In the UK, as in many parts of the world, a key priority for brides-to-be, is their hair and make-up. Having a polished look is vital when it comes to looking one’s best in photographs and videos, yet interestingly, statistics show this is one of the smallest expenses made at weddings. Long after the DJ has left the building and you’ve popped the last Champagne cork your wedding pictures will be testimony to your big day, and that means that prepping in the months leading up to your big day are key. In this post, we bring readers just a few top trends that celebrities, beauty writers and vloggers are predicting will be big in terms of hair and makeup in 2018.
Hair Colour-Overs
Many brides would love to lighten their hair, but are worried about the frizz and breakage that bleaching can cause. A hair colour-over will set you back less than £150 and will lighten your hair without damaging it. The one-hour session does not involve foils (which can heat and damage hair), and works well with ombre looks in which colour is subtly graduated. A smaller amount of colour is used, so that hair stays silky and shiny and doesn’t fly away or form split ends.
Voluminous Curls
Curls are back in a big way, which is great news for those who wish to avoid the high heat levels of hair straightening and relaxing treatments. Curly hair can take a little more work, but if you keep them well moisturised every day, half the work is done.
Those wishing to sport a natural curly style (kinky, wavy and natural ringlet-graced locks are hotter than pancakes) should condition their hair well in the months leading up to their wedding. Hair shampooing should be limited to around once a week and it is important to use sulfate-free shampoo. Natural oils such as argan and jojoba should be applied when hair is wet (oils can be rinsed off or left in hair), to enable easy combing and prevent the breakage of hair. Finally, a diffuser is the perfect hairstyling tool on your big day. After washing your hair, flip your head over and put your curls into the diffuser bowl, pushing the latter inwards towards your scalp. Start with large portions of air and reduce as curls dry for more bounce and definition.
A Veil with a Difference
Check out hot designer Naeem Khan’s take on bridal hair and veils at his Spring 2018 catwalks shows. Khan encourages brides to go for artistic veils instead of traditional white, with stunning effects. In particular, he has designed colourful veils bearing hand sewn flowers in a bevy of colours, beads, and pearls (he also has stunning wedding dresses in identical materials as his veils). The colour and almost religious iconicism of this look works beautifully with long beach waves, which frame the face naturally and complement the exotic look to perfection.
Low-Key Ponytails
We have seen two types of ponytails on wedding catwalks this season: the ultra sleek straight variety (which goes well with large earrings) and wavy ponytails (which are more romantic and can be tied back with a bow in a bold colour such as blue or even black). This softer look works well with a romantic, lacy dress. Colourful veils also work well with dutch braids, which can frame the face for a romantic half-up hairdo that will look beautiful when you remove your veil.
If we’ve gleaned one thing from the catwalks of Paris, New York or London, it is that diversity is Queen, in fashion as well as in hairstyles. Feel free to go for a casual, wavy look, or surprise your groom with a chic, clean ponytail. Whatever you decide, make sure to care for hair in the months leading up to the wedding, by consuming a healthy diet, steering clear of harsh dyes or treatments, keeping hair hydrated with natural oils, and using sulfate-free shampoos and more natural haircare products whenever possible.
Credit: Jenni Lockley