Selecting the perfect wedding guest hairstyle that balances elegance with ease can be a challenge, especially if you’re looking for a look that complements both your outfit and age. We’ve consulted Katie Allan, celebrity hairstylist and founder of MAYFIVE Hair, to curate a list of timeless and flattering styles for women over 40. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a more casual celebration, these hairstyles will ensure you look sophisticated and chic.
1. The Low Side Bun
Inspired by Jennifer Garner, this vintage-inspired side bun is soft and flattering for any face shape. Create gentle waves with tongs and secure with a bobble and pins.
2. The Twisted Bun
Jennifer Aniston’s relaxed twisted bun offers a volumized alternative to the sleek bun, ideal for those who prefer a softer, more relaxed style.
3. The Undone Waves
Jennifer Lopez showcases the “undone” wave, which is perfect for a less formal wedding. This relaxed style remains stylish with its effortless charm.
4. The High Bun
Demi Moore’s high bun with a subtle quiff combines elegance with sophistication. Complete the look with dangling diamond earrings for added glamour.
5. The Twisted Quiff
Cate Blanchett’s textured quiff adds a chic, elevated touch to short hair, making it ideal for a more formal occasion.
6. The Mermaid Wave
Jennifer Aniston’s mermaid waves create a beachy yet dressy look. Achieve this by starting the waves from the root to the ends for a statement style.
7. The Curled-Under Bob
Carole Middleton’s bob, curled under for a sleek finish, is a glamorous choice for those with shorter hair.
8. A Ponytail with a Deep Side Parting
Cate Blanchett demonstrates how a deep side parting and sleek ponytail can dress up a simple ponytail for a special event.
9. The Low Bun
Meghan Markle’s chic, French-girl low bun is always a reliable choice. It’s perfect for a classic and sophisticated look.
10. The Textured Pixie Crop
Cate Blanchett’s textured pixie crop adds sophistication to a short hairstyle, with a fringe pushed back for a polished finish.
11. A Bun with Tousled Strands and Texture
Meghan Markle’s relaxed, boho bun with tousled curls offers a romantic, whimsical look that’s both elegant and laid-back.
12. The Side-Swept Fringe
Kate Middleton’s half-up, half-down style with a side-swept fringe adds a touch of formality without requiring a full updo.
13. Add in a Subtle Hairband or Accessories
Kerry Washington’s subtle headbands or clips elevate a loose wave or half-up style, perfect for a relaxed yet refined look.
14. Experiment with Extensions
Jennifer Lopez shows how hair extensions can add drama to a ponytail, making it ideal for a sleek, statement look.
15. Go for a Bow
Nicole Kidman’s bow adds a vintage charm to any hairstyle, making it a popular choice for a wedding guest.
16. A Sleek Ponytail
Blake Lively’s sleek ponytail, paired with statement earrings, is perfect for a polished and sophisticated appearance.
17. Tousled Waves with a Side Parting
Margot Robbie’s chic, relaxed waves with a side parting add bounce and elegance to a shoulder-length hairstyle.
18. A Knotted Side Bun
Lucy Liu’s knotted side bun offers a sleek and elegant look that’s ideal for mid-length to long hair.
19. A Messy Bun
Margot Robbie’s messy bun, framed by curled sections, adds a touch of old-school glamour.
20. A Volumized Ponytail
Gwen Stefani’s high, volumized ponytail with hair pieces and a wrap creates a dramatic and stylish appearance.
21. A Chunky Headband
Kate Middleton’s chunky black headband adds a vintage feel to straight hairstyles, perfect for winter weddings.
22. A Plaited Ponytail
Zoe Saldana’s plaited ponytail offers a chic twist on a classic ponytail, ideal for a stylish and refined look.
23. A Low Ponytail
Cameron Diaz’s understated low ponytail is a simple yet effective choice for a classic wedding guest look.
24. A Sleek High Bun
Scarlett Johansson’s wet-look sleek high bun is an on-trend option that’s easy to recreate with gel and a twisted bun.
25. Smaller Waves
Jennifer Lawrence’s tight curls add definition to a bob hairstyle, creating a statement look perfect for evening weddings.
26. Loose Waves and a Side Parting
Cat Deeley’s gentle waves and texture create a sleek and stylish look that works well for various wedding settings.
27. A Side Parting and Sleek Straight Hair
Isla Fisher’s straight hair with a deep side parting adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to a simple, polished look.
28. A Plaited Up ‘Do
Sophie Turner’s plaited updo, softened by a side parting, channels a boho vibe ideal for summer weddings.
29. Glitzy Hair Accessories
Katy Perry’s statement accessories with gemstones or sparkles add a wow factor to winter wedding styles.
30. A Side Bun and Dramatic Hat
Kate Middleton’s side bun paired with a wide-brimmed hat creates a sophisticated and polished look.
31. A Hair Wrapped Ponytail
Meghan Markle’s wrapped ponytail is elegant and understated, perfect for summer weddings.
32. A Boho Plaited Up Do
Sienna Miller’s boho plaited updo keeps hair off the face while adding a relaxed yet stylish touch for summer events.
These hairstyles offer a variety of options, from classic buns to relaxed waves, ensuring every woman over 40 can find the perfect look for any wedding occasion.
