South African Brides: Tips For Choosing The Best Bridal Hairstyle

    Are you a yet-to-be bride looking forward to having the best hairstyle for your wedding? Check out these bridal hair tips before.

    South Africa is renowned for its warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it a dream destination for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience. From the golden beaches of Durban to the majestic mountains of the Drakensberg and the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands, South Africa offers a plethora of breathtaking venues for couples to say “I do” surrounded by the people they love.

    Weddings are undeniably one of the most significant days in a woman’s life. It’s a day when dreams come true, love is celebrated, and memories are made to last a lifetime. As such, aside from the perfect backdrop that the Rainbow Nation provides for the couple, the bride’s look is always a thing that women take seriously.

    The choice of a wedding hairstyle is as important as the choice of your bridal gown. Besides, these two should be in harmony with each other and the style of your wedding.

    Every bride has her likings, preferences, individual hair texture, and length. Luckily, there are so many stunning black wedding hairstyles, that there shouldn’t be any problem for brides to choose something that will duly reflect their beauty.

    Bride hairstyles - Natural Curls with Flower Headpiece. Image Source: Shane and Lauren Photography
    Bride hairstyles – Natural Curls with Flower Headpiece. Image Source: Shane and Lauren Photography

    The Essence of Hairstyles for Women on Their Wedding Day

    When it comes to weddings, every detail matters and the choice of hairstyle is no exception. A woman’s hairstyle on her wedding day is more than just a practical consideration; it’s a reflection of her style, personality, and the overall aesthetic of the wedding. The right hairstyle can enhance a bride’s natural beauty, complement her wedding dress, and add a touch of glamour and elegance to her overall look.

    For a lot of women, their wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to look and feel like royalty. There are countless alternatives for wedding hairstyles, ranging from tight buns and elaborate braids to romantic updos and cascading curls, per Elegant Wedding Invites. The ideal hairdo is crucial to achieving the bridal look of a bride’s aspirations, regardless of her view of herself as a current trendsetter, boho queen, or classic beauty.

    Bridal hair: Pompadour and Double Chignon. Image Source: Instagram/Hair Guru Studio
    Bridal hair: Pompadour and Double Chignon. Image Source: Instagram/Hair Guru Studio

    Choosing Your Wedding Hairstyle: Best Tips

    Choosing your wedding hairstyle is almost as important as selecting your dress. Making sure you have the right style that matches your personality and wedding aesthetic is key. Here are the tips every yet-to-be bride should know:

    1. Consider Your Dress and Overall Style

    When choosing a wedding hairstyle, it’s essential to consider the style and neckline of your wedding dress. A sleek, sophisticated updo may complement a classic ballgown or mermaid silhouette, while soft, romantic curls may be the perfect match for a bohemian or vintage-inspired dress. Take into account the overall aesthetic of your wedding, as well as your style and preferences, to ensure that your hairstyle harmonizes with the rest of your look.

    2. Factor in Your Hair Type and Length

    Your natural hair type and length will also play a significant role in determining the best hairstyle for your wedding day. If you have long, thick hair, you may have more options for elaborate updos and intricate braids. On the other hand, if you have short or fine hair, you may need to consider styles that work with your hair texture and length, such as soft waves or a chic pixie cut. Consulting with a hairstylist who specializes in wedding hairstyles can help you find the perfect style for your hair type and length.

    3. Take Inspiration from South African Culture and Traditions

    South Africa is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, each with its unique hairstyles and hair accessories. Drawing inspiration from South African culture can add a meaningful and personal touch to your wedding hairstyle. Whether it’s incorporating traditional beaded accessories, like the Zulu iziqhaza or Xhosa umakoti, or styling your hair in a traditional African-inspired braid or twist, embracing your heritage can make your wedding hairstyle truly unforgettable.

    4. Schedule a Trial Run with Your Hairstylist

    Before your wedding day, it’s essential to schedule a trial run with your hairstylist to test out different hairstyles and ensure that you’re happy with the final look. Bring along photos of hairstyles you love, as well as any hair accessories or veils you plan to wear, to help your hairstylist understand your vision. Be open to trying different styles and providing feedback to your hairstylist to ensure that you achieve the perfect hairstyle for your wedding day.

    5. Consider the Weather and Location

    The weather and location of your wedding can also influence your choice of hairstyle. If you’re getting married outdoors in the hot South African sun, you may want to opt for a hairstyle that will withstand the heat and humidity, such as an updo or braided style. Similarly, if you’re getting married in a windy coastal location, you’ll want to choose a hairstyle that will stay in place and look flawless throughout the day.

