Bridesmaid veterans know the drill: Once you accept the job, you’re expected to fork over money for a dress you’ll likely never wear again and bankroll a professional prom-inspired updo you may not even like. On the flip side, brides-to-be have enough on their plates without worrying about finding a look that pleases the entire bridal party.
With wedding season on the horizon, we called on Maile Pacheco, founder of on-demand beauty app beGlammed, and Matt Fugate, Kérastase consulting hairstylist, to help out soon-to-be bridesmaids.
With a little research and planning, it’s possible to find a hairstyle that everyone will agree upon — although you’re on your own when it comes to the dress. Whether you have a super-short pixie cut or longer tresses, prefer voluminous locks or a stylish updo, there’s a look you’ll want to say yes to. (In fact, we suggest bookmarking and sending this link to your friend, the bride, pronto!)
Ahead, check out 23 versatile celebrity looks that are flattering for the walk down the aisle — and way fresher than that prom 'do. While you may be able to replicate some of these on your own, others call for a hairstylist’s expertise. Either way, your bridesmaid game is about to get even stronger.
Teyonah Parris' '70s-inspired updo is a great retro option for ladies with long, natural hair.
PHOTO: Mediapunch/Rex/Shutterstock.
Half-up, half-down hairstyles are not what they used to be. While in middle school they were utilitarian and practical, now they can be formal showstoppers. If you would prefer your hair out of your face for a night of dancing and photos, slick back the top half and twist it into a small, chignon-esque bun. You can leave the rest flowing — giving you a chic, but ethereal look.
Photo: Stephane Cardinale/ Corbis/ Getty Images.
A sleek middle part is perfect for any formal (or informal) event because letting the rest of your mane flow with natural texture makes the style easy, comfortable, and polished. Tuck your tresses behind your ears to allow the design of your outfit show through, and if you desire, add a little volume by curling smaller sections of hair around your face.
Photo: Kristina Bumphrey/Starpix/REX/Shutterstock.
Low-maintenance bridesmaids will appreciate Karlie Kloss’ looped bun — which is simple, but far from boring. “This is the most youthful, fresh take on gathering the hair at the nape,” says Fugate. “Secure the pony by tying the elastic around and through the loop. Shape, placement, and balance are key here.”
Photo: Andrew Toth/FilmMagic.
A messy, high bun like Rihanna’s could look, well, just messy. But with the help of a few sparkly accessories, the style instantly becomes wedding-appropriate. “Don’t be afraid to let pieces fall,” says Fugate. “The tendrils create softness and play a key role in drawing attention to your cheekbones and jawline.”
Photo: Larry Busacca/Getty Images.
Take a cue from Rooney Mara and infuse a little playfulness into stick-straight hair with a low ponytail or fishtail braid, twisted into an inexact bun at the nape of your neck. “This is a genius way to take a simple hairstyle and make it look high-fashion,” says Fugate.
Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images. Photo: Jeff Vespa/Getty Images.
Bridesmaids who aren’t afraid to stand out (without overshadowing the bride, of course) might want to refer to Janelle Monáe’s braided-mohawk-meets-pompadour. “With ropes, coils, and micro-braids, this is a hairdresser’s dream!” says Fugate. “If needed, embrace hair extensions for this style.”
Photo: Leon Bennett/WireImage.
Dianna Agron’s slightly undone fishtail halo is proof that bridesmaids with shorter strands can channel a romantic look. “Don’t worry about the flyaways here — the more, the merrier for an effortless style,” says Pacheco.
Photo: Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage.
Kerry Washington’s sophisticated high bun gets most of the hair out of your face, leaving a few flattering, face-framing strands in front. “This easy-to-get style is for any bridesmaid looking for a classic look without the fuss,” says Pacheco.
Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic.
The behind-the-ear loop in Jessica Chastain’s 'do is an easy way to give mid-length hair an understated, elegant twist. “The looser and more draped the hair, the better,” says Fugate. Tip: When securing the loop, simply wrap hair from underneath around the front section and pin underneath.
