May weddings are that sweet spot: soft sunshine, fresh florals, and just enough breeze to keep things romantic (and slightly unpredictable for hair). The goal is a style that photographs beautifully, holds up through hugs and happy tears, and still feels like you.
Whether you’re going sleek, romantic, or effortless, these five May-ready hairstyles are the ones I’d bookmark if I wanted that “polished but not overdone” vibe.
Top 5
1) Sleek Low Bun with a Middle Part
This is the clean-girl bridal classic that looks expensive in every photo. It flatters oval, heart, and round face shapes because the center part creates symmetry and the low placement elongates the neck. Keep the vibe modern with a smooth finish and tuck a veil right above the bun so it drapes without lifting your crown. Practical tip: apply a lightweight gel at the roots and finish with a shine spray, then lock it in with a firm-hold hairspray focused on the part line and nape.
2) Romantic Loose Updo with Face-Framing Pieces
Soft, airy, and a little dreamy—this updo is basically made for May gardens and floral arches. It flatters square and longer face shapes because the face-framing pieces break up angles and add softness around the cheekbones. If you’re wearing a veil, place it just behind the crown so your tendrils stay front-and-center instead of getting swallowed by tulle. Practical tip: curl everything first, then pin with texture spray and a few invisible U-pins (not bobby pins) for that “effortless” hold that lasts.
3) Half-Up Twists with Pearls or Mini Pins
This one is perfect if you want hair down but still want your face open for ceremony pics and dancing. It flatters thick hair and medium-length hair especially well, and it’s super friendly for round or heart-shaped faces because the lift at the crown balances proportions. Add pearl pins or tiny crystal clips along the twists for that bridal sparkle without committing to a full headpiece. Practical tip: tease lightly at the crown, then set with a flexible hairspray so it stays fluffy—not crunchy—through outdoor photos.
4) Soft Waves with a Statement Barrette (or Comb)
If your May wedding vibe is “I woke up like this, but make it bridal,” soft waves plus a statement accessory is the move. It flatters basically everyone, especially if you choose wave size based on your features: looser waves for a softer look, slightly more defined waves for extra structure. Place the barrette or comb above one ear to create an instant focal point and keep one side tucked neatly for photos. Practical tip: prep with heat protectant and a smoothing cream, then finish with a humidity-resistant spray so your waves don’t puff up the second you step outside.
5) Low Textured Ponytail with Ribbon or Bow
This is the cool-girl option that still reads totally wedding-appropriate, especially for modern venues or a chic courthouse-to-garden day. It flatters long hair and extensions beautifully, and it’s amazing for brides who want movement without hair falling into their lipstick all night. Wrap the base with hair for a polished finish, then add a ribbon or bow that matches your dress tone (ivory, champagne, blush). Practical tip: build the ponytail in two layers (top half first, then add the bottom) for extra fullness and better hold—plus it photographs so much thicker.
FAQ
How do I choose between sleek and romantic for a May wedding?
Think about your venue and your dress details. Sleek styles pair perfectly with minimalist gowns, satin, and clean necklines, while romantic, textured styles complement lace, tulle, and floral or garden settings. If it’s outdoors and breezy, a style with pinned structure (bun, updo, or half-up) usually wears more predictably than fully down hair.
Where should my veil sit with a low bun or updo?
For a low bun, place the veil just above the bun so it drapes smoothly and doesn’t push the bun down. For a textured updo, position it behind the crown (not on top of it) to avoid flattening volume. Always do a quick “veil on/veil off” test in your trial so the comb doesn’t snag your pins.
What accessories look best for May weddings?
Pearls, delicate crystal pins, floral-inspired combs, and soft ribbons feel seasonally right in May. If your dress is detailed, go minimal (a few pins or a slim comb). If your dress is simple, a statement barrette or larger comb gives you that bridal focal point without needing extra jewelry.
How can I make my hairstyle last through humidity or wind?
Start with the right prep: a smoothing cream for sleek looks, or a texture spray for lived-in styles. Ask your stylist for humidity-resistant finishing spray and strategic pinning (especially around the nape and above the ears). And if you’re wearing hair down, consider a half-up element—it’s the easiest way to keep your look controlled in outdoor weather.
Should I do extensions for these styles?
Extensions are optional, but they’re a game-changer for fullness and longevity—especially for ponytails, Hollywood waves, and half-up styles. If your hair struggles to hold curl, extensions can actually help because they’re often pre-textured. Bring them to your trial, match them to your hair color in natural light, and ask for a seamless blend around the face and ends.