This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
There’s something uniquely complicated about being the mother of the bride. You want to look beautiful — genuinely, photographably beautiful — but not in a way that draws attention away from your daughter. You want to feel like yourself, but elevated. You want a style that holds up from ceremony to last dance, survives the happy tears, and still looks polished in every photo you’ll treasure for the rest of your life.
That’s a lot to navigate. And it’s exactly why the mother of the bride deserves her own thoughtful approach to wedding day hair — not a watered-down version of the bridal guide, but a real conversation about what works, what doesn’t, and how to look and feel your absolute best on one of the most meaningful days of your life.
Before we get into styles, there are a few guiding principles worth keeping in mind as you plan:
Complement, don’t compete. Your hairstyle should feel harmonious with the overall wedding aesthetic and, most importantly, with your daughter’s look. This doesn’t mean blending into the background — it means choosing a style that feels like it belongs in the same beautiful story.
Polished without overdone. The MOB sweet spot in 2026 is soft structure — styles that look intentional and elegant without looking stiff, overly formal, or like you’re trying too hard. Think graceful, not glamour-competition.
Comfort is non-negotiable. You’re going to be on your feet for hours. You’re going to hug hundreds of people. You might cry more than once. Your hair needs to stay beautiful through all of it — which means choosing a style that’s genuinely secure, not one that requires constant maintenance.
The style should feel like you. If you never wear your hair up in real life, a severe updo might make you feel like a stranger in the photos. The best MOB hair looks like the most polished, beautiful version of your everyday self.
The Soft Low Chignon
This is the quintessential MOB hairstyle — and it’s popular for good reason. A low chignon at the nape of the neck is elegant, timeless, and polished without being stiff. The 2026 version has softer texture, light volume at the crown, and a few face-framing pieces rather than the tight, lacquered versions of the past. It pairs beautifully with almost every dress style, photographs flawlessly from every angle, and stays put all day. Add a delicate pearl pin or jeweled comb for a wedding-worthy finishing touch.
Soft Romantic Waves
For the mother who prefers her hair down or simply doesn’t feel like herself in an updo, soft waves are the answer. Loose, glossy, shoulder-grazing waves feel modern and effortlessly beautiful — and they’re one of the strongest choices for photographing well in natural light. This is the style for the mom who wants to look like herself, just stunning. Ask your stylist to keep the wave pattern relaxed and brushed out rather than tight or uniform.
The Elegant Half-Up
A beautifully executed half-up style hits the perfect balance between updo formality and the softness of wearing hair down. The crown section swept back with soft texture and a few pieces left to frame the face is incredibly flattering and works for every hair length. It’s also a style that transitions gracefully from outdoor ceremony to indoor reception without losing its polish.
Sleek Low Ponytail
Don’t underestimate the sophistication of a well-executed low ponytail. When it’s smooth, glossy, and finished with a wrapped strand around the base, it reads as genuinely modern and elegant. It’s comfortable, secure, and one of the most underrated MOB choices. Pairs especially beautifully with structured gowns and contemporary silhouettes.
Side-Swept Waves
For evening weddings or more formal affairs, a side-swept wave style adds gentle drama without feeling overdone. The sweep across one side elongates the neckline and highlights the cheekbones in photos — both excellent things. This style works especially well for medium to long hair and complements one-shoulder or asymmetrical dresses beautifully.
The Classic French Roll
For mothers who want something undeniably polished and traditional, a softened French roll is timeless and elegant. The key in 2026 is keeping it slightly less rigid than the classic version — a little texture, a few soft pieces at the face, and a decorative pin rather than a helmet-finished spray. This style is particularly stunning for formal or black-tie weddings and holds beautifully through long evenings.
The Chic Bob Blowout
For mothers with shorter or medium-length hair, a beautifully executed blowout with soft movement and volume is one of the most polished choices available. Clean, modern, and incredibly flattering, a styled bob with a slight wave or curl at the ends photographs beautifully and requires no pins or updos to look completely intentional.
Just like with bridal hair, your dress or gown should directly influence your hairstyle choice. Here’s a quick guide:
V-neck or plunging neckline — Soft waves and half-up styles complement and soften the neckline without competing with it
High neck or jeweled neckline — Keep hair up and away from the neckline so the dress detail can shine; a sleek chignon or French roll is ideal
Off-the-shoulder or strapless — Show off the shoulders and collarbone; updos and half-up styles that expose the neck area are especially elegant here
Open back — Pull hair up or back so the beautiful dress detail isn’t hidden; a low chignon or French roll is the classic pairing
Embellished shoulders — Keep the shoulder area uncluttered; an updo or sleek low ponytail lets the dress do the talking
Your wedding day photos will be looked at for decades. If your color has grown out, gone dull, or could use a refresh, the weeks before the wedding are the time to address it.
A few recommendations I give MOB clients regularly:
Book a gloss treatment 1–2 weeks before the wedding. This is genuinely one of the highest-impact, lowest-commitment things you can do. A gloss adds incredible shine, refreshes your color, and makes hair look healthy and vibrant in photos. It’s not a dramatic change — it’s just your color, better.
If you’re considering highlights or a color refresh, do it 3–4 weeks out — not the week before. Color needs a little time to settle and look its most natural. You want it to look like it’s always been that beautiful, not like you just came from the salon.
Avoid drastic changes close to the wedding. This isn’t the moment to try a new color direction. Work with what’s working and elevate it.
