19 Indian Wedding Hairstyles Ideas
Let’s be honest—Indian weddings are not the time to play it safe with your hair.
Whether you’re the bride, bridesmaid, sister of the groom, or that stylish cousin everyone secretly stalks on Instagram, your hairstyle matters almost as much as the outfit. Maybe more.
I’m sharing 19 Indian wedding hairstyle ideas that are timeless, trendy, and totally wedding-photo-worthy.
Think of this as advice from a friend who’s obsessed with weddings and has saved way too many Pinterest boards.
1. Classic Gajra Bun (The Evergreen Queen)
You simply can’t talk about Indian wedding hairstyles without starting here. The low bun wrapped with fresh jasmine gajra is elegance in its purest form.
Perfect for:
- Brides who love tradition
- Sarees and heavy lehengas
- South Indian & Maharashtrian weddings
Pro tip: Add gold hair accessories or temple jewelry pins to elevate the look.
2. Voluminous Bridal Bun with Roses
If you want something traditional but with drama, this is your girl. A big, textured bun decorated with red or white roses looks royal and photographs beautifully from every angle.
Why we love it:
- Holds heavy dupattas perfectly
- Works with heavy jewelry
- Screams “main character energy”
3. Soft Curls with Maang Tikka
This is for the brides who want to keep their hair open but still look bridal. Loose curls framing your face with a statement maang tikka? Chef’s kiss.
Best for:
- Engagements and receptions
- Lightweight lehengas
- Romantic, modern brides
Bonus: It’s surprisingly comfortable for long events.
4. Braided Bun with Floral Accents
Imagine a braid that wraps into a bun and is decorated with tiny flowers. Sounds dreamy, right? This hairstyle balances structure with softness.
Works beautifully for:
- Mehndi or wedding day
- Pastel outfits
- Daytime ceremonies
5. Side-Swept Curls with Hair Jewelry
Side-swept curls instantly add glam. Add pearl chains or kundan hair pins, and suddenly your hair looks like jewelry itself.
Why it’s a hit:
- Looks great in close-up photos
- Frames the face nicely
- Pairs well with strapless or boat-neck blouses
6. Traditional South Indian Braid (Kunthal Alangaram)
Long, thick braid adorned with flowers, gold accessories, and sometimes even temple motifs—this style is breathtaking.
Perfect for:
- South Indian brides
- Silk sarees
- Temple weddings
It’s bold, cultural, and deeply rooted in tradition.
7. Messy Low Bun (Effortlessly Chic)
Don’t let the word “messy” fool you—this hairstyle is carefully undone and incredibly stylish. Loose tendrils, soft texture, and minimal accessories make it modern yet bridal.
Best for:
- Cocktail parties
- Reception nights
- Bridesmaids and sisters of the bride
8. Half-Up Half-Down with Braids
Can’t decide between open hair and an updo? This is your compromise. Braided crown with flowing curls gives fairy-tale vibes.
Why everyone loves it:
- Keeps hair off your face
- Adds volume
- Looks great with floral jewelry
9. Statement Braid with Paranda
A colorful paranda woven into a braid adds a playful Punjabi touch. It’s festive, vibrant, and full of personality.
Ideal for:
- Mehndi or sangeet
- Punjabi weddings
- Bright lehengas
Extra points if your paranda matches your dupatta.
10. Sleek Middle-Parted Bun
Minimal, polished, and powerful. This hairstyle lets your makeup and jewelry shine without distraction.
Perfect for:
- Brides who love clean aesthetics
- Heavy necklaces
- Silk sarees and structured lehengas
Think regal, not boring.
11. Boho Waves with Floral Crown
This is for the free-spirited bride. Loose waves paired with fresh flowers or baby’s breath feel light, romantic, and Instagram-worthy.
Great for:
- Outdoor weddings
- Day functions
- Mehndi and haldi
It’s relaxed but still bridal.
12. Bubble Braid with Accessories
A modern twist on the classic braid. Sections are tied to create a “bubble” effect, then decorated with beads or flowers.
Why it’s trending:
- Looks unique
- Adds volume to thin hair
- Works for both long and medium hair
13. High Bun with Dramatic Accessories
Want height, drama, and elegance? A high bun paired with bold hair jewelry makes a statement without saying a word.
Best for:
- Reception nights
- Heavy gowns or fusion outfits
- Brides who love bold looks
14. Side Braid with Loose Curls
This soft, romantic style feels straight out of a Bollywood movie. A loose side braid with curls peeking through is effortlessly pretty.
Ideal for:
- Engagement ceremonies
- Light lehengas
- Minimal jewelry looks
15. Classic French Twist (Indian Edition)
Yes, the French twist works beautifully for Indian weddings when paired with ethnic accessories and traditional outfits.
Perfect for:
- Cocktail nights
- Indo-western outfits
- Sophisticated brides
Add pearl pins or kundan clips for an Indian touch.
16. Fishtail Braid with Flowers
A fishtail braid already looks intricate, but add small flowers along the braid and it becomes wedding-ready.
Why it works:
- Elegant yet youthful
- Ideal for daytime events
- Looks stunning from the back
17. Open Hair with Side Puff
This is a favorite among bridesmaids and sisters of the bride. A slight puff at the crown adds volume while keeping the rest of the hair open.
Best for:
- Sangeet nights
- Long events
- Dancing without constant hair fixing
18. Low Ponytail with Curls & Accessories
Who said ponytails can’t be bridal? A low, curled ponytail with hair jewelry is sleek, stylish, and super modern.
Perfect for:
- Reception looks
- Minimalist brides
- Fusion outfits
It’s comfortable and chic.
19. Bridal Bun with Kaleere-Inspired Hair Chains
This one’s a showstopper. Hair chains inspired by kaleere draped around a bun add serious wow factor.
Best for:
- Punjabi brides
- Wedding day looks
- Heavy lehengas
Trust me—this one turns heads.
Final Thoughts: Choose What Feels Like You
Here’s the thing—there’s no “perfect” Indian wedding hairstyle. The best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself. Whether you love traditional buns, modern braids, or open curls that dance when you move, your hair should tell your story.
If you’re planning multiple events (and let’s be real, Indian weddings have many), mix it up! Go traditional for the wedding, playful for the mehndi, and glam for the reception.
