Best ever big day hair
Great hair is the crowning glory to your bridal outfit so get it right with our guide.
When it comes to your bridal hair, preparation is vital, so start thinking about it at least six months before the wedding - longer if you want to grow it.
Consider what you want and can afford - you could create a simple style yourself, but a more elaborate do means going to a salon or paying a stylist to come to you. And don't forget your mum and bridesmaids - can they do their own hair or will they need a stylist, too?
A good hairdresser is key - even if you're on a tight budget, you'll need colouring before the day and advice on how to DIY. Ask your current stylist whether they do bridal hair or ask friends for recommendations. If you're not sure what you want, a good stylist can offer practical advice and help you put together your hair, veil and accessories.
Whether you decide on accessories or your hairstyle first, you need to ensure your whole look works together. The centrepiece is your dress so always choose this first - Emil McMahon, TIGI Director of Education for Europe, says:
"Your dress colour and neckline will determine the best colour and style of your hair."
The fabric and style of your dress will also affect your hair decisions - a sleek, modern dress won't suit a tight updo, try romantic curls instead.
Keri Adam at Danique agrees: "Hair should complement your dress so tell your stylist about it so they can work with it, such as putting hair up to show off a stunning back line."
Your own personal style is also important - you'll look much more beautiful with a do that feels natural for you. Royston Blythe advise: "Bridal hair doesn't have to be extravagant - you could simply opt for a slightly dressier version of your usual style."
Top trends
Hair trends change all the time, but a classically simple hairdo is always popular for brides because it won't look dated in your photos. But don't forget practicalities. "If wind and rain are likely on your day, choose a style that won't wilt like a sleek updo," says Skye Norman.
Face shape is also important when choosing accessories - round faces look best with the added height of a tall tiara or crown. Guy Kremer adds: "Don't leave dark hair without accessories - it needs something to bring light into the shape, like pearls or diamanté."
If you have short hair, Claire Dawson at hob, advises: "Go for an Alice-bandstyle headpiece. Keep height through the crown and add a low side-parting, pushing the hair across the head for a classic Audrey Hepburn feel."
Making ideas real
Once you have a hairdresser and lots of ideas, have some trials. Take a photo of your dress and hairstyles you like, and your veil and accessories (if you have them). Discuss ideas and try different looks, but also listen to them - Lee Stafford says: "If you ask for a style and your hairdresser advises against it, don't be offended! They are trying to be helpful but should offer alternatives."
By your last trial, you should have the final look you like. Richard Ward says: "Leave the style in place for a few hours to assess its hold factor." Alternatively, if you're doing your own hair, Brooks & Brooks say: "Ask your salon for a blowdry lesson to learn the best way to style your hair."
"If you want your hair up, let it be loose with tendrils to soften the face. Or go for a half-up do" says hair expert Jo Hansford.
Hair health
For hair that shines with natural beauty on the day, put its health atthe top of your list. A weekly deep conditioner is a must and have an in-salon nourishing treatment a month before the wedding. Regular trims (every six weeks) are also vital, even if you're growing your hair.
It's also essential to use heatprotecting products with irons and dryers - choose one that adds shine, volume or hold for extra value. For other hair problems, invest in products to sort it in plenty of time - tackle flakes with an antidandruff duo; tame frizz with serum; and improve dry hair with a gentle shampoo and leave-in conditioner.
On the day
It's usually best to wash hair the night before the big day so it's not too slippery, but check with your hairdresser. Once hair is clean, the blowdry is vital, says Phil Smith: "Always start with the fringe, if you have one - this is the focal point of the style." Richard Ward adds: "For a shiny look, dry small sections using a dryer with a nozzle."
Practice makes perfect so if you buy new products to use on the day, try them out beforehand. Hairspray is key and Martin Hiller, Senscience International Artistic Director, says: "Using loads of hairspray won't hold hair longer - in fact, it is more likely to collapse from the weight. So just lightly spritz your style for lasting hold." To keep hair looking fab all day, pop Kirby grips, mini hairspray or serum in your bridal bag.
If you'd like to change your hair in the evening, Claire Dawson, hob salons creative team, says: "Opt for something with curls that looks natural, something not overworked or product heavy. A loose updo that's slightly random with a romantic feel means that when the hair is taken down, the curls will remain intact."
Words by Becky Skuse