From soft-structured buns to statement braids and glossy waves, StyleSpeak rounds up the best bridal hairstyles set to dominate this wedding season

Words: Shweta Dravid

The great Indian wedding season is around the corner, and bridal hairstyles are getting a fresh update this year. Brides are moving away from heavily teased buns, stiff curls and elaborate updos in favour of styles that look polished but not overworked. Soft waves, low chignons and relaxed textured braids are making their way into bridal mood boards, while traditional floral gajras, flowers and hair jewellery continue to add the finishing touch.

The result is a bridal hair repertoire that feels far more modern and versatile. A bride can keep things classic with a low bun for the pheras ceremony, switch to loose waves for the reception, or choose a textured braid that lets her jewellery take centre stage. StyleSpeak explores the hair styles worth adding to the bridal menu this season.

Soft Waves 

This half-up style brings together long, loose waves with a neatly parted crown, while a few strands are left around the face to soften the look. For a traditional touch, you can add a maang tikka, creating a look that feels contemporary without losing its Indian wedding appeal.

Works well for: mehendi, cocktail, and reception looks, especially with statement earrings or an open neckline.                                                                                                                         Stylist tip: the priority is to keep the waves soft and elongated rather than tightly curled, with enough hold at the crown to keep the half-up section secure through the celebrations. 

Face-Framing Twists with a Low Chignon

A centre part gives this updo a clean starting point, while the hair at the crown is worked into soft twists before being gathered into a small chignon at the nape. The low profile of this hairstyle also leaves room for a veil or delicate hair accessory.

Works well for:it is an elegant option for a bride who wants her hair up but prefers a smaller, more streamlined silhouette. The compact shape makes it a smart choice for brides with shorter hair.                                                                                                                               Stylist tip: keep the twists smooth and secure them with pins. Use lightweight padding only where extra fullness is needed. 

The Soft Low Bun

The classic bridal bun is being loosened up for 2026. Instead of a tightly wound, heavily padded shape, the hair is gathered low at the nape with a softer finish and a little volume around the crown. A few shorter pieces around the face can keep the look from feeling too formal.

Works well for:this is a particularly versatile choice for the main wedding ceremony, working equally well with a veil, gajra, or a minimal hair accessory. Stylist tip:for stylists, the challenge is getting the relaxed bun look without losing its structure. Build support underneath, then soften the surface rather than pulling the entire style apart.

The Textured Bridal Braid

Braids continue to be a strong part of Indian bridal hair, but there is plenty of room to move beyond the traditional long, tightly decorated plait. A fuller braid with varied texture can be made more contemporary, while flowers, pearls or traditional hair jewellery can be added according to the bride’s outfit.

Stylist tip:The starting point for this hairstyle is to create volume. Extensions can create the density needed for a substantial braid, while gentle pulling through the finished sections gives it width without compromising its hold. This also makes the style photograph well from every angle. 

The Side-Swept Wave

For those with shorter hair who want old-school glamour, a deep side part with soft, swept waves offers a beautiful middle ground. The heavier side creates volume around the face, while the lengths fall over one shoulder for a more asymmetrical finish.

Works well for: a reception or cocktails, where the hairstyle can take centre stage alongside statement earrings or a one-shoulder blouse.                           
Stylist tip:Keep the wave pattern soft and the ends polished so the style looks glamorous rather than dated.

The Finishing Touch: Flowers, Jewels and More

The right hair accessory can completely change the mood of a bridal hairstyle. Flowers and hair jewellery have always been part of bridal attire, but they can be used in more ways than simply adding a gajra to a bun.

For a softer, traditional look, tuck fresh jasmine or seasonal blooms around a low bun or weave small flowers through a braid. A maang tikka naturally complements a centre-parted style, while delicate pearls or jewelled pins can be scattered through an updo for a more contemporary finish. For brides wearing statement earrings, a hair chain that connects the earrings to the hair can bring the entire look together without adding another heavy accessory.

Stylists should plan the hairstyle with the accessory from the outset. Its weight, placement, and attachment method can affect the structure of the style, so decide where the flowers or jewellery will sit before the final pins go in. 

A great bridal hairstyle is more than a trend; it is a look that feels right for the bride wearing it. Take these ideas to the salon and put your own signature on them.