Choosing the perfect bridal hairstyle is more than just a fashion decision – it’s an essential part of your wedding day look. From enhancing your features to complementing your dress, the right hairstyle has the power to complete your entire aesthetic. Having worked with countless brides in Melbourne, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-chosen hairstyle can transform a bridal look, making the wearer feel both beautiful and confident as they walk down the aisle.
Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant updo, beachy waves, or something a little more modern, there’s a bridal hairstyle to suit every style and personality. The beauty of bridal hair is its versatility — you can go for a timeless classic, embrace the latest trends, or even combine a few elements for a truly unique look.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most popular bridal hairstyles of 2025. From sophisticated updos to relaxed waves, I’ll break down the top trends, styling tips, and real-world examples to help you find the perfect bridal hairdo for your big day. Ready to discover your dream wedding hairstyle?
5 Most Popular Bridal Hairstyle Trends to Try This Year
When it comes to bridal hair, the options are endless, but some styles stand out for their timeless beauty and versatility. After years of working in the Melbourne wedding scene, I’ve seen these styles consistently steal the spotlight at weddings, whether they’re grand or intimate. If you’re planning your wedding for 2025, these trending bridal hairstyles will help you feel confident and stylish no matter your theme or personal style.
Updos: Timeless Elegance for Every Bride
Updos are, without a doubt, one of the most popular bridal hairstyles — and for good reason. There’s something about an elegant updo that brings instant sophistication to your look. In my experience, updos are ideal for brides who want their hairstyle to last all day, stay out of their face, and show off their dress, earrings, or veil.
Take the classic chignon, for example. It’s an absolute classic that’s been a staple for years. The beauty of a chignon is its adaptability: whether you’re hosting a formal ballroom wedding or a more intimate gathering, a chignon always hits the mark. I once worked with a bride who wanted a simple, classic look, and we opted for a low chignon paired with a vintage lace veil. The result was stunning: elegant, understated, yet striking.
For a more modern and sleek vibe, the French Twist can add a touch of drama and sophistication. It’s the perfect style for brides looking to channel a bit of old Hollywood glamour. One of my favourite experiences was with a bride who chose this style for her Melbourne city wedding. The French Twist highlighted her beautiful features, and she looked effortlessly chic walking down the aisle.
For a softer, more relaxed look, textured updos are perfect. These messy, carefree styles are ideal for brides who want elegance without the stiffness. A messy bun styled with loose curls can create a natural, romantic feel. I’ve worked with several brides who had outdoor weddings — think lush gardens and rustic barns — where a loose updo or messy bun was the perfect fit. It’s the kind of style that exudes confidence, as though you didn’t spend hours in the chair, but still look gorgeous.
And if you love braids, they’ve been making their way into updos, and I’m here for it! A braided updo is the perfect way to combine texture, volume, and originality. Braids can add an intricate, bohemian touch to a traditional updo. For one bride with thick, wavy hair, we braided the sides and swept them back into a loose bun. It created a stunning, voluminous style that looked perfect for her garden wedding.
Down-Style Hair: Effortless Glamour for Your Wedding Day
While updos are always a favourite, let’s not forget the beauty of wearing your hair down. For brides who want a more natural or romantic look, leaving your hair down can be a fantastic option. From loose waves to sleek, straight hair, these styles allow you to show off your natural texture and create a laid-back, beautiful vibe.
One of the most requested styles I get is loose waves. The beauty of this style is its simplicity. It’s effortless yet romantic, perfect for brides who want a more relaxed and youthful vibe. I’ve seen it work beautifully for beach weddings or even rustic barn weddings. One of my brides had a gorgeous seaside ceremony, and we styled her hair in soft, loose waves. The wind added texture, giving her hair that “just stepped out of the ocean” look — natural and stunning.
For the minimalist bride, sleek and straight hair is a fantastic option. This clean, modern look suits brides who want something simple yet striking. Straight hair can be styled loose, half-up, or even in a sleek ponytail, depending on your preference. This style is especially great for city weddings, where a modern, polished look is a must. I once styled a bride for a sleek, contemporary wedding in Melbourne’s CBD. We kept her hair straight and tucked behind her ears, which gave her a chic, sophisticated vibe — perfect for her high-fashion gown.
Lastly, blowouts are another classic that never goes out of style. A blowout adds bounce, shine, and body to your hair, making it look full and healthy. Brides with all hair types can benefit from this style, as it’s versatile and timeless. I had a bride last year who had a thick, voluminous mane, and we opted for a gorgeous blowout. She was beaming, and the hairstyle held up beautifully throughout the day and into the night.
Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyles: The Perfect Mix of Style and Comfort
For many brides, the half-up, half-down hairstyle is the perfect balance of elegance and ease. It combines the beauty of flowing locks with the practicality of an updo, making it one of the most versatile bridal hairstyles. It’s also a fantastic option for brides who want to show off both their hair and their face, without having to choose between wearing it up or down. I’ve seen this style work beautifully for everything from beach weddings to formal ballroom affairs.
The beauty of a half-up hairstyle lies in its flexibility. Whether you want to keep it sleek and polished or add some texture and volume, the half-up look can be tailored to suit any wedding theme or personal style. I had a bride, Sarah, who wanted something elegant yet relaxed for her winery wedding. We went for a half-up style with soft curls, and it looked perfect with her lace gown. The half-up style gave her the ability to show off her long, flowing hair while keeping it off her face.
I worked with a bride last year who had long, thick hair that she wanted to keep down, but still needed something to hold it in place for the ceremony and photos. We decided to add a twist to the traditional half-up style by braiding the front sections and securing them at the back with a small pin. The look was stunning and added just the right amount of detail without overwhelming her natural beauty.
Ponytails for Brides: Simple, Chic, and Versatile
While ponytails may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think “bridal hairstyle,” they’ve become a chic and sophisticated option for brides seeking something simple, modern, and practical. The beauty of a ponytail lies in its versatility — it can be styled high or low, sleek or voluminous, and paired with various accessories to elevate the look. I’ve had the pleasure of styling several brides who opted for a ponytail, and they all turned out beautifully.
On the other hand, a high ponytail creates a bolder, more confident look. If you’re going for a statement bridal hairstyle, a high ponytail is the way to go. I styled a bride, Chloe, who had a high ponytail with volume at the crown for a chic and polished effect. We added a soft curl to her ponytail to create movement, and it complemented her sleek, modern gown perfectly. The high ponytail not only made her look taller and more statuesque but also gave her the freedom to dance all night without worrying about her hair.
The voluminous ponytail is another variation that continues to be a popular choice for brides. By adding texture and volume, you can create a fuller look that feels elegant and fun at the same time. I styled a bride, Kate, for her wedding in Melbourne, where we added some extra volume to her ponytail using a texturizing spray. Her hair looked effortlessly chic and held up beautifully throughout the day.
Braided Ponytails: Intricate and Playful Wedding Hair
For brides looking for something more unique, braided ponytails are a stylish twist on a classic look. A braid can be incorporated into a ponytail in various ways — you can braid the entire ponytail, create a small braid on the side, or even wrap a braid around the base of the ponytail for added texture. I had a bride who wanted something playful but elegant for her wedding, so we went with a bubble ponytail, where small sections of her ponytail were pulled into “bubbles” with hair ties. It gave the ponytail a whimsical, fun feel while maintaining a chic and polished look.
The best part about ponytails is their practicality. As a bride, you want a hairstyle that will stay in place and keep you looking fresh all day long. Ponytails are perfect for this, as they stay put through hugs, kisses, and dancing. Plus, they’re easy to maintain — you won’t have to worry about your hair falling out of place throughout the day.
Bridal Braids: A Trend That’s Here to Stay
Braids are one of the most versatile and timeless bridal hairstyles. Whether you’re opting for a simple braid or something more intricate, they add texture, volume, and interest to your wedding look. I’ve styled many brides who chose braids, and each time, I’m reminded of just how much they can transform an outfit.
Fishtail Braids: Boho-Inspired Bridal Hair
Fishtail braids are a particularly popular option for brides looking for a boho-chic vibe. The fishtail braid is elegant yet unique, and it adds a lovely textural element to any wedding look. One bride I worked with, Lisa, was having a rustic barn wedding, and we chose to incorporate a fishtail braid into her half-up hairstyle. We added delicate floral pins to the braid to enhance the bohemian feel, and she looked absolutely stunning. The fishtail braid was delicate, intricate, and perfect for her wedding’s relaxed yet elegant vibe.
Crown Braids and Decorated Braids: Elevated Romance for Your Big Day
For a more romantic and regal look, crown braids are a stunning choice. A crown braid encircles the head like a halo, creating a soft, goddess-like effect. I styled a bride with a crown braid for a Melbourne church wedding, and the look was breathtaking. We adorned the braid with tiny pearls for added glamour, and it complemented her vintage-inspired gown perfectly.
For brides who want to add even more dimension to their braids, decorated braids are a great option. Adding delicate flowers, like baby’s breath or small rosebuds, can elevate the braid and make it truly unique. I’ve had brides incorporate fresh flowers into their braids for outdoor weddings, and it’s always a showstopper.
