Love is in the hair

Top tips for your wedding hair

Hair stylist Ro Abell shares her top tips for wedding hair that looks and feels beautifully ‘you’

Having styled the hair of hundreds of brides over the course of her career to date, hair stylist and salon owner, Ro Abell of RoHAIR (rohair.co.uk) knows what works – and what doesn’t – when it comes to wedding hair. Here, she shares her thoughts for planning and prepping your tresses for the big day.

Plan ahead
As with most of your key suppliers, it is advisable not to delay when it comes to booking your preferred stylist. “It is recommended to book your hairstylist up to a year before your wedding and arrange a trial one-four months prior to the big day,” advises Ro.

A question of style
Start searching for bridal hair inspiration on Pinterest or TikTok and you’ll find an overwhelming deluge of content with everything from sleek buns and pretty twists to boho beach waves – and it’s easy to lose sight of what works for you. “The most important thing is that your hair should be a reflection of your personality, complement your dress and stay in line with the vibe of your day,” asserts Ro. “You want your images to be timeless as well as a nod to current trends – and, above all, you want to look like you!”

“Many of my consultations start with: “I always wear my hair down, but I think it should be up on the day?” Why? I agree an updo is a convenient style as you can be assured that it will stay in place all day, but I want you to feel your best as well as look your best and if that means swishing your hair around like you just don’t care or even having it down around your face as a comfort blanket then so be it,” she continues. “Your hair is a reflection of your identity so let’s keep it real – well, with a few secret ingredients, tools and a good stylist!

Of course, you’ll want to bear some practicalities in mind. “If weather comes into play on the day, you may want to consider a headband or accessory that can keep your hair off your face or sticking to your lip gloss!” says Ro.

Top trends
If you’re in need of inspiration, the latest wedding hair trends are a good place to start. “For 2024, we won't be seeing hair overstyled and there will be less twists and braids. Simple but polished looks will be the way forward with natural texture and understated low buns,” says Ro. “The big bows trend is set to continue – they work wonderfully with a vintage ponytail. Adorning distinctive accessories is a way to play with your personality and textures – think chunky headbands, floating pearls or ceramic flowers. Personally, my favourite accessories trend for 2024 are the mismatched oversized earrings!”

Prep to perfection
So you’ve decided on your big day style and found the perfect accessories – now you want to ensure your hairstyle has staying power from the morning preparations through to the late night shenanigans. “The secret to the longevity of your wedding day hair is prep and this is something to discuss with your stylist at your trial,” says Ro.

The question of whether you should wash your hair the day before your wedding or on the day is a common one. “Don’t let that be a stress or get in the way of your fun. I will ask for hair to be simply clean and dry,” she advises. “It’s preferable for the hair to be rested and not too soft or fluffy, but if there’s a party the night before then washing it in the morning is absolutely fine.”

“I advise double washing your hair using a sulphate and silicone-free shampoo and rinsing it well until you hear it’s squeaky clean. Then use a small amount of conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends, comb it through and rinse again. Squeeze out the excess water,” she says. “For the best results, use a wet volumising spray or mousse and rake it through your hair – this will give you the base for a better hold however you style it. Then blow-dry your hair smooth and simple and leave it down. Refrain from braiding and using tight elastic or anything that may crease the hair.”

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