Diy Wedding Hair: Can I Style Myself?

Doing your own hair for your wedding can be a great way to save money and achieve your preferred look. It can be a fun and fulfilling experience, and you can always ask a friend to help. However, it's important to consider the potential challenges, such as creating a style that will last all day and ensuring it looks good in photos. If you're confident in your abilities and willing to practice beforehand, doing your own hair can be a rewarding part of your wedding preparations.

Simple but elegant

Low Bun

A low bun is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that can be achieved with just a few tools such as hair ties, bobby pins, hair clips, hair rollers, and some rhinestone accessories. Start by splitting your hair in half and clipping each side. Then, create a tight low ponytail and use a small brush to smooth down any flyaway hairs. Place the roller in your hair, roll it up, and add some bridal jewellery. Finish with hairspray to hold the style in place.

Curly Updo

An updo with soft waves is a classic and elegant choice for a wedding hairstyle, especially for those with long or medium-length hair. Start by sectioning your hair and using a teasing comb to add volume to the front. Then, use a clear hairband to fix it in place, and twist the rest of your hair upwards, securing it with hairpins. Add a flower crown or floral accessories for a romantic touch.

Half-Up, Half-Down

A half-up, half-down hairstyle is a timeless and effortless look that can be achieved with just a teasing comb, a hairdryer or curling iron, and some bobby pins. First, create loose waves or Hollywood waves with your styling tool of choice. Then, add volume to the front section of your hair with a teasing comb. Take small sections of hair from one side and pin them to the other side of your head, alternating sides until all your hair is pinned back. Finish by pulling out a few face-framing pieces and adding some loose waves with a curling iron.

Sleek Low Bun

For a sleek and sophisticated look, opt for a slicked-back low bun. Start by applying hairspray to your strands and using a bristle brush to slick your hair back. Gather your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic. Then, twist the ponytail in a clockwise motion and pin it into a low chignon.

Braided Updo

Braids are a versatile and elegant choice for a wedding hairstyle, adding texture and detail to your look. For a simple braided updo, start by creating a few loose braids in your hair. Then, gather your braids and the rest of your hair into a low bun. Add some flowers or hair accessories for a boho-chic finish.

Curly up-do

A curly up-do is a stunning choice for a wedding hairstyle, especially if you want to showcase your natural curls while keeping your hair off your face. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful curly up-do for your wedding:

Preparation:

Before attempting any hairstyle, it is crucial to start with the right tools and products to ensure your hair is protected and manageable. Here are some essentials to consider:

• A hairdryer with a concentrator nozzle attachment: This helps direct airflow for faster and easier blow-drying.
• Curling wand: Choose the size of the wand depending on the type of curls you want. A 25mm wand is standard for loose waves, while a smaller wand (19mm) will give tighter curls. For bigger waves, opt for a larger barrel (32mm).
• Straightening iron: Look for straighteners with "ceramic" and "ionic" or "ions" for better results. A 1" iron is the most versatile, allowing you to straighten, curl, or create soft waves.
• Round brush: Round brushes add volume and are easier to control during blow-drying. Smaller brushes help with volume at the roots, while bigger brushes are ideal for smoothing.
• Clips: Use clips to hold sections of your hair while styling.

Additionally, using the right hair products is essential to protect your hair and achieve the desired look. Here are some product recommendations:

• Hair serum: Apply a hair serum to add moisture and protect your hair before using heat tools.
• Hair balm or mousse: These products will give your hair a better grip and enhance the final style.
• Anti-humidity and smoothing products: Lock in your style, especially if you're in a humid climate, to prevent frizz and flyaways.
• Hairspray: A good hairspray will keep your curls in place without flaking.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Curly Up-Do:

• Start with second-day hair: According to celebrity hairstylist Shani Gailbreath, second-day hair "holds style better" than freshly washed locks.
• Blow-dry: If your hair is still damp, use a hairdryer to get it about 80% dry. Focus on the roots and midsection first.
• Create loose curls: Using a curling wand, wrap small sections of hair (about 1-2 inches) around the wand to create loose curls. Work in small sections for maximum impact.
• Alternate curling direction: For a more romantic or bohemian look, alternate the direction in which you wrap your hair around the wand.
• Spray and pin curls: For better hold, spray each curl with hairspray, then roll it into a pin curl until it cools completely.
• Assemble the up-do: Once your hair is curled and cooled, it's time to create the up-do. You can go for a classic bun, a low chignon, or a side bun, securing the style with bobby pins and hairspray.
• Accessorize: Add some extra sparkle to your up-do with hair accessories like a jeweled hair clip, a flower crown, or a traditional veil.

