Dutch Braid: The Must-Have Wedding Hairstyle

Choosing the perfect hairstyle for a wedding is a pivotal part of a bride’s preparation, as it plays a crucial role in bringing her overall vision to life. With so many styles to consider—from romantic updos to flowing waves—finding the right look can feel overwhelming. It’s essential to consider factors such as the wedding theme, dress style, and personal aesthetic. Collaborating with a skilled hairstylist can help brides navigate their options, ensuring that the chosen hairstyle not only complements their features but also enhances their confidence. By taking the time to explore various styles and incorporating elements that reflect their individuality, brides can achieve a stunning look that perfectly captures the joy and significance of their special day.

A beauty expert has revealed that the most popular hairstyle of the year so far is a Dutch braid, which is set to be the top choice for the 2024 wedding season.  The study was conducted by the beauty and wellness marketplace Fresha, which analysed nationwide Google searches made for a list of bridal and everyday hairstyle-related terms from January 2024 to March 2024.

A Dutch braid is a three-strand braid that is created by weaving the strands under one another, rather than over like in a traditional braid. This technique results in a braid that sits on top of the hair, giving it a raised or “3D” appearance. To create a Dutch braid, you start by sectioning off a portion of hair at the top, dividing it into three strands, and then gradually adding hair from the sides as you continue to braid. This style is often used for its unique look and can be styled in various ways, such as a single braid down the back or multiple braids for a more intricate design.  With 10,432 Google searches per month, the Dutch braid triumphs and could be the most popular hairstyle of the wedding season for 2024. The braids are thought to have originated in Africa and can be styled in various ways to suit a bride’s taste.

The French braid comes in close second place with 10,203 average Google searches per month. This is like the Dutch braid but involves crossing strands over each other rather than three strands being plaited underneath one another.

In third is a Boho braid, which reports a substantially lower interest rate than its French and Dutch counterparts, with an average of 5,396 Google searches. Fishtail braid follows in fifth with 5,243 average Google searches per month.

The ten most Googled hairstyles this year so far

Rank	Hairstyle	Average Google Searches per Month
1	Dutch braid	10,432
2	French braid	10,203
3	Boho braid	5,396
4	Fishtail braid	5,243
5	Messy bun	3,539
6	Chignon	2,243
7	Blowout	2,141
8	Half up half down	2,132
9	Twist plait	1,981
10	Waterfall braid	1,764

 

Having risen to popularity on social media due to hacks like using dressing gown cords and socks in place of curling irons, heatless curls have seen a surge in interest over the last few months, reporting 12,585 average monthly Google searches.

With wedding season dominating warmer months in the UK – with hot temperatures already proving damaging to our hair – brides and wedding guests may be looking for the best ways to curl their hair that cause less damage.

As well as revealing which hairstyles are likely to capitalise ceremonies this year, the beauty expert also highlights the key considerations to help brides make the most of a wedding hair trial appointment.

• Consider veil options. If the bride is choosing to have a veil, the choice of one-tier or two-tier (which covers the face) could affect the choices of hairstyles that are suitable; veils should be purchased beforehand and taken to the trail appointment to eliminate any problems on the day.

 

• Clarify hair accessories. Is there a wedding theme that makes certain accessories necessary, or do you know what style of shoes and jewellery will be worn? Whether you have a preference for sparkles or pearls, all hair accessory choices should also be taken to your trial appointment so there are no surprises on the morning of the big day.
• Account for the dress. Most brides have already chosen their dress by the time a hair trial appointment comes around. However, if a dress hasn’t been chosen, it’s a good idea to think about purchasing it beforehand and having a picture of the dress for the appointment. This way, the stylist and bride can discuss what styles work best with necklines and high vs. low backs.

Speaking on the findings, a spokesperson from Fresha highlights other essential things to consider the morning of the big day: “After all pre-day preparations have come to an end, the wedding morning should be as relaxing as possible.

“Here are a few tips to remember for the morning of the big day to help alleviate stress: As tempting as it is to wash hair the morning of so it’s fresh, all members of the bridal party should wash their hair the night before. This ensures that there’s a little natural oil and texture for your stylist to work with.

“Make sure hair bobbles on wrists and socks are all removed way in advance of getting dressed to avoid lines on show walking down the aisle. Plan ahead, delegate any morning jobs out to relieve stress, and most importantly, enjoy every moment.”