Elegant Long Wedding Hairstyles
By Misty Faucheux, eHow Contributor
updated: May 16, 2010
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Curls are a dramatic wedding style for long hair.
back veil hair wedding bride image by Paul Retherford from Fotolia.com
Curls are a dramatic wedding style for long hair.
Wedding hairstyles should complement the dresses and make a statement at the same time. If the hairstyle is for the bridesmaids, it should be understated so that it doesn’t detract from the bride’s hairstyle. Women with long hair have several options for wedding hairstyles, which can include a ponytail elegantly cascading down the back, curled hair and loosely styled layers. Keep your hair accessories simple. For example, pearls will highlight any color dress.
Ponytails
Pull long hair into a ponytail that cascades down the back. For extra embellishment, use a curling iron or hot rollers to create curls after the hair is up. Use bobby pins to flatten the top of the hair. Bobby pins can match your hair to blend in or have special adornments that match the dress, such as rhinestones. Use barrettes instead of hair ties to give hair a fuller, more polished look.

Ponytails can either cascade straight down your back or sweep to the side. For side hairstyles, use pins near the nape of the neck to hold the ponytail in place.

Ponytails work well with princess ballgowns, and you can use a tiara to complete the princess look.
Loose Hair
Pull your hair off the face with barrettes or pin curls, leaving only curls that accentuate the face. Curl the rest of the hair with a curling iron or hot rollers so that it cascades down your back.

Use a saltwater style spray for outside or beach weddings. This will make your hair seem more voluminous and will thicken thin hair. Layer hair to create the appearance that hair is fuller. Use tiaras made with flowers or simple designs to give loose hair a more elegant look.
Loose Bun
Pull hair into a loose, low bun at the back of the neck. This style works well with strapless dresses. Allow a few curls to accentuate the face. Use this style for thin hair, which will give the appearance that hair is fuller. To adorn the simple style, add a tiara, flowers, decorative headbands or clips with precious or semi-precious jewels that coordinate with the dress.
Soft Waves
Hair with volume will go well with sleeveless dresses. Create soft waves with volume for a princess look. Blow dry hair to create volume and add shine, and then use a barrel curling iron to create soft waves. Allow curls to cascade around shoulders. Use hairspray to hold them in place. Add a tiara to hold your hair back, but allow some curls to hang down and surround the face.

Alternatively, try sweeping hair to the side for a dramatic look. Hold hair in place with bobby pins at the base of the neck. Add flowers to the opposite side, starting by the ear and following the line that the hair makes. Use bobby pins to hold the flowers.

Read more: Elegant Long Wedding Hairstyles | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6520483_elegant-long-wedding-hairstyles.html#ixzz0zs7uRCco

The perfect hairstyle for a wedding adds elegance to the event. When considering styles for long hair, evaluate your overall face shape to decide upon the most flattering look. From modern updos to traditional braids and curls, the dream hairstyle for your wedding is just a few hairstyling tools away.

Face & Style Types
For an oval-faced woman, a tightly pulled back updo with bangs is considered flattering, as it accents the eyes and shows off your symmetrical features. Women with a round face look best with French twist styles with off-center parts and features to add length to the face. Heart-shaped faces benefit most from half-and-half updos, where half of the hair is pulled up and the other half left down, adding bangs and wisps around the face. Women with rectangular faces benefit most from updos with an off-center part, but should avoid barrel curls on the top of the head, as it adds unflattering length to the face. Finally, those with a square face benefit most from wearing their hair down and curled, as length is added to the face.
Preparations
A trial styling should be scheduled at least one month before the event to allow the bride to pick the best hairstyle. Bring any barrettes, combs or flowers that will be added to the practice session to ensure they are properly experimented with and will look flattering with the desired hairstyle. Hair should not be washed the day of the wedding, as the natural oils in hair provide greater shine and texture for the style.

Half updo.
An updo is created by gathering the hair into either a ponytail or French twist. Styles that are more modern will pin the curled hair into a design to create a well-rounded and flattering style. Depending on a bride’s facial structure, ringlets, wisps or bangs can accent the most flattering features. A half updo pins up the top half of the hair and leaves the bottom half down. The half that is left down is usually curled.