Tips for Success:

• Practice the hairstyle a few times before your wedding day to ensure you are comfortable with the process and the results.
• Work in small sections when blow-drying, curling, or straightening your hair for maximum impact and control.
• Don't be afraid to use hairspray! It will help hold your style in place without making your hair crunchy or flaky.
• If you want a more natural, effortless look, brush out your curls after they have cooled to soften them and add volume.
• Consider the weight of your accessories. Bulky pieces can weigh down your curls and affect their shape. Opt for lightweight accessories that complement your curls without overwhelming them.

Remember, your wedding hairstyle should make you feel like the best version of yourself. Embrace your natural texture and have fun creating a look that showcases your unique style!

Low bun

A low bun is a classic, versatile wedding hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any bridal aesthetic. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a sleek and sophisticated low bun for your wedding day:

Firstly, decide whether you want to go for a sleek or messy finish. For a sleek finish, you will need to start with straight hair, whereas a messy bun can be achieved with wavy or curly hair. If you are starting with damp hair, apply a heat protectant and blow-dry your hair until it is 80% dry, focusing on the roots and midsection.

Next, decide whether you want to incorporate any braids or texture into your bun. You could try a braided crown, French braids, or Dutch braids to add interest and texture to your hairstyle. If you are going for a braided crown, create a centre or side part and plait each side, bringing the braids together at the nape of your neck.

Now you are ready to form the bun. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. You can then twist the ponytail and pin it into a bun, or you could try the ''sock method' for a perfect donut shape. To add extra volume, you can backcomb the ponytail before twisting it.

To finish, you can add some tendrils or face-framing pieces around your hairline, and add any accessories, such as a veil, hairpins, or fresh flowers.

And there you have it – a beautiful low bun, perfect for your wedding day!

Half-up, half-down

Preparation:

Before styling, it is recommended to start with "second-day hair" as it "holds style better" than freshly washed locks. Use a hair balm or mousse to enhance your hair's grip and texture. If your hair is naturally curly, simply apply a styling product to define your curls. For straight hair, blow-dry your hair with a round brush to add volume, focusing on the roots and mid-section.

Creating the Half-Up, Half-Down Style:

Part your hair down the middle, leaving a few face-framing pieces on either side. Gather the top half of your hair and secure it with an elastic to form a ponytail. You can place the ponytail at the midway point or opt for a playful, flirty feel by positioning it higher, on the crown of your head.

Adding Texture and Volume:

For a sleek and shiny finish, straighten your hair with a flat iron. Alternatively, use a curling wand to create loose, romantic waves. If you want more defined curls, work in small sections and hold each curl until it cools before releasing and spraying with hairspray. For a bohemian or vintage vibe, alternate the direction of the curls by wrapping some towards your face and others away.

Accessories and Finishing Touches:

Complete your half-up, half-down hairstyle with a dazzling hair accessory, such as a beaded clip, a headband, or a floral crown. For a whimsical touch, incorporate braids or twists into your hairstyle. If you're wearing a veil, secure it into the "up" section of your hair. Finish with an anti-humidity or smoothing product to ensure your style lasts throughout the day.

Practice Makes Perfect:

Remember to practice this hairstyle a few times before your wedding day to ensure you feel comfortable and confident. On the day, have a travel-sized hairspray on hand for any touch-ups.

Waterfall braid

Start with curly hair. If your hair is not naturally curly, be sure to curl it before braiding for the best results. If you have fine hair, you may also want to consider adding extensions for added volume.

Create a deep side part, then grab a section of hair on one side and divide it into three pieces. Try to make each of the three pieces as close in size to each other as possible, for easier braiding and a smoother look.

Take the top piece of hair closest to your hairline and cross it over the middle piece. Allow the middle section to hang.

Now, you will create the waterfall effect. Take the bottom piece and cross it over the new middle piece. Instead of crossing the hanging piece as you would with a traditional French braid, leave it hanging. Then, take the top and bottom pieces and cross them over each other.

Repeat this sequence by continuing to braid and drop a section of hair to create the waterfall effect. Remember to grab a new piece of hair from above the braid that's forming, place it in the middle, and drop it down.

Finish the braid by twisting the remaining two pieces together and holding it in place with an elastic band. Tuck the end of your braid under the rest of your hair and pin it in place by crossing two bobby pins in an X shape.

To finish the look, sprinkle a little texture powder all over the braid and pull it apart slightly to give your braid a more lived-in, fuller appearance. Hold your waterfall braid in place with your favourite hairspray. You can repeat the braid on the other side or leave the rest of your hair down for a more effortless look.

If you are considering doing your own hair for your wedding, it is important to practice the style beforehand. This will help you feel more comfortable and ensure that the styling process is seamless on your big day. Additionally, using the right tools and products is crucial to achieving the look you want. Heat protectants, hair serums, and texture sprays are just a few examples of products that can help you achieve salon-worthy results.

Frequently asked questions