Embracing natural hair on your wedding day can make a powerful statement of self-love and cultural pride. Keziah Jones, founder of The Key Look, a Black-owned bridal makeup and hair company, emphasizes the importance of feeling confident in your natural texture. “Wearing natural hair [on your wedding day] can boost confidence and empower Black brides to feel proud of their cultural heritage and individuality,” says Jones.
The traditional notion that wedding hairstyles for Black women must be long and straight is outdated. Today’s brides can choose from a myriad of beautiful and elegant textured styles. Jones advises brides-to-be to consider their hair texture first when planning their wedding hairstyle. “Black hair comes in various textures: curly, coily, or kinky. Choose a hairstyle that complements your natural texture and makes you feel comfortable and confident,” she suggests.
Additionally, the climate and season of your wedding should influence your hairstyle choice. “Humidity, wind, or rain can impact certain styles, so choose one that will hold up throughout the day,” says Jones. The wedding outfit is also crucial in determining the hairstyle. “Your chosen hairstyle should complement the overall theme of your wedding and work well with your dress,” she adds.
Here are eight natural bridal hairstyles that will make you shine on your special day:
1. Classic Twist Out
Unleashing your curls on your wedding day can be a stunning choice. If your hair tends to shrink, twist it a few days before the wedding and unravel it on the big day. For a defined fro, hairstylist Monae Everett recommends the Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam for a strong hold without flaking.
2. Bedazzled Mohawk
Make a bold statement with a bedazzled mohawk. Everett creates this style using Dosso Beauty Kinky hair and Design Essentials Max Hold Edge Control. Braid the length of each ponytail, then combine and pin them to form the mohawk. Add rhinestones with a tacky gel like Got2Be Glue Gel for a touch of sparkle.
3. Baby’s Breath Crown
A short Afro adorned with a baby’s breath crown creates an ethereal bridal look. If your hair is too fine or short to secure accessories directly, Jones suggests using a headband as a base and attaching flowers or other accessories to it.
4. Blonde Finger Waves
For edgy brides, a platinum buzz cut with finger waves, inspired by Jodie Turner-Smith, is a minimal yet stunning style. Everett recommends using Mizani Styling Foam and Eco Styler Argan Oil Gel to smooth and hold the waves in place.
5. Pearly Baby Hairs
Add elegance to any natural hairstyle with dramatic baby hairs accented with dainty pearls. To achieve this look, pull your hair into a curly ponytail and define your baby hairs with a stronghold gel like Got2B Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Hair Gel.
6. Flower Bun
Inspired by Taraji P. Henson’s Met Gala look, a flower bun can be a breathtaking choice. Select floral hair accessories that match your wedding’s color palette and secure them with bobby pins. Crisscross the pins for extra hold, advises hairstylist Jenever Volf.
7. Perfectly Messy Bun
A curly bun with wispy tendrils can add a relaxed element to your bridal look. Start with a tight ponytail base and use a curling wand to create medium-sized curls for the bun and smaller curls for the tendrils. Finish with a light-hold hairspray like Bumble and bumble Does It All Light Hold Hairspray.
8. Curly Ponytail
Gabrielle Union’s voluminous ponytail is perfect for brides who want their face to be the focus while adding drama with cascading curls. Use a drawstring ponytail extension like the For Kurls Drawstring Ponytail and brush your hair up smoothly with a boar bristle brush for a sleek base.
9. Braided Ponytail
For an elevated look, consider a braided ponytail. Create two vertical ponytails, add braiding hair extensions, and braid them together. Decorate with hair pearl pins and stick-on pearls for a regal touch.
10. Locs Updo
Halle Bailey’s woven bun showcases the versatility of locs. Swoop your baby hairs, fasten a veil at the top, and you’ll have a poised and elegant bridal hairstyle.
These natural hairstyles not only celebrate your unique beauty but also ensure you feel confident and comfortable on your wedding day. Embrace your natural texture and let it shine as you walk down the aisle.