Pulled back with curls.
Perfectly placed strands of hair are pulled away from the face in a pulled-back style. Barrettes and pins may be used to create an elegant design, with wisps or ringlets added, depending on the facial structure. Occasionally the top layers will be curled using a smaller barreled iron to create body and distinction, while the lower layers are curled with a large-barrel curling iron.
Braid

Apple blossom braid.
Sometimes the most neglected and yet by far the most traditional bridal hairstyle is braids, which is exceptional for brides with long and thick hair. Braids can be created in the shape of a crown, or formed into strands and allowed to run down the bride’s back. In a more modern style, braids are placed down the sides to form a half crown and then the remaining hair is curled and left down. Wisps and ringlets can be left out of the braid to complement the bride’s

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Formal updos are a popular wedding style.
up do hair wedding bride girl image by Paul Retherford from Fotolia.com
Formal updos are a popular wedding style.
The wedding day is a chance for every bride to look her best and the hairdo is an important part of making that happen. Brides with long hair can pull off a variety of styles, from formal updos to simply letting their hair down. Have your stylist do a test run before the wedding to ensure it comes out as you envision it.
Vintage Curls
Vintage curls often show up on women with short hair, but this style works fine for long hair as well. In this style, the hair curls up against the head and trickles down. Think Grace Kelly, classic and regal. Get this look by pinning curls away from the face and add in decorative barrettes or combs. A short blusher veil complements this look well.
Ponytails and Buns
Ponytails are not just for running errands. A parted and sleek ponytail held with a feather studded holder works well for a natural bride or a garden wedding setting. Buns are also easy and elegant wedding hairstyles. A knotted bun offers a clean and easy look. Fancy it up with a decorative pin on the side or a tie wrapped around. Ponytails and buns are a smart bet if you plan on wearing your veil to the reception as well as the ceremony. A classic long veil with detailing such as rhinestones, beading or a satin edging works well with these styles.
Straight and Simple
Be yourself on your wedding day and wear your hair straight down as you normally would. Add some flair with a headband or wear an ultra short veil that does not touch your shoulders for a bit of style.
French Twist
French twists are formal, easy and will stay put during your busy day. This simple, classic style works well with long hair and can be done by a skilled friend, which can save you money on a professional stylist. A cathedral train veil or long bell shaped veil would give the bride’s hair more fullness and accentuate the line of her neck.
Elaborate Updo
Updos are the traditional wedding hairstyle. There are countless variations on this classic style and it works well for people with long hair. Any length of veil would work as long as it is held in place with a comb under the updo so the hairstyle can be clearly seen and is not flattened by the veil.

Read more: Wedding Hairstyle Ideas for Long Hair | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6866111_wedding-hairstyle-ideas-long-hair.html#ixzz0zs8u8r3f

Long curly wedding hairstyles are very versatile. A more relaxed curly style can be both sexy and romantic. Curly wedding styles can be casual or very formal and can complement your dress to complete your wedding day look. Take care of your curly locks before your wedding with deep conditioning treatments and heat protection, and you will have beautiful curls for your big day.

Curl Types
You can choose from a variety of curls for your long curly wedding hairstyle: soft and natural curls, big and bouncy curls, tight and springy curls or flowing waves. Each type of curl will give you a completely different look.
Styles
Wear your hair down or pulled halfway back for a romantic and relaxed style. Pull your bangs into a bouffant bump at your forehead, or pull the sides back and tease the hair at the crown of your head.
Formal Versus Playful
Pull your hair up into a pile of curls on top of your head. Use pin curls for a more formal look, or let the curls sit naturally and slightly more loosely for a more playful look.
Preparation
Arrange with your stylist to practice your curly wedding style before the wedding. This will help her get accustomed to your hair type and give you a chance to figure out exactly what you want.
Care
Meet with your stylist for a trim a few weeks before your big day so that you can get rid of all of your dead, unhealthy hair. Get a recommendation on a conditioning treatment for your hair so it can be fully hydrated and healthy on the day of your wedding.

Read more: Long & Curly Wedding Hairstyles | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_5772428_long-curly-wedding-hairstyles.html#ixzz0zs9Jfbc4

