The Perfect Wedding Hair: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to do wedding hair

There are many ways to approach wedding hair, and it's important to consider what works best for you. Some people opt for a hairstylist, while others choose to do their own hair. If you're doing your own hair, it's a good idea to practice beforehand and to give yourself plenty of time on the day. You can find tutorials on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, or in books. It's also important to consider the style of your wedding and dress, the weather, and whether you want to wear a veil or other hair accessories.

shunbridal

Choosing a hairstyle

Dress and Hairstyle

Your wedding hairstyle should complement your dress and overall bridal look. Consider the neckline of your gown—high necklines often work well with updos, while strapless dresses pair nicely with half-down styles. If your dress has intricate details like lace, beading, or embroidery, opt for a sleek bun or low updo to showcase these elements. If your gown has a simple design, you might choose a more intricate or voluminous hairstyle to balance the look. Additionally, think about the fabric and movement of your dress. For example, a flowing, bohemian-style gown might be complemented by loose waves or a soft, braided updo.

Climate and Venue

The climate and venue of your wedding are also important factors when choosing your hairstyle. If you're getting married during the summer or in a humid location, consider a style that will keep you feeling comfortable and fresh. For an outdoor beach wedding, an easy, secure hairstyle like a braid or updo might be best, while an indoor, black-tie occasion might call for a polished down or half-up style.

Hair Type and Length

Consider your hair type and length when selecting a hairstyle. If you have fine or thin hair and dream of a fuller look, you may want to get extensions. Be sure to prioritize your comfort and personal style preferences. Choose a hairstyle that makes you feel confident and true to yourself. If you typically wear your hair in a ponytail or bun, you might feel most comfortable with an elevated version of this look, such as a chic high ponytail or a sleek low bun.

Personality and Theme

Your personality and the theme of your wedding can also guide your hairstyle choice. If you're a free spirit, a bohemian hairstyle might be a perfect match, while a classic and elegant bride might prefer a sleek and sophisticated style. Consider the overall vibe of your wedding—if it's a formal affair, an elegant updo could be a good choice, while a relaxed wedding might call for loose, romantic waves or a messy hairstyle.

Accessories

Accessories can add a sentimental touch or a bit of glamour to your hairstyle. Whether it's a floral accessory, a brooch, or crystal spray, choose something small and in your colour palette. Consider your dress and hairstyle first and select an accessory that complements your overall look without taking away from it.

shunbridal

Hair prep

Wedding hair prep can vary depending on your hair type, the style you want, and whether you plan to do it yourself or go to a salon. If you're doing it yourself, it's a good idea to practice beforehand and give yourself plenty of time on the day.

If you're getting your hair done at a salon, it's a good idea to ask your stylist how they would like you to prep your hair. They may recommend specific treatments or products to use in the lead-up to your wedding. For example, if you're getting married in a humid climate, you might want to get a keratin treatment to keep frizz and flyaways at bay.

If you're doing your own hair, it's important to figure out what products and tools you'll need and practice using them beforehand. YouTube is a great resource for learning how to do different hairstyles, and it's helpful to find someone with a similar hair texture to yours. You can also pay attention to your hairdresser during your next cut and try to copy their techniques at home.

In the days leading up to your wedding, avoid putting your hair in a ponytail or a messy bun, as this can cause unwanted kinks and dents. If you need to pull your hair back, use a claw clip or a silk scarf instead. On the day of your wedding, make sure you start with clean hair, and if you're using heat tools, apply a heat protectant to avoid damage.

Remember to take your time and don't rush the process. Section your hair and work in small sections, whether you're curling, straightening, or braiding. It's also a good idea to have someone else with you to give feedback and ensure that your hairstyle is secure and comfortable.

shunbridal

Basic techniques

Wedding hair can be a daunting task, but with some basic techniques, you can create a stunning bridal hairstyle. Here are some simple steps and tips to help you achieve the perfect wedding hair:

