Attending a wedding means looking your best, and the right hairstyle can elevate your entire look.
Whether you’re going for a romantic, sophisticated, or effortlessly chic style, having the right wedding guest hairstyles for long hair will make all the difference.
Long hair offers endless possibilities, from cascading waves to intricate braids and polished updos.
But how do you choose the perfect style?
Consider the formality of the event, your outfit, and how much time you want to spend styling.
Are you worried about keeping your style in place throughout the celebration?
Many long hairstyles can be adapted for durability, whether you prefer soft curls with volume or a sleek, secure updo.
This article will give you elegant and trendy ideas that work for any wedding theme.
Whether you want something classic, modern, or bohemian, you’ll find hairstyles that not only suit your personal taste but also enhance your overall wedding guest look.
Get ready to discover stunning hairstyles that will ensure you stand out in the best way possible at the next wedding you attend.
24 Elegant and Trendy Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Long Hair
1. Voluminous Side-Swept Waves with Bouffant
This romantic hairstyle blends soft cascading waves with a voluminous bouffant, adding height at the crown for a glamorous touch.
The hair is swept to one side, letting the long waves drape effortlessly over the shoulder.
Ideal for those who love a timeless yet sophisticated look, this style pairs beautifully with off-shoulder or strapless dresses.
The added volume at the crown enhances facial features, making it a flattering choice for heart or oval-shaped faces.
To maintain the volume, use a light teasing technique at the crown and secure it with a flexible hold hairspray.
Adding shine serum to the ends ensures the waves look polished throughout the event.
2. Sleek Low Bun with a Twisted Knot
This ultra-elegant low bun is sleek, polished, and perfect for those who prefer a refined and modern look.
The hair is neatly pulled back with a smooth finish, and the bun is twisted into a voluminous yet structured knot.
A great choice for formal weddings, this style works best on straight or lightly wavy hair and complements high-neck or backless dresses beautifully.
It’s ideal for those who want a timeless, fuss-free style that stays intact all night.
To achieve this look, use a smoothing serum before styling and secure the bun with hidden pins.
A spritz of strong-hold hairspray will keep flyaways at bay while maintaining its sleek appearance.
3. Classic Hollywood Waves with Middle Part
Classic Hollywood waves never go out of style, and this version with a middle part exudes effortless elegance.
The defined, soft waves create a luxurious texture, perfect for formal wedding settings.
This hairstyle suits all face shapes, but it’s particularly flattering for those with long or oval faces as the middle part creates symmetry.
It’s ideal for wedding guests who prefer a chic, feminine style that complements both modern and vintage-inspired dresses.
To keep the waves smooth and bouncy, use a curling iron with a large barrel and set the curls with a light-hold spray.
Brushing through the curls with a boar bristle brush will enhance the soft, seamless wave effect.
4. Textured Fishtail Braid with Face-Framing Pieces
This intricate fishtail braid is the perfect choice for a bohemian or romantic wedding guest look.
The braid is textured and slightly undone, giving it a soft, effortless feel, while the face-framing tendrils add a touch of elegance.
Best suited for those with thick hair, this hairstyle works well with naturally wavy or textured locks.
It pairs beautifully with lace or flowy dresses and adds a dreamy, fairytale-like vibe to your overall look.
To keep the braid in place without losing its softness, use a texturizing spray before braiding.
Gently pull apart sections of the braid for a fuller, more relaxed appearance.
5. Twisted Low Ponytail with Loose Waves
This effortlessly chic low ponytail features twisted sections on the sides that gather at the back, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated look.
The ponytail is slightly tousled with loose waves for a soft, romantic finish.
A great option for those who love a laid-back yet polished style, this hairstyle works well on medium to long hair with a natural wave or curl.
It pairs beautifully with flowy, pastel, or floral dresses, making it a go-to for spring and summer weddings.
For added volume, tease the crown before twisting the sections back.
Use a lightweight mousse to enhance the waves while keeping the style airy and natural-looking.
