You have thick hair. Everyone tells you how lucky you are. And you are, mostly. But when it comes to wedding hairstyles, thick hair can be a real challenge. It is heavy. It is bulky. And it does not like to stay pinned up.
I have seen so many bridesmaids with beautiful thick hair end up with headaches before dinner. Their updos fall down. Their necks hurt from the weight. They spend the whole reception fixing their hair instead of dancing. That is not how your friend’s wedding day should go.
The good news is that bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles are absolutely possible. You just need the right techniques. Things like sectioning, strategic pinning, and removing some bulk with interior layers make a huge difference. You also want styles that distribute weight evenly across your scalp.
In this guide, I will walk you through 20 gorgeous updos. Each one is tested and approved for thick hair. You will learn which styles handle bulk the best. You will get pro tips for making everything stay in place. And you will find a look that makes you feel beautiful without the headache. Let us dive in.
Sleek and Polished Updos for Thick Hair
These first five styles are sleek and polished. They work well for thick hair because they distribute weight evenly and look incredibly elegant.
1. Sleek French Twist with Soft Face-Framing Tendrils
Description: This is a classic French twist. The hair is smoothed back and twisted vertically against your head. Soft face framing tendrils are left out around your ears and forehead. You will need bobby pins, a smoothing brush, and hairspray. The vibe is sophisticated, Parisian, and very elegant.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, the French twist is a dream. It distributes the weight of thick hair evenly down the back of your head. The soft tendrils soften the look. This flatters oval and long face shapes beautifully.
Pro Tip: Before twisting, apply a lightweight smoothing cream to damp hair. Blow dry smooth. The cream will prevent flyaways without weighing down your thick strands. Twist firmly and pin with spiral bobby pins every two inches.
2. Voluminous Messy Updo with Curly Face-Framing Strands
Description: This updo is intentionally messy and full. The volume is the star. Curly face framing strands are left out around your face. You will need a curling wand, many bobby pins, and texture spray. The vibe is romantic, undone, and very modern.
Why It Works: Thick hair holds messy textures beautifully. The messiness hides any pins or bumps. The curly face framing strands soften your features. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is great for round faces because the height elongates.
Pro Tip: Do not try to make one perfect bun. Make four or five small buns and pin them together. This distributes the weight of your thick hair. The messy texture will make them look like one cohesive updo.
3. Intricate Braided Low Bun with Loose Wavy Tendrils
Description: This low bun is made of multiple braids woven together. The bun sits at your nape. Loose wavy tendrils are left out around your face. You will need a rat tail comb, bobby pins, and a curling wand for the tendrils. The vibe is intricate, romantic, and very detailed.
Why It Works: Braids are perfect for thick hair. They tame bulk by grouping strands together. The low bun placement keeps weight off your crown. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this works for square faces because the soft tendrils soften the jawline.
Pro Tip: Braid your hair when it is slightly damp. This gives you more control over thick, heavy strands. After braiding each section, pancake it by gently pulling the loops outward. This makes the braids look softer and fuller.
4. Textured Low Bun with Delicate Crystal Vine Hairpiece
Description: This is a textured low bun. The bun is loose and piecey. A delicate crystal vine hairpiece is woven through the bun. You will need bobby pins, texture spray, and a flexible crystal vine. The vibe is elegant, sparkly, and very bridal.
Why It Works: The textured low bun is lightweight despite your thick hair. The loose texture means you do not need perfect smoothness. The crystal vine adds sparkle and also helps hold the bun together. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is perfect for evening weddings.
Pro Tip: Choose a crystal vine that is lightweight and flexible. Tuck it into the bun after the bun is pinned. Weave it in and out of the textured sections. The vine will add structure to your thick hair.
5. High Curly Messy Bun with Elegant Face-Framing Curls
Description: This high bun sits at your crown. The bun is curly and messy. Elegant face framing curls are left out around your face. You will need a curling wand, bobby pins, and a strong hold hairspray. The vibe is playful, voluminous, and very fun.