MOB appointments are one of the most commonly under-planned pieces of the wedding day. Most mothers wait until a few weeks before the wedding to think about their hair — by which point the best appointment slots are often gone.
Book as soon as you know the wedding date. Top stylists fill up during peak wedding season from May through October. If the wedding is in June, don’t wait until May.
Schedule a trial 6–8 weeks before the wedding. This is especially important for the MOB because you want to see how the style works with your specific outfit, your hair texture, and your face. A trial eliminates every surprise on the actual day and gives you time to adjust if something doesn’t feel right.
Coordinate with the bride. Ask your daughter if she has a preference about your hair being up or down, or whether a particular style fits better with the wedding aesthetic. This conversation is worth having early — not as an approval process, but as a lovely way to feel connected in the planning.
➡️ Book your mother of the bride consultation with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
The best hair appointments start with the best hair. Here’s what to focus on in the weeks leading up to the wedding:
Deep condition consistently. Weekly moisture treatments in the 4–6 weeks before the wedding improve shine, manageability, and how well your hair holds a style. This is especially important for color-treated or fine hair.
Moroccan Oil Treatment — My recommendation for daily frizz control and shine. A small amount on damp hair before styling makes a meaningful difference in how hair looks and photographs. ➡️ Shop Moroccan Oil on Amazon
Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner — For dry, color-treated, or fine hair, this duo adds moisture and manageability without weighing hair down. ➡️ Shop Redken All Soft on Amazon
Matrix Biolage Hydrasource — Especially good for color-treated hair, this keeps moisture locked in and color looking fresh between appointments. ➡️ Shop Matrix Biolage on Amazon
This is your daughter’s wedding day — and it’s one of yours too. You’ve earned the right to feel completely beautiful, completely yourself, and completely present for every moment of it.
The right hairstyle does more than complete your look. It gives you one less thing to think about so you can just be there — hugging, laughing, crying the good kind of tears, and dancing at the end of the night with someone you love.
That’s what this day is for. Let’s make sure your hair is ready for all of it.
Getting married in the Washington, Shelby Township, Rochester Hills, or Romeo area? I’d love to help you and your whole family look beautiful for the big day.
➡️ Book your consultation with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
➡️ Read: Your Complete Bridal Hair Guide
➡️ Read: Bridesmaid Hair That Works for Everyone in the Party
➡️ Read: Wedding Guest Hair — How to Look Amazing Without Upstaging the Bride
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Wedding season is officially here, and if your inbox looks anything like most people’s right now, you’ve got at least one save-the-date on the fridge, a dress that still needs accessories, and a very real question looming in the back of your mind: What am I doing with my hair?
Wedding guest hair is its own category. It’s not your everyday look, it’s not a full bridal moment, and it’s definitely not something you want to figure out the morning of the wedding with a curling iron and a prayer. The right hair for a wedding celebrates the occasion, complements your outfit, lasts through the ceremony and reception, and — this is the part people forget — lets the bride be the star.
I’ve styled a lot of clients for weddings, from the quiet garden ceremony to the full ballroom black-tie affair. Here’s everything you need to know to walk in looking polished, intentional, and completely yourself.
The dress code on your invite is your starting point for everything — including your hair. Wedding formality exists on a spectrum, and your hair should match where the event falls.
Black-tie or formal: Think elevated and polished. A sculpted updo, a sleek chignon, voluminous Hollywood waves, or a sophisticated low bun all land beautifully here. This is not the moment for a messy topknot.
Cocktail or semi-formal: You have real latitude here. Half-up styles, soft romantic curls, a low twisted bun with face-framing pieces — anything that looks intentional and put-together works.
Garden party or outdoor: Romantic and relaxed. Soft waves, braided styles, a loose updo with wispy tendrils — these read perfectly for an outdoor setting. Keep in mind: outdoor ceremonies often mean wind and humidity, so your styling approach matters.
Casual or beach: Effortless is the goal. Beachy waves, a relaxed low bun, textured braids — you want to look like you cared without looking like you tried too hard.
When the dress code is ambiguous, err on the side of dressier. You can always soften a polished look with a few pieces left down, but you can’t polish up a half-ponytail once you’re at the venue.
Your dress neckline is one of the most useful styling guides you have, and most people completely ignore it.
Strapless or off-the-shoulder: This is a great opportunity for an updo or half-up style — it lets the neckline and shoulder area breathe and creates a long, elegant line from your neck to your décolletage. Soft waves left down also work beautifully if you want hair movement.
V-neck or plunging neckline: A low updo, a pulled-back style, or sleek waves complement a deep neckline without competing with it. Keep the volume lower rather than stacked on top.
High neckline or halter: Wear your hair up. A high neckline is its own statement, and covering it with heavy hair loses the whole effect.
Spaghetti straps or delicate straps: This is one of the most versatile necklines for hair — updos, down styles, half-up looks all work. If your dress has back detail or an open back, an updo that shows it off is always a great choice.
Boatneck or structured shoulder: Classic updos and low buns pair beautifully with a more architectural dress. Sleek, polished styles tend to photograph beautifully alongside structured silhouettes.
You don’t have to chase trends, but it helps to know what’s having a moment — especially if you want your look to feel current rather than dated in photos.
Hollywood waves: Voluminous, structured waves are having a major moment right now, and they work for virtually every hair length and type. They’re timeless enough to look elegant and polished enough to photograph beautifully under every kind of light.
