Your wedding hairstyle is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here are the latest looks, how to get the right style for you and all the advice you need on beautifying your hair from top to tip

“Wedding hairstyles (now) are softer and more natural,” says Johannesburg-based hairstylist Robert Edwards. “Brides are going for loose waves, delicate braiding, soft chignons, sleek ponytails and elegant accessories like alice bands, bows or silk flower clips. The comeback of the birdcage veil and fascinators will force some asymmetry into hair styling too. Whichever style you go for, however, it’s essential that your hair is in its best condition, so make sure you include good grooming habits in your wedding beauty regime.”

The alice band

This high-fashion look is ideal for brides who don’t want to wear a veil – it epitomises understated elegance and yet still has a wow factor. Look for embellished bands with sparkle or interest such as diamanté, pearls or feathers, and wear it with a simple updo such as a chignon. Alice bands and tiara-style bands also look good with sleek bobs and add glamour to shorter hair.

Goes well with: Strapless and backless gowns or low V-necks.

 

Bohemian-style braids

Delicate plaits and twists dominated the bridal catwalks recently and are perfect for relaxed weddings on the beach or in the garden. Lending a bohemian slant to your look, plaits and twists can be accessorised with dainty flowers or sparkly hairpins, and can be used to add pretty detail to a half updo. A loose French braid tied into a chignon in the nape of your neck is another natural approach that works well with an easy-going look and theme. This is also a good look for medium-length hair.

Goes well with: Strapless gowns or vintage-style dresses

 

Long and loose

This pretty and feminine look oozes old-Hollywood glamour, and gives you endless possibilities to play with. Wear your hair in loose tousled curls and sweep it into a simple half updo, adding dazzle with a big, beautiful hair accessory. This romantic style also works well with a single silk flower clip, such as rose, orchid or frangipane, secured to one side.  A few loose strands will frame your face and give this look a softer feel. For an ultra-glamorous look, wear your long hair to the side over one shoulder. Be sure to give fine hair lots of extra volume as you don’t want it to start looking limp within a few hours. Long straight hair also looks gorgeous tied back into a half updo as it flatters and elongates most face shapes.
Goes well with:  Strapless gowns, full-length veils and big drop earrings

 

The polished ponytail

Your hair must be super smooth to achieve this sleek look and it will need to be styled with a straightener first so that it has lasting power. You can knot hair around the pony as pictured here, or accessorise with a simple bow or flower.
Be fashion forward and wear the ponytail to one side, curling the end of the ponytail into a romantic wave. If you want to go for a softer, more classic look, wear the ponytail lower in your neck and add some embellishment. Remember the key to this look is for your hair to look neat and tidy, and not as if you did it at the last minute. To make sure your hair is in its best condition, have regular treatments to enhance moisture and shine and don’t use heat stylers too often as this dries out the hair and can lead to split ends.

Goes well with: Strapless and halterneck gowns and low – back dresses.

 

The new chignon

Still one of the most popular wedding styles, the low-slung bun has evolved from a slicked-back style into a softer, messier, much more girly look with lots of texture and body. This is a great style to wear with a dress that has an interesting neckline or back detail, and it has guaranteed staying power if styled correctly. Add a pretty hair accessory or flower to this classic style, which is perfectly finished with a veil.

Goes well with: Backless, strapless or one-shouldered gowns.