Georgina Clatworthy

If your busy thinking about potential wedding day hairstyles check out these top tips from leading stylists on the do’s and dont’s for the perfect do (hair-do that is!).

DO book a pre-wedding hair trial and take some photographs. This will help you to see if possible wedding day hairstyles look balanced from all angles. Talk your ideas over with your hairdresser as they will know what will work for you and what won’t.

DON’T forget to choose a style that will suit the shape of your face, as different hairstyles suit different face shapes. You may have a seen a celebrity style that you like but it may not work for you. Instead show it to your hairdresser who may be able to adapt it to suit you or suggest an alternative.

DO take a friend with you when you go for your trial. Do take a picture of your wedding dress too as the neckline on your dress can help with choosing the right style.

DON’T choose a style that is too classic or formal if you are having an informal wedding day, choose something loose and tousled instead.

DO decide on your hair color once you have found your wedding dress as you will be basing that decision on your overall look which will include the color of your hair. If you change your mind later on it may not work, for instance golden blonde with an ivory dress looks amazing but ash blonde with ivory can look dirty.

DON’T choose a big hair style if you need to put your dress on over your head! It might not fit!

DO use special hair masques a few weeks before the wedding day and use specialist color shampoos and conditioners if you have had your hair colored.

DON’T choose hairstyles that could make you taller than your husband-to-be!

DO choose a simple relaxed hairstyle if you are getting married in a hot destination.

DON’T choose a high maintenance style unless you intend to invite your stylist to the wedding! A half-chignon is a flattering look if you have shoulder length or longer hair. It will look formal with a veil added for the ceremony and soft for the rest of the day.

DO choose your accessories carefully. If your hair normally struggles to hold even a simple ponytail then do not choose a large heavy tiara as it will keep slipping. Choose accessories to suit your hair type as they are more likely to stay where you want them.

DON’T add any styling products to your hair on the wedding day before your stylist arrives. They will find it easier to work with if it is clean and fresh.

DO ask your florist to make up a mock version of your headdress if you have a chosen a floral one so your stylist can practise fixing in place before the day.

DON’T apply any hairspray once you have put on your veil as it will yellow the fabric. Better to set your hair with spray first and then add the veil at the last minute.

DO choose your hair flowers to match the season and your other floral arrangements. To make them last longer and to stop them from wilting give them a shot of hairspray once they are in place.