Half-up, half-down with texture: This is the sweet spot between an updo and wearing your hair fully down. A half-up style with soft curls or waves feels romantic and relaxed while still looking intentional. It’s forgiving, it’s versatile, and it’s one of the most universally flattering options out there.
The glam ponytail: Not your everyday ponytail — think voluminous, with crystal or pearl pins woven in, and enough polish to feel like a statement. This reads especially well for cocktail and semi-formal weddings.
Braided styles: Braids aren’t going anywhere, and in 2026 they’re leaning softer and more romantic — loose braids with face-framing pieces, braids tucked into a voluminous bun, textured braids for outdoor or boho settings. They hold up beautifully through an outdoor ceremony and into an evening reception.
Sleek low bun: For the guest who wants clean, polished, and effortless, a well-executed low bun at the nape of the neck with a few deliberate face-framing pieces is never the wrong answer.
The ’90s blowout: Big, bouncy, glossy — the blowout has made a full comeback and it reads incredibly well for weddings. It’s the kind of look that holds through a full evening, moves beautifully, and photographs like a dream.
Most of these are common sense, but it’s worth saying them out loud.
Don’t wear a style that looks more bridal than the bride. If your hair involves a cathedral-worthy updo with floral accents and a jeweled headpiece, recalibrate. You’re there to celebrate her, not compete with her.
Avoid white or ivory accessories that could read as bridal, for the same reason.
Check the color scheme. If you happen to know the wedding colors and can subtly incorporate a complementary palette into your outfit and accessories, it’s a thoughtful touch that photographers notice.
Plan for the full day. You’ll likely be at this wedding for 6–8 hours — ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, dancing. Your hair needs to last. That means choosing a style that holds without constant touch-ups, using the right products to support longevity, and thinking about how the style will look at 10 PM, not just 2 PM.
Humidity and weather are real. If the ceremony is outdoors and Michigan summers have taught us anything, it’s that humidity is not your friend. A style that frizzes at the first hint of moisture is going to require a lot of attention. Plan accordingly.
I’m a big believer in working smarter, not harder — which means using the right products from the start so you’re not fighting your hair by the time the reception starts.
For hold and longevity:
For waves and curls:
For frizz control in humidity:
For touch-ups: Carry a few bobby pins, a travel-size dry shampoo, and a small bottle of your hairspray in your clutch. You won’t need them if you prepped well — but you’ll be grateful to have them.
Here’s the honest truth: wedding guest hair that looks effortless usually isn’t. It was thought through in advance, styled intentionally, and built with the right products.
The best way to guarantee you walk into that wedding feeling confident about your hair? Book an appointment the day before or the morning of, depending on the timing. Come in with your dress picked out, your accessories decided, and a few images of styles you love. I’ll make sure the finished look complements everything you’ve already put together and holds up for the full event.
➡️ Book your wedding guest hair appointment with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
If you know you have multiple weddings coming up — and wedding season in Macomb County fills up fast between May and October — it’s worth getting ahead of the calendar now.
Summer weddings: Book earlier in the day when possible; the morning slot gives you more flexibility if you need adjustments. Heat and humidity strategies are essential — discuss them with your stylist.
Evening or black-tie weddings: A mid-afternoon appointment gives you time for your style to settle and for any minor touch-ups before you leave.
Multiple events in one weekend: If you’re doing a rehearsal dinner and a wedding back to back, plan for a style that can transition with minor adjustments — not a complete redo.
Being a great wedding guest means showing up ready to celebrate, looking polished, and making sure the people getting married feel like the stars of the day. The right hair takes that off your mental checklist entirely — because when you love how you look, you’re not thinking about it at all. You’re just dancing.
Serving Washington Township, Shelby Township, Rochester Hills, Romeo, and all of Macomb County — and yes, I book up fast during wedding season. Don’t wait.
➡️ Book your appointment at The WannaBee Hair Studio
➡️ Read: Your Bridal Hair Guide — How to Get the Wedding Hair of Your Dreams
➡️ Read: Mother of the Bride Hair Guide — Elegant Looks for the Most Important Woman in the Room
➡️ Read: Bridesmaid Hair That Works for Everyone in the Party
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Here’s the bridesmaid hair conversation that actually needs to happen more often: the goal isn’t for every person in the bridal party to have the exact same hairstyle. The goal is for the whole group to look pulled together, cohesive, and beautiful — while each individual actually feels good in what she’s wearing.
Forcing identical styles on five women with five completely different hair types, lengths, and face shapes rarely looks as good as it sounds on a Pinterest board. In 2026, the most stunning bridal parties are the ones where there’s a clear theme and direction, but each bridesmaid’s style is tailored to actually work for her. The result looks intentional and elegant — not like a lineup of clones.
This guide is for both brides planning their party’s look and bridesmaids trying to figure out what’s actually going to work. Here’s everything you need to know.
The shift happening in bridal parties right now is away from rigid uniformity and toward what stylists call a “variations on a theme” approach. The bride chooses a direction — everyone in soft waves, everyone with hair up, everyone in a low style — and then each bridesmaid’s specific version of that direction is tailored to her individual hair.
This works better for everyone:
The unifying element doesn’t have to be the style itself — it can be a shared accessory. Matching pearl pins, the same delicate gold clip, or a coordinating ribbon in the wedding color ties completely different styles together into a cohesive bridal party look. This is one of the smartest moves a bride can make.
