The Best in Bridal Beauty: Meet the 2026 Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Award Winners

Every year, the Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Awards celebrate the talent, skill, and creativity of stylists who make brides look and feel incredible on their special day.

We love seeing the range of styles, from soft, romantic waves to sleek, polished updos and intricate braids. It was true of last year’s winners, and it is no less the case of the bridal hairstyles recognised in 2026’s rollcall.

The awards include expert judging across key categories, as well as a public vote for Best Bridal Look (the People’s Choice).

Here at Cliphair, we’re always inspired to see how stylists use technique, attention to detail, and a real understanding of what flatters a bride.

So, let’s take a look at the latest winners who provide such a fascinating document of the defining wedding hair trends for 2026.

The 2026 Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Award Winners

• Best Bridal Look (Judges’ Choice): Zoe Stevenson, @zwhairmua
• Best Bridal Look (People’s Choice): Melanie Hall, @melrhhair
• Best Hair Down: Amy Rose, @amyrosebridal
• Best Hair Up: Olinka, @olinka_hairart
• Best Half Up: Nicole Murphy, @nicolemurphybridalhair
• Best Braid: Calon, @calon_bridalhair
• Best Ponytail: Annie Daniel, @adm.makeupartist_hairstylist

Best Braid: @calon_bridalhair

Judged by: award-winning stylist and educator Liz Cooper (@theartfulhairstylist)

This romantic braid strikes a lovely balance between structure and softness. The sections flow naturally into one another, creating movement throughout the style without losing the strong overall shape.

The result is a modern, yet dreamy look that suits brides wanting detail and an all-round effortless feel.

“This style has a beautifully romantic feel that’s perfect for modern brides. The volume and proportions are balanced effortlessly, creating a beautiful silhouette. I love the movement through the hair, allowing each section to blend seamlessly into the next. A truly show-stopping bridal look.” – Liz Cooper.

Congratulations to @calon_bridalhair, who used Biscuit Blondey #18/613.

Best Ponytail: @adm.makeupartist_hairstylist

Judged by: multi-award-winning freelance and bridal hairstylist Natasha Chanel (@natashachanelhair)

A bridal ponytail can be deceptively tricky to get right. This look combines soft texture through the lengths with delicate face-framing pieces around the front.

The resulting polished, but not overly styled aesthetic is sure to find favour among brides who want movement and comfort throughout their big day.

“This entry really stood out for me. I love the way the texture of this ponytail has been created so beautifully. The proportions are perfect and the front face-framing pieces are really soft and make this style so gorgeous. She’s really nailed this style and it’s a beautiful ponytail.” – Natasha Chanel.

Well done, @adm.makeupartist_hairstylist.

Best Hair Up: @olinka_hairart

Judged by: award-winning Yorkshire-based bridal hairstylist and educator Paige Lauren (@paigelauren_bridalhair)

This elegant updo is a brilliant showcase of the visual impact that clean styling can have. It complements a sophisticated and controlled shape with sections sitting exactly where they need to sit; it all feels quite precise and intentional.

Brides seeking a classy silhouette that photographs beautifully against a simple background are sure to love this one.

“This has been really difficult. All entries are beautiful! I’m going to choose this one as I know how difficult it can be to create a sleek polished look like this and she’s absolutely nailed it. It’s like a work of art. It’s clean, polished and classy. I also love how it has been captured with a clean background and with breathing space for the model. Beautiful work.” – Paige Lauren.

Sincere congratulations to @olinka_hairart.

Best Hair Down: @amyrosebridal

Judged by: award-nominated bridal hairstylist and educator based in Suffolk, Stacie Goodwin (@staciegoodwinbridalhair)

This look shows exactly why full and glossy waves never go out of style. The volume is balanced from root to tip, while the soft finish catches the light beautifully and further helps ensure a light and wearable style.

For brides yearning for a sophisticated yet natural vibe, this could be the one for their 2026 nuptials.

“I absolutely love how bouncy and full these waves are. The proportions of the style perfectly complement the model and feel really balanced overall. The finish is glossy, soft and polished, with beautiful movement throughout the hair. It’s a stunning glam wave that feels both effortless and refined.” – Stacie Goodwin.

Sterling work @amyrosebridal, who used Cliphair’s 18″ Ultra Volume Set #3 and clip-in hair extensions for weddings to deliver beautiful body without losing movement.

Best Half Up: @nicolemurphybridalhair

Judged by: globally recognised boho bridal stylist, educator and founder of Ulyana Aster Hair Couture, Ulyana Aster (@ulyana.aster)

This half-up look brings together textured waves, soft boho florals, and a delicate bow for a finish that feels both romantic and full of personality. The loosely styled lengths keep everything relaxed, while the careful detailing stops it from ever looking undone.