    6. Don’t Forget About Hair Accessories

    Hair accessories can add the perfect finishing touch to your wedding hairstyle, whether it’s a sparkling tiara, delicate hairpins, or a statement-making headpiece. Consider your overall bridal look and the style of your dress when choosing hair accessories, and opt for pieces that complement your hairstyle without overpowering it. Your hairstylist can help you select the perfect accessories to complete your bridal look.

    7. Prioritize Comfort and Wearability

    While you want your wedding hairstyle to look stunning in photos, it’s also essential to prioritize comfort and wearability. Choose a hairstyle that you feel comfortable wearing for an extended period and that will allow you to move and dance freely throughout the day. Avoid hairstyles that are overly tight or restrictive, as they may become uncomfortable over time.

    8. Invest in Hair Care Leading Up to the Wedding

    In the weeks leading up to your wedding, invest in a good hair care routine to ensure that your hair looks its best on the big day. Treat yourself to regular trims to keep your hair healthy and free of split ends, and consider scheduling a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask to nourish and hydrate your locks. Healthy, well-maintained hair will provide the perfect canvas for your wedding hairstyle, ensuring that it looks radiant and beautiful from every angle.

    9. Coordinate with Your Makeup and Accessories

    Your wedding hairstyle should complement your makeup and accessories to create a cohesive and polished bridal look. Coordinate with your makeup artist to ensure that your hairstyle and makeup work together harmoniously, and choose accessories that enhance the overall aesthetic of your bridal ensemble. Whether it’s bold lip color, dramatic eye makeup, or sparkling jewelry, every element of your bridal look should come together seamlessly to create a stunning and cohesive result.

    10. Trust Your Instincts and Be True to Yourself

    Above all, trust your instincts and be true to yourself when choosing your wedding hairstyle. It’s essential to feel confident and comfortable with your hairstyle choice, as it will be a reflection of your personality and style on your wedding day. Don’t be afraid to speak up and communicate your preferences to your hairstylist, and be open to trying different styles until you find the one that feels just right. Ultimately, the best wedding hairstyle is one that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to walk down the aisle with grace and poise.

    Wedding Hairstyle Types

    There are various types of wedding hairstyles for brides. These include:

    Updos

    Updos are one of the most popular hairstyles for brides due to the vast creations available. An updo can look very formal, with each hair intricately placed or undone for a more whimsical feel. You can also add bridal jewelry to enhance the hairstyle and add more flair. 

    Down Hairstyles

    Down hairstyles typically range from a classic bouncy blowout and soft waves to sleeker styles tucked behind the ears.

    These styles add a touch of playfulness to a formal setting like a wedding and can be versatile in styling. Most brides feel more comfortable wearing their hair down because it feels more like “them.”

    Natural Hairstyles

    Natural hairstyles are just as versatile as any other hairstyle. Natural bridal styles are just as varied as traditional styles, with more texture to the hair. You have chignons, upsweeps, ponytails, half-up, and half-down—they run the gamut.

    Chignons or Low Buns

    You can also opt for a chignon or low bun if you prefer your hair out of your face for the big day. This is also one of the best ways to show off your dress if you have a detailed back or other design elements to spotlight. A chignon or low bun also stays put throughout a day of events and a night of dancing. That means you won’t have to worry about your hair falling or losing its bouncy curls.

    Curls

    Curls are a very versatile hairstyle for brides. Vintage curls make any gown look romantic! These curls are on the glam side and have a tighter look to them. You can pin the curls up out of your face or sweep them to the side for extra drama.

    There are also loose curls and beachy waves. These curls fall and sweep past your shoulders. They create a more relaxed yet gorgeous look for your big day. Beach waves are the perfect pairing if you have a mermaid silhouette dress.

    Ponytails

    Ponytails are another style to consider on your wedding day. You can choose a fun and flirty high ponytail with loose waves or curls or a sleek low ponytail that looks oh-so-chic. 

    Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyles

    And, if you can’t decide on a hairstyle, there is always a half-up, half-down option. Have your stylist gather the top portion of hair into a ponytail, then determine what to do with the unrestrained tresses at the bottom—you can straighten or curl it.

    Braided Crown. Image Source: Photo: Tresses by Cris

    Conclusion

    A lot of thought must go into selecting the ideal wedding hairstyle in South Africa, taking into account things like hair type, dress style, cultural customs, and individual tastes. Brides can design a breathtaking and unforgettable bridal look that captures their style and individuality by heeding these suggestions and collaborating closely with an experienced hairstylist. The options for wedding hairstyles are boundless, allowing brides to express themselves and feel radiant on their special day. From romantic updos to bohemian braids and everything in between.