6. Elegant Twisted Chignon
The twisted chignon is the epitome of understated elegance, perfect for a refined and polished wedding guest look.
This low updo is styled with smooth, neatly twisted sections that wrap around the bun, creating a sophisticated and timeless effect.
It’s ideal for those attending a formal wedding, complementing evening gowns and minimalistic jewelry.
This style suits medium to thick hair and works best on straight or lightly wavy textures.
To achieve a sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum before styling and secure the twists with discreet pins.
A light mist of strong-hold hairspray ensures the chignon stays flawless throughout the event.
7. Glossy Deep Waves
This luxurious hairstyle features deep, flowing waves with a stunning glossy finish, perfect for a sophisticated and feminine wedding guest look.
The waves are evenly defined, enhancing volume and movement while maintaining a soft, elegant structure.
Ideal for those with long, thick hair, this style adds glamour to both classic and modern wedding outfits.
It’s a great option for guests who want a romantic yet effortless hairstyle that requires minimal touch-ups.
To achieve this look, use a wide-barrel curling iron, then brush through the curls with a boar bristle brush for a seamless wave pattern.
Finish with a shine spray to enhance the silky, reflective effect.
8. Half-Up Braided Crown with Loose Waves
This half-up braided crown blends soft waves with intricate plaits, creating a romantic and effortlessly chic hairstyle.
The braids wrap around the back of the head, adding texture and detail while allowing the remaining waves to flow freely.
It’s perfect for outdoor or bohemian-style weddings, complementing floral dresses and delicate accessories.
This style works best on naturally wavy or lightly curled hair, adding dimension and volume.
To keep the braids in place, use a texturizing spray before styling and secure them with discreet hairpins.
Gently pulling apart the braids will enhance their fullness and create a soft, ethereal effect.
9. Voluminous Half-Up Bouffant with Curls
This dramatic half-up hairstyle combines a voluminous bouffant with cascading curls for a bold and glamorous look.
The lifted crown adds height and structure, while the curled lengths create a soft, feminine contrast.
This style is ideal for wedding guests who love vintage-inspired elegance or statement hairstyles.
It flatters most face shapes and pairs beautifully with formal dresses and bold earrings.
To achieve the volume at the crown, tease the roots lightly and set them with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Using a curling iron to shape the lower sections will enhance movement and add a polished finish.
10. Twisted Rope Braid Half-Up Style
This twisted rope braid half-updo is a perfect mix of intricate styling and effortless waves, creating a soft, ethereal appearance.
Two thick rope braids start from the sides and meet at the back, forming a delicate knotted design while the remaining hair cascades in gentle waves.
Ideal for beach or garden weddings, this style complements flowy dresses and bohemian accessories.
It works best on long, naturally wavy or textured hair, adding movement and volume.
To achieve the best hold, use a light mousse before styling and secure the twists with clear elastics or hidden pins.
Gently pulling the braids apart will give them a fuller, more relaxed look.
11. Minimalist Half-Up Fishtail Braid
This sleek and simple half-up fishtail braid offers a subtle touch of detail while maintaining an effortless appearance.
The braid begins at the crown and extends halfway down, blending seamlessly into the rest of the hair.
Perfect for those who prefer a minimal yet stylish look, this hairstyle works well with both casual and elegant wedding guest outfits.
It’s an excellent choice for straight or slightly wavy hair, adding just enough texture to enhance movement.
To keep the braid neat, apply a light-hold mousse before styling and secure the ends with a discreet elastic band.
A smoothing serum will help maintain a polished, frizz-free finish throughout the event.
12. Crown Waterfall Braid with Loose Curls
This romantic crown waterfall braid blends seamlessly with soft curls, creating a dreamy, fairytale-inspired look.
The braid wraps around the head, adding intricate detail while allowing the curls to flow freely.
Ideal for outdoor or rustic weddings, this style pairs beautifully with lace or floral dresses.
