There is something about medieval princess hair that never stops being charming. Long flowing hair, delicate crowns, romantic braids. Artists, writers, and filmmakers have loved these looks for centuries.
For a real medieval princess, hair was also a status symbol. Long hair was prized, crowns and gold bands showed rank, and the care taken over a noblewoman’s style reflected the wealth of her household.
Here are 15 medieval hairstyles princesses and queens wore, plus a few fairytale favorites, with tips for recreating them for weddings, cosplay, and Renaissance fairs.
1. Long Loose Hair with a Circlet
Long loose hair with a simple gold circlet is the most recognizable medieval princess look. It appears in fairy tale illustrations, paintings, and fantasy films.
It is also the easiest: wear your hair down and place a gold circlet headband across your forehead. The circlet and the gown do the rest.
- Easiest
- Iconic
- One accessory
2. Braided Updo with a Crown
A braided updo with a crown on top is the complete royal look. The braids are wound into a soft base and the crown sits securely on top.
That braided base is what keeps the crown in place all day, which is exactly why royalty used it.
Project Card · 25 minutes · Medium
What You Need
- Medium to long hair
- Large bobby pins
- A crown or tiara
- Two small elastics
How to Do It
- Make two braids, one on each side.
- Wrap each braid around the back of your head and pin it to form a ring.
- Pin the ends underneath so they are hidden.
- Set the crown on top, then slide pins through the crown combs into the braids.
3. Loose Curls with a Flower Crown
Loose curls with a delicate flower crown feel straight out of a fairytale painting. The flowers add a softer, natural kind of royalty.
If your hair is naturally curly, this is the easiest princess look you will ever do.
- Romantic
- Curly hair
- Natural
My Pick
Boho Floral Crown Headband
A pretty flower crown with ribbon ties that sits comfortably over loose curls.
4. Royal Two Braids with a Gold Band
Two thick braids falling from the temples with a slim gold band across the forehead appears in real medieval manuscripts of noblewomen.
The gold band is what turns an everyday braid into a royal one.
- Historically accurate
- Easy
- Elegant
5. Half Up with Veil and Crown
Half up hair with a sheer veil and a jeweled crown is the ultimate medieval bridal look. The veil flows behind, the crown anchors it, and loose waves add softness.
Pair a delicate tiara with a long lace cathedral veil for a fairytale wedding.
- Bridal
- Fairytale
- Formal
6. Queen’s Jeweled Updo
An elaborate pinned updo with jeweled pins and a heavy crown says queen immediately.
For a modern version, twist rhinestone hair studs into a classic updo before adding the crown.
- Regal
- Sparkling
- Formal events
7. Single Braid with a Small Crown
One long braid down the back with a small crown on top is simple, iconic, and very effective.
It is a favorite at Renaissance fairs because it holds up all day.
- Simple
- All day hold
- Fair friendly
8. Curly Updo with Pearls
A soft curly updo with pearl pins and a pearl and gold crown is beautifully feminine. Curls actually grip a crown better than smooth hair.
Scatter pearl pins through the updo so they catch the light.
- Feminine
- Secure crown
- Wedding ready
My Pick
Pearl Hair Pins, 18 Pack
Pearls in five sizes that slide into any updo for an elegant finish.
9. Short Hair with a Statement Crown
With short hair, the crown becomes the centerpiece. It sits low and close, so it looks like part of the style rather than balanced on top.
A heavily jeweled crown works especially well here.
- Short hair
- Bold
- Crown focused
10. Braided Crown with Wildflowers
A braided crown with small flowers tucked in is enchanting and very doable with medium or long hair.
It photographs beautifully outdoors and is lovely for garden weddings.
Project Card · 20 minutes · Medium
What You Need
- Medium to long hair
- Bobby pins
- Small fresh or silk flowers
How to Do It
- Braid around the head from one ear to the other, adding hair as you go.
- Pin the end of the braid at the back.
- Trim flower stems to about two inches.
- Tuck the stems into the braid every few inches.
11. Hennin with a Long Veil
The tall pointed hennin with a flowing veil is the classic storybook princess hat, taken directly from 15th century French and English court fashion.
It is a guaranteed showstopper for cosplay and Renaissance fairs.
- Showstopper
- 15th century
- Cosplay
12. Two Braid Wedding Style with Flower Pins
Two braids decorated with pearl and flower pins are romantic without needing a full updo.
Small rhinestone flower pins along each braid give it a bridal finish.
- Bridal
- Romantic
- No updo needed
13. Loose Waves with a Tiara
Long loose waves with a tiara is a modern, wearable take on the princess look. It suits every hair texture.
It is a popular choice for brides who want a hint of fairytale.
- Modern
- Every hair type
- Bridal
My Pick
Silver CZ Floral Princess Tiara
A sparkling floral tiara that suits weddings, proms, and princess themed parties.
14. Half Up with Long Flowing Hair
Pin back just the front sections and let the rest fall long. The length itself makes the statement.
A few jeweled pins at the crown are all you need.
- Effortless
- Long hair
- Quick
15. Princess Updo for Short Hair
Short hair can still wear a princess updo. Clip in hair adds the length you need for braids and buns, and the crown hides where it attaches.
Match the clip in color to your hair as closely as possible.
- Short hair
- Clip in length
- Cosplay friendly
My Pick
Clip In Human Hair Extensions, 18 Inch
Real hair clip ins you can braid, curl, and pin, ideal for adding length for a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hairstyles did medieval princesses wear?
Long loose hair, two long braids, braided crowns, and pinned updos, usually finished with a circlet, fillet, or crown.
How do I keep a crown from slipping?
Build a braided base first and pin the crown into the braids. Crowns with combs or loops hold best.
Can I wear a medieval princess hairstyle to my wedding?
Yes. Half up waves with a tiara and veil or a braided crown with flowers are both beautiful bridal options.
What if my hair is short?
Use clip in extensions for length, or wear a bold crown that becomes the centerpiece of the look.
What accessories make a hairstyle look medieval?
A thin gold circlet, a flower crown, a sheer veil, pearl pins, or a hair net instantly give a medieval feel.
Final Thoughts on Medieval Hairstyles Princesses Wore
Medieval princess styles are timeless because they mix beautiful hair with meaningful accessories.
Start with one crown or circlet you love and pick the hairstyle that suits your length.
