There was a time when Indian brides used to visit beauty parlours for elaborate hairstyles, with the 'set', pinned up and sprayed look. However, the obviously structured look is now out of fashion. Nowadays, the more natural look is in trend and is influencing bridal hairstyles.Hairstyle and faceNormally, a hairstyle should be selected according to the shape of the face. Most hairstyles suit an oval face, but very few faces are perfectly ovals. A round face needs a style that will lengthen it. A straight hairstyle with a centre parting would help. Have a style that adds height, but avoid styles that add width at the ear level. Keep the forehead free of fringes and curls. The hair falling straight down to shoulder level would be flattering.
Square faces need to be softened with a style that falls around the face in soft curves and curls. Never pull the hair back or up, if you have a square face, as this would emphasise the square structure. A side parting, a fall of hair at the temples, with the rest coming down and curling forward at the jaw line has a softening effect. A soft fringe on the forehead helps a long face to look engrossing. The hair should not be allowed to fall straight down, as this would give an impression of length. Instead, choose a style that adds width at the sides, if you have a long face.
For cocktails and dinners before the wedding, left open long hair, with a combination of waves and curls would look glamorous. This style can be layered while keeping to the length, well below shoulder level. The curls should be towards the lower half of the hair.
For the wedding day, many brides prefer the traditional Indian look with flowers. Part of the hair can be put up while a part is left open, which is falling over one shoulder, along with a cascade of flowers. A garland of flowers can also be wrapping around the part that is left open. Among other decorations, one can have tiny glittering stones or diamante for adorning the hair.
The hair can be decorated with fancy
joora pins, decorative combs and even a piece of jewellery. For example, a gold brooch or locket can be pinned in the centre, if the hair is put up. Tiny flowers can also be attached all over the hair, if it is put up. If you wish to go for a really casual look, long hair can be left open with a slightly tousled look. Use wreaths of flowers as hair accessories.
The style should reflect and suit the personality of the bride and the style of her attire. A very traditional bridal dress may go well with a traditional bridal hairstyle. The bridal dress and colours should also be taken into consideration, especially if one wants colouring done. The texture and kind of hair should also be considered. For instance, very fine hair may be crimped or cut in a way that adds more fullness. It also pays to take into consideration one’s height or body frame. For example, a tall frame with a large face and bone structure needs a full hairstyle.
A short, plump body would be helped by a style that is cut to jaw level, with a smooth look. This would emphasise the neck to give an impression of height. The main idea is to bring a better balance to the features.
If you want a romantic look, have ringlets falling just below shoulder level. Cascades of flowers falling over one shoulder, as mentioned above, would also look romantic. The hair should give a soft look to the face for a romantic look. Long, wavy, left open hair can be elegant and romantic. Large rollers can be used. The hair should be away from the face. For a romantic look, the hairdo should not be too elaborated. A simple look works better.
For those who want to cover their hair, organzas, tissues and even sheer nets can be used for the
odhni, with a see-through look, so that the hair style, flowers or and hair accessories are visible. Organzas and nets are crisp and light and much easier to wear and carry.
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