When it comes to bridal hairstyles, few are as chic – not to mention versatile – as braids.
From textured updos to relaxed half-up styles or show-stopping chunky plaits, there’s a braid for every bride’s style (and hair length).
Braided wedding hairstyles have experienced a renaissance over the last several years and have truly entrenched themselves as a wedding favourite.
Whether it’s box braids, fishtails, French plaits, knotted braids, twists, or Dutch braids intricately woven or adorned with flowers or hair vines, braided bridal hairstyles will never go out of fashion!
Let's talk OUR favourite braided bridal hairstyles!
Make Me Bridals' Top Braided Bridal Hairstyles for Your Dream Wedding!
Here, we’ve pulled together some of the most beautiful braided bridal hairstyles to inspire your look, as well as top tips from the Make Me Bridal Hair & Makeup Artists. Braided hairstyles, such as the waterfall braid and fishtail braid, can enhance bridal beauty and offer a versatile option for weddings.
Image credits: Cecelina Photography
“Plaits and braids can add a modern twist to any hairstyle,” says Make Me Bridal pro, Laura Anne Hair & Makeup Designer.
“From delicate braids woven into a bohemian up or down style, to a dramatic chunky braid feature which stands out even at first glance, they can be modern, fun, romantic and even structured. An ultimately versatile addition which can take any style to a whole new level.”
Image credits: Aljaz Hafner
Romantic Fishtail Braids
These beautiful loose and tousled bridal fishtail braids were created by Hampshire makeup artist and hairstylist, Jessica Cook. The first is adorned with fresh flowers, while the second (which Jessica created whilst on a boho bridal hairstyling workshop with the Bridal Stylists) includes a delicate seed pearl hair vine. Both are perfect for a romantic bride, and look especially stunning on highlighted hair.
Image credits: Deb Porter
Image credits: Laura Anne Hair & Makeup Designer
Chic Braided Wedding Updos
Braids can also enhance a more classic bridal updo. A popular choice is the braided bun, which integrates braiding techniques into elegant updo styles. In the first of these gorgeous Braided Bridal Updos created by London bridal hair and makeup specialist, Laura Anne, a sweet mini plait makes a whimsical inclusion as part of a messy updo. In the second, a chunky French plait is pinned up at the nape, providing a stylish way of keeping hair off your face.
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Chunky Knotted Mermaid Plait
Chunky plaits are a great way of wearing your hair down but keeping it in one place. They’re ideal for brides who like to feel hair on their shoulders, but fear it won’t hold a curl or will get messy too quickly.
For individuals with long hair, these plaits offer versatility and can enhance the beauty of various braided wedding hairstyles. This look was created by Hampshire hair and makeup artist Melissa Clare, who shared her top tips for recreating the style.
Image credit: Oksana Williams
“I use a sprinkle of texture dust on the braid to give it a volume boost. Just tap a little on to the plait before pulling it wider (or ‘pancaking’ it, the proper styling term). This will help to give it more impact. There are so many varieties of plait, and you can also use twists or knots like I did to achieve this chunky plaited style.”
Image credit: Oksana Williams
Dutch Halo Braids
For a beautiful, young, edgy tousled updo, try a Dutch crown (or halo) braid, like these styles created by our pro artist Oksana Williams. This ‘round the head plait’ look suits both straight and curly hair, and flatters most face shapes. It’s a classic look that will never go out of fashion, and can be accessorised with flowers or hair vines.
Image credit:Classic French Braid Wedding Hairstyle
A French Braid is a classic look that never goes out of style. A romantic updo, incorporating elements like braids and soft tendrils, can add elegance and charm to a bride's look, particularly by focusing on volume and framing the face.
Image credit: Melissa Clare Makeup
“Very often clients’ hair lack volume,” says Oksana, “so in order to make plaits more chunky I use my fave tool: crimpers. (I own a few different ones in various sizes). The right choice of styling products is also very important in modern hairstyling, and texturising sprays, styling powders or dry shampoos are always a part of my kit. You can create multitudes of edgy, airy textures if you know exactly what every product was made to achieve.”
Tousled Bun with Braid Detail
Cornwall-based artist, HairbyEmmaC created this textured modern plaited updo with tousled braids leading down into a soft twisted bun. The braided bun hairstyle is a versatile and elegant choice for bridal looks. “I prepped the hair with curls and texture spray, and creating the style from twists and braids,” Emma says.
Braided Beach Ponytail
For a modern beachy look, create a plait out of twists and finish the style with a cool ponytail, like this style from Melissa Clare. A braided faux hawk is another bold and stylish option for brides looking to make a statement. “I created this look for a bride who wanted to wear her hair off her face but still look relaxed and not too bridal, as that wasn’t her vibe,” Melissa tells us.
Half-up Dutch Braids With Beachy Waves
For a modern boho style, keep the hair shiny and healthy – over-processed curls are not the goal! A waterfall braid can add a visually stunning effect, with loose strands cascading down, perfect for various occasions, especially weddings. This half up braided do with beachy waves and Dutch plaits gets the balance just right!
Which of these braided bridal hairstyles is your favourite?
Need help finding the Perfect Braided Wedding Hairstyle for you? Get in touch with one of our Bridal Hair & Makeup Artists Near You!
