The season of “ I do’s” is in full swing and this season, softer hairstyles are making an appearance on the wedding aisles and bridal runways. Celebrity hairstylist Frank Barbosa says that soft carefree tresses showcase the bride’s personal style. “The trend now is relaxed, romantic looks that show the real you,” says Barbosa, hairstylist for Sex and the City 2 and co-owner of Frank Antonio Hair and Makeup in Newport, RI. To make this effortless style stress-free for the bride, Barbosa advises setting up a trial run with a month to spare and trimming and coloring hair one week before the wedding.
Fall and winter brides can count on this trend to hold steady for their big day, too. Soft, feminine hair complemented the lavish gowns on the runways of the fall/winter 2010 Bridal Fashion Week in New York City, where Redken Session Stylist Giovanni Giuntoli put a modern spin on three classic styles: an elegant ponytail at Amsale, a playful bun at Christos and a textured French Pleat at Kenneth Pool. “Balance is key,” says Giuntoli, “Just because a dress is simple or the gown is elaborate doesn’t mean the hair has to have the exact same feel.” Here he shares how to get each look:
Kenneth Pool: Prep dry hair with Touch Control 05 and blow-dry to add volume. Next, gather hair into a low ponytail and twist the hair in upon itself, moving to the crown of the head and pinning along the way. To finish, spritz with Vinyl Glam 02 for shine.
Christos: Start with a ponytail at the back of head and spritz with Wool Shake 08, then create a slight bend with a large-barrel iron, swirl and pin into a chignon leaving a 1- to 2- inch tail out. Secure the updo with Headplay 12.
Amsale: Create a strong center part, then curl sections away from the face for movement. Gather hair into a low ponytail and wrap a small piece around the elastic. Key products: Redken Touch Control 05 and Spray Starch 15.
–Jennifer Barnes