Soft Romantic Waves
The most universally flattering bridesmaid look going right now. Loose, glossy waves with movement work on almost every hair length and texture, photograph beautifully in every kind of light, and feel comfortable through hours of ceremony and reception. They’re the definition of effortless elegance — and they can be adapted to suit fine hair (lighter, more voluminous waves) or thick hair (more defined, brushed-out waves) without looking like two different styles.
Low Bun or Chignon
The low bun remains a bridal party staple because it works. Elegant, secure, and polished, it keeps hair off faces and necks during outdoor ceremonies, holds up through dancing, and photographs cleanly in every shot. The 2026 version is softer and more textured than the tight, lacquered versions of years past — a few face-framing tendrils and a slightly looser texture make it feel modern and personal rather than overly formal.
The Half-Up Style
For bridesmaids who want the best of both worlds — some structure without a full updo — a half-up style is the perfect middle ground. The crown section swept back with soft texture, and loose waves or curls falling below, is romantic and polished without feeling overdone. It’s especially flattering for bridesmaids with longer hair and works beautifully as a “same direction, different execution” style across a mixed-length party.
Braided Details
Braids are everywhere in wedding parties for 2026 — but the trend has evolved from full bohemian braided crowns to more subtle braid accents woven into otherwise soft styles. A small braid incorporated into a half-up look, a braided detail at the crown of a low bun, or a simple side braid adds texture and visual interest without overwhelming. It’s a beautiful way to add individuality across a bridal party while keeping the overall look cohesive.
The Sleek Low Ponytail
For a modern, clean aesthetic — especially at formal or minimalist weddings — a sleek low ponytail is genuinely chic and sophisticated. Smooth, glossy, with a hair-wrapped elastic and a clean part, it photographs beautifully and is one of the most comfortable styles to wear through a long day. It also transitions seamlessly from ceremony to reception without losing its polish.
Accessories as the Unifier
This deserves its own mention because it’s genuinely one of the most effective tools for a cohesive bridal party look. When each bridesmaid wears a matching or coordinating hair accessory — a delicate pearl clip, a small gold pin, a ribbon tie — it visually connects completely different styles into a unified look. The bride chooses the accessory; each bridesmaid chooses the style that works for her hair. It’s elegant, modern, and remarkably effective.
This is where so many bridal party hair plans fall apart — a style is chosen that looks stunning on the bride’s inspiration board but doesn’t actually work for half the bridesmaids’ hair. Here’s how to think about it:
Fine or thin hair — Needs styles that add volume and support rather than fighting gravity. Soft waves with volumizing products, a supported half-up, or a textured low bun with backcombing at the crown all work well. Avoid very sleek, flat styles that emphasize the hair’s lack of volume.
Thick or coarse hair — Needs structure to manage volume and weight. Low buns, braided details, and sleek ponytails with smoothing products give thick hair a polished result. Soft waves work beautifully but need anti-humidity products to stay controlled.
Naturally curly hair — Work with the texture, not against it. Defined curls in a half-up style, a curly low bun, or enhanced natural waves look stunning and last longer than fighting curls into submission with a flat iron. A quality curl-defining product is essential.
Short or medium-length hair — Can still be part of a cohesive bridal party look. Soft waves, elegant blowouts, and pinned styles with accessories all work beautifully for shorter lengths. The key is communicating this to the bride early so the overall look is planned with all hair lengths in mind.
Bridesmaid hair is one of the most commonly under-timed parts of wedding day prep. Each person typically needs 30–45 minutes for a styled look — which adds up fast with a larger party. A bridal party of five bridesmaids plus the bride can easily be a 4–5 hour hair morning.
A few things that make the day run smoothly:
Everyone arrives with hair washed the night before — not the morning of. Day-old hair holds styles significantly better than freshly washed hair. This one detail prevents a lot of day-of problems.
Have a clear order. Bridesmaids typically go first; the bride goes last so her style is freshest for photos. If there’s a maid of honor, she often goes second-to-last.
Everyone wears a button-down or zip-up top to the getting-ready session. The last thing anyone wants is to pull a fitted top over a finished updo.
Bring an emergency kit. Every bridesmaid should have a few extra bobby pins, a travel-size hairspray, and a smoothing serum in her bag for touch-ups throughout the day.
Book appointments early. Wedding season is peak season — stylists fill up fast. If you’re coordinating hair for a full bridal party, the earlier you book, the better.
➡️ Book your bridesmaid hair appointment with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
Whether you’re getting your hair done professionally or doing touch-ups throughout the day, these are the products worth having:
Moroccan Oil Treatment — A few drops on damp hair before styling for frizz control, shine, and that polished, healthy finish that photographs beautifully. Works on every hair type. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
IGK Good Behavior Smoothing Spray — Lightweight heat protectant and frizz smoother in one. Perfect for keeping styles polished through outdoor ceremonies and warm weather. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
Flexible Hold Hairspray — The right hairspray keeps styles intact without making hair feel stiff or crunchy. Essential for a style that needs to last from ceremony to last dance. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
Redken All Soft Conditioner — For bridesmaids with dry or color-treated hair, deep conditioning in the weeks before the wedding makes a real difference in how hair holds a style and how it photographs. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
The clearest way to set your bridal party up for success is to communicate a direction rather than a specific style. Instead of “everyone gets a low bun,” try “everyone’s hair is up in some way” — which gives your stylist room to tailor each person’s version to their actual hair.
Share your inspiration photos early. Give each bridesmaid time to think about what version of the direction works for her and to communicate any concerns before the wedding day. A quick consultation appointment ahead of time is worth every minute for a party of more than three.
