Last weekend, I styled hair for twin sisters getting married in a double wedding. One bride wanted all her bridesmaids in classic chignons. The other? Boho braided updos for everyone. By the end of that very long day, I had some strong opinions about which approach actually works better in real life.
I’ve been doing bridesmaid hair for over eight years now, and this debate comes up constantly. Brides see those dreamy Pinterest braids and assume they’re the romantic choice. But are they practical? And do classic updos really deserve their reputation as “boring but reliable”?
Round 1: Ease of Styling
Let’s be honest — classic updos win this round hands down. A simple low chignon takes me about 15 minutes per person. Twist the hair, pin it at the nape, add some texture spray, done. Even if someone has never touched a bobby pin in their life, they can usually manage a basic version at home.
Braided updos? Completely different story. That gorgeous side braid crown you saw on Instagram? That’s 45 minutes minimum, and it requires actual braiding skills. I’ve watched bridesmaids attempt these at 6am and end up in tears by 7.
But here’s where it gets interesting — braids are more forgiving of mistakes. If your classic updo falls apart, it looks messy. If a few pieces escape from a braided style, it looks intentionally romantic. The margin for error is weirdly higher once you get the initial technique down.
Still, for sheer ease and speed, especially when you’re dealing with multiple bridesmaids getting ready in the same room, classic updos take this round.
Round 2: How Long It Lasts
This is where I have to give credit where it’s due. Braided bridesmaid hairstyles absolutely crush classic updos in the longevity department. That twin wedding I mentioned? The braided bridesmaids looked exactly the same at 11pm as they did at 2pm. The classic updos? Three of them needed touch-ups before dinner.
Think about it logically. When you braid hair, you’re literally weaving it together. Those strands aren’t going anywhere. But a twisted chignon held with bobby pins? Every time she hugs someone, dances, or even turns her head quickly, those pins are working loose.
I’ve started telling brides that if their wedding involves lots of dancing, outdoor humidity, or a long day (ceremony at noon, reception until midnight), braids are the smart choice. Humidity-proof styling techniques become crucial for outdoor ceremonies.
The only exception? If you’re dealing with very fine, slippery hair, even braids can start sliding. But nine times out of ten, braided styles outlast twisted ones.
See the Longevity Test in Action
Round 3: Versatility for Different Hair Types
Here’s where things get complicated, and honestly, where both styles show their limitations.
Classic updos work on literally everyone. Short hair? Pin it up. Long hair? Twist and tuck. Thick, thin, curly, straight — I’ve never met a hair type that couldn’t do some version of a classic updo. They’re the little black dress of bridesmaid hairstyles.
But braided styles are pickier. Really short hair (think above the shoulders) struggles with most braided updos. The hair simply isn’t long enough to create those gorgeous woven sections. And extremely thick, coarse hair can make braids look chunky rather than elegant.
On the flip side, braids are amazing for medium-length hair that’s too short for elaborate twisted updos. That awkward shoulder-length hair that never stays put in a classic style? Perfect for a braided crown or side braid.
For layered medium hairstyles thick hair, both options work, but I lean toward braids. The layers add beautiful texture to braided sections, while they can make classic updos look choppy if not done carefully.
Classic updos take this round for pure versatility, but it’s closer than you’d think.
Round 4: Cost and Practicality
Let’s talk money, because weddings are expensive enough already.
If you’re hiring a stylist, braided updos cost more. Period. I charge $75 for a classic updo and $110 for a braided style. That extra time and skill level has to be accounted for somehow. Multiply that by six bridesmaids, and you’re looking at an extra $210.
But here’s the thing — if bridesmaids are doing their own hair, classic updos are much more DIY-friendly. I can teach someone a basic chignon in ten minutes. Teaching someone to do a proper braided crown? That’s a whole different conversation involving multiple practice sessions.
Product-wise, both styles need roughly the same investment. Texture spray, bobby pins, hairspray. Maybe some hair donuts or padding for classic styles, or clear elastics for braids. Neither breaks the bank.
The real cost difference comes down to whether you’re paying a professional or going DIY. For professional styling, classic updos win on cost. For DIY attempts, they also win on likelihood of success.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
After styling both approaches dozens of times, here’s my honest recommendation: it depends on your priorities, but I’m leaning toward braids more often these days.
Choose braided bridesmaid hairstyles if:
- Your wedding day is longer than 8 hours
- You’re having an outdoor ceremony or reception
- Most bridesmaids have medium to long hair
- You’re hiring a professional stylist anyway
- You want something that photographs beautifully from multiple angles
Choose classic updos if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- Bridesmaids are doing their own hair
- Hair lengths vary dramatically in your group
- You’re having a formal, traditional wedding
- You need something foolproof and quick
My controversial opinion? The “classic updo is more elegant” argument is outdated. Modern braided styles can be just as sophisticated as any chignon. Formal braided updos have evolved way beyond the casual side braid most people picture.
But if I had to pick just one approach for every bridesmaid situation, I’d go with braids. The longevity factor alone makes them worth the extra effort. Nothing ruins wedding photos like half the bridal party touching up their hair during the reception.
Questions I Get About This All the Time
Can bridesmaids do braided styles themselves?
Honestly? Simple braided styles, yes. But anything involving crown braids or multiple sections really needs a second pair of hands. I always recommend at least one practice session if they’re attempting it solo.
Which style works better for outdoor weddings?
Braids, without question. They handle wind and humidity so much better than loose updos. I’ve seen too many classic chignons fall apart during outdoor ceremonies.
What if some bridesmaids have short hair?
This is where classic updos really shine. You can create gorgeous twisted styles even on shoulder-length hair, while most braided updos need at least medium length to look full.
How far in advance should we book hair appointments?
For braided styles, book 3-4 months ahead — they take longer and fewer stylists are comfortable with complex braiding. Classic updos are easier to book last-minute if needed.
The truth is, both approaches can create absolutely stunning bridesmaid looks. But after all these weddings, I’m convinced that choosing based on practicality rather than just aesthetics leads to much happier bridal parties. And isn’t that what really matters?