It’s best suited for those with naturally curly or wavy hair, as it enhances the volume and movement.
To keep the braid secure, use bobby pins to hold it in place and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Adding a touch of texturizing spray will help define the curls and prevent them from falling flat.
13. Twisted Half-Up Fishtail Ponytail
This half-up fishtail ponytail combines delicate twists with an intricate plait, making it a unique yet effortless style.
The sides are loosely twisted back before merging into a fishtail braid, giving it a relaxed yet polished finish.
Ideal for boho or outdoor weddings, this style pairs well with flowy, feminine dresses.
It works best on long, straight, or slightly wavy hair, adding a bit of structure without looking overly styled.
To enhance the volume, gently pull apart sections of the braid for a fuller effect.
A light spritz of texturizing spray will help keep the look airy and effortless throughout the event.
14. Soft Half-Up Dutch Braid with Loose Waves
This half-up Dutch braid creates a beautiful, voluminous texture while maintaining an effortless, natural look.
The braid starts at the crown, weaving backward into a loose and airy plait before merging into soft waves.
Perfect for outdoor weddings or semi-formal celebrations, this style adds a touch of elegance without being too structured.
It’s best suited for medium to thick hair, as the braid adds volume and dimension.
To keep the style in place, use a texturizing spray before braiding and secure with a small, clear elastic.
Gently pulling apart the braid will give it a fuller, more effortless appearance.
15. Sleek Half-Up Ponytail with a Metallic Accent
This sleek half-up ponytail is a modern take on a classic style, offering a polished and sophisticated look.
The lifted crown adds a touch of volume, while the smooth, straight strands maintain a sleek and elegant finish.
Ideal for formal weddings or evening receptions, this style pairs beautifully with structured gowns or minimalist dresses.
It works best on straight or slightly wavy hair and enhances the natural shine of the strands.
To keep the ponytail smooth, use a flat iron for a sleek finish and secure it with a stylish hair accessory for added elegance.
A shine spray will help maintain the glossy look throughout the event.
16. Voluminous Half-Up Bouffant
This voluminous half-up bouffant hairstyle is perfect for those who want a mix of elegance and romance.
The crown section is teased and lifted to create a bouffant, adding height and drama, while the rest of the hair flows down in soft, polished waves.
This look is ideal for those with medium to thick hair, as it holds volume well and adds structure to the style.
To maintain the shape throughout the event, use a strong-hold hairspray and lightly backcomb the crown before pinning it in place.
Pair this hairstyle with statement earrings and a sleek dress for a refined, wedding-ready look.
17. Twisted Boho Half-Up Waves
This twisted boho half-up hairstyle is the definition of effortless beauty.
Two twisted sections from the sides are gently pulled back and secured at the crown, creating a soft yet structured look.
Perfect for outdoor or rustic-themed weddings, this style works best with naturally wavy or lightly curled hair.
The loose tendrils framing the face add a soft, feminine touch, making it an excellent option for those who love relaxed, undone styles.
A light texturizing spray will help enhance the waves while keeping the twists in place throughout the night.
18. Sleek Bubble Ponytail
For a modern and bold wedding guest hairstyle, the sleek bubble ponytail is a must-try.
This futuristic look involves tying the hair into a high ponytail and securing multiple sections with elastic bands, creating voluminous bubble shapes.
The polished finish keeps it chic, making it perfect for those who love a contemporary, fashion-forward aesthetic.
This style works best on long, thick hair or extensions for a fuller effect.
To maintain its sleekness, use a smoothing serum and wrap a small section of hair around each elastic to conceal them.
19. Old Hollywood Glam Waves
For a timeless wedding guest hairstyle, Old Hollywood glam waves never fail to impress.
The deep, structured waves create a sophisticated and sultry appearance, enhancing natural shine and movement.
This style suits all hair types but looks particularly stunning on long, thick hair that holds curls well.
A side part adds drama, while a shine serum or hair oil will enhance the luxurious, silky effect.
