Can I style my hair the same for my bridal shower as the wedding?

Of course! If continuity is your thing and you've got a hairstyle that you absolutely love, why not wear it as much as possible? However, if the wedding is a more formal evening event, you may choose to sport a more casual coif for the daytime bridal shower.

Are there any hairstyles that are inappropriate for a bridal shower?

Absolutely not. It's your bridal shower, and you can wear your hair however you like. We do recommend factoring in your outfit's silhouette and neckline, any weather or seasonal patterns (especially for outdoor celebrations—hello, frizz!), the level of formality, and any activities you'll be partaking in when choosing your ideal coif. That way you can remain as comfortable and present as possible at the pre-wedding event .

20 Stunning Bridal Shower Hairstyle Ideas

<p>bride at rehearsal dinner</p> — Photo by Sara Lobla

Brides need more than just one beauty look for their wedding—they need several for the many events that lead up to the big day, including the bridal shower. Finding a fitting hairstyle for the bridal shower and any other wedding events should be high on your to-do list, lest you be caught off-guard with little time to spare.

When choosing a bridal shower hairstyle, options abound. From elaborate to casual, classic to glamorous, there are no rules when it comes to your 'do. Perhaps you want something fuss-free. Opt for a ponytail dressed up with ribbon or simple waves. Itching to make a statement with your hair? Then be sure to wear a show-stopping accessory. Whatever look you choose, make sure the style feels true to you!

Ready for some inspiration? Look ahead for 20 of the most stunning bridal shower hairstyles for all hair types and lengths.

01 of 20

Natural Curls

There's nothing we love more than seeing a bride-to-be harness the power of her natural hair. These festivities are your big day after all, so why not show up as yourself? Model Josephine is all the proof we need for letting our natural locks shine at the shower.

02 of 20

A Fastened Fishtail

fishtail braid and flower crown — Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography

A classic fishtail is an intricate plait that may require more effort than a typical braid—but the finished product is well worth it. If you missed the braiding segment of summer camp, don't hesitate to enlist the help of a professional or a bridesmaid up for the task. Accessorize with fresh flowers for a whimsical style like Jenneh's floral masterpiece.

03 of 20

A Chic Lob

Considering going in for the big chop? While this may seem like a massive no-no before the wedding, we say there's no better time to do a complete hair refresh if you're bold enough. Add some texture to the new length with loose waves or curls. Then on your wedding day, opt for a super sleek blowout to illustrate the versatility of the new cut.

04 of 20

Low Ponytail

Bride in red two piece set and mehndi — Photo by Ana Hinojosa; Event Planning by Cabo Wedding Services

Instead of opting for an elaborate hairstyle, try a sleek, low ponytail instead. The more elevated take on your favorite athleisure 'do packs a big visual punch for virtually no effort at all. A strong center part and smooth crown keep this look extra chic.

05 of 20

Loose Chignon

bride and groom — Photo by Laurken Kendall

You can never go wrong with a low bun. It’s elegant yet low-maintenance. On the day of your shower, have a hairstylist secure the bun at the nape of your neck, or you can quickly complete the style yourself. Just be sure to have strong-hold bobby pins to hold the bun in place!

Leave a few strands of hair loose to make the bun look undone and carefree instead of overly rigid or structured.

06 of 20

Milkmaid Braids

We love a set of milkmaid braids for spring and summer celebrations—even autumnal fêtes. The youthful style is oh so sweet and keeps hair out of your face during those bridal shower games. This lovely lady livened up her dimensional 'do by nestling a little posy at the base.

07 of 20

Voluminous Bun

A classic bun never disappoints. Give the look a vivacious lift by injecting some volume throughout the hair and loosely gathering it into a perfectly imperfect style. This bride gave her curly updo a boho touch with the addition of an adorable flower crown.

08 of 20

Loose Waves

The secret to effortless waves? Curl the hair, let it set, and then brush those Goldilocks ringlets out for a refined casual look that will never go out of style. This is a true set-it-and-forget-it 'do. The curls simply speak for themselves.

09 of 20

Half-Up, Half-Down

<p>rehearsal dinner</p> — Photo by Sara Lobla

Is there anything better than a half-up, half-down style? And, if your hair is naturally curly, you have a serious advantage when it comes to playful texture and volume. If you're lacking in the natural curls department, use a hot tool to defy the laws of nature. Finish the 'do by letting the gathered pieces hang down in a ponytail fashion or wrap them into a tiny bun for a bit of fun.

10 of 20

Sleek Updo

bride side bun — Photo by Olivia Rae James

A simple updo can serve as a mini teaser for wedding-day hair. For a look as polished and sleek as this bride's, have your stylist pump some volume into the crown before smoothing and securing the hair back in a bun. Experiment with accessories like scrunchies, hairpins, or fresh blooms to personalize the look.

