Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Medium Hair

10 Gorgeous Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Medium Hair That Take Less Than 10 Minutes

Weddings are magical—but let’s be honest, getting ready as a guest can feel like a mini-event on its own. As someone who’s written about beauty and hair for years, I know the internal battle: you want a hairstyle that feels elegant but doesn’t eat up your entire morning (especially if you're juggling a toddler or trying to sneak in a coffee run). That’s why I pulled together these 10 stunning wedding guest hairstyles for medium hair—all of which take less than 10 minutes to create.

These looks are perfect for medium-length hair (hello, shoulder-length queens!) and cater to all textures: straight, wavy, thick, thin, and everything in between. Whether you're headed to a beach wedding or a black-tie affair, there's a style here for you—and you won’t even need to call your stylist.

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1. Wavy Half-Up Shoulder Style

This is my personal go-to for any event when I need to look put-together in a pinch. The soft waves give off romantic vibes, and pulling back the top section keeps the look fresh and flirty without being fussy.

How to do it:

Use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves.

Take two small sections near the temples and twist or braid them, pinning at the back of your head.

Add a spritz of texturizing spray to hold the volume.

Perfect for: Wavy hair, thin hair, and shoulder-length cuts.

2. Sleek Low Ponytail with a Twist

If your hair leans toward the straight side, this low ponytail will be your best friend. It’s sleek, elegant, and modern—basically the LBD of hairstyles.

How to do it:

Part your hair down the middle.

Pull it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.

Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and secure with a pin.

Smooth with serum for a sleek finish.

Perfect for: Straight hair, medium length, or a minimalist aesthetic.

3. Romantic Braided Crown

When you want to channel your inner goddess, this braided crown delivers. It looks complicated but comes together fast—especially if you don’t mind a slightly undone, boho look.

How to do it:

Part your hair in the middle and take small sections from each side.

Braid each and bring them across the crown, pinning them in place.

Tug gently on the braids for volume and softness.

Perfect for: Thin or fine hair—it makes it look fuller!

My Top 3 Amazon Hair Must-Haves for Wedding-Ready Looks

These are products I’ve personally used and loved—especially for fast, fabulous hair days.

1. Bed Head Wave Artist Deep Waver

This tool is a lifesaver if you love effortless, beachy waves but hate spending 30 minutes with a curling iron. It adds texture and volume in literally five minutes.

Grab it on Amazon and give your medium-length hair the wavy glam it deserves—no stylist required!

2. Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray

If your hair tends to frizz or fall flat, this lightweight spray speeds up drying time, detangles, and offers heat protection—all while giving you smooth, frizz-free results.

Add this to your pre-style routine for flawless, shiny strands that hold up all day long.

3. Goody SlideProof Bobby Pins

These aren’t your average bobby pins—these actually stay put. Whether you’re securing a braid, bun, or updo, they hold tight without slipping.

Keep a stash in your beauty bag and never worry about your hair coming undone halfway through the reception.

4. Messy Wavy Updo

If your vibe is “I woke up like this—but make it chic,” the messy updo is your dream look. It’s especially great for medium hair with layers, as the movement adds volume and interest.

How to do it:

Lightly curl your hair or use dry shampoo for texture.

Gather hair loosely at the nape and twist into a messy bun.

Pull out a few tendrils for softness.

Perfect for: Wavy hair, black hair, or highlighted hair that needs dimension.

5. Half-Up Twist with Bangs

This one’s dedicated to all the ladies rocking bangs. Whether you have curtain bangs or a blunt fringe, a half-up twist keeps hair out of your face while still letting those cute bangs shine.

How to do it:

Twist small sections from each side and pin at the back.

Leave bangs and some face-framing strands loose.

Optional: add a pretty clip or barrette for a glam touch.

Perfect for: Hair with bangs, shoulder-length styles, and quick fixes.

6. Side Braid Ponytail

Boho and romantic, the side braid ponytail combines the best of both worlds. It looks like you spent forever on it, but you’ll be out the door in under 10 minutes.

How to do it:

Create a side part and start a loose French braid on one side.

Pull the rest of the hair into a ponytail and secure.

Loosen the braid slightly for volume.

Perfect for: Straight or wavy hair, thin to medium density.

7. Elegant Rolled Updo

This timeless look screams sophistication. Bonus: it pairs beautifully with statement earrings or a bold lip.

How to do it:

Pull your hair into a low ponytail.

Roll the pony upward and pin into a chignon.

Finish with hairspray for hold.

Perfect for: Medium-length hair, formal weddings, or mature guests.

8. Soft Curls with Side Part

Sometimes the easiest style is also the most stunning. Loose curls and a side part create a soft, glamorous look that works with almost any dress or setting.

How to do it:

Use a large-barrel curling iron for soft curls.

Part your hair to the side and tuck one side behind your ear.

Add a touch of hairspray to set.

Perfect for: Black hair, balayage, or soft glam styles.

9. Twisted Low Bun with Bangs

This look is especially flattering if you have medium-length hair with bangs. The twist adds elegance, while bangs keep things playful.

How to do it:

Twist two sections of hair from either side toward the back.

Pull into a low bun and secure.

Let your bangs fall naturally or blow them out for volume.

Perfect for: Hair with bangs, quick updos, or summer weddings.

10. Faux Braid for Thin Hair

If traditional braids tend to look flat on your hair, the faux braid is your secret weapon. It gives the illusion of fullness without the fuss.

How to do it:

Create a low ponytail, then divide into two sections.

Tie small clear elastics down each side, then pancake the sections to mimic a braid.

Tuck and pin the ends under if desired.

Perfect for: Thin or fine hair, when you want more volume.

Final Thoughts

Writing this post reminded me just how fun and freeing hairstyles can be—especially when they’re designed with real women in mind. Whether you're juggling wedding invites, hosting a bridal shower, or just want to look your best without breaking a sweat, these wedding guest hairstyles for medium hair will have you feeling confident and photo-ready in no time.

Each of these styles was chosen not just for beauty, but for ease and versatility. Trust me, I’ve tested them all—and yes, I timed myself too (because #momlife).

So next time you RSVP “yes,” know that your hair will be the least of your worries. Just pick a look, grab a couple of tools, and enjoy the wedding magic.