And remember — the goal is for everyone to look and feel beautiful. Bridesmaids who feel comfortable and confident in their style will carry that energy in every photo.
For the bride:
For each bridesmaid:
The most beautiful bridal parties in 2026 aren’t the ones where everyone looks identical. They’re the ones where everyone looks like the most polished, beautiful version of themselves — and the whole group looks like they belong together.
That’s the goal. And with a little planning, the right direction, and styles tailored to each person’s actual hair, it’s completely achievable.
Planning a wedding in the Washington, Shelby Township, Rochester Hills, or Romeo area? I’d love to work with your whole bridal party.
➡️ Book with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando at The WannaBee Hair Studio
➡️ Read: Your Complete Bridal Hair Guide
➡️ Read: Mother of the Bride Hair Guide
➡️ Read: Wedding Guest Hair — How to Look Amazing Without Upstaging the Bride
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Your wedding day hair is different from every other hair appointment you’ll ever have. It needs to look stunning in photos taken in every kind of light. The bride’s hair needs to survive hours of an outdoor ceremony, dancing, hugging, and happy crying. It needs to feel like you — just elevated — so that when you look back at those photos decades from now, you recognize yourself.
That’s a tall order. And it’s exactly why brides who plan ahead, communicate clearly, and work with a stylist they trust walk down the aisle feeling completely confident — while brides who wing it are the ones adjusting their hair in every other photo.
This is your complete guide to getting bridal hair right — from the moment you get engaged to the moment you say I do.
Here’s the truth that surprises most brides: your hair appointment is one of the first things you should book after setting your wedding date — not one of the last.
Top stylists book out 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak wedding season Saturdays between May and October. If you have a specific stylist in mind, reach out as soon as your date is locked in. Waiting until a few months before your wedding to start looking means you may not get your first — or even second — choice.
The booking timeline that works:
➡️ Book your bridal consultation with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando at The WannaBee Hair Studio
If there’s one thing I tell every bride, it’s this: do not skip your hair trial. A photo you find on Pinterest looks different on every person — different hair texture, different face shape, different dress neckline. The trial is where you find out what actually works on you, while there’s still time to adjust.
Schedule your trial 2–3 months before the wedding. This is the sweet spot — close enough that your hair length and color will be similar to wedding day, but far enough out that you have room to make changes if something doesn’t feel right.
What to bring to your trial:
At the trial, speak up. This is your chance — if something doesn’t feel right, say so. A good stylist would rather know during the trial than find out on your wedding morning.
After the trial: Take photos from every angle. Live in the style for a few hours and see how it holds. Note anything you want adjusted.
The overarching theme of bridal hair in 2026 is effortless elegance — styles that feel personal, move beautifully, and look timeless in photos without feeling overdone or stiff. The era of heavily sprayed, architectural updos is giving way to something softer, more romantic, and more individual.
Here’s what’s defining the season:
Soft Romantic Waves — The most requested bridal look right now, and for good reason. Natural, glossy waves with movement photograph beautifully in any light, feel comfortable through a full day of celebration, and work with virtually every gown style. Think touchable, effortless glamour — not stiff, uniform curls.
The Bouncy Blowout — The ’90s-inspired voluminous blowout is having a serious bridal moment. Airy, full, and polished without being overdone, this look photographs beautifully from every angle and feels like a genuinely elevated version of everyday hair. For the bride who wants to look like herself — just stunning — this is the style.
Soft Sculpted Updos — Updos in 2026 are lighter, airier, and more relaxed than they’ve been in years. Instead of tight, heavily structured shapes, think gentle bends, loose tendrils, and subtle volume that feels elegant without looking like it took four hours. A low, softly sculpted updo paired with face-framing pieces is quietly one of the most beautiful bridal looks happening right now.
Half-Up with Texture Details — The half-up, half-down look is a perennial bridal favorite, but this year’s version incorporates twists, small braids, and knots into the crown section for added dimension. It’s the best of both worlds — the elegance of an updo with the romance of flowing hair.
Braided Details — Full braided styles remain beautiful for brides, but the 2026 trend is more subtle — braid accents woven into otherwise soft styles that add texture and interest without reading as overly bohemian. Unless you’re going full boho, think braid details, not braid statement.
Heirloom-Inspired Accessories — This is the accessories trend of the season. Architectural pins, sculptural combs, pearl details, and metallic accents are replacing the boho florals of a few years ago. One statement piece can completely transform a simple updo into something that feels truly bridal.
Your dress neckline should be one of the first things you consider when choosing your hairstyle. Here’s a quick reference guide:
Strapless or sweetheart neckline — Almost anything works beautifully. Updos and half-up styles show off the neckline and shoulders elegantly; loose waves add softness.
Off-the-shoulder — Styles that expose the neck and collarbone are ideal. Low buns, side-swept updos, and sleek ponytails let the neckline shine.
V-neck or plunging — Soft waves and loose curls balance and complement the neckline without competing with it.
High neck or illusion neckline — Clean, polished updos keep the focus on the dress’s detailed neckline. Less is more here.
Open back — An updo is almost always the right call — it shows off the back of the dress in every photo rather than covering it with hair.
Halter — Sleek, pulled-back styles work beautifully and highlight the architecture of the neckline.
One detail that too many brides overlook until it’s too late: tell your stylist exactly where your ceremony and reception are happening, and what time of year.
