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Face shapes: Oval • Heart • Round
Hair length: Medium • Long • Extra Long
Hair texture: Straight • Wavy • Curly • Thick
Difficulty: Easy
Time to style: 20-30 minutes
Works with: Cathedral veil • Chapel veil • Floral crown • Pearl pins • Ribbon details
The side braid gives brides that perfect balance of romantic softness and polished elegance they've been dreaming about. It frames your face beautifully while keeping you looking camera-ready from every angle, giving you the confidence to be fully present on your big day. There's something timelessly feminine about a side braid that photographs like a dream and never feels overdone.
Beyond the beauty factor, this style is incredibly practical for all-day wear. It stays secure through hugs, dancing, and even outdoor ceremonies without constant touch-ups, and it works seamlessly with veils, flowers, or delicate accessories. Plus, it's gentle on your hair and comfortable enough that you'll forget you're even wearing an updo.
Delicate pearl pins scattered throughout the braid
Vintage-inspired crystal hair combs at the base
Gold or silver leaf hairpins for a botanical touch
Thin ribbon woven through the braid sections
Small crystal or diamanté clips along the braid path
Baby's breath clusters tucked into braid sections
Small spray roses or ranunculus along the side
Cathedral or chapel veil positioned above or below the braid
Single-tier fingertip veil with delicate edge detailing
Start with second-day hair or use dry shampoo for better grip and texture.
Apply texturizing spray before braiding to prevent slipping and add volume.
Secure with clear elastics and hidden bobby pins in an X-pattern.
Finish with flexible-hold hairspray to maintain shape without stiffness.
Prep hair with texturizing spray on dry or second-day hair, creating a deep side part on your preferred side.
Sweep all hair over one shoulder and divide into three equal sections at the nape of your neck.
Begin a classic three-strand braid or French braid, keeping tension even as you work down to the ends.
Tie off with a clear elastic, then gently pancake the braid by pulling sections wider for romantic volume.
Secure with hidden bobby pins along the side, mist with flexible hairspray, and add your chosen accessories for the final reveal.
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Absolutely! Teasing the roots before braiding and gently pulling sections wider creates the illusion of thickness and fullness. Texturizing products are your best friend for adding grip and body.
Yes, when properly pinned with bobby pins in an X-pattern and set with hairspray, a side braid holds beautifully through ceremonies, photos, and dancing. It's one of the most reliable styles for all-day wear.
Side braids pair wonderfully with veils! Position the veil above the braid at the crown or below it at the base, depending on your veil style and personal preference.
Schedule your trial 2-3 months before the wedding so you have time to adjust accessories, braid style, or placement. This also lets you test how it holds throughout a full day.