A long veil allows for both updos and loose hairstyles.
The bridal veil dates back to ancient Rome. Brides wore veils to fend off evil spirits as the bride and groom joined together in matrimony. Veils also symbolized purity, as did the white dress. Brides continue to wear veils today. There are many great hairstyles that work well with long, flowing veils.
Chignon
A chignon literally means “nape of the neck” in French. The style is a loop bun at the nape of the neck, with either the hair pulled back in a side part or pulled straight back. The hair can either be flat to the head or can have waves flowing back to the bun. This style works well with a long veil since there isn’t much to complicate the veil comb’s placement.
Upswept Updo
An updo is a classic wedding day hairstyle. It entails wearing all of the hair in the back and having it curled, layered, and pinned down to the back of the head. The front of the hair is swept back. This is a great style that is also sturdy. Updos work well with longer veils because they add lift to the top of the veil. Or, the veil can be placed below the style to create a cascading look. Be sure to have an updo tested with the veil before the wedding day, since sometimes veil comb placement can be tricky with intricate styles.
Partial Updo
A half-up, half-down style can look beautiful on any bride. The style is very versatile and can be worn straight, wavy, or curly. To give yourself a really romantic look, be sure to have volume around the top and crown of the head where the hair is pulled back. This helps draw the eye upward, making your face look thinner. Place the veil up near where the hair is secured.
Flowing Curls
Long veils complement simple hairstyles very well. A great simple, romantic hairstyle is flowing curls. This look can be achieved with hot rollers or a curling iron. Once you have curled your hair, run your fingers through it to give your style a flowing, fairytale look. Place the veil comb near the top of the crown of the head.

Read more: Wedding Hairstyles That Look Good With Long Veils | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6002514_wedding-look-good-long-veils.html#ixzz0zs9rYJCb

A bride with long hair has the option of wearing her hair fully down, partially pulled back or in an up-do, as length allows for a wide selection of hairdos. Accessorizing a long wedding hairdo with flowers gives off a romantic, bohemian look and can add color and style to compliment any season, gown or motif. Flowers can be tucked, pinned and sprayed into the hair, worn under a veil and glued onto a clip to pull a bride’s hair back.
Up-do Flowers
Brides wearing sleek up-dos such as a French twist or chignon may consider accessorizing the lines of the up-do with flowers. Ideas include tucking flowers into the top, bottom or side of an up-do or outlining the exterior of a twist or bun. Accenting an up-do hairstyle with flowers can be accomplished by using multiple flowers or one large accent flower. Flowers that match the colors of the bridesmaids’ dresses, seasonal flowers in bloom or roses are options. Flowers can be pinned into the hair using bobby pins and may be tucked into headbands or made into tiaras and veils to compliment a tight, long hair up-do.
Romantic Flowers
Brides wearing their hair down, partially pulled back or in a loose, low ponytail may consider dispersing delicate flowers such as baby’s breath, jasmine, daisies or hibiscus throughout their hair for a soft, romantic look. Partially pulled back hair may be complimented by flowers where it is held together in the back. Flowers can be fastened into the hair with bobby pins or clips. A veil can be worn over the flowers during the ceremony and taken off for the reception, offering two looks for the day.
Face-Framing Flowers
Various types of flowers can frame the face or be worn like a tiara, holding the front of the hair back from the face. Silk or fresh flowers may be glued to headbands to create this look. Long hair may be swept back on one side with a clip adorned with tropical flowers such as plumeria or gardenia to accent beach or summer weddings. Wearing a flower behind the left ear is a South Pacific tradition, representing that a woman is married, which is appropriate for a long hair wedding hairstyle.

Read more: Hairstyles for Long Hair With Flowers for Weddings | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_5914682_hairstyles-long-hair-flowers-weddings.html#ixzz0zsAHsjZA

There’s a reason so many women grow their hair out for weddings–choices. After all, when it comes to a wedding, your hairstyle is one of the most important accessories. And don’t forget the power of flourishes: tiaras, jeweled clips, fanciful headbands and orchids can turn everyday locks into a work of elegance. With long hair, the options are boundless. Simply select a style that best matches your personality, dress and veil. Whatever you choose, make sure you do a test run prior to the wedding date.

Faux Bob
Get the alluring look of a bob without cutting one lock. Apply a volumizer to the roots. Curl your hair, section by section, then use your fingers to distribute a styling wax throughout. This not only defines your curls, it adds shine. Divide hair into sections: two sides and back. Divide the back section in two–top and bottom. Tease the bottom half and then make a low ponytail. Twist and pin under to provide a base in which to pin the other sections. Let the top back section down, slightly twist and pin. Tease the crown for a bit more volume. Comb the sides back, twist and pin. Pick out loose waves to frame your face. Finish with hairspray.
Greek Goddess
The Greek goddess hairstyle is a partial updo. Apply volumizer then divide hair–top and bottom. Starting with the bottom half, curl 2-inch sections with a medium curling iron. Unpin the top section and curl larger sections of hair, making sure to avoid the roots. Separate at least a 4-inch section of hair on one side, twist and secure in back with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side. Spray a hint of hairspray on hands and gently comb fingers through the hair that remains down. Spray hairspray on the hair that has been pinned.
The Pony
Dress up a ponytail up by adding height and volume. Brush hair with a natural boar bristle brush until smooth and sleek. Brush back into a high ponytail and secure with a bungee cord. Section off a couple inches of hair and wrap around the bungee cord several times. Secure with bobby pins above and below the elastic. Whisk bangs to the side; this will draw attention to your eyes.
Sleek Updo
The sleek updo takes its cue from the pony. Simply brush back hair into a smooth ponytail. Braid hair from base, down and secure with another bungee cord. Wrap the braid around the base of ponytail and secure with bobby pins.
Side Bun
Nothing says glamor quite like the side bun. Section and spray hair with a flexible hold hairspray before styling for better hold. Part your hair to your preference. Brush hair down to a side ponytail; secure at the nape of your neck with a bungee cord. Part the ponytail in two, and twist sections around each other. Pin close to the scalp. Comb bangs to the side and spray to finish.
Down
If you’re longing for hair that begs to be touched, leave your hair down with a soft, tussled look. Create loose curls with a flatiron and apply a medium holding spray. Depending on the cut, you may want to gently pull hair off your face and secure with bobby pins.