An outdoor June ceremony in Michigan is a completely different styling challenge than an indoor winter reception. Humidity, heat, and wind all affect which products and techniques will keep your style intact from first look to last dance. Your stylist needs this information to choose the right products and techniques — not to find out about it after the fact.
A few Michigan-specific notes for summer brides:
The condition of your hair on your wedding day starts months before the appointment. Here’s what I recommend to brides:
Keep up with regular trims. Split ends are visible in every photo and in every updo. Getting trims every 8–10 weeks in the months leading up to your wedding keeps your hair looking healthy and polished. Avoid anything dramatic in the final two weeks before the wedding — no major color changes, no new cuts. This is not the time for experiments.
Deep condition consistently. Healthy hair holds styles better, catches light more beautifully, and photographs like a dream. A weekly mask in the 6–8 weeks before your wedding makes a real difference.
Start a gloss treatment routine. A gloss treatment in the 1–2 weeks before your wedding adds incredible shine that photographs brilliantly. It refreshes color without committing to a full service and is genuinely one of the most worthwhile pre-wedding hair appointments you can add to your timeline.
Use the right products between now and then. These are my go-to recommendations for brides building their pre-wedding hair care routine:
➡️ Shop Moroccan Oil Treatment on Amazon — Daily frizz control, shine, and hair health in one ➡️ Shop Redken All Soft Shampoo & Conditioner on Amazon — For dry or color-treated hair, the best duo for pre-wedding moisture ➡️ Shop Matrix Biolage Hydrasource on Amazon — Keeps color-treated hair moisturized and vibrant between appointments
The more information you give your stylist, the better your result will be. Here’s the list of things worth communicating before your wedding appointment:
Your wedding hair should feel like the best version of you — not a stranger in a veil. The brides who walk away from their wedding day feeling completely confident about their hair are the ones who planned early, communicated clearly, did their trial, and trusted their stylist.
That’s the whole formula. And when it works — when you’re standing at the top of that aisle and everything is exactly right — it’s worth every bit of the planning that got you there.
Getting married in the Washington, Shelby Township, Rochester Hills, or Romeo area? I’d love to be part of your wedding day.
➡️ Book your bridal consultation with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
➡️ Read: Mother of the Bride Hair Guide — Elegant Looks for the Most Important Woman in the Room
➡️ Read: Bridesmaid Hair That Works for Everyone in the Party
➡️ Read: Wedding Guest Hair — How to Look Amazing Without Upstaging the Bride
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Graduation day is one of those rare occasions where you’re going to be photographed approximately one thousand times — with your cap on, with your cap off, mid-cap-toss, at dinner, at the party after. Your hair needs to do it all.
That’s what makes graduation hair different from prom hair or wedding hair. It’s not just about looking beautiful for a few hours in a controlled environment. It’s about looking great under a mortarboard for a long ceremony, surviving outdoor photos in spring weather, and then transitioning seamlessly into a full celebration after. That’s a lot to ask of a hairstyle.
Here’s everything you need to know to get it right.
Let’s talk about the mortarboard first, because it changes everything about how you should plan your hairstyle.
The cap needs to sit flat on your head, parallel to the ground, about an inch above your eyebrows. That means any updo or bun that sits high on your head is going to create a bump that makes the cap wobble, tilt, or slide all ceremony long. And nothing ruins graduation photos quite like a crooked cap.
What actually works under a cap:
What to avoid:
Pro tip: Do a dry run at home a few days before graduation. Put your cap on over your planned hairstyle and walk around for a few minutes. You’ll know immediately if it works or if you need to adjust.
Once that cap comes off, here’s what’s looking incredible this season:
Soft Romantic Waves — The most photographed graduation look right now. Loose, glossy waves with movement catch light beautifully in every photo, feel effortless, and work for every hair type. Style them before the ceremony, pin the top section flat under the cap, and let them fall naturally once it’s off. The reveal moment is genuinely stunning.
Sleek Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces — This is the move if you want something polished and put-together without spending hours getting ready. A low bun at the nape with a few soft tendrils pulled out around the face is timeless, practical for the ceremony, and beautiful in photos. Add a delicate pearl or crystal pin for a 2026 touch.
Braided Styles — Braids are everywhere for graduation 2026 — French braids, pull-through braids, side braids. They sit flat under a cap, hold up through hours of celebration without losing their shape, and photograph with incredible texture and detail. If you want low-maintenance beauty that lasts all day and into the night, braids are your answer.
The Sleek High Ponytail — Wait, didn’t we just say high styles are risky with a cap? Here’s the trick: wear your hair down or in a low style for the ceremony, then transition into a sleek high pony for the party after. It’s a completely different look from one style appointment, and it photographs beautifully.
Polished Half-Up with Accessories — Hair jewelry is having a major moment in 2026. Delicate jeweled combs, pearl clips, and gold barrettes elevate a simple half-up style into something that feels genuinely special. Keep the top section smooth and flat for the ceremony, then loosen and add accessories for photos after.
Most graduation ceremonies happen outdoors in May or June. That means heat, humidity, and wind are all factors your hairstyle needs to survive.
A few things to keep in mind:
Humidity is the enemy of a fresh blowout. If you have naturally frizzy or wavy hair, a smooth blowout that looks perfect at 10am can turn on you fast by noon outdoors. Either lean into your natural texture with a defined wave or curl, or use strong anti-humidity products to protect a sleek style.
Heat under that cap adds up fast. Having a lot of hair on your neck under a dark graduation gown in May sun is genuinely uncomfortable. Styles that keep hair up and off the neck for the ceremony are your friend — you can always let it down for photos after.