Why It Works: A high bun lifts all your thick hair off your neck. This is great for hot weather or dancing. The curly texture adds even more volume. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this flatters oval and heart faces.
Pro Tip: Use a large claw clip to hold the bun in place while you pin it. This gives you free hands. Pin around the entire bun before removing the clip. Then add extra pins anywhere the bun feels heavy.
Braided and Twisted Low Buns for Weight Distribution
These next five styles focus on low buns with braids and twists. Low buns are excellent for thick hair because the weight sits at your nape, not on your crown.
6. Glamorous Textured High Updo with Wispy Side Strands
Description: This updo is high on your crown and heavily textured. The texture is piecey and defined. Wispy side strands are left out around your ears. You will need a teasing brush, texture spray, and bobby pins. The vibe is glamorous, red carpet, and very dramatic.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, the high placement creates drama. The heavy texture hides the bulk of your thick hair. The wispy side strands soften the look. This is perfect for oval and long faces.
Pro Tip: Tease each section of your thick hair before pinning it. Teasing creates grip that prevents heavy strands from sliding. Use a fine tooth comb and backcomb small sections at the roots only.
7. Side-Swept Braided Crown Leading into a Textured Low Bun
Description: This style features a side swept braided crown. The braid starts at one temple and sweeps across to the opposite side. It leads into a textured low bun at your nape. You will need a comb for braiding and bobby pins. The vibe is romantic, asymmetrical, and very unique.
Why It Works: The side swept design distributes weight diagonally across your head. This is much more comfortable than a centered updo. The braided crown adds structure. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this flatters round and square faces.
Pro Tip: Braid loosely as you go. A tight braid on thick hair can cause tension headaches. After braiding, gently pull each loop wider. Pin the end of the braid into the low bun so the transition is seamless.
8. Elegant Low Chignon with Cross-Over Braided Detail
Description: This low chignon features a cross over braided detail. Two braids cross each other at the back of your head before tucking into the chignon. The rest of the hair is smooth and rounded. You will need a rat tail comb and many bobby pins. The vibe is elegant, intricate, and very sophisticated.
Why It Works: The cross over braids add visual interest at the back. They also help distribute the weight of your thick hair evenly. The low chignon shape is classic and comfortable. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this works for all face shapes.
Pro Tip: Make the two braids from sections behind each ear. Cross them at the center of your nape. Pin them in place before creating the rest of the chignon. This creates a built in anchor for the rest of your hair.
9. Polished Low Twisted Bun with Smooth Crown Volume
Description: This low bun is polished and smooth. The crown has gentle volume. The bun is made of twisted sections. You will need a smoothing brush, bobby pins, and a shine serum. The vibe is polished, professional, and very clean.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, polished styles can be tricky. But the key is the twists. Twisting thick hair compresses it so it takes up less space. The smooth crown volume adds elegance. This flatters oval and long faces.
Pro Tip: Apply a shine serum to your hands before smoothing the crown. Do not apply it directly to your hair. This gives you control over the amount. Use a boar bristle brush for the smoothest finish.
10. Sophisticated Side-Braided Low Bun in Ash Blonde Tone
Description: This low bun features a side braid that wraps around the bun. The braid starts behind one ear and ends tucked under the bun. The ash blonde tone adds cool dimension. You will need a comb for braiding and bobby pins. The vibe is sophisticated, cool toned, and very modern.
Why It Works: The side braid adds texture without adding bulk. The ash blonde highlights create depth that makes the updo look more intricate. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is perfect for square faces because the asymmetrical braid softens the jawline.
Pro Tip: Make the side braid from a small section of hair. A thin braid is easier to wrap around a low bun. Pin the braid in place every inch to prevent it from unraveling on thick hair.
High and Voluminous Updos for Special Occasions
These next five styles are high and voluminous. They are perfect for bridesmaids who want drama and height.
