By Sonja Schwarz, bridal stylist and hair & make-up artist since 2010 ·
I have been styling brides in Düsseldorf, Cologne, NRW and at weddings abroad since 2010. The question I hear most: which bridal hairstyle suits me? The answer depends on four things: your hair, your dress, the veil and the programme of the day. Here you will find the most important bridal hairstyles at a glance, along with my experience from many wedding days.
Half-up bridal hairstyle
The half-up bridal hairstyle has been the classic of recent years. The top sections are loosely pulled back, twisted or braided, and the rest falls in waves over the shoulders. It looks romantic and natural and suits almost any dress, especially lace, open backs and boho looks.
- Half-up with braids: fine braids at the back of the head add hold and structure
- Half-up with a veil: the veil is fixed beneath the braid or twist, so it sits securely
- Half-up with short hair: possible from chin length, clip-in extensions add volume
Bridal updo
An updo is the safest choice when it gets hot, when you dance a lot, or when your dress has a striking neckline or back. Anything is possible, from a loose updo with pulled-out strands to a sleek, elegant bun. More in the guide Wedding updos.
Wearing your hair down
Hair worn down looks light and modern, but it is the most vulnerable to wind, warmth and hugs. If you want to wear your hair down, plan large, well-set waves and a side parting or a small detail such as a slide, so the look still feels intentional after hours.
Bridal hairstyles with a veil
The veil helps decide the hairstyle. A long veil needs a firm anchor point, for example a bun or a braided section at the back of the head. With hair worn down I use small hidden braids for hold. Bring your veil to the trial, it is the only way we can see how it falls.
Bridal hairstyles by hair length
Long hair
Long hair offers the most options, but it is also heavy. For very long, thick hair I recommend half-up or an updo, because loose waves drop faster under the weight.
Medium and shoulder-length hair
Shoulder-length hair works well for loose updos, low knots and half-up looks. Hairpieces add volume and length without anyone noticing.
Short hair and bobs
Even with a bob or short haircut you get a bridal hairstyle that feels special: smooth, glossy waves, a side parting with a slide, or a small knot with extensions. Hair accessories or flowers add the accent.
Fine and thin hair
With fine hair I build volume from within, with backcombing at the roots, texture spray and extensions. I avoid very sleek, tight looks because they make the hair look thinner.
Hairstyles for a civil ceremony
For a civil ceremony things can be simpler: a low knot, a sleek ponytail or soft waves. If your civil and church ceremonies are on different days, the second styling costs 50 % of the package price with me, so you can wear two different looks.
Doing your bridal hair yourself?
Of course you can do your own hair. But the wedding day is long and emotional, and a hairstyle has to last ten to fourteen hours. Professionals use techniques and products made exactly for that. If you still want to do it yourself: practise the style several times beforehand, and plan twice as much time as you think.
How to find your bridal hairstyle
- Collect pictures of hairstyles you like and those you don't
- Look at the neckline and back of your dress
- Bring your veil, hair accessories and a photo of your dress to the trial
- Factor in the weather and venue, outdoors the hairstyle needs more hold
With bridal styling in Düsseldorf, Cologne and NRW we test your hairstyle calmly at the trial. You get photos and videos from me so you can decide in your own time. What it costs is in the guide How much does bridal styling cost?
Your bridal styling with Sonja
Make-up and hair from one artist, with a trial. In the studio in Mettmann or at your place in Düsseldorf, Cologne and all of NRW.
