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Spring/summer 2012 wedding hair trends

As models strutted down the runway in jaw-dropping bridal gowns from designers’ spring collections, complementary hairstyles graced each look with perfection. Every year, I keep a close eye on looks from the runways and get inspired by trends and new styles. The key to a timeless look is translating trends to fit the bride, whether off the runway or red carpet. It’s all about recreating and refreshing looks to fit your dress, overall look and wedding style. If you want to take the runway and red carpet hairstyles to the aisle, you’re in luck!

Classic chignons

Carrie Underwood -- Classic chignons

Tip: Having trouble finding the perfect hair accessory? To cut costs and find something to match your dress, try looking for a light-weight brooch. A veteran hairstylist can easily secure it to your chignon!

Chignons are classic, glamorous and can even be modern, so you can’t go wrong with this timeless hairstyle. With a little bit of volume and just enough messiness, you can create an effortlessly romantic chignon. Is your wedding dress simple? Add some bling to your hair! Accessories are a great touch. Try rhinestones, smoked jewels or crystal-encrusted floral hair pins. Always consider your wedding dress and jewels when selecting a hair accessory. If your dress and jewels are over-the-top, keep it simple with your hair.

Photo credit: Nikki Nelson/WENN.com

Side swept braids

Selena Gomez --Side swept braids

Tip: If you have angles that start very high, ask your stylist for a little extra TLC when choosing a hairstyle. Fly-away strands may leave you with a braided mess. You can have this hairstyle altered to fit your hair cut and texture.

Braids were extremely popular in 2011. This time around, incorporate the braid into more of an updo. It’s a great detail in photos and adds nice loose texture to the hair. You can carry over your braid to one side. Pulling your hair off to the side will transform a braid into a soft look and bring out your facial features. Most off to the side styles complement just about any face shape. If you have a strapless wedding dress, the side style will complement it perfectly! An accessory or natural flowers just at the top of the braid are a nice touch depending on your dress fit. Try side swept bangs to complement your ‘do.

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Audrey top knot

Kim Kardsashian -- Audrey top knot

The loose and textured looks are a huge favorite and will continue to be throughout the spring. However, if you are not used to having volume and you prefer something more sleek, I highly recommend what I call the “Audrey (Hepburn) Top Knot”. The great thing about the Audrey is that you can accessorize this hairstyle beautifully. The Audrey is a high bun with a very clean finish and was recently sported by Jennifer Lopez at the Oscars. A bridal headband is the perfect accessory to complete this look.

Tip: This hairstyle works best with petite face frames. Try bold lipstick for an ultra-glam look.
Photo credit: Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

Vintage glam

Vintage glam -- Reese Witherspoon

Tip: If you plan to do your own hair, make sure you use a hair care product to tame your waves. You do not want to end up with flat hair or a frizzy mess.

Vintage beauty and the beauty of the spring season have one thing in common — no matter how many times you see it, it never gets old. Vintage is always a highly sought after style and nonetheless beautiful as always. Vintage looks can be created with down styles or up styles and can incorporate modern touches. Stay clear of spiral curls and go for soft waves that last through the night. The hairstyle may end up being softer at the reception’s end — but still beautiful. Adding a twist will give your wedding hairstyle a more romantic look.

Photo credit: Nikki Nelson/WENN

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