Wedding Hair Styles

By Kai Ma

August 9, 2011

When all eyes and cameras are on the bride, the last thing you want to worry about is how your hair is holding up. There is a lot of consideration that needs to go into choosing the correct hairstyle. Does it compliment the dress? Is it appropriate for the weather? Does it fit the over-all theme? Professionally styled or DIY? Up or down?

Finding the perfect hairstyle can be incredibly time consuming and frustrating, if you don’t know where to begin. Fear not, we have provided you a cheat sheet of popular wedding hairstyles that will help to put some of that anxiety to rest.

Loose and Flowing

tresses convey a natural confidence and romance. Your groom-to-be will appreciate this style because it actually looks like you. Brides with both short and long hair opt for this “just let your hair fall” look, wither it be pin-straight, tight curls or smooth, gentle waves. This look is great with a sleeveless dress, that doesn't have a back, as well as dresses that don’t have embellishments or details that need to be shown off.

This hairstyle is not ideal for summer months; it’s too hot. Also, if your dress has a high collar or halter, the look will get muddled and lost.

This hairstyle is a blank canvas and can use various hair accessories or veils to accent it. Think about, using an elegant clip to pull back your hair to keep from obscuring your beautiful face!

Long and graceful necks benefit from a polished upswept coiffure. Dresses that have grand embellishments, necklines and details, need to be showcased, therefore an upsweep is necessary. Also, weddings in the summer months will be hot and your hair most likely will fall victim to the heat and humidity if left down.

The upswept look can be sleek, sexy and elegant. They can also be practical and low maintenance.  Try using a soft side bang and pulling the hair back into a loose and wavy updo for a classy elegance.

Updos, most of the time are worked around your headpiece. Once your headpiece or accessory is chosen then you can move forward in which updo suits you best.

Talk with your hairstylist and consider your face shape, you want to avoid looking severe and contrived.

The sexy half-up/ half down hairstyle gets the best of both worlds. Your husband-to be will certainly want to run his fingers through your luscious locks. This effortless and romantic hairstyle can be done yourself. Very beautiful when paired with a simple and understated wedding dress.

Try natural waves or barrel curls, pinned half up, with a little volume at the crown. For a nice touch add a flower where you pin.

One of the most popular wedding hairstyles today is the chignon. Whither it is high, low, messy or perfectly shaped, the chignon can be graceful, intricate, modern or exaggerated. This hairstyle is versatile; it can match any wedding dress and occasion.

Accessories can be tucked in nicely. If you already have a headpiece in mind, the chignon can be crafted to highlight it. Veils are especially popular. A modern choice for brides: a low, slightly messy chignon pinned and pulled down around the face with a few wispy pieces peaking out.

Chignons can be achieved with any hair length, but as with any updo, consider the shape of your face to determine the style right for you.

Short hair makes a statement and grabs attention. Brides that sport a short do are bold and confidant.  Short hair is great for adding large, daring accessories, such as hair vines, modern tiaras or feathers. Getting inspired is easy.

Experiment with some retro curls. Longhaired brides will have a hard pulling off Marilyn Monroe’s famous mane and loose locks!

Finding the perfect hairstyle for short hair can be tricky, play around with different styles before choosing.

Bobs are one of the most beautiful short hairstyles. This is a great cut for brides to keep the stress level at bay when it comes to upkeep during the ceremony.

Chin length cuts tend to be chic. Tight curls, period looks or simply, a beautiful haircut can look smart and stylish. Paired with a birdcage veil or a sophisticated tiara can make any look pop with sleekness and beauty.

Old Hollywood inspired pin-up waves have become an extremely popular choice for weddings today. They symbolize timeless glamour and uses seductive, feminine curls. The different pin-up hairstyles can appeal to short hair and long hair alike.

Finger waves are a favorite choice, they are soft and nicely contour facial features; an undeniable sophisticated touch. Looks great with a streamlined dress and spaghetti straps. Accessories like oversized barrettes, floral clips, headbands and wraps look especially pleasing to the eye.

Pin-up waves are labor intensive. Needs expert styling or expect to spend a lot of time practicing.

Bohemian braids can make for the perfect wedding hair. You can incorporate braids in updos or can be kept down.

Some of the more popular styles include braiding around the crown of your head (to look like a halo), cascading braids, loose side braids with a few pieces of hair hanging and braided buns. The result can be anywhere from classic to trendy and everything in between!

Adding ribbon into a braid can create a beautiful effect. Braids are great for all seasons.

Ask your hairstylist to help you play around with different styles for a unique and creative look.

At-A-Glace Tips for Choosing Wedding Hairstyles:

1. Don’t lose your identity
2. Consider your face shape
3. Find a hairstylist you trust
4. Test out a few styles before your big day
5. Choose a hairstyle that matches the line, density and texture of your dress