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by
Ann Marie Laurendeau,
Anemone
Makeup |
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Each year I meet with many brides-to-be who are undecided about
how to wear their hair on their wedding day. In recent years, the
hairstyling options available for brides have transitioned from
over manipulated structured styles to hair that is soft, simple and
elegant. Many brides are also choosing to skip the up-do in
exchange for wearing their hair down in its natural state.
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Many of today's current wedding day hairstyles are inspired by
celebrities, such as the soft loose waves made popular by Jessica Simpson.
Another red-carpet favorite (that is often requested by brides) is any
variation of a low chignon - styled just above the nape of the neck (shown
above).
Brides-to-be are also opting for retro looks such as the classic up-do made
famous by Audrey Hepburn in the much loved 1960's film "Breakfast at
Tiffany's".
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Whatever hairstyle you decide to wear on your wedding day, here are some
helpful hints to consider along with suggestions that are intended to guide
you in the process. Please keep in mind, there really are no set "right or
wrong rules" in terms of wedding day hairstyles. Whichever way you decide to
wear your hair on your wedding day should be what makes you feel the most
beautiful!
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Wearing Your Hair Down
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If you are considering wearing your hair down, think about your
hair's natural texture and length, as well as the month and season of your
wedding. Typically fine hair that is longer than two inches past your
shoulders will not hold well in hot humid weather. Most up-dos, on the
other hand, will last until you take them down.
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Bridal Veils
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Bridal veils, depending on their length and shape, can sometimes
interfere or conceal the beautiful wedding day hairstyle you had in
mind. Many of today's brides wear a veil for only the ceremony.
Afterwards the veil is removed to reveal their wedding hairstyle and
decorative headpiece and/or hair jewelry. Thinking about whether or
not you will be wearing a veil for your entire wedding day will help
your stylist decide what type of hairstyle will be best. If you
decide to wear your veil for the entire day, it is highly recommended
that you choose a hairstyle that allows your veil to be placed below
the hair design, so that it won't be obscured from view.
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Formal vs. Casual
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The tone and theme of your wedding can also play a role in
helping you decide how to wear your hair on your wedding day. A
sophisticated up-do may be more appropriate for a lavish formal
evening wedding, whereas a soft chignon may be more suitable for a
casual daytime wedding on the beach. Even wearing your hair down with
fresh flowers designed in it may be the most appropriate style of
all!
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Fresh Flowers
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 Fresh flowers, both individual and wreaths, always look gorgeous and
romantic on a bride. If you wish to wear fresh flowers, there are a few
things you should investigate in advance. First, speak to your wedding
florist and find out what types of flowers will be in season on your
wedding day. Also, find out if the particular flowers you have in mind will
last throughout your wedding - not all flowers will look fresh for 10 plus
hours.
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Additionally, size is important! A flower that is too large will
overpower your beautiful wedding day hairstyle, so keeping it simple is
always best. A couple of good choices that look elegant and are long-lasting
would be miniature white stephanotis and small orchids.
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Hair Texture
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Your hair's texture is another factor that can make or break a
successful wedding day hairstyle. I meet many brides with naturally
very fine hair who want tight curls. Or, take the example of an
African-American bride who wants a fine, silky-smooth looking wedding
day hairdo. Most experienced hairstylists can work miracles with all
hair types, but even then there is a limit to how well we can
guarantee your hair will last if it has been greatly manipulated from
its natural state.
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Hairpieces and Hair Extensions
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If your hair is short or very fine and you are thinking about wearing
a hairpiece or hair extensions, have a consultation first and make sure that
your regular hairstylist is experienced in this field - not all of them
are. Discuss your options and your budget with that hairstylist to decide
if wearing a hairpiece or natural hair extensions will achieve your desired
wedding hairstyle.
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Pamper yourself and get a
manicure! This can be relaxing. You want your nails to look their best (especially
for those close-up photographs!). Consider a pedicure, its a nice way to sit back
and relax before the festivities begin.
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Magazine Photographs
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When selecting your favorite hairstyling photographs from magazines
consider why you like the photograph. Too often brides bring in the most
beautiful photographs not realizing what it took to produce that image. Be
realistic. Just because a hairstyle looks great on your favorite celebrity,
doesn't mean it is the best choice for you. Most people do not realize what
goes into most fashion magazine and editorial photo shoots. Most likely
there was a team of at least 5 people, including the makeup artist,
hairstylist, prop person, fashions stylist, manicurist, and assistants
behind the scenes, not to mention the amount of retouching that was done in
post production! That being said - please consider magazine photos as a
guide and inspiration while keeping your options flexible. You will be much
happier in the end, I promise!
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Hairstyling in all photographs by Ann Marie Laurendeau of
Anemone
Makeup.
Click for a list of
RI &
Newport wedding hair stylists & makeup artists. |
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About the Author
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Ann Marie Laurendeau is a Boston Based professional makeup artist,
hairstylist and founder of Anemone Makeup. Her business provides a
wide-range of makeup and hairstyling for media events and
weddings on-location throughout greater Boston, New England and beyond. For
more information visit Ann Marie Laurendeaus web-site @
www.anemonemakeup.com or call 781-721-0083.
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