The Modern Bride's Guide to Voluminous Curls

A blend of contemporary charm and timeless elegance, voluminous curls are a top wedding hairstyle choice for modern brides. In fact, they're a close second in popularity to Hollywood waves for Bridal Styles brides!

While these two bridal hairstyle options are similar, there are key differences. To help brides-to-be decide which is right for their personal style, we're taking a deep dive into this bewitching down-do. Along for the ride are lots of pictures of our beautiful brides wearing sparkling bridal hair accessories in their soft curls to illustrate their versatility.

Voluminous Curls vs Hollywood Waves: What's the Difference?

Voluminous curls are flowing waves that are neither too tight nor too loose. Their fluid, relaxed appearance embodies romance, and the styling options are endless. From beachy waves and soft curls to gentle loose waves, it's the perfect wedding hairstyle for women who want to wear their long hair down with natural movement and texture.

Glam waves, in contrast, are more structured with a glossy finish. Old Hollywood waves typically begin at ear level, providing vintage-inspired glamour with defined S-shaped curves.

Although similar, these two curly wedding hairstyles cater to different aesthetics. Hollywood's defined waves evoke a glamorous, retro vibe popular on red carpets, while voluminous, loose curls convey a softer, tousled aesthetic. 

How to Style Voluminous Curls for Your Wedding Day

These romantic wedding hairstyles work beautifully for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.

Classic Elegance

For brides seeking an alternative to the classic updo, voluminous waves are easily styled to create a timeless, sophisticated look. Try a sparkling bridal tiara or pearl headband with your loose waves. Worn in tandem with a classic wedding dress, the finished look will harmoniously blend the past and present.

Bohemian Chic

If a free-spirited vibe is what you're after, soft waves complement breezy, flowing wedding dresses beautifully. This style works especially well for outdoor weddings, beach ceremonies, or garden celebrations. Add a flower-inspired crystal hair vine or bridal hair comb and chandelier earrings into the mix.

Glamorous Extravaganza

For those looking to make a statement, dress up loose curls with a bevy of glittering accessories. This approach transforms simple waves into red-carpet worthy wedding hair. You can never go wrong with face-framing hair accessories, CZ stud earrings, and a cuff bracelet. Plus, they'll look amazing with a richly detailed bridal gown.

Hair Accessories That Complete Your Voluminous Curls

Hair vines: Whether your big day is taking place in a garden, ballroom, at the beach, or at a five-star hotel, bridal hair vines are a perfect fit! Available in all kinds of styles, from opulent to delicate and understated, they're a popular choice among our brides. Hair vines work particularly well with voluminous curls because they can weave through and over your hair. 

Bridal hair combs: Add a lot or a little sparkle on one side with a bridal comb. The added sparkle enhances the charm and matches the refinement of a sophisticated soiree. Side-swept hair combs are especially flattering with voluminous curls, as they can be tucked above your ear, creating an effortlessly sophisticated appearance. 

Bridal crowns and tiaras: Fairytale splendor is yours when you top loose waves with a glittering bridal tiara or crown. These headpieces embody regal elegance and are the finishing touch to a royal wedding look. The height of voluminous curls provides a flawless foundation for showcasing ornate tiaras and crowns.

Headbands: These classic bridal headpieces lend themselves to any style. From highly ornate to delicate bridal headbands spun of crystals and crafted of modern pearls, you won't have trouble finding one that complements your vibe.

Voluminous Curls for Different Hair Types

Fine Hair

If you have fine hair, voluminous curls can add body and texture. Use volumizing products at the roots before styling, and consider clip-in extensions for extra fullness. 

Thick Hair

Those blessed with thick hair have a natural advantage when creating voluminous curls. The challenge, however, can be managing the weight and ensuring your curls hold throughout your day. A skilled stylist can work with your natural texture to create stunning, long-lasting waves.

Curly Hair

If you already have natural curls, you're halfway there! The goal is to enhance and shape your natural texture into wedding-worthy waves. This often involves strategic cutting, the right products, and expert styling techniques.

Maintaining Your Voluminous Curls Throughout Your Day

Your wedding day is long, and you want your hair to look as fabulous at the end of the night as it did when you stood at the top of the aisle. The following tips will help you keep your voluminous curls looking exquisite:

• Pack touch-up products like a small hairspray and bobby pins
• Consider the weather - humidity can affect curl longevity
• Schedule a trial run with your hairstylist to test staying power

Why Brides Love Voluminous Curls

Voluminous curls offer the best of both worlds: the elegance of an updo with the grace of wearing your hair down. They photograph beautifully from every angle and work with virtually any wedding dress style.

There are so many different ways to style loose curls that they can be adapted to suit any bride's personality and wedding look. You can go beachy, tousled, polished, and everywhere in-between!

The Perfect Finishing Touch for Your Curls