Braids for Brides

by KristenSeptember 28, 2010 0

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Photo via Hairstyles Library

The first images that spring to mind when we mention braids may be along the lines of Pippi Longstocking or Heidi the milkmaid. But times have changed, and today a braid can be a sophisticated and romantic hairstyle for your wedding day. It stays put no matter what the humidity or activity level, and sometimes braids are even prettier the messier they get! Here are a few braided hairstyle options that celebrities and real brides alike are rocking on the red carpet and in the reception hall.

The updo pictured on Jessica Alba (above), is a beautiful way to add a touch of texture to an otherwise sleek, pulled back look.

Here’s a real bride looking lovely in this sophisticated style:

Photo via Style Me Pretty

For a slightly more laid-back style, check out the braided updos worn by Sienna Miller and Rachel McAdams below.

Loose, pulled out pieces framing the face are a lovely wedding day accent for brides or bridesmaids, and the braids keep the rest of your hair from looking too sloppy.

These wraparound braids are endlessly adaptable and can be as thick or thin as you’d like. Do one, two, three or more, and accent with a fascinator or a big, bold bloom like Rachel McAdams.

Photos via Martha Stewart Weddings and Vogue

If you’re including braids in your updo, you can make them small and decorative (above left) or big and structural (above right), sweeping all the hair off the back of your neck into one big, continuous braid.

Those with hair too short for wraparound braids can pull hair back into a simple updo and use braided hair extensions to add dimension wherever it’s needed.

You can still have a braid even if you want to wear your hair long and loose on your wedding day. A headband-style braid, as seen on Lauren Conrad (above left) can be a nice way to add a little style to a free-flowing ‘do. The look on the right is a little more hippie-chic, and we could see it pairing beautifully with a flowy, empire-waist wedding dress.

Photo via www.theweddingshoebox.com

The real bride pictured above shows how two small braids can take a simple, wavy style from everyday to wedding day.

Former First Daughter Jenna Bush wore two basic braids with a middle part on her wedding day, too:

For those who have long enough hair to do it (or for those who choose extensions) why not try a long, low side braid?

Photos via Bridesmaid Hairstyles and Wedding Bells Blog

This isn’t the braided ponytail of your youth. Whether they’re wispy and loose (as seen on Rebecca Romijn, above left) or thick and substantial (center photo), these braids are pretty, feminine and all grown up. A fishtail braid, as seen on Leona Lewis (right), is a fun take on a traditional braid.

Here’s a real bride showing off a stunning, Rapunzel-inspired braid:

Photo via Once Wed

What’s your favorite bridal braid? Will you be braided on your wedding day?