While all blow dries share a common goal – to leave your locks looking luscious – the art of crafting a stunning bridal blow dry is a unique skill that sets apart exceptional stylists. With the rise of blow-dry bars and the increasing popularity of wearing one’s hair down on their wedding day, mastering the perfect blow dry has become an essential part of any bride’s beauty routine.
Whether you’re looking to create effortless waves or glamorous curls, a great bridal blow dry can elevate your entire look. And with so many gorgeous styles to choose from, it’s no wonder that brides are eager to experiment and find the perfect look for their big day.
To help inspire your own wedding day locks, we’ve rounded up 11 stunning bridal blow dry styles, each showcasing a unique take on the classic blow dry.
From loose and wavy textures to big, bouncy curls, these looks are sure to give you ideas for your own hair style. And with so many different interpretations of what constitutes a ‘curly’ or ‘wavy’ blow dry, it’s essential to bring plenty of reference photos to your hair trial, so your stylist can work their magic.
While most of these looks will work best on shoulder-length hair or longer, we’ve also included some styles that are perfect for brides with shorter locks.
So whether you’re looking for a sleek and straight blow dry or something more textured and voluminous, there’s something here to inspire your own wedding day beauty.
Bridal Blow Dry Styles
The article features stunning visuals courtesy of talented photographers and skilled hairstylists. The first hair styling credit goes to the creative genius, Blue Evans, while the second one is attributed to Nika Vaughan. To complement these hairstyles, Lucy Nuzum Photography and Kyle John Photography respectively, have provided their expertise through One Fab Day and Style Me Pretty.
Classic Blow Dry
For brides seeking an effortlessly chic hairstyle on their big day, the ‘just out of the hairdressers’ look is a perfect choice. Characterized by a glossy finish, plenty of movement, and a polished yet understated style, this look exudes elegance with minimal fuss. To achieve this look at its best, it’s essential to have had a fresh cut prior to your wedding day, allowing for a seamless blend of texture and style.
Super Straight
A sleek, straight blow-dry on your wedding day is a bold statement that exudes modernity and sensuality. However, for those with naturally curly or wavy hair, it’s crucial to conduct a test run beforehand to assess the styling’s longevity. Consult with your stylist about using specific products to keep your locks kink-free throughout the day. Additionally, consider booking a fresh trim appointment to complete the look.
Side-Swept Glamour
The allure of side-swept curls lies not only in their timeless elegance, but also in the opportunity they provide to showcase statement earrings. This classic hairstyle is particularly well-suited for brides with long hair, as it allows them to highlight their jewelry choices while maintaining a romantic and sophisticated overall aesthetic. Depending on the texture and thickness of one’s hair, some clipping may be required at the back to achieve the desired look.
Beach Hair
For a effortlessly undone wedding hair look, beach waves are the epitome of subtle elegance. While many brides may perceive ‘beach hair’ as simply tousled and textured, it’s actually about striking a balance between relaxed and refined. When executed well with the right products, this style exudes a sense of sun-kissed sophistication and sensuality that’s hard to resist. With its laid-back yet polished vibe, beach waves can add a captivating dimension to your special day.
Boho Waves
Boho waves blend the laid-back vibe of beach hair with the effortless charm of loose curls. Typically, this look is characterized by a smooth, flowing texture that’s often paired with a whimsical flower crown or statement hair accessory. The defining feature of boho waves is their starting point: just below the ear, where they create a retro-inspired frame around the face. When combined with wildflowers, a flowy dress, and a relaxed attitude, this look is quintessential boho chic.
All The Volume
For a timeless look that’s equal parts elegant and voluminous, consider a classic curly blow dry with serious staying power. This style features plenty of curls and plenty of volume, making it a popular choice among brides. Depending on your hair length and texture, you may need to employ some strategic back combing and generous use of hairspray to achieve this look. Just be sure to stock up on conditioner, as this style can leave your locks in need of some TLC the morning after your big day.
Glam Curls
For many brides, achieving a stunning down-do look on their wedding day is the ultimate hair goal. While this style may require some heat styling magic, it’s definitely worth featuring in our list of go-to hairstyles for the big day. This polished curl look, which shines best in long locks or with the addition of extensions, is all about volume and sophistication.
Admittedly, maintaining the curls throughout the day can be a challenge, but there’s something undeniably charming about watching them loosen and relax as the day goes on. The result is a beautiful, effortless elegance that perfectly captures the spirit of the wedding day.
Loose Waves
Loose waves remain a timeless and coveted hairstyle for brides who desire to wear their locks down on their special day. This look strikes the perfect balance between effortless elegance and glamour, making it an ideal choice for many brides-to-be. While this style typically suits those with naturally wavy hair, don’t worry if you’re not born with it – your stylist can work magic by creating tighter curls that are then brushed out to achieve the desired loose wave effect.
Classic Curls
For a vintage-inspired curl that’s both stylish and effortless, you can combine traditional techniques with modern tools. While heated rollers and tongs are still great options for creating defined curls, a barrel brush and hot air can also produce a softer, more relaxed look. The beauty of this style lies in its versatility, allowing you to add your own personal touch with hair accessories like clips or headpieces.
Bring some inspiration pictures along with you to your stylist, and work together to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Just Tousled
A tousled bridal blow dry featuring loose waves is an effortlessly chic option for those with shorter locks. This modern hairstyle is perfect for a bride looking to make a statement without going over the top. To elevate the look, consider adding fresh flowers or a delicate slide to add a touch of whimsy. Alternatively, you can keep it simple and let the natural texture of your hair shine through for a low-key, understated elegance.