Product is your best friend. A light application of Moroccan Oil before styling adds frizz resistance and shine. A strong flexible-hold hairspray keeps everything in place. And a few bobby pins in your clutch for touch-ups during the day goes a long way.
➡️ Shop Moroccan Oil Treatment on Amazon ➡️ Shop flexible hold hairspray on Amazon
Graduation season and prom season overlap almost completely. Every stylist in the area is slammed in May. If you haven’t booked your appointment yet, this is your sign to do it today.
For a style appointment only, book 1–2 weeks out at minimum. If you also want a color refresh, gloss treatment, or trim to look your best in photos, those need to happen even earlier — ideally 2–3 weeks before graduation so everything has time to settle.
And here’s one of my favorite graduation-specific recommendations: book a gloss treatment in the week before your ceremony. It adds incredible shine that photographs beautifully, refreshes color without committing to a full service, and is one of those things you’ll notice in every single photo. Worth it every time.
➡️ Book your graduation hair appointment with Jonathon at The WannaBee Hair Studio
Whether you’re doing touch-ups at home the morning of or maintaining your style through a long day of celebration, these are the products worth having on hand:
Moroccan Oil Treatment — A few drops on damp hair before styling for frizz control, shine, and that healthy, glossy finish that photographs so well. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
IGK Good Behavior Smoothing Spray — Lightweight heat protectant and frizz smoother in one. Perfect for keeping a style polished through outdoor ceremonies and warm weather. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
Redken Triple Pure Hairspray — A flexible-hold finishing spray that keeps styles intact without that stiff, crunchy feel. Great for all-day wear. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
Paul Mitchell Express Ion Curling Wand — If you’re doing your waves at home the morning of, this is the wand I recommend. Consistent heat, easy to use, beautiful results. ➡️ Shop on Amazon
Graduation is one of the few days in your life where everything comes together at once — the achievement, the family, the photos, the celebration. Your hair should be the last thing you’re worried about that morning.
Book early, come in with your inspiration photos, and let’s build a look that works for the ceremony, survives the weather, and looks incredible in every photo from that day that you’ll have forever.
You’ve earned this day. Your hair should match the moment.
Questions about graduation hair or ready to book? I’d love to help you plan your look.
➡️ Book with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando at The WannaBee Hair Studio
➡️ Read: Your Prom Hair Prep Guide — Everything You Need to Know Before Your Appointment
➡️ Check it out: Hair Girl Code — What Every Salon Client Should Know Before Their Appointment
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Prom is one of those nights you’ll actually remember — and your hair is a huge part of how you’re going to feel walking into that venue. I’ve seen it go both ways: clients who come in prepared and walk out feeling like the best version of themselves, and clients who wing it and spend the whole night wishing they’d done something different. This guide is here to make sure you’re in the first group.
Whether you’re still deciding on a style or you’ve had your Pinterest board locked in since January, here’s everything you need to know before your prom hair appointment.
This is the one I can’t stress enough. Prom season hits every stylist’s calendar hard — especially in May — and the best appointment slots fill up fast. If you’re thinking about booking, the time is right now. Waiting until the week of prom almost guarantees you won’t get your first choice of stylist, time slot, or sometimes even a spot at all.
My recommendation: Book at least 3–4 weeks out. If you also want a color refresh, gloss treatment, or trim before prom, those appointments need to happen even earlier — color work especially needs time to settle and look its most natural before the big night.
➡️ Book your prom appointment with Jonathon at The WannaBee Hair Studio
The consultation is everything. The more information you bring to your appointment, the better your result is going to be. Here’s what to have ready:
Bring photos. This is genuinely the most helpful thing you can do for your stylist. A photo communicates what words can’t — the texture, the volume, the vibe. Save 2–3 inspiration images to your phone before you come in. Pinterest and Instagram are your best friends here. And when you’re choosing photos, try to find images with hair texture similar to yours — a style that works on pin-straight fine hair won’t automatically translate to thick wavy hair.
Know your dress neckline. Your hairstyle and your dress should work together, not compete. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Bring your accessories. If you’re wearing a tiara, hair pins, a headband, or any other accessories, bring them to your appointment. Your stylist can work them into the style so they actually stay put through hours of dancing — which is much harder to achieve if they’re added at the last minute at home.
Not sure what direction you want to go? Here’s what’s dominating this season:
Soft Glam Waves — This is the most requested look right now, and for good reason. Loose, glossy waves catch light beautifully in photos, work with almost every dress style, and feel romantic without being overdone. Think red-carpet movement, not prom-circa-2012 tight curls.
Half-Up Styles — The half-up, half-down look is having a serious moment. Whether it’s a twisted crown detail or a simple section swept back with face-framing pieces down, this style is effortless, photogenic, and comfortable for a long night.
Relaxed Updos — Updos in 2026 are looser, more textured, and more relaxed than they used to be. Think soft, airy buns and chignons with loose tendrils — elegant without that stiff, over-done feeling.
Braided Details — Full braided crowns are still beautiful, but this year the trend is more subtle braid accents woven into otherwise soft styles. It adds texture and complexity without going full-on bohemian.
Hair Accessories — This is big right now. Delicate jeweled pins, pearl clips, gold barrettes, and floral accents are everywhere. A well-placed accessory can take a simple style and make it feel totally custom and high-end.
