Updo vs. Down

How to Decide

As you decide how to wear your hair on your wedding day, you might be overwhelmed with possibilities. Pinterest, your mom, your fiancé…it seems everyone has an opinion. It is important to remember that, ultimately, your opinion matters the most.

In years to come, you want to look back on your photos and be glad that you chose the timeless style that flatters the following things: hair, face shape, and dress.

Know Your Hair

Knowing your hair and its capabilities are the most important aspects of choosing your hairstyle. For example, if your hair can’t hold a curl, and you want a curly down style during a hot summer, you may want to consider an updo. You’d be surprised at how far updos have come! Gone are the days of awkward prom updos, and in are the soft, elegant ones that can be created with your preferences in mind.

Example of a bad updo via Napoleon Dynamite: "Ouch."

Conversely, if you know your hair holds curl well and your luscious locks cannot be contained, consider a more casual/ boho look, glam waves, or all down with soft curls for your Big Day. See more examples of wedding hairstyles we have done.

Face Shape

Science says that the oval face shape is the most flattering to the eye. Well, thanks a lot science…what about the rest of us?

Leaving some pieces down around your face (What I’ve affectionately named “wispies”) Is recommended for most hairstyles. These pieces help flatter any face shape and add a softness to the hairstyle that is very beautiful. (They can also hide your ears for those of us that don’t like our ears). Here are more ways to wear your hair down for your wedding.

That said, if you have a more angular face shape and want a more formal style, then the sleek updo could be the perfect option for you.

Dress to Match

Finally, your dress is something that you should definitely consider when planning your hairstyle.

If a lot is going on with your dress, I recommend doing something simpler with your hair. Too much going on can take away from your overall look for the day.

Higher necklines or intricate detailing on the back of your dress could be reasons to put it up. In contrast, if you want to add some movement to your look, it could be a reason to leave it down.

Hair accessories and veils are other items to consider as they relate to your dress. Choose your veil and accessories so that the dress and these items complement each other. We do not want multiple things fighting for attention, or you can look gaudy.

What It Really Comes Down To

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, YOUR opinion ultimately matters the most. My own knowledge and opinions aside, helping you feel content, happy, and beautiful in your own skin is what we strive to do at Effortless Beauty. So if that means wearing leopard print from head to toe on your wedding day, we are here to support you. :)