystal/rock headbands for modern weddings and flower or greenery crowns for boho or outdoor celebrations.

Flowers

Why not opt for a more natural look for your hair? We especially love florals if you’re attending a springtime or summer event, or one in a garden or on a beach. Leaning into the seasonal and locational vibe is a great way to elevate your normal hairstyle, and it’ll show the couple you appreciate their venue and celebration.

You can easily tuck flowers behind your ear or into your hairstyle or updo to create an earthy, romantic feel. Opt for a big hibiscus for a beach celebration or simple baby’s breath for a formal affair.

Greenery

Love the idea of a nature accessory, but aren’t feeling flowers? Consider greenery—like eucalyptus or even mint—as a way to tie the earth into your elegant hairstyle. Tuck the greenery between your braids or around your bun for a simple, yet sophisticated eco-friendly hair accessory.

Clips

Whether you’re sporting an updo, a braid, half-up, half-down, a short crop, or just your natural style, a fun clip can really elevate your look. Select something sparkling, on-trend, unique, or nature-inspired to create a cohesive wedding guest look. Additionally, if you opt for a bun or half-up style, sticking a simple comb accessory in your hair can not only help hold your style in place, but also add an extra dash of elegance.

Themed Accessories

Heading to a Gatsby or vintage-style wedding? Tuck some feathers into your hair or opt for a headband that lays across your forehead. Going to a formal wedding on the beach? Some glittery seashell clips or a few artfully placed green extensions will add the perfect amount of fun to your festive look.

Simple or Sparkly Pins

It’s a wonder what a few perfectly placed hair pins can do—even if you keep the rest of your look simple. You don’t need to spend hours on your hair, either—just grab a few bobby pins to create an elegant look. Pull your hair back on one or both sides and secure it with pins from the back to keep your hair off your face and showcase your joy for the celebration.

Zola: The Answer to All Your Hair Accessory Needs

As with every wedding, the whole purpose of the day is to celebrate the love of two very special people. While it all comes down to the venue, formality, and season, doing something special with your hair will help elevate your look for the occasion.

Ultimately, when it comes down to narrowing down cute hairstyles for wedding guests, we know there’s a lot to consider. From the venue, to the weather, to the rest of your outfit, making it all look cohesive is no easy feat.

That’s why we make it easy with Zola’s wedding shop. Order matching accessories, so your earrings coordinate with your hairpiece, and even get the couple’s registry gift while you’re at it. It’s so easy to check off all the boxes, so you can spend less time stressing and more time celebrating. Whether you’re attending a casual event or a formal affair, the perfect hairstyle can set you apart in the best possible way.