Sleek Ponytail or Glass Hair — For the girl who wants a more modern, editorial look, the ultra-sleek high ponytail or glass hair effect is stunning. Especially with a minimalist or structured dress.
What you do in the week leading up to prom matters. Here’s how to set your stylist up for the best possible result:
Don’t wash your hair the morning of your appointment. This sounds counterintuitive, but freshly washed hair is actually harder to style — it’s too slippery for updos and can struggle to hold a curl. Wash your hair the night before your appointment or the morning before if your appointment is in the afternoon or evening. Come in with clean-ish hair and zero product in it.
Get a trim if you need one. Split ends are particularly unforgiving in formal styles — they’ll show up in every photo. If you’re overdue for a trim, schedule it a week or two before prom, not the day before.
Deep condition. In the weeks leading up to prom, give your hair some extra moisture. Healthy hair holds styles better, catches light more beautifully, and photographs like a dream. A weekly mask treatment in the month before prom makes a real difference.
➡️ Read: From Consultation to Reveal — What a Real Hair Transformation Looks Like
A great blowout or set of curls can fall flat by 9pm if you’re not using the right products. These are the ones I trust:
Moroccan Oil Treatment — A few drops on damp hair before styling adds serious shine and controls frizz without weighing hair down. This is my go-to for clients who want that glossy, healthy finish in photos.
➡️ Shop Moroccan Oil on Amazon
A Quality Heat Protectant — Non-negotiable for any hot tool styling. Never skip this step, especially before a curling iron or flat iron on your prom look.
➡️ Shop heat protectant on Amazon
Strong-Hold Hairspray — Not the crunchy kind. You want a flexible hold that keeps your style in place through dancing without making your hair feel like a helmet. Ask your stylist what they use — they’ll have a professional recommendation.
➡️ Shop flexible hold hairspray on Amazon
IGK Good Behavior Smoothing Spray — For anyone with frizz-prone hair, this is a game changer as a finishing product. Lightweight, smoothing, and it smells incredible.
➡️ Shop IGK Good Behavior on Amazon
Plan your outfit for the salon — not just for prom. You’re going to have to change after your hair is done, so avoid anything you have to pull over your head. A button-down shirt, zip-up hoodie, or wide-neck top is ideal. The last thing you want is to snag your style pulling a fitted T-shirt off over a freshly set updo.
Before you come in, make sure you have:
Prom night is one of those memories that sticks with you. Your hair should be the least stressful part of it — and with a little preparation, it absolutely can be. Come in with your inspiration photos, communicate what you want, trust your stylist, and you’re going to walk out feeling amazing.
That’s the whole goal.
Ready to book? Slots during prom season go fast — don’t wait.
➡️ Book your prom hair appointment with master stylist Jonathon Gerlando
➡️ Read: Hair Girl Code — What Every Salon Client Should Know Before Their Appointment
➡️ Read: The Hair Lover’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Summer is my favorite time of year. The warmth, the energy, the way everyone seems to walk in wanting something fresh and fun. But I’ll be honest with you — summer is also one of the hardest seasons on your hair. Between the sun beating down, jumping in the pool, and that Michigan humidity that seems to have a personal grudge against a good blowout, your hair takes a beating from June through August.
The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s what I tell my clients every spring before the season hits.
My first tip is one of the easiest — wear a sun hat when you can. It’s the simplest form of UV protection for your hair and your scalp, and honestly, a great hat is a whole summer look on its own. Beyond that, use a UV protectant spray on your hair just like you’d apply sunscreen to your skin.
I also recommend switching to a UV protecting shampoo during the summer months. It’s an easy swap that adds a layer of defense every single time you wash your hair without any extra steps in your routine.
A great product to try is the Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist — it protects against UV damage while adding shine and smoothness. Another solid choice is IGK Heat & UV Protecting Spray which gives you heat protection and UV defense in one step.
If you’re a swimmer or you spend time in the pool with your kids or grandkids, chlorine is something you need to take seriously. It strips moisture from your hair, causes color to fade unevenly, and over time can leave hair feeling dry, brittle, and rough. If you have lighter colored or blonde hair, chlorine can even cause an unwanted green tint.
Here’s my game plan for pool season:
For targeted protection, I love UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo — it’s specifically formulated to remove chlorine and restore moisture. It’s affordable, effective, and a summer staple.
Anyone who lives here knows exactly what I’m talking about. You leave the house looking great and arrive somewhere looking like a completely different person. Humidity causes the hair shaft to swell and absorb moisture from the air unevenly, which is what creates frizz.
The key to fighting humidity isn’t fighting moisture — it’s sealing it out before it gets in.
My top recommendation here is Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray — we’ve talked about this one before and for good reason. It creates a protective coating over the hair shaft that literally repels humidity. It’s a game changer for Michigan summers. Apply it before you blow dry and you’ll be amazed at the difference.
Here’s something I love telling my clients — if you’ve been thinking about going lighter, summer is the perfect time to do it. The sun naturally lightens hair, which means it works with your color service rather than against it. You get a more natural, sun-kissed result and your color tends to blend and grow out more beautifully. Come in and let’s talk about what going lighter could look like for you this season.
Come in for a trim before summer gets into full swing. Removing split ends means your hair starts the season strong and is less vulnerable to damage. We can also talk about a deep conditioning treatment to build up your hair’s moisture reserves before the heat and sun start working against you.
Summer should be fun — and your hair should be too. A little prep now means you spend less time fighting your hair and more time enjoying the season.
See you soon! — Jonathon