Choosing the Right Bridal Hairstyle for Your Wedding Day
Choosing the right hairstyle is one of the most exciting yet crucial parts of wedding planning. Your hairstyle should reflect your personal style, complement your dress, and suit your wedding theme. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to pick just one style, but don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Over the years, I’ve worked with brides from all walks of life, and there are a few key factors to consider when selecting the perfect bridal hairstyle for your big day.
Factors to Consider When Picking Your Wedding Hairstyle
As with any aspect of your wedding, it’s important to consider a few key factors when deciding on your bridal hairstyle. Let’s break down these factors one by one.
1. Personal Style:
This one’s a no-brainer. Your hairstyle should feel like you. Whether you’re the type of bride who loves classic elegance or you’re more of a free-spirited boho type, your hairstyle should reflect that. I had a bride last year, Lily, who was a no-fuss, minimalist kind of person. She chose a sleek, straight, half-up style that perfectly suited her clean, simple wedding dress and natural vibe. If you’re unsure where to start, think about the haircuts you already love. Do you tend to wear your hair in a ponytail, or do you prefer leaving it down in waves? These habits can help guide your decision.
2. Wedding Dress and Neckline:
Your wedding dress plays a huge role in determining your hairstyle. The key is to find a balance where your hair doesn’t overpower the dress but complements it. For instance, if you’ve chosen a dress with an intricate neckline or back details, an updo is often the way to go. A few years ago, I worked with a bride who had a stunning lace-back gown, and we paired it with a high, voluminous updo that showcased the details of her dress beautifully. On the other hand, brides with simpler dresses or halter-neck styles might opt for looser hair to balance the look.
3. Wedding Theme and Venue:
Whether your wedding is taking place in a church, on the beach, or in a rustic barn, your venue and theme can affect your hairstyle choice. For a formal, black-tie affair in a Melbourne ballroom, I would suggest a sophisticated updo or sleek hair down styles. For a garden wedding or beach wedding, I’ve seen soft waves and loose updos take centre stage. Last summer, I styled a bride for a seaside ceremony in Torquay. She chose loose waves with a flower crown — the perfect, relaxed fit for the beachy, boho vibes.
4. Face Shape:
Different hairstyles flatter different face shapes. Brides with round faces often look stunning in styles that add height and volume, like high updos or half-up, half-down looks. If you have a heart-shaped face, a soft, side-swept style can accentuate your cheekbones while softening the chin. For brides with oval faces, most styles tend to work well. However, I always suggest discussing with your stylist about what will best complement your face shape.
5. Hair Length and Texture:
Of course, your natural hair length and texture will also influence your choice. Long hair gives you endless options, from cascading curls to elegant updos. If you have short hair, you might lean towards chic pixie cuts, textured bobs, or even adding some fun accessories like a headband or hairpins. Thin hair can be styled with braids or volume-enhancing techniques to give it more body, while thick hair can handle more intricate updos and voluminous styles. It’s always a good idea to work with a stylist who understands your hair type to achieve the look you want.
How to Choose a Bridal Hairstyle That Complements Your Personal Style
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” bridal hairstyle. The perfect hairstyle is the one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Take Jessica, a bride I worked with last year who was having a boho wedding at a Melbourne winery. She wanted something romantic yet effortless. We opted for soft waves, styled with a simple side part and a delicate flower crown. The result was stunning, and she felt completely herself — the hairstyle enhanced her look, but it didn’t overshadow her personality.
When choosing your bridal hairstyle, think about what you feel comfortable in every day. If you love the idea of a sleek, modern style, go for it — but if you’re someone who loves the idea of having your hair down in soft curls or wearing a more intricate braided style, lean into that.
A great way to test different looks is to book a hair trial with your stylist. This allows you to experiment with different styles and see what works best for your hair type and dress. I always recommend booking a trial well in advance — that way, you can make any adjustments and really feel confident in your final choice.
Bridal Hair Styling Tips: How to Get the Perfect Look
Once you’ve chosen your bridal hairstyle, it’s essential to ensure it stays perfect throughout the day. As someone who’s been in the wedding industry for over two decades, I can tell you that preparation is key. From booking a trial to preparing your hair in the days leading up to the wedding, these tips will help you achieve your dream bridal hairstyle and keep it intact from the first kiss to the last dance.
Choosing your bridal hairstyle is a fun and exciting part of the wedding planning process, but it’s also a chance to make a statement and express your personality. From timeless updos to modern beachy waves, there’s a style for every bride — no matter your wedding theme or personal taste. Remember, the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and like yourself on your special day.