  • Start with the right tools: Before attempting any hairstyle, ensure you have the necessary tools and products. This includes items such as a blow dryer, curling iron, hair serum, heat protectant, mousse, and hairspray.
  • Prepare your hair: Shampoo and blow-dry your hair the night before or the morning of the wedding to ensure it is clean and free of oil. If your hair is naturally curly or wavy, consider using a curl-enhancing product to define your curls. For those with straight hair, a volumizing mousse can add shine and body.
  • Create a solid foundation: Loose curls are a versatile foundation for various wedding hairstyles. Use a curling iron or heatless methods such as rollers or pin curls to achieve this look. If your hair is short, consider using a large curling iron or a finger-wave technique.
  • Simple styles: For an understated look, a low bun or ponytail can be a classic choice. To add a modern twist, incorporate braids, twists, or flowers into your hairstyle. If you're feeling adventurous, try a faux hawk or a trio of buns for an edgy yet elegant style.
  • Practice and experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different hairstyles and techniques. Start with basic braiding techniques and work your way up to more complex styles. Practice and patience are key to mastering these looks.
  • Consider your dress and venue: Choose a hairstyle that complements your wedding dress and personal style. If your dress is simple, consider a more dramatic hairstyle. For indoor or cooler climates, feel free to go for cascading curls. If your venue is outdoors in a humid climate, an updo can be a better option to avoid frizzy hair.
  • Accessories: Accessories can take your hairstyle to the next level. Oversized accessories, such as a crystal-studded headpiece, can add a touch of glamour to any look. Veils can also be secured with a simple elastic and comb, paired with a half-up or half-down hairstyle.
Doris Wedding: Legit or a Scam?

You may want to see also

shunbridal

Styling products

Firstly, heat protection spray is a must-have for any bridal hairstyle. Wedding hairstyles often require heat to create long-lasting curls or sleek, straight looks. A good heat protection spray will create an invisible barrier against heat damage, allowing you to style your hair with confidence.

Next, hairspray is an absolute necessity for any bridal hairstyle. It helps to secure the hair in place, especially when hair pins are not enough to do the job. Medium-hold hair sprays are ideal for updos like buns, ponytails, and half-up half-down styles, as they provide hold while still allowing for flexibility and movement.

If you're looking for a natural-looking shine and a sleek finish, hair pomade is a great option. Pomade, with its wax-like texture, can be used to create a variety of styles, from top knots to retro side-swept fringes. It also helps to tame stray hairs and flyaways, ensuring a polished look.

For adding texture, volume, and body to the hair, texturizing powder is a great option. It can help to boost the volume of the roots and ensure that the style lasts, adding movement to the ends.

Additionally, for those with curly hair, a smoothing serum or curl cream can be a lifesaver. These products help to smooth out stubborn curls and tame frizz, ensuring a sleek and polished look.

Lastly, heated rollers can be a great tool for creating classic bridal hairstyles. They smooth out the hair cuticle, resulting in glossy, bouncy curls with gorgeous volume.

With these styling products, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning and long-lasting wedding hairstyles.

shunbridal

Accessories

Veils

A veil is a classic choice for brides, and can be customised with wording or a unique design. The "voilette", or "birdcage veil", is a vintage-inspired alternative to the traditional veil, offering a similar look with less fuss.

Headbands

Headbands are a versatile choice, keeping hair out of your face while adding a touch of glamour. They can be customised with pearls and gemstones, or kept simple with satin or a delicate, metallic design. For a bucolic wedding, floral headbands are a delightful choice.

Clips and Combs

A chic hairpin or comb can keep loose strands tucked away from your face, while adding a decorative touch. They can be embellished with pearls, crystals, or gemstones, or kept simple and elegant.

Tiaras and Crowns

For a princess bride look, a tiara or crown is a perfect choice. These can be gold-leaf designs, or more traditional sparkling tiaras.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons can be a beautiful addition to wedding hair, while bows can be simple and silky, or embellished and over-the-top.

Flowers

Florals can be incorporated into your hair accessories, from bold, oversized rosettes on headbands and barrettes to delicate floral barrettes in curly updos.

Pins

For minimalist brides, a few well-placed pins can add serious charm without feeling overwhelming. These can be customised with pearls or crystals, or kept simple and metallic.

Frequently asked questions

The choice of hairstyle may be affected by the style of your dress and its neckline, the venue, and whether you want to wear a veil and/or tiara. If your dress has an intricate back, you may prefer to wear your hair up. If you have a round face, an updo may work better. You can also choose to have different hairstyles for the ceremony and reception.

If you're confident, you can do your own wedding hair. You can find tutorials on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. If you decide to hire a stylist, ask them how they would like you to prep your hair.

If you're doing your own hair, make sure you have the right tools for the hairstyle you want. If you're hiring a stylist, ask them what products you should use when blow-drying your hair. If you have fine, limp hair, a heat protectant and volumizing mousse can add shine and body. If you have curly hair but want it straightened, use a serum or conditioning product and then a blowout straightening product.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment