Styling Short Hair For Your Wedding: Tips And Tricks

There are many ways to style short hair for a wedding, whether you're the bride or a guest. You can add volume, incorporate braids, try a half-updo, or accessorise with a headband, tiara, or hairpins. If you want to add length, hair extensions can provide instant length and volume. Ultimately, it's important to choose a hairstyle that makes you feel comfortable and special.

Curly hair with extensions

To achieve this look, you can opt for large, loose curls, which will give you a glamorous and sophisticated look that effortlessly captures attention. Large curls impart a timeless charm and add a touch of romance to your overall bridal appearance. If you desire even more volume and length, you can consider using hair extensions.

When choosing extensions, clip-in extensions are a good option for those new to extensions as they are a low-commitment option and can be easily removed. Tape-in extensions are another alternative, which are attached to the scalp with an adhesive, sandwiching your natural hair in between. Micro-link extensions, such as the I-tip method, are small individual strands attached with a bead, lasting about a month and a half. Keratin bond extensions are a more permanent option, lasting up to three to five months, but they require extra care and gentleness to avoid damage.

For a seamless blend, it's important to ensure that the extensions match your natural hair colour. Consult with both your colourist and stylist to pick the right shade that perfectly blends with your hair, paying attention to the root colour. For example, if you're a brunette with balayage highlights, the extensions should have a similar gradient from dark roots to lighter ends.

On your wedding day, you can style your curly hair with extensions in a variety of ways. You can go for a half-up, half-down style, which is a classic and versatile option that lets you flaunt your curls while keeping them elegantly framed around your face. You can also try a low bun or a high ponytail for an elegant or playful vibe, respectively. If you want to add some glamour to your curls, consider a voluminous messy bun or a dramatic fishtail braid.

So, if you're looking to enhance your natural curls with extensions for your wedding, be sure to plan ahead, consult with professionals, and choose the right type of extensions and styling options to achieve your desired look.

Half-updo with twists

A half-updo with twists is a chic and effortless hairstyle that will beautifully adapt to your natural hair length. It is a versatile look that exudes a timeless charm and adds a touch of elegance to your overall bridal style.

To achieve this look, start by dividing your hair into two sections: the top half and the bottom half. Then, take small sections of hair from the top half and create twists by wrapping them around each other. Secure these twists at the back of your head with bobby pins or a hair tie. You can also add some curls or waves to the bottom half of your hair for a more romantic and whimsical appearance.

For a unique twist on this style, you can incorporate braids into the twists or add some hair accessories such as a beaded clip or a headband. This hairstyle is perfect for brides who want to showcase their natural hair length while adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to their wedding look.

• If you have shorter hair, consider using extensions to add length and volume to the twists.
• To create a sleek and shiny finish, straighten your hair before twisting.
• For a fun and flirty vibe, position the twists higher up on the crown of your head.
• Add some face-framing tendrils or loose curls to soften the look and beautifully frame your face.
• Incorporate fresh flowers or hair accessories that complement your wedding dress and venue.

Statement hair accessories

Headbands

Headbands are a versatile and easy-to-wear accessory for short hair. You can opt for a delicate, slim headband with simple beaded crystals or pearls, or go bolder with a wider band or an off-centre, side tiara design. A headband can be customised with hair vines and combs, and is a good option if you're concerned about keeping a comb in place all day. It can also be paired with a veil, either clipped on or as a headband veil, which is very on-trend.

Tiaras and Crowns

A tiara or crown can look incredible with short hair, especially if you want to channel a vintage or royal look. While a shorter, more delicate tiara may be more proportionate, don't be afraid to go for something more daring and dramatic if it suits your personal style.

Hair Combs

Hair combs are ideal for short-haired brides, especially if you have thick hair with a little length on the sides. They can be placed just above the ear for a chic look, or nestled above a veil. For fine hair, opt for a smaller, delicate comb that won't be too heavy.

Hair Pins

Hair pins are a subtle way to add a bit of sparkle without overwhelming your hairstyle. Choose pins that complement your bridal theme, such as floral pins for a bohemian look or crystal pins for glamour. They can be scattered throughout your hair or clustered together for more impact.

Hair Vines

Hair vines are flexible and can be shaped to fit any hairstyle, making them perfect for short hair. They can be positioned in various ways, including around the crown, across the forehead, or in a headband position. For very short hair, opt for a lightweight vine, and for thicker hair, you can go for a heavier, more intricate design.

Veils

Veils can be a statement accessory in themselves, especially when paired with the right hairstyle. A birdcage veil is a timeless and chic choice for short hair, especially for a vintage or city-chic wedding. Juliet cap veils also work beautifully with short hair, creating either a strong vintage or soft, bohemian look.

Flowers

Fresh flowers or floral hair accessories can add a romantic and ethereal touch to short hair without overwhelming it. Floral headbands, flower crowns, or individual floral hair pins are all lovely options.

Brooches

For a vintage-inspired look, try pinning a statement brooch or hair clip into your hair. This works well with loose, pinned waves and complements a vintage gown.

Headpieces

For a bold, unique look, consider a statement headpiece. This could be a bejewelled headband, a hair vine, or a custom-made piece that incorporates a mix of elements, such as flowers, beads, and crystals.

Remember, when choosing your hair accessories, consider your hair texture and dress style, and don't be afraid to consult a hairstylist or accessory designer for advice on how to create your dream bridal look.

Tousled pixie

A tousled pixie is a playful and chic wedding hairstyle that can be adapted to suit your natural hair length. This style is perfect for contemporary brides seeking a modern and trendy look for their special day. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving this look:

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Before styling your hair, ensure it is clean and dry. You may want to apply a styling product, such as a texturizing spray or a volumizing mousse, to enhance the hold and texture of your hair. This is especially important if you have fine or straight hair.

Step 2: Create Volume

To achieve the tousled effect, focus on creating volume and texture. Use a curling wand or a flat iron to create loose waves or curls throughout your hair. For a more defined curl, you can also use a small barrel curling iron. This will add movement and body to your pixie cut.

Step 3: Add Accessories (Optional)

If you wish to enhance your hairstyle with accessories, there are several options to choose from. You can opt for a delicate floral headband or hairpiece, adding a romantic and ethereal touch to your look. Alternatively, you can select sparkly or metallic hairpins, combs, or barrettes to secure your tousled locks in place. These accessories will add a touch of glamour and elegance to your wedding hairstyle.

Step 4: Finish and Set

Once you have created the desired volume and texture, finish styling your hair with a light hairspray to hold the look in place. You can also use a texturizing spray or a sea salt spray to enhance the piecey, tousled effect. This will ensure your hairstyle lasts throughout your wedding day.

The tousled pixie is a versatile and stylish option for brides with short hair. By following these steps and adapting them to your personal preferences, you can achieve a beautiful and contemporary look for your wedding day.

Short hair with a veil

A veil can add a touch of whimsy and grace to any bridal hairstyle, including short hair. Here are some ideas for styling short hair with a veil:

Veil Types

First, it's important to consider the type of veil you want to wear. Some veils that pair well with short hair include:

• Birdcage veils, which can add a touch of vintage glamour to your look.
• Blusher veils, which cover just the face and can be paired with an updo or loose waves.
• Shoulder-length veils, which can be paired with a chic bob or wavy lob.
• Fingertip veils, which hit just beyond the hips and pair well with a low ponytail or loose waves.
• Cathedral veils, which are longer and more traditional, and can be worn with an updo or loose waves.

Hairstyles

When it comes to short hair with a veil, you have several options:

• Retro-inspired flipped ends: This style, paired with a bow veil, is perfect for those wanting a retro look.
• Voluminous updo: This timeless look can be paired with a crystal drop earring and a comb veil for a truly bridal feel.
• Romantic updo with face-framing pieces: A pearl-adorned veil and matching earrings will complete this look, perfect for a pearlcore-loving bride.
• Half-up hairstyle: This style is perfect for short hair as it allows movement while keeping strands out of your face. Pair it with a sweet bow-adorned veil for a bridal look.
• Loose curls with a veil and sparkly headband: This glamorous style will ensure you shine on your big day.
• Oversized bow: Take the bow trend to the next level and pair your short hair updo with a dramatic, oversized bow instead of a veil.
• Sleek bob: A classic, timeless style that can be paired with any veil of your choice for a chic wedding day look.
• Flower crown updo with a flowing cathedral veil: This ethereal look is perfect for bohemian brides who want to coordinate their flower crown florals with their bouquet.
• Elegant chignon: Pair this updo with a beautiful pearl-adorned veil and your favorite pearl jewellery for understated glamour.
• Fluffy feather veil: For a retro twist, try a blusher-style veil, which would pair exceptionally well with a blush pink wedding dress.
• Voluminous, natural curls: Embrace your natural texture with this glamorous wedding day hairstyle. Pair it with a dramatic horsehair trim veil for extra drama.
• Effortless, undone waves with a deep side part: Channel effortless glamour with these waves, paired with your veil and a sparkly hair clip for added shine.
• Vintage-inspired birdcage veil with pearls: For a retro-inspired look, pair this veil with a slicked-back short hairstyle.
• Loose updo with face-framing tendrils: Make a statement by pairing this effortless updo with a dramatic cathedral veil.
• Sparkly headband and veil combination: Why choose between a headband and a veil when you can have both? Amp up the sparkle by pairing them together.
• Sleek, straight style: Keep it simple with this sleek, straight style, and pair it with a dramatic cathedral veil for a major statement.
• Natural texture with a dramatic horsehair trim veil: Embrace your hair's natural texture and let it shine with this glamorous wedding day hairstyle.
• Slicked-back strands with a shimmering headband and veil: This timeless wedding day style truly stands the test of time and epitomises bridal glamour.
• Bouncy blowout: Add drama to a smooth and bouncy blowout by attaching a sweeping veil.
• Low bun: A low bun is a chic and modern style that can be paired with a veil for a sophisticated look.
• Half-up, half-down style with loose braids: Add some loose braids to the sides of this style to create a slight anchor for the veil to nestle into.
• Laid-back waves with a veil: You can still rock a veil with a laid-back hairstyle. It's all about placement—try a veil donned with pearls placed in the middle of the head.
• Retro waves with a bejewelled headband: Keep your strands extra glossy and pair them with a retro-inspired veil for a radiant and ethereal look.

Frequently asked questions