While long, flowing locks often dominate bridal magazines and advertisements, the rise of short hair has brought a fresh wave of convenience and simplicity for brides-to-be. But don’t worry about limited styling options – there’s still ample room to create a stunning wedding look with short hair. The trifecta of dress, hair, and makeup can be effortlessly combined to produce a breathtaking overall aesthetic. For those seeking inspiration to elevate their short locks, you’re in the right place!
Despite the shorter length, there are plenty of gorgeous hairstyles that will make you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Short and Curly
Transforming your locks into luscious curls and waves can create a show-stopping look that complements any wedding theme. For a beach-inspired wedding, a wavy hairstyle is the perfect way to capture the essence of the ocean breeze. This style also pairs beautifully with shorter hairstyles like pixie cuts, elevating the overall aesthetic by adding subtle texture and movement. Whether you prefer tight, defined curls or loose, effortless waves, there’s an option to suit your personal style.
To add some extra oomph to an updo, a few strategically-placed loose curls can make all the difference, giving your hairstyle a lush, textured finish. Of course, if you’re unsure about how to achieve this look, consider consulting a professional hairstylist for personalized guidance.
Straight and Sleek
When it comes to hairstyles for a special occasion like a wedding, simplicity can be a great virtue. A straightforward style won’t compete with the grandeur of the gown, jewelry, or other accessories, allowing you to truly shine in the spotlight. To elevate this look, consider adding hair pins or flowers for a touch of whimsy and elegance.
Alternatively, if you’re planning to make a statement with an eye-catching veil or tiara, keeping your hairstyle understated can be a clever way to let those show-stopping accessories take center stage.
Natural Waves
Achieve a relaxed and effortless vibe with your short hair by embracing natural-looking curls. This versatile style works well at any length, making it a failsafe choice for any occasion. If you’re blessed with natural texture, simply let your locks flow freely. Alternatively, consult with your wedding hairstylist to recreate this undone look and add some effortless charm to your overall aesthetic.
Pixie Cut
A pixie cut’s versatility shines when paired with a wedding veil, effortlessly evoking Audrey Hepburn’s iconic style in formal attire. Even without a veil, a bit of styling magic can elevate this look: simply add some texture or volume-enhancing product to create a truly breathtaking appearance. Furthermore, incorporating tasteful accessories can further enhance the overall aesthetic, making this cut a stunning choice for any bride.
Low Chignon
A timeless choice for any bride, the low chignon is a versatile wedding hairstyle that flatters even the shortest of hairdos. This elegant style is a breeze for stylists to master, offering flexibility to create a relaxed, romantic finish with loose tendrils framing the face or a sleek, polished look. The best part? It’s accessible to brides with any length of hair!
Side Swept
For a timeless and elegant wedding day look, consider sweeping all of your hair to one side. The length of your locks can influence the level of styling needed – if you have shorter hair, you might want to incorporate braids, curls, or even use barettes to secure any stray strands in place. This is an excellent hairstyle for short hair that exudes sophistication and refinement on your big day.
Low Bun
A low bun is an effortlessly chic hairstyle that suits any style. One way to achieve a rustic, effortless vibe is with a messy low bun, perfect for more laid-back celebrations. Conversely, elevating the look with hair pins or clips can instantly dress it up, making it suitable for formal events. Whether you’re aiming for a polished and understated or an elaborate and glamorous appearance, a well-executed bun remains a timeless choice for wedding hairstyles.
Accent Braids
Considering a braid? First, think about the thickness and texture you’re aiming for – do you want a delicate, fine braid or something more voluminous and chunky? The good news is that even with short hair, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can create a stunning French braid or fishtail braid, regardless of your hair length. Or, why not add some accent braids to enhance another hairstyle?
If you’re feeling extra regal, you could even ask your stylist to craft a majestic braid crown fit for royalty.
Flower Crowns
Add a touch of enchantment to your wedding celebration with a stunning flower crown. This whimsical accessory is perfect for incorporating Disney and fairytale magic into your special day. Not only will it complement a flowing white dress, but also pair beautifully with non-traditional attire. When it comes to choosing the right flowers, both fresh and faux options are viable, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Fresh blooms offer an exquisite look, yet may require more maintenance throughout the day. On the other hand, high-quality faux flowers provide a realistic alternative that can be treasured as a keepsake long after your wedding day. The beauty of a flower crown lies in its versatility, making it an excellent choice for short hair. With minimal styling required, you can maintain a natural look while adding an unforgettable touch to your wedding day hairstyle.
Statement Pieces
Hair accessories offer a fantastic opportunity to add a touch of personality and flair to your overall look. When it comes to making a bold statement, consider pairing a dazzling tiara with a flowing veil for a truly show-stopping effect. Alternatively, decorate your locks with an array of clips and pins in various colors and styles. For those with shorter hair, bridal combs provide a beautiful and understated way to add some sparkle.