Pair this look with a bold red lip and chandelier earrings for a show-stopping wedding guest appearance.
20. Tousled Low Ponytail to the Side
This tousled low ponytail is perfect for wedding guests who love an effortless, natural style.
The ponytail sits low at the nape, with soft waves cascading down for a laid-back yet elegant touch.
Face-framing strands add movement, making it a great choice for those with layered hair.
It pairs beautifully with flowy dresses and minimal accessories for a romantic, dreamy aesthetic.
A light spritz of texturizing spray will enhance the waves while keeping the look soft and weightless.
21. Twisted Half-Up Wavy Ponytail
For a wedding guest look that exudes elegance without feeling overly formal, this twisted half-up wavy ponytail is a perfect choice.
The hairstyle features a soft twist at the crown that seamlessly blends into cascading waves, making it ideal for those with thick or medium-density hair.
This style works beautifully for anyone wanting to add volume at the roots while keeping their length flowing.
To maintain the definition of the waves throughout the event, use a lightweight texture spray and avoid excessive brushing.
Pair it with a delicate hairpin for extra charm or leave it as is for a more effortless appeal.
22. Classic Fishtail Braid with a Soft Twist
For a wedding guest hairstyle that combines timeless beauty with a hint of bohemian flair, this fishtail braid with a soft twist is a sophisticated option.
The twisted top section adds a subtle lift before transitioning into a meticulously woven fishtail braid, making it ideal for those with naturally smooth or fine-textured hair.
It suits guests attending outdoor weddings or those who want a secure style that lasts all day.
Apply a shine-enhancing serum to keep the braid sleek and frizz-free while securing the ends with a discreet band for a polished look.
This hairstyle pairs well with statement earrings and an elegant dress for a refined yet romantic vibe.
23. Glossy Hollywood Waves with a Twisted Crown
This glossy Hollywood waves style with a twisted crown is the epitome of wedding guest glamour.
The soft, sculpted waves reflect light beautifully, creating a luxurious effect that suits evening receptions or black-tie weddings.
Best for those with thick or long hair, this hairstyle offers a refined balance of structure and movement.
To keep the waves intact throughout the night, set them with a flexible-hold hairspray and consider using a curling iron with a wide barrel for defined curls.
Pair it with chandelier earrings and a sleek gown for a stunning, red-carpet-inspired look.
24. Romantic Low Chignon with Pearl Accent
For a wedding guest hairstyle that radiates timeless romance, this low chignon with a pearl accent is an exquisite choice.
The loosely gathered strands create an effortlessly elegant look, perfect for those with fine to medium hair seeking volume and softness.
This style complements vintage-inspired dresses and is well-suited for formal or semi-formal weddings.
Use a volumizing mousse before styling to enhance texture and finish with a strong-hold spray to keep the chignon secure.
Complete the look with a pearl or jeweled hairpiece for a refined yet ethereal touch.
How do I choose the right wedding guest hairstyle for my face shape?
Choosing the perfect wedding guest hairstyle depends on your face shape.
For round faces, styles with added height, such as a voluminous ponytail or an updo with loose strands, help elongate your features.
Square faces benefit from soft waves or side-swept styles that create balance.
Heart-shaped faces look stunning with half-up hairstyles that add volume near the jawline, while oval faces suit nearly any style.
If unsure, opt for a hairstyle that enhances your best features while complementing your outfit and the event’s formality.
What are the best ways to make long wedding guest hairstyles last all day?
To ensure your long hairstyle stays flawless throughout the wedding, start with a solid foundation—clean hair with a bit of texture works best for holding styles.
Use heat protectant sprays before styling and apply a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain movement while keeping frizz at bay.
Secure your updos or braids with discreet pins and elastics, and consider using a setting spray for extra hold.
If you’re wearing waves or curls, touch them up with a light re-curl if needed.
With the right styling tricks, your wedding guest look will last from the ceremony to the final dance.
