Ask the Expert

What’s Happening in Bridal Hair Trends

All about bridal hair with Marsha Coleman & Tammy Coleman of La Bichette.

What’s happening in bridal hair now?
Many brides are using braids with accents like roses and lavender to create a sophisticated yet easy look. Another option might be a single braid strategically placed to frame a loose, deconstructed bun. We are also seeing more pieces such as rhinestone brooches, fresh flowers, and Bohemian-style headbands that rest on the head in addition to the more traditional veils. Vintage-style veils continue to be wildly popular to complement a 1920s glam bride. Generally speaking, we’ve found that most brides don’t want to look drastically different than they normally do. If a bride feels most glamorous (not to mention comfortable) with her hair down, then she’s going to do dreamy, voluminous, cascading curls, perhaps half loosely pinned. (Think something like Kate Middleton.)

What can a bride do to prepare her hair?
Do deep conditioning masks regularly during the countdown.

What kind of products do you recommend?
We love Oribe’s Superfine hair spray for flexible, brushable control. The Superfine Strong provides the ultimate hold for updos or curls. Both products have a lustrous, natural shine to them so they won’t dull down hair. Best of all, they come in purse sizes so that bridesmaids can swiftly take care of any emergency situation! Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray is a godsend for those in need of texture, root lift, or voluptuous hair.

How does the trial-and-error process work?
We encourage every bride to do at least one trial hair and makeup appointment. This ensures that both bride and stylist/makeup artist are on the same page before the big day. One of our brides tried a different updo for special occasions during the course of six months to test-drive a variety of looks. The trial is the time to figure out the mechanics of how to make everything come together so that the day is all about cherishing the moment.

How much time does an appointment take?
For trial hair and makeup, we allot a couple of hours. A bride should never be rushed. Give yourself plenty of time to relax and enjoy the moment. Should you wash your hair the day of your wedding? Definitely not if you’re doing an updo.

What are some fun hair accessories that you use?
Fresh flowers, vintage-inspired brooches, and even Bohemian-style headbands are becoming the new standard in feminine, playful wedding accessories. Basically anything goes, so long as the bride loves it (and it doesn’t overshadow the hair).

Can you accommodate an entire bridal party? How does that work? Does a bride have to rent out the entire space?
Yes, we regularly have the entire bridal party (and sometimes the house party, too) at the salon for several hours. Normally, if it’s planned far enough in advance, they are the only clients in the salon at that time, which makes a festive, relaxed, and memorable experience. Add that with our girly Parisian aesthetic, pink bubbly (mimosas, too!), laughter, and someone to document the moment! The only reason to rent out the salon is if you want exclusivity for your guests and your group is smaller.

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