With such a wide range of options available, it’s easy to find the perfect piece that reflects your unique style. The most common hues are gold and silver, which often complement white wedding dresses perfectly. However, many accessories also feature precious stones, allowing you to personalize your look with your birthstone or favorite gemstone for a truly special touch.
Old Hollywood Curls
Many brides seeking a vintage aesthetic often turn to curls as a key element in achieving this timeless look. One classic approach is the large, chunky curl, reminiscent of bygone eras. Another option is the pin curl technique, which can evoke the glamour of old Hollywood. For a truly retro feel, consider curls inspired by the golden age of cinema, complete with soft, flowing locks that rival the iconic styles of Marilyn Monroe or Veronica Lake.
What’s more, vintage-inspired curls can look stunning on short hair too! Simply consult your stylist about incorporating pin curls or another retro-inspired look, such as a bob à la Monroe, to create a truly unforgettable hairstyle.
Headbands
Elevate your short hair with a statement-making bridal headband. This versatile accessory can be styled to suit any aesthetic, from bold and sparkly to delicate and floral. Whether you’re looking for a vintage-inspired look reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties or a more whimsical, romantic vibe, there’s a headband out there to complement your short hair. Try positioning it across your forehead for a classic 1920s look, or top it off for a chic, effortlessly stylish finish.
Blunt Bangs
When it comes to short hair on your wedding day, bangs can be a fantastic addition, helping to frame your face and add a touch of elegance. But before you commit to a bold new ‘do, consider the possibility that you might change your mind about those bangs! If you do decide to take the plunge and try out a new look, make sure to give yourself enough time to adjust to the new style – even if that means growing them out again.
And don’t worry if you need to schedule a trim or two to keep them looking their best; just remember that bangs won’t magically grow overnight.
Side Bangs
For those who aren’t keen on blunt bangs, side swept bangs offer a stylish alternative when it comes to styling short hair. By framing the face and adding an air of sophistication, this look can elevate your wedding hairstyle. If cutting bangs isn’t an option, you can still achieve the side swept effect by expertly pinning hair across for a fake fringe that’s just as chic.
Half Up, Half Down
If you’re torn between an updo and leaving your locks loose, why not try a half-up, half-down style? This versatile look allows you to pin back sections of hair towards the crown, create a stylish half bun or intricate updo. By doing so, you can still appreciate the framing effect of loose curls around your face while adding volume to your overall hairstyle.
Volume on Top
Even with limited locks, it’s possible to create a voluminous look. Try teasing the front sections of your hair to add instant oomph, or build up the crown area by gathering all your hair together. This technique can help you achieve a stunning bridal hairstyle, despite having less hair to work with.
Loose Bun with Pieces Hanging
For individuals with shorter locks, a stylish solution lies in the loose bun, which showcases flowing strands framing the face. Even if some stray hairs are too short to be swept up, a beautiful, effortless look can still be achieved by curling the remaining pieces, creating a lovely contrast between the neat bun and loose ends.
Floral Hair Pins
Elevate your wedding day locks by incorporating delicate details. Floral hair pins are a timeless way to add a touch of elegance to even the most understated hairstyle. However, if flowers aren’t your thing, consider swapping them out for small pearl studs, sparkly pins, or other tiny adornments that will catch the light and add a dash of whimsy to your overall look.
Braided Bun
A skilled hairstylist can effortlessly transform even the shortest locks into a stylishly coiffed braided bun. This versatile look is achievable with minimal hair requirements, making it an excellent choice for those with shorter hair. In fact, with the right expertise and perhaps some strategically placed extensions, even the most petite of hairdos can be transformed into a stunning braided updo.
Ombre
If you’re looking for a dramatic yet low-maintenance change, consider adding some color to your locks. Highlights can be a game-changer, offering a significant departure from your everyday look while still allowing for effortless styling on the big day. Ombre looks particularly stunning on shorter haircuts and adds a playful touch to loose curls, making it an excellent choice for a memorable wedding hairstyle.
Teased and Tousled
Embrace your natural texture while injecting a touch of effortless charm. A simple, undone hairstyle can be just as stunning as a intricate updo. To achieve this look, start by applying a styling product to add volume and texture. Then, use your fingers to tousle and separate your locks, creating a relaxed, piecey effect. This style is all about embracing the beauty of simplicity, so don’t be afraid to let things go a little wild – it’s all part of the charm!
Hair Accessories for Short Hair
Elevate your wedding hairstyle by incorporating hair accessories that reflect your personal style. From understated headbands to statement-making tiaras and elegant hair clips, the options are endless. These versatile adornments allow brides who prefer a low-key approach to still achieve a sophisticated and one-of-a-kind look on their special day.
What’s more, they can be effortlessly paired with other hairstyles, giving you the freedom to mix and match without committing to a single, all-encompassing style. Consider adding subtle gold accents to your flowing locks or incorporating delicate flowers into your braid for a truly unforgettable wedding hairstyle.
