If there’s a catchphrase that hairstylists and makeup artists could use to describe the trends they’re seeing in the brides of 2012, it would probably be “simple elegance.” This spring, romance is in the air, and vintage and modern are meshing, resulting in softer, more natural hairstyles, clean lines, and makeup looks inspired by the ’40s and ’50s.
Trendy Style Suggestions for Brides with Short Hair
The look of romance is still possible for brides who don’t want to go through the trouble of growing their hair out months before the big deal. A short style works fantastically with the elegant wedding hair accessories that are currently making big waves in bridal fashion. Experiment with a cage veil, headband or feathers for a chic look.
An updo is not out of the question for brides with short hair either. Hairstylists can add extensions to help you create the look you want.
Classic Style Trends for Brides with Long Hair
Look for styles that have been influenced by retro-vintage looks like the beehive. If you choose to wear your hair down, consider pin curls or loose waves. The formed, tightly quaffed princess bun is out, replaced by looser, less formal updos gathered lower down on the head or at the base of the neck.
Braids are also an updo to consider. They’re a great way to construct your hair’s shape and add unique twists on classic styles. Even the typical ponytail can be glamorous, wear it on one side using pretty hair clasps.
Trends in Bridal Accessories and Makeup
Hair accessories, hair accessories, hair accessories. We can’t say it enough – they’re kind of a big deal. In for bridal 2012 are bows, flowers (usually synthetic) in delicate pastel shades or ivory/white, and slides/hair bands, especially with pearl and crystal embellishments. Tiaras aren’t ranking so high this year, although veils are still popular. Consider pair one of the hot bridal hair accessories with a less elaborate veil to give layers to your look.
Bridal makeup for 2012 is featuring the traditional balance of emphasize eyes vs. emphasize mouth. There’s definitely demand for the Kim Kardashian-style look of smoky eyes, glowing skin and lush, nude lipgloss. On the flipside, you may want to go light and shimmery on the eyes and pair it with bold lips. Hot spring lip colors include berries, fuschia and reds while the trendy colors for fall and winter lip colors look to be earthier like wines and deeper berry tones.
Wedding Preparation Advice for the Bride-To-Be
- Schedule the hair and makeup appointments for you as well as the wedding party well in advance.
- Because your dress will significantly influence your hair and makeup choices, bring a picture of it with you to the stylist. This will assist you in creating the perfect look.
- Do a trial run of your makeup and hairstyle for your wedding day no less than a week prior to your big day, that way if there is a problem you will have time to make different style decisions.
Wedding Day Beauty Tips
- Have false eyelashes applied by your makeup artist. The lashes add fullness and make your eyes look bigger. However, be sure whoever applies your lashes has experience doing so otherwise this could be a difficult task. The last thing you want is for your eyes to be bloodshot because of false eyelash mishaps.
- Having the ability to touch up your makeup on your wedding day is essential. Make sure you bring powder, mascara, lipstick and blush with you in the colors your artist used.
- It is also a good idea to have a miniature package of tissues available, just in case your eyes start to water.
- Remember to use waterproof mascara – even if you’re not a crier, just in case.
- Carry a can of hairspray in your bag. Stay away from the pump sprays for your wedding day as they generally wet your hair, weighing it down. Aerosol hairspray does not have this characteristic.
- If you are wearing an updo that uses bobby pins, be sure to bring a few extra in your bag. A comb would also be beneficial.
When all is said and done, you need to remember to choose a look you feel comfortable with, regardless of current trends. Don’t cave to pressure about “how a bride is supposed to look” – all that really matters is you feel happy and relaxed on your big day.