11 of 20

A Simple Ponytail

couple at welcome party — Photo by Kristen Kilpatrick

Simple doesn't have to mean boring. This glossy, bouncy ponytail is practically bursting with life. The bride-to-be upped the ante by wrapping extra hair around the ponytail base for a chunky vibe.

12 of 20

Budding Plaits

Bride with baby's breath speckled side braid — Photo by Wendy Laurel

What's more alluring than a hairstyle that looks undone and put together at the same time? Instead of a fishtail braid, or simple braid, choose a messy plait. A stylist can weave the hair loosely and let some tendrils hang in the front to frame your face. This bride-to-be tucked a few sprigs of baby's breath throughout the plait for an ethereal aesthetic.

13 of 20

A Ribboned Coif

Bridal hair — Photo by Red Aspen Photography

Dress up a classic ponytail or half-up, half-down style with ribbon or a bow. The subtle addition will upgrade any style and can be customized to fit any bridal shower theme or ensemble. We've even seen brides wrap their buns in gorgeous ribbons of silk and tulle!

14 of 20

Low-Maintenance Locks

Brides in wedding dress and suit with long wavy hair — Photo by Moni & Adri Photography

An easy-going bridal shower look involves letting your hair hang down, literally. Let your hair shine in its natural state—whatever your wave pattern or complete lack thereof may be. The best part is you'll feel your most comfortable when not wearing an intricate 'do that's completely unfamiliar to you.

The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Showers

15 of 20

An Impeccable Blowout

A sleek blowout brings a sexy, well-maintained look to your bridal shower. So head to your favorite hair salon for a bit of a pamper and walk out with a luxurious blowout. (If you've mastered the art of doing this at home, we're seriously impressed.) Plus, adding a little flip to the ends gives the illusion of multiple layers and loads of bounce.

16 of 20

Goddess Braids

Groom in emerald suit kissing bride with braids and cape — Photo by Clean Plate Pictures, Event Planning by Ben Knox; Hair by Jade Staton

Whether you rock braids on the reg or are just itching to try the style, definitely spotlight those babies at the shower. These chunky goddess braids couldn't be a more beautiful fit to the dramatic tulle bridal cape the bride-to-be stunned in.

17 of 20

Multi-Tasking Ponytail

If a ponytail is your go-to style, don't change on the bridal shower's account. Get creative and make it werk. This mixed style is part half up, half down, part fishtail braid, part low ponytail.

Hide elastics by wrapping a few strands of hair around them for an elevated look.

18 of 20

Dreadlock Bun

Brides looking into each others eyes — Photo by Alexandra Lee Photography; Event Planning by Kirstin Basch of LOLA Event Productions; Hair by Hollibeauty

This ultra-cool bride-to-be wrapped her long dreadlocks into an elegant bun and we're frankly obsessed. Incredible texture aside, the coif is even more dimensional courtesy of her bright highlights and beaded adornments. Piling hair into a top-do like this also flatters the neck and opens up the face when wearing a higher neckline or suiting.

19 of 20

Braided Updo

We've seen quite a few standalone braids in this roundup but let's not diminish the beauty of an accent braid. Whether worked into a ponytail, updo, or embellishing free-flowing strands, a well-placed plait can do wonders for any hairstyle. This bride-to-be wrapped a Dutch braid around an otherwise traditional chignon for a fresh approach.

20 of 20

Floral Headpiece

Smiling bride with bangs and floral crown — Photo by Michelle Scott Photography; Event Planning by Dash Event Company; Headpiece by Maria Sn Novias via WildBride; Hair by Rachel Psarkis of Cliffrose Studio

Although you'll already be the center of attention at your bridal shower, consider donning a headpiece to really assume your position. And there's no harm in spotlighting the hair a bit, too. Draw inspiration from this beaming beauty who topped her full bangs and gently twisted style with a dried floral crown.

FAQ

Can I style my hair the same for my bridal shower as the wedding?

Of course! If continuity is your thing and you've got a hairstyle that you absolutely love, why not wear it as much as possible? However, if the wedding is a more formal evening event, you may choose to sport a more casual coif for the daytime bridal shower.
Are there any hairstyles that are inappropriate for a bridal shower?

Absolutely not. It's your bridal shower, and you can wear your hair however you like. We do recommend factoring in your outfit's silhouette and neckline, any weather or seasonal patterns (especially for outdoor celebrations—hello, frizz!), the level of formality, and any activities you'll be partaking in when choosing your ideal coif. That way you can remain as comfortable and present as possible at the pre-wedding event.