Preview this look on your face in seconds with our AI hair designer app.
Face shapes: Oval • Heart • Round
Hair length: Medium • Long • Extra Long
Hair texture: Straight • Wavy • Curly • Thick
Difficulty: Medium
Time to style: 35-50 minutes
Works with: Cathedral veil • Fingertip veil • Fresh flowers • Pearl pins • Decorative combs
The side braid offers that perfect balance of romantic femininity and timeless elegance that makes brides feel like the most beautiful version of themselves. It frames your face beautifully while keeping your features open and glowing, giving you that confident, radiant look you've always imagined for your walk down the aisle. There's something deeply emotional about seeing yourself in a style that feels both effortlessly you and utterly bridal.
Beyond the beauty, side braids are wonderfully practical for all-day wear—they stay secure through vows, photos, dinner, and dancing without constant touch-ups. The asymmetrical placement works seamlessly with veils and won't get crushed when you lean back for that first kiss. Plus, it handles wind, humidity, and enthusiastic hugs like a champion, so you can focus on celebrating rather than worrying about your hair.
Delicate pearl pins scattered along the braid
Vintage gold or silver decorative comb at the base
Crystal-encrusted bobby pins for subtle sparkle
Thin jeweled headband across the crown
Small floral hair clips nestled within the braid
Baby's breath or white spray roses woven through the braid
Silk ribbon wrapped around sections for texture and color
Cathedral or chapel veil positioned at the crown for drama
Fingertip veil placed just above the braid for soft framing
Start with day-old hair or use dry shampoo for better grip and texture.
Apply strong-hold hairspray before braiding and mist again after finishing completely.
Secure with clear elastics and hidden bobby pins every few inches along the braid.
Lightly tease crown area before styling to maintain volume throughout the day.
Prep hair with texturizing spray or mousse on damp hair, then blow-dry with a round brush for volume at the roots.
Create a deep side part, then gently tease the crown section and smooth the top layer for soft, lasting volume.
Sweep all hair to your chosen side and begin a loose three-strand or Dutch braid starting behind the ear.
Continue braiding to the ends, secure with a clear elastic, then gently pull apart braid sections to create width and texture.
Secure with bobby pins along the back, mist with strong-hold hairspray, and add accessories for your perfect bridal moment.
Prefer instant?
Try 500+ hairstyles in minutes without
leaving home. See exactly how you'll
look on your big day.
✨ Try Before You Commit
Show your stylist clear visual
references. No more guessing or
miscommunication.
📱 Perfect Communication
Skip endless salon consultations
and trials. Find your perfect style
risk-free.
💰 Save Time & Money
Absolutely! Teasing the crown beforehand and gently pulling the braid apart creates beautiful fullness and texture. Adding extensions can also give you extra length and volume if desired.
Yes, the veil typically sits at the crown or just above the braid, where there's plenty of hair to anchor it securely. Your stylist can position it perfectly so it complements rather than competes with the braid.
You'll need at least shoulder-length hair, though longer hair gives you more styling options. If your hair is shorter, clip-in extensions blend seamlessly and give you the length you want.
With practice, you can definitely create a beautiful side braid at home, especially for your trial run. For the wedding day itself, a professional ensures it stays flawless and stress-free all day long.
