Bridal Hair Guide: Styles, Trials and Hair Prep
Updos, half-up and loose waves — how to choose a bridal hairstyle, book a trial and prepare your hair.
Your wedding hair needs to look lovely in photos, hold through hugs and dancing, and feel like you. The right style depends on your dress, your veil and your hair type.
Popular bridal hairstyles
- Low chignon — elegant and secure; perfect with a cathedral veil.
- Half-up, half-down — romantic and versatile; lovely with a hair vine.
- Loose Hollywood waves — glamorous, but needs good hold in humid weather.
- Sleek ponytail — modern and great for minimalist gowns.
- Braided styles — beautiful for boho weddings and outdoor ceremonies.
The hair trial
Book a trial two to three months before the wedding. Bring photos of styles you love, your veil or hairpiece, and wear a top with a similar neckline to your dress. Take photos from every angle and in natural light.
A hair prep timeline
- 3–6 months before: regular trims and conditioning treatments.
- 6–8 weeks: final colour appointment.
- 2 weeks: final trim, if needed.
- The day before: wash your hair (most stylists prefer day-old hair for updos — check with yours).
Extensions and volume
Clip-in extensions add volume for thinner hair and are easy to remove for the evening. Discuss this with your stylist at the trial.
When should I book my wedding hairstylist?
Six to twelve months ahead for popular dates, especially if you need them to style bridesmaids too.
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