Deciding on a hairdo for the big day can be almost as tough as picking out the perfect dress. The decision to wear it up or down, super styled or more natural, can really make or break the entire look.
If you’re debating an elegant and simple chignon, sexy Veronica Lake-inspired curls, or a whimsical up ‘do, the summer wedding season opens the door for plenty of versatile bridal hairstyles that will keep you cool while still looking ultra-romantic and feminine.
Whether you’re attending a wedding as the queen B, bridesmaid, or guest, here are six romantic hairstyles to help give you a bit of inspiration:
Hair-Braided Headband: Zoe Saldana offsets her bold and elegant ball gown at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival with tousled curls and a whimsical braid that threads along her mane like a headband. The hair in the crown of her head is teased to add more volume and balanced the rest of the look. Whether you’re attending a black-tie or beachfront wedding, this is a great way to add some edge to your lady-like look.
Short and Sleek
Short-haired gals will love this sleek, pulled-back hairstyle donned by Carey Mulligan at the Tiffany & Co. Great Gatsby Dinner. If you have a bob or pixie cut, this simple yet stylish ‘do will add a touch of sophistication and edge to your overall look; be sure to add some height at the crown of your head by teasing the hair with a fine-tooth comb. This summer hairstyle also keeps your hair out of your face and accentuates your best features, as seen here with Mulligan’s delicate cheek bones.
A Sophisticated Sockbun
We can’t get enough of sockbuns; they’re not only chic and easy to do, but they also keep our hair in place for those sweltering summer days. Here, Lauren Conrad rocks a more sophisticated sockbun by layering and wrapping strands of her hair in the bun. This romantic and playful up ‘do is perfect for garden or outdoor weddings.
Old Hollywood Curls
Jessica Chastain evokes glamour and drama with these Veronica Lake-inspired waves at the 2013 Maui Film Festival. Whether you’re donning a one-shoulder dress as seen on Chastain, a sweetheart silhouette, or a lace bridal gown, you can’t go wrong with this vintage-esque hairstyle; it frames your face, as well as highlights the jewelry and accessories you are wearing.
Classic Up-do
This feminine, A-list up-do worn by Emmy Rossum at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards has a more casual and less contrived feel with tousled hair at the top, as opposed to a sleek, pulled-back look as seen in many up-dos. Minimalistic yet modern, this hairstyle opens up your face and will look beautiful and charming from every angle.
Side Chignon
Frieda Pinto looks effortless at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival in this chic side-swept low bun. Parting her hair to the side gives the chignon more dimension and contrast, and creating messy loose waves softens up this glamorous, show-stopping look. Although it is not pictured here, Pinto’s side chignon is held up together with crystal-encrusted hair pins, which gives this hairstyle an old Hollywood feel.
What do you think of these looks? Tell us in comments!