When it comes to wedding hairstyles, most folks fall into one of two groups: the I-know-EXACTLY-how-I-want-my-hair-to-look crew, or the OMFG-what-am-I-going-to-do-with-my-hair squad. And you know, I should be perfect at this. As a hairstylist who works weddings, I’ve spent hundreds of hours around brides doing wedding hair. But somehow I found myself literally cutting my own hair in the bathroom on my wedding day. Yeah, true story. #DontBeLikeMe

So in the interest of NOT being like me (seriously, do not try that at home ever), we’re here to save you some heartache by walking through how to find the best wedding hairstyles for you (and your hair!), plus how to find a stylist to help make that happen. If you’re thinking of going the DIY hair route, we got you too: check our posts here and here.

Figuring Out What Wedding Hairstyle Works For You

Trying to figure out which wedding hairstyle will work best for you can initially be a little tricky. As we know, Pinterest and the Interwebs are chock full of gorgeous images, but many of those are of hair models sporting loads of extensions, along with a stylist, killer lighting, and a fan. When you find some images you like ask yourself this: does it seem like my hair could do what’s in that picture? If you’re sporting a pixie, a super Rapunzel curled look is probably not going to happen. Or say, trying to get your tight natural curls into a super sleek chignon. On your wedding day, you should aim to look like a slightly fancier version of yourself. Don’t make this the day you’re trying out some totally new look for the first time.

How To Find A Wedding Stylist

We’ve written at length about how to find a wedding stylist. But the short version is this: start by checking our Vendor Directory, talk to your own stylist, or ask friends for a referral. Most stylists require a trial in order to book your wedding. While at first this may totally seem like one of those WIC moments and like something you don’t need, it absolutely is a must. This is as much for you as it is for your stylist. While it gives them a chance get a feel for your hair, it gives you a chance to get to know someone who is going to be with you at a potentially stressful time. You want someone you feel comfortable with, and will be able to stay calm and professional.

At your trial, bring your stylist a few options of things you like, and think about why you like those looks. Is it the curls, the colors, the accessories? Keep in mind the neckline of your dress and any jewelry you plan on wearing, along with veil or other headpieces. Even the very best stylists can’t replicate a style exactly: your hair is not the same as the person in the picture. Your stylist will create a style that works for you and your hair, which in the end will be a far more successful style than a bad copy of Pinterest.

To help you in your search for wedding hairstyles that are going to work for you, today we’ve rounded up my favorite hairstyles for short, medium to long, and curly hair, for all types of textures and thicknesses. If you’re looking for even more specific hair types, check out our favorite wedding hairstyles for black hair, unique hairstyles, short hair, and curly hair.

Wedding Hairstyles For Short Hair

Calling all undercuts, pixies, bobs, and lobs! Short doesn’t mean boring, not for one second. While it can feel like it’ll be hard to make it feel different from your everyday hair, keep in mind you’re going to be all spiffed up wearing a killer outfit—this isn’t a normal day. Pro tip: Adding an accessory is the best-kept secret in bridal hair. It helps the style feel elevated and finished. Or go with a bold eye or lip to bring your look up a few notches. Check out our post on wedding hair accessories for short hair.

Hair by Jenny Cho Hair | Accessory Lelet NY

Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images 

Hair by Step the Barber

Hair by Miss Rockabilly Ruby

Hair by Kristin Ess

Via Moooi Makers & Kappers

Via Behind the Chair

Via Moooi Makers & Kappers

Hair by Ashley Streicher

Photo by Winnie Au | Via Refinery29

Hair by Jemma McArthur

Photo by Kesha Lambert

Hair by Alex Pelerossi

Photo by Amy Gray | Featured on A Practical Wedding

Wedding Hairstyles For Medium to Long Hair

Hey there #longhairdontcare ladies—real talk, your hair doesn’t need to be down to the floor in order to have an amazing updo. In fact, having medium-length hair typically is one of the best lengths for updos. Sometimes if hair is really long, it can hard to achieve the tousled, romantic looks we’ve come to love. Check with your stylist a few months before your wedding to see if you need a trim or layers to get the look you want. Braids and twists..