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images.
A minimalist bun such as Selena Gomez’s requires a major focus on sleekness and shine. “Finish with holding spray and use pomade to tame any flyaways,” suggests Pacheco. Bonus? The look allows you to showcase a pair of great earrings.
Photo: Steve Granitz/WireImage.
Using a decorative ribbon for contrast, Lupita Nyong’o’s updo creates a beautiful and elegant shape. “If you can, use an extra part of your bridesmaid dress to wrap your hair,” suggests Fugate.
Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage.
Sleek on top and wavy on the bottom, Olivia Palermo’s hairstyle is enhanced by a pair of pretty plaits that wrap across the back of her head. “This works for women who like wearing their hair out of their face,” says Pacheco. “It showcases your length and falls in the most beautiful, bouncy way.”
Photo: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images. Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images.
To get Rashida Jones’ low ponytail, you’ll need to work plenty of texturizing spray or dry shampoo into your hair before securing the elastic. “This look isn’t trying to be a perfect pony, but rather the imperfect pony,” explains Fugate. “Lots of lumps and bumps and no hidden hair make it look less fussy.”
Photo: Steve Granitz/WireImage. Photo: Lester Cohen/WireImage.
Emma Stone’s tucked and knotted fishtail braid is equal parts refined and edgy. To replicate the look, Pacheco recommends using a medium wand and curling your hair in different directions before braiding.
Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic. Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.
Jamie Chung’s intricate 'do has a little of everything: waves, braids, and a stunning headpiece. “Have fun with this one,” says Fugate. “There’s no right or wrong way to wear a hair accessory like that. In fact, sometimes too much thought makes it look contrived."
Photo: JB Lacroix/WireImage. Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images.
Like Zendaya, you can ditch your long locks for a '20s-style faux bob, using bobby pins to help secure any rolled-up sections of hair. “This look will make any bridesmaid feel like Daisy from The Great Gatsby,” says Pacheco. Simply follow this how-to!
Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.
A perfectly coiffed ballerina bun — à la Kate Bosworth — is a classic bridesmaid hairstyle. For extra volume, Pacheco recommends using a teasing comb on sections of your ponytail before twisting it into the bun and securing with pins.
Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images.
A breezy beach wedding calls for a laid-back, tousled mane, like Jennifer Lawrence’s, that’s able to withstand the wind and salty sea air. “The side-part and tuck behind the ear really give this look a moment,” says Fugate. “Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference. Again, be fearless with the tresses falling out, since this is what romanticizes the style.”
Photo: Gabe Ginsberg/WireImage. Photo: Broadimage/REX/Shutterstock.
Solange Knowles’ floral-embellished 'do is fancy enough for any wedding. “Embrace texture while adding a special moment with flowers used as a statement, not just as an accessory,” says Fugate. Tip: “Using a lot of flowers on one side is more high-impact than having them scattered across the head.”
Photo: Via @saintrecords.
If you think a pixie cut limits your options, think again. Kate Mara’s cool, braided style is completely befitting of a bridesmaid — and designed to stay put even after a long night of dancing. “I like how the direction of the braids creates a soft feel,” says Fugate. “If little pieces spurt out, perform triage by twisting and pinning them back into the style. Don’t be afraid because your hair’s short.”
Photo: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images.
Maria Menounos’ modern take on a traditional crowd braid adds princess-inspired pizzazz to a basic low ponytail. “I love this look for any hair texture,” says Pacheco. “If you don’t like to expose your forehead, this is a great option.”
Photo: Michael Kovac/Getty Images.
Ideal for shoulder-length hair, Amanda Seyfried’s coiffure features a deep side part and retro Hollywood-inspired waves. “Use a large curling wand to curl each section in the same direction,” says Pacheco. “The larger the sections you grab, the larger the waves will be. After you set with hairspray, brush out the curls for bouncy waves.”
Photo: Jun Sato/Getty Images.
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