What hairstyles work best for a summer wedding?

While it really is a personal preference, braids and updos tend to work better because of the hot temperatures. However, we still love an effortless beachy wave for summer celebrations.

Do I have to wear the same hairstyle at my ceremony and reception?

No! If you are doing an outfit change , then consider switching your hair up as well. Just make sure to tell your hairstylist of your plans, so that there is enough time to touch up your 'do.

20 Summer Bridal Hairstyle Ideas

summer bride hairstyle — Photo by Etcetera Photography

Summer is a peak time for wedding season, and rightfully so. With spring flowers in bloom, long days, and warm weather, a summer wedding takes advantage of all the beauty that this time of year has to offer. And when considering what hairstyle to wear at your warm-weather celebration, the easygoing nature of the season leaves you with plenty of options to select. From a relaxed updo to boho braids, a summer bride's hairstyle has an effortless feel to it, one that can work for every type of personal aesthetic.

For brides who are wary of overheating and sweating, consider an updo to sweep your hair off the back of your neck, which will undoubtedly keep you cool. You can also choose to wear your hair all the way down if that's what aligns with your own bridal vision. Regardless of the direction you choose to take, as long as your hair is prepped and finished with anti-humidity products to hold the look in place, any style will work well at a summer event.

Unsure of which coif works best for you? Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best summer bridal hairstyles to inspire your own.

01 of 20

A Sexy Swoop

bride and groom about to kiss — Photo by Lynn Dunston

Loose curls swooped to one side give this updo some movement and body. The result is a summer bridal hairstyle that feels classic and elegant without looking stuffy or stiff.

02 of 20

A Bedazzled Bun

bride looking over her shoulder for a portrait by the water — Photo by Alexandra & Vladimir Nadtochiy

A low bun is a summertime bridal staple. Not only will it keep you cool during your ceremony (especially if it takes place outside), but it's also a timeless look that works for just about any hair texture and length. Add in your favorite pearl accessories, as this bride did here, and this simple, stunning look will instantly pop.

03 of 20

A Chic Center Part

bride looking over her shoulder for bridal portrait — Photo by Asia Pimentel Photography

Looking for proof that wearing your hair down at your summer wedding is a wise choice? Take a cue from this bride, who wears a chic center part alongside Old-Hollywood waves. With her hair flowing effortlessly down her back, this all-down style feels regal yet refined.

04 of 20

Twisted Half Up

bride putting an earring in — Photo by Branco Prata

If you love the look of a flowing all-down bridal hairstyle, but you don't want to be bothered with having to fight off hair in your face, a half-up-half-down 'do is for you. Take a step outside your comfort zone and have your hairstylist twist your front layers towards the back of your hair for added dimension.

Spray down the twisted pieces of hair with hairspray to prevent frizzing.

05 of 20

A High Ponytail

Brianne's round bouquet of white roses with a charm — Photo by Jana Williams

If you're the kind of bride who will instantly put her hair up at the beginning of the reception, why not just start with your hair in a pony? Leave a few pieces down in front of your face for a wedding style that's fresh, relaxed, and romantic.

06 of 20

Glamorous Waves

bride wearing an off the shoulder ball gown — Photo by Rossini Photography

We love the volume of this bride's glamorous hair look. The sleek side part stands in contrast to the loose waves, complete with just a bit of texture worked into her strands. Although it's an all-down hairstyle, it still stays out of her face and showcases her gorgeous face.

07 of 20

A Naturally Textured Ponytail

bride with birdcage veil and ponytail — Photo by Kelly Giarrocco

Embrace your natural texture on your wedding day with a simple sleek pony that shows off your curls. Draw inspiration from this bride who also paired her hairdo with a trendy, crystal-encrusted birdcage veil.

08 of 20

A Tousled Bun

black and white photo of a bride — Photo by Jenny Fu Studio

This tousled bun keeps your hair in place throughout your special day and looks photo-ready from any angle. Plus, it's a fantastic way to beat the heat during the warm summer months.

09 of 20

A Classic Chignon

bride holding a calla lily bouquet — Photo by Dennis Roy Coronel

This low chignon is wrapped perfectly, like a present, and is beautifully paired with an ethereal veil. A style like this shows off any accessory or jewelry you may want to wear, and it goes with almost any wedding dress silhouette.

10 of 20

A Tousled Pony

bride with ponytail — Photo by Erich McVey Photography

There's something about ponytails and summer weddings that just work. We love the face-framing pieces that this bride decided to leave out of her tousled tendrils. The best part? This style goes from ceremony to reception to send-off without falling apart.

11 of 20

A Braided Bun

bride with braided bun — Photo by Etcetera Photography

This romantic bun was made even more special with the addition of a beautiful braid running across the crown, accented by a sparkly hairpiece. The stunning shape is framed by loose face-framing layers, which adds a softness to this sophisticated style.

12 of 20

Slicked Back Waves

It doesn't matter what time of year it is, wavy tresses are always in season. The juxtaposition between the volume at the crown and the shiny, slicked-back front is giving us all the Old Hollywood vibes.

13 of 20

A Loose Braid

Soft waves cascade down beautifully beneath an intricate, french twist braid. It's a beautifully romantic look for brides planning a warm-weather affair.

14 of 20

Short Waves

black and white image of a bride — Photo by Corey Tenold

Cutting your hair shorter will not only save you some time during your getting-ready routine, but it also serves as a wonderful 'do for summer nuptials. For a fresh and flirty bridal look, simply add a few curls with a curling wand (1-inch or smaller) and you'll be ready to walk down the aisle in no time.

15 of 20

A Floral Headpiece

bride and groom looking down — Photo by Lauren Baker

Take a bun to the next level with a headpiece. This bride's gorgeous natural curls are pinned delicately into a low bun, accented by a simple floral headpiece that stands out amongst her dark hair.

The Ultimate Guide to Summer Weddings

16 of 20

Lovely Loops

bridal bun with floral hair accessories — Photo by Bo Shim

Don't be afraid to play a little when it comes to your bridal hairstyle. This bride went for a unique double-looped updo, which feels fun and flirty for a summer wedding, especially when paired with whimsical floral hair accessories.

17 of 20

Old Hollywood Curls

Travel back in time with this simple and elegant bridal style. To achieve the look, ask your stylist for a big volume blowout, then curl your hair with a large barrel curling iron, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray.

18 of 20

A Textured High Bun

bride wearing a purple dress — Photo by Sharyn Hodges Photography

A high bun is guaranteed to keep you cool all night long. The whole look, in particular, is very soft and relaxed, and the perfect complement to this bride's lavender-hued dress.

Use a strong hold gel to get those pesky baby hairs along the hairline to lay flat.

19 of 20

A Trendy Pony

bride with a high ponytail — Photo by Hana Gonzalez Photography

This bride really brings the drama with her utterly modern wedding pony. This is an easy (and pretty!) way to get your hair out of your face, allowing you to show off all your best dance moves at the reception.

20 of 20

Side-Swept Curls

bride laughing — Photo by Liz Fogarty Photography

How gorgeous are these soft, glamorous curls? We're obsessed with this classic bridal look, perfect for any time of the year. Pull one side back behind your ear for added drama.

FAQ

What hairstyles work best for a summer wedding?

While it really is a personal preference, braids and updos tend to work better because of the hot temperatures. However, we still love an effortless beachy wave for summer celebrations.
Do I have to wear the same hairstyle at my ceremony and reception?

No! If you are doing an outfit change, then consider switching your hair up as well. Just make sure to tell your hairstylist of your plans, so that there is enough time to touch up your 'do.