Fascinators are a wedding guest favourite — and it’s easy to see why! They’re stylish, fun and the perfect way to complete your outfit. But let’s face it, the wrong hairstyle can throw the whole look off.
With years of experience in salons we’ve seen it all, so here are some of our favourite wedding guest hair ideas for updos, down styles and everything in between.
Page Contents
- Fascinator Updo Ideas for Wedding Guests
- Wedding Guest Down Hairstyles with Fascinators
- Fascinators for Half-Up, Half-Down Wedding Guest Hair
Fascinator Updo Ideas for Wedding Guests
Updos are a classic choice for wedding guests - they keep your hair neat, tidy and out of your face, and provide a secure base for a fascinator. We always advise going for an up-style if you want to wear a large fascinator or if you have a high-necked dress.
Here are our top four wedding guest up-styles to try with fascinators...
1. Low Chignon
A low chignon is a sleek bun at the nape of the neck, that’s created by smoothing the hair back with a hair gel, twisting it into a bun and securing it with pins. It’s a great look for bridesmaids or anyone wanting a sleek wedding guest look!
Pair a low chignon with a medium-sized comb or clip fascinator. It's best to wear your fascinator either on the side or top of your head.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Cobalt Blue Comb Fascinator With Pink Flower
2. Messy Bun
A messy bun is a more relaxed updo, perfect for semi-formal or outdoor weddings. It’s great for guests who want more of a boho look, and it’s easy to create by gathering your hair into a loose bun and leaving a few strands out.
Wear a messy bun with a lightweight fascinator, with soft flowers or feathers. Position it slightly above or to the side of the bun, or at the front of your hair.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Coral Floral Slide Fascinator
3. Braided Crown
A braided crown is an elegant style where braids are wrapped around the head to create a halo. Perfect for formal or traditional weddings, this look is always a hit with members of the wedding party or even flower girls.
It’s best to pair a small pillbox fascinator with a braided crown updo. Frame your braids by positioning the fascinator on the top of the head to the side.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Pink Pillbox Clip Fascinator
4. French Twist
A French twist is a sophisticated updo where hair is neatly rolled and pinned up the back of the head. This timeless style is perfect for the mother of the bride or groom. To create it you’ll probably need to visit a hair stylist, as it can be difficult to create on your own!
A French twist updo goes well with long comb or statement headband fascinators. Position the fascinator slightly above to the side of the twist.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Emerald Green Hat Style Fascinator
Wedding Guest Down Hairstyles with Fascinators
Hair down is a softer, more relaxed option for wedding guests, and works great with dresses that have less coverage, such as strapless or off-the-shoulder styles. Plus - wearing your hair down can be easier and much quicker to do yourself.
If you’re a wedding guest who wants to wear your hair down, here are four different options to try with different types of fascinators...
1. Beachy Waves
Loose waves are great for a natural look if you’re wearing your hair down for a wedding. Perfect for outdoor weddings and guests wearing flowy wedding guest dresses. This style can easily be created with a curling wand or straighteners.
Pair beachy waves with lightweight fascinators with flowers or feathers, and place it slightly above one ear for a casual look.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Fuchsia Pink Feather Hair Slide Fascinator
2. Sleek Straight Hair
Sometimes less is more, and straight hair with a fascinator can be great for a more minimalist wedding guest look. This style suits city weddings and tailored wedding guest outfits. Smooth your hair with straighteners and use a serum for a sleek finish.
Headband fascinators or small comb pieces look best with sleek straight hair! If you choose a headband fascinator, place it near the front of your hair.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Navy Velvet Pillbox Fascinator Headband
3. Hollywood Curls
If you’d like a glamorous wedding guest hairstyle for long or medium-length hair, then Hollywood curls could be for you! This vintage look is versatile for close friends and even plus ones. Use a large-barrel curling iron, brush with a wide tooth comb and finish with hairspray.
Hollywood curls suit fascinators with feathers, crystals or vintage details. Place the fascinator slightly above one ear for a classic, movie-star look!
⭐ Our Top Pick: Pearl Silver Organza Bow Pillbox Fascinator
4. Side-Parted Hair
A deep side part adds instant sophistication to any hair down style, making it a great choice for formal or semi-formal weddings. You could pair it with soft curls or straight hair, and it can work great for long, medium-length, short or even pixie length hair!
Pair a side-part hairstyle with medium-large asymmetric fascinators, and position it on the side opposite the hair part.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Sorbet Pink Sinamay Petal Disc Fascinator
Fascinators for Half-Up, Half-Down Wedding Guest Hair
If you can’t decide between a wedding guest updo and a hair down style, then a half-up half-down look is a great alternative. These styles work well for long, thick hair and also gives a subtle “mini face lift” effect - bonus!
Here are three ways to wear fascinators with half-up, half-down styles...
1. Classic Half-Up Twist
The classic half-up twist involves twisting sections of hair from either side and pinning them back at the crown. This simple style suits different hair textures, including straight, wavy and curly afro hair. It works especially well for shoulder-length or long hair.
Match a classic half-up twist with a medium-sized clip/slide fascinator, and position it just above the hair twist at the back of your head.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Sky Blue Feather Slide Fascinator
2. Braided Half-Up Style
This style combines braids around the crown and pinned back, leaving the rest of the hair flowing freely. It’s perfect for rustic weddings and works well for guests with long, thick hair or anyone wanting to add a touch of texture to their look.
Pair a braided half-up style with a small comb/slide fascinator with delicate details. Place it slightly to the side of the braids for a subtle look.
⭐ Our Top Pick: Mint Green Feather Slide Fascinator
3. Voluminous Half-Up
A voluminous half-up hairstyle adds drama and height, with the top section teased and pinned back to create a glamorous look. This style works well for guests with longer hair, layered hair or extensions, as the volume on top balances the flowing sections below.
A structured fascinator looks great with voluminous half-up hairstyles. Position it above the teased section for maximum impact!
⭐ Our Top Pick: Peacock Green Blue Crepe Bow Fascinator
Personalise Your Fascinator Wedding Guest Hair
We hope this guide has helped you feel ready to choose the perfect fascinator and hairstyle for the wedding you're attending!
Take a look at our full collection of fascinators to find a style you love. And if you’re a stylist, salon or bridal party organiser, don’t forget we offer discounts for trade customers too.
Here’s to looking and feeling amazing for the big day! 💒
SHOP FASCINATORS 🛒
FAQs
Should you always wear a fascinator to a wedding?
Wearing a fascinator isn’t essential, but it’s a beautiful way to up-grade your outfit, especially at formal or traditional weddings. If the dress code doesn’t specify, consider the wedding’s style and your outfit to decide if it’s right for you.
What hairstyles are best to wear with a hat for a wedding?
Low buns, sleek ponytails and loose waves work wonderfully with wedding hats. These styles keep your hair tidy while allowing the hat to sit comfortably. Avoid high styles, which can make hats unstable.
What hairstyles work well with fascinators for Mother of the Groom?
Classic updos like French twists or chignons look elegant, while soft waves or half-up, half-down styles provide a relaxed vibe. Choose a style that complements your fascinator’s placement and feels comfortable all day.
How do I match a fascinator to my wedding guest outfit?
Your fascinator can complement or contrast with your outfit. Match colours and materials for a seamless look or choose a statement piece to add a pop of personality. Check out our blog to learn how to match a fascinator to your outfit.