It’s a lovely alternative to traditional curls, and one that would suit brides after an effortless, dreamy feel, especially for a garden or outdoor wedding surrounded by flowers.

“Absolutely love everything about this look. The textured waves, soft boho florals, and the sweetest little bow create such a unique and romantic finish. It is a beautiful alternative to traditional curls and adds so much personality and charm to the hairstyle. This look would be absolutely perfect for a garden wedding, surrounded by flowers and nature, creating that effortless, dreamy bridal feel.” – Ulyana Aster.

Wonderful work @nicolemurphybridalhair, who used Cliphair’s Iced Cappuccino #14/22.

Best Bridal Look (Judges’ Choice): @zwhairmua

Judged by: award-winning bridal educator Kasia Fortuna (@kasia_fortuna)

This winning look has a captivating shape but is also meticulously finished. The twists make for an elegant silhouette that draws the eye wherever it is viewed from, while the smooth texture and shine help highlight interesting details.

Both design nous and technical skill were required to make this striking example of modern bridal styling a reality.

“This hairstyle stood out immediately because of its striking silhouette and beautiful proportions. The twists are arranged so thoughtfully, creating a shape that feels elegant, polished, and really interesting to look at. The smooth finish and incredible shine highlight the stylist’s attention to detail and technical skill. I also loved how the pose and photography showcase the shape of the hairstyle so clearly, allowing the design to stand out against the background. Overall, this is a memorable bridal look that combines creativity, precision, and elegance, making it a deserving winner.” – Kasia Fortuna.

Huge congratulations to @zwhairmua, who used Cliphair’s 18″ Double Wefted #33.

Best Bridal Look (People’s Choice): @melrhhair

Judged by: the public (94 votes)

Capturing the hearts of 94 voters, this bridal look clearly connected with brides, stylists, and hair lovers alike. The soft styling, balanced volume, and beautifully wearable finish make this timeless effort an unsurprising People’s Choice winner for 2026.

Kudos to @melrhhair, who showed the potential of the 20″ Double Wefted, Medium Brown #4 hair pieces from Cliphair.

A huge thank you to every stylist who entered this year’s awards; your work continues to raise the bar for bridal hair up and down the UK.

We’d like to extend our gratitude, too, to our brilliant judges for lending their time and expertise, as well as to everyone who cast a vote in the People’s Choice category.

It continues to astound us just how creative, generous, and supportive of each other the bridal community is here in the UK. It’s truly a privilege for us to be involved, and we can’t wait to do it all again for the 2027 Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Awards.

FAQ

Who won the 2026 Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Awards?

The 2026 winners were Zoe Stevenson (@zwhairmua), Melanie Hall (@melrhhair), Amy Rose (@amyrosebridal), Olinka (@olinka_hairart), Calon (@calon_bridalhair), Nicole Murphy (@nicolemurphybridalhair), and Annie Daniel (@adm.makeupartist_hairstylist).

Who were the judges?

This year’s categories were judged by Kasia Fortuna (@kasia_fortuna), Stacie Goodwin (@staciegoodwinbridalhair), Paige Lauren (@paigelauren_bridalhair), Liz Cooper (@theartfulhairstylist), Ulyana Aster (@ulyana.aster), and Natasha Chanel (@natashachanelhair). For the People’s Choice award, the “judge” was, of course, the great British public.

What hair extensions did the winners use?

Several of the 2026 winners incorporated Cliphair extensions to boost length, volume, and thickness. Featured Cliphair products among this year’s victors include the 18″ Double Wefted #33, 20″ Double Wefted Medium Brown #4, 18″ Ultra Volume Set #3, Iced Cappuccino #14/22, and Biscuit Blondey #18/613.

How can I enter the 2027 Cliphair Bridal Hairstyling Awards?

Keep an eye on our Instagram and blog for announcements closer to launch. Entry details, categories, and deadlines will be shared when the awards open.

Shop the Wedding Collection

Ready to create your own standout bridal look? Explore our 2026 Wedding Shop for the wedding hair extensions that UK brides love for the added volume, length, and styling flexibility they provide.

Or maybe you’re unsure which shade would be right for you? Don’t let that uncertainty hold you back. Our free colour match service will help you find the ideal hue.

Looking for flawless, salon-worthy hair without breaking the bank? At Cliphair, we’ve got you covered with luxurious clip in hair extensions for quick transformations and permanent hair extensions for long-lasting glam. Extensions require special care and maintenance to preserve their quality, which is why we have all the  top-notch hydrating haircare products needed to keep your style on point.

Need the perfect shade? Browse our full range of human hair extensions in over 70 rich, silky shades or check out our FREE Express Colour Match Service to ensure a seamless blend every time.