11. Voluminous Messy High Bun with Curly Face-Framing Tendrils
Description: This high bun is big, messy, and full of volume. The bun sits at your crown. Curly face framing tendrils are left out around your face. You will need a curling wand, bobby pins, and texture spray. The vibe is bold, voluminous, and very romantic.
Why It Works: High buns lift all your thick hair off your neck. This is a lifesaver for outdoor or summer weddings. The messy texture hides the pins. The curly tendrils soften your features. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this flatters round and oval faces.
Pro Tip: Use a donut bun shaper for thick hair. Choose the largest size. Wrap your thick hair around the donut and pin through the donut, not just around it. This gives the bun structure while keeping it lightweight.
12. Elegant Textured Updo with Soft Side Swept Waves
Description: This updo is not a bun. It is a textured updo where the hair is pinned in soft, side swept waves. The waves cascade to one side. You will need a curling wand, bobby pins, and hairspray. The vibe is elegant, old Hollywood, and very glamorous.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, side swept designs are comfortable. The weight of your thick hair is distributed to one side, not pulling on your whole head. The soft waves add movement. This suits oval and heart faces.
Pro Tip: Curl your entire head first. Then sweep the curls to one side. Pin them in place using a zigzag pattern. This distributes the weight better than pinning in a straight line.
13. High Curly Ponytail Updo with Defined Ringlets and Tendrils
Description: This is a high ponytail that is styled into an updo. The ponytail is curled into defined ringlets. The ringlets are pinned up loosely. Tendrils are left out around your face. You will need a curling wand, an elastic, and bobby pins. The vibe is playful, defined, and very pretty.
Why It Works: The high ponytail base is very secure for thick hair. The defined ringlets add texture that hides the bulk. The tendrils soften the look. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is great for heart shaped faces.
Pro Tip: Use a strong elastic for the ponytail base. Wrap it three or four times. Then curl each ringlet with a small barrel wand. Pin each ringlet individually. Do not try to pin multiple ringlets at once.
14. Loose Braided Low Bun with Wispy Face-Framing Strands
Description: This low bun is made of loose, relaxed braids. The braids are not tight or perfect. Wispy face framing strands are left out around your face. You will need a comb for braiding and bobby pins. The vibe is relaxed, effortless looking, and very boho.
Why It Works: Loose braids are perfect for thick hair because they do not need to be tight to hold. The wispy strands soften your features. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this works for square and round faces. It is also comfortable for all day wear.
Pro Tip: Do not stress about making the braids perfect. Imperfect, loose braids look more intentional on thick hair. After braiding, pull the loops outward aggressively. The more you pancake, the softer the braid looks.
15. Romantic Side-Braided Low Bun Adorned with Fresh Roses
Description: This low bun features a side braid. Fresh roses are tucked into the bun and along the braid. The overall feel is romantic and garden fresh. You will need a comb for braiding, bobby pins, and fresh flowers. The vibe is romantic, fragrant, and very special.
Why It Works: Fresh roses add a romantic touch that distracts from the bulk of thick hair. The side braid is easy to create. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is perfect for garden or spring weddings. It flatters heart and oval faces.
Pro Tip: Use floral wire to attach each rose to a bobby pin. Then pin the roses into the bun. This keeps the flowers secure and prevents them from wilting against your hair. Keep the roses in water until the last possible moment.
Braided Chignons and Classic Styles for Timeless Beauty
The final five styles are classic and timeless. They work for any wedding style and any bridesmaid dress.
16. Sophisticated French Braid Chignon with Pearl Accessories
Description: This style features a French braid that turns into a chignon at your nape. Pearl accessories are pinned throughout the chignon. You will need a rat tail comb for braiding, bobby pins, and pearl pins. The vibe is sophisticated, classic, and very timeless.
Why It Works: The French braid distributes the weight of your thick hair evenly across your scalp. This prevents headaches. The pearl accessories add elegance. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this works for every face shape.
