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Face shapes: Oval • Heart • Round
Hair length: Medium • Long • Extra Long
Hair texture: Straight • Wavy • Curly • Fine • Thick
Difficulty: Medium
Time to style: 35-50 minutes
Works with: Cathedral veil • Chapel veil • Hair vine • Fresh flowers • Pearl pins
The side braid hairstyle gives brides that effortless romantic elegance they've been dreaming about—it's soft, feminine, and photograph beautifully from every angle. There's something deeply confidence-boosting about a style that feels both timeless and uniquely yours, whether you're walking down the aisle or sharing your first dance.
Beyond the beauty, this style is incredibly practical for a full wedding day. The braid stays secure through wind, happy tears, and hours of dancing, while still feeling comfortable against your neck and shoulders. It works seamlessly with veils of any length and gives you a perfect canvas for fresh florals or delicate hair accessories.
Delicate pearl hairpins scattered throughout the braid
Vintage-inspired crystal hair vine woven along the braid
Gold or silver leaf bobby pins at the base
Silk ribbon threaded through the braid sections
Art deco beaded headband at the crown
Baby's breath tucked into braid sections for ethereal romance
Garden roses and eucalyptus sprigs for bohemian elegance
Cathedral or chapel veil positioned above the braid at crown
Juliet cap veil for vintage-inspired placement
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 throughout.
Secure every few inches with clear elastics, not just at the end.
Finish with flexible-hold hairspray and keep a travel-size for touch-ups while dancing.
Prep hair with texturizing spray on dry or slightly damp hair, then create a deep side part.
Sweep all hair over one shoulder and secure the top section with a clear elastic at ear level.
Begin a loose three-strand or fishtail braid, gently pulling each section for width and texture.
Tie off the braid end with a clear elastic and pancake sections by pulling edges outward gently.
Secure flyaways with bobby pins, mist with flexible-hold spray, and add florals or accessories for your perfect bridal moment.
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Absolutely! The key is using texturizing products before braiding and gently pulling sections apart to create fullness. This style actually makes fine hair look thicker and more voluminous.
Yes, when properly secured with clear elastics every few inches and finished with flexible-hold spray, side braids hold beautifully through ceremonies, photos, and reception dancing.
Definitely! Position the veil comb at your crown above the braid for a stunning cascading effect. The braid actually provides a beautiful anchor point for longer veils.
Schedule your hair trial 2-3 months before your wedding day. This gives you time to adjust accessories, braid style, and practice the look if you're DIYing it.
