Wedding Gazette

Hairstyle Advice

By Ellenina Gaston

The design of your hair in relation to your bridal veil, the contour of your face and shoulders, and your gown neckline requires true sculpting and artistry. Some brides choose to do their own hair and makeup while others hire stylists to do it for them.

Here are five popular looks to consider.

1. If the bride wants a more traditional look, the cameo hairstyle is picture-perfect. Spray-gelled hair is dry-rolled all over and curls are lightly teased at the base. All hair is then gathered up in a large, round crown and loosely held in place with bobby pins. A headpiece with veil is attached around the crown, and tendrils are pulled free from each side for the finishing touch.
2. For the updated version of Audrey Hepburn's famous style, dramatic streaks offer the bride a sophisticated look. All hair except that which frames the face is pulled into a topknot with a hair elastic, which is camouflaged with a strand of hair. A bun is formed, and remaining hair is swept back into it, exposing contrasting streaks. A veil is attached at the base of the bun.
3. If you're a bride with fine, short hair you may want to try a look that's teased all over, then smoothed back and pinned in an oval shape. Sweet curls are created with a curling iron, and a veil is fastened with pins below.
4. Romance reigns with large pin curls and an elegant chignon. Hair is lightly teased and parted on the right side, then hair at crown is divided into several sections. These are looped to the left in flat curls and fastened with bobby pins. Back section is pulled into a low ponytail and secured with a covered elastic.
5. A dreamy daytime look is the result when medium rollers are used on damp hair and set under a dryer. Rollers are then removed, and curls are brushed out loosely. Hair is twisted up and pinned, and curls are arranged for a tousled effect.

When deciding on the look for your wedding, remember that the veil you select will often determine the hairstyle options that you have available. Work with your stylist well in advance to try out the various looks.