Pro Tip: Start the French braid at your crown. Braid all the way to your nape. Then gather the tail into a chignon. Use pearl pins to secure the chignon. The pearls will hide the pins and add sparkle.
17. Messy High Top Knot with Voluminous Textured Layers
Description: This is a high top knot. The knot is messy and tall. Voluminous textured layers are left down around the knot. You will need a teasing brush, bobby pins, and texture spray. The vibe is edgy, modern, and very cool.
Why It Works: A top knot is one of the easiest bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles. The height balances the weight. The messy texture hides any bumps or pins. This is perfect for modern or city weddings. It flatters oval and long faces.
Pro Tip: Tease your entire crown before making the top knot. This creates a foundation of volume. Then gather your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a knot and pin around the entire base.
18. Classic Braided Low Bun with Smooth Face-Framing Pieces
Description: This low bun is classic and simple. It features one central braid that wraps around the bun. The face framing pieces are smooth and sleek. You will need a comb for braiding, bobby pins, and a smoothing brush. The vibe is classic, elegant, and very understated.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, classic styles are often the most comfortable. The smooth face framing pieces add polish. The braided detail adds interest without adding bulk. This flatters square and oval faces.
Pro Tip: Use a gel or pomade to smooth the face framing pieces. Apply it with your fingers, not a brush. This gives you control. Keep the pieces thin. Thick face framing pieces can look heavy on an updo.
19. Sleek Side-Braided Low Bun for a Polished Professional Look
Description: This low bun is sleek and polished. A side braid runs along the hairline and tucks into the bun. Everything else is smooth and neat. You will need a smoothing brush, bobby pins, and a shine serum. The vibe is polished, professional, and very clean.
Why It Works: For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, polished looks require good prep. The side braid adds a touch of softness to an otherwise sleek style. This is perfect for formal or black tie weddings. It flatters oval and long faces.
Pro Tip: Blow dry your hair perfectly straight before starting. Use a flat iron on any stubborn sections. Smoothing your thick hair before styling is the secret to a polished finish that lasts.
20. Intricate Twisted Low Chignon with Multi-Tonal Highlights
Description: This low chignon is made of multiple twisted sections. The twists are woven together into a knot at your nape. Multi-tonal highlights add depth and dimension. You will need a rat tail comb, spiral bobby pins, and texture spray. The vibe is intricate, dimensional, and very detailed.
Why It Works: Multiple small twists distribute the weight of thick hair better than one large twist. The multi-tonal highlights create visual depth that makes the updo look even more intricate. For bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles, this is the ultimate statement look.
Pro Tip: Twist each section tightly. Then loosen it slightly before pinning. This creates a textured, organic shape. Use spiral bobby pins for each twist. They grip thick hair much better than flat pins.
Conclusion
Having thick hair is a gift. But it comes with unique challenges when you are a bridesmaid. Heavy updos can cause headaches. Pins can slip. Bulky styles can feel uncomfortable after a few hours. The good news is that the right style makes all the difference.
The 20 bridesmaid hairstyles for thick hair updo styles above are designed with your hair type in mind. Low buns are your friend because they put weight at your nape, not your crown. Braids help distribute weight evenly. And messy textures hide the bulk while looking intentional and beautiful.
Remember to ask your stylist for interior layering before the wedding. This removes some bulk from the inside of your hair without changing the outside look. It makes updos much easier to pin. Also, bring your own strong hold hairspray and spiral bobby pins to the appointment.
Save one or two of these photos to show your stylist. A good stylist will know exactly how to adapt these looks for your specific thickness and length. And do not forget to bring your dress swatch. Matching your hair accessories to your dress ties everything together beautifully.
Which of these 20 styles will you try first? Are you leaning toward the sleek French twist or the messy high top knot? Let me know in the comments below. And if you have questions about making these styles work for your thick hair concerns, ask me anything. I am here to help you shine on that special day.