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Curl long hair for a romantic look.
back veil hair wedding bride image by Paul Retherford from Fotolia.com
Curl long hair for a romantic look.
Whether you’ve always had long hair or you grew your tresses out for your wedding, you want to choose a hairstyle specifically suited to your long locks. Long hair gives you the advantage of numerous possible styles, but your long hair will also take longer to style and your hairdresser may charge more for that added time. Have a “hair trial” to work out any kinks or make style adjustments before your big day.
Fingerwave
A finger wave is a classic 1940s Hollywood look that works well with long hair. Bring pictures of silent film starlets such as Greta Garbo, Clara Bow and Billie Dove to your hairstylist for inspiration. Use plenty of hairspray and setting gel to keep your glamorous waves in place.
Bun or Chignon
A tight bun or chignon is a relatively easy do-it-yourself hairstyle for long hair. In a chignon, you roll your hair like in a bun, but you wear the roll in a “U” shape at the nape of your neck. Secure your bun or chignon with bobby pins in your hair color.
Partial Updo
A partial updo is a great choice if you want to pull part of your hair away from your face but let your long hair cascade down your back. Let ringlets of curls dangle in front of your ears to frame your face and help conceal large or protruding ears.
Formal Updo
A French twist, upsweep with curls and a braided updo are three choices if you want to wear all of your hair up in a formal hairstyle. Formal updos for long hair will generally require at least an hour of work by a professional hairstylist.
Curls
Long, smooth or flowing curls are a romantic look for long hair. Divide your hair into sections and curl with a spiral curling iron to create this look on your own. If you’re wearing a veil, choose a veil that is longer than your hair.

Read more: Long Hairstyles for Brides | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6100610_long-hairstyles-brides.html#ixzz0zsBNxuuu

Just because a bride-to-be has long flowing tresses, it doesn’t mean she has to opt for a tight updo to sweep her tresses away from her smiling face. Whether it is long and flowing, partially up or in a comfortable and fashionable updo, the bride’s long hair can look perfect in a variety of styles with the help of a few accessories throughout the wedding day.

Long and Flowing Bridal Hair
Add curls, and allow them to flow down the bride’s back with full princess-style dresses. Use crystal-encrusted pins to pull back bangs or any short hairs around the front of her face. Secure a tiara-style comb to help keep the tresses to her back. Add ribbons that match the wedding colors, tiny faux diamonds or crystals on clips for a touch of sparkle and color.

Pair a halo-style tiara with long straight hair flowing down the bride’s back. This looks great with a slender, form-fitting bridal gown, enhancing the sleek gown choice.
Half Up & Half Down Bridal Hair
Secure the bride’s bangs with a comb, allowing the back of the hair to flow freely. Use two combs if a part is desired, and secure hair on each side of the head for a romantic princess style. The hair can be loose or in tiny braids.

Comb bangs and hair from both sides of the head back to a loose flat ponytail. Use ribbons or a decorative clip to secure the hair. Add curls or flat iron for straight hair, or use the ponytail as the start for a small bun. Twist the hair, and secure with a bun cover woven with ribbon or tiny flowers.
Updo Bridal Hair
Sweep hair up into a loose French twist. Secure the hair with beaded clips. Use the end of a straight comb to pull tiny sections of hair from the top of the twist. Use a curling iron to make tiny ringlets or chunky waves.

Secure the bride’s hair in a bun, and pull a tiny amount of bangs from the left and right sides, allowing a small amount of hair to fall to the front of her face. Use a small amount of gel spray to form two defined sprigs of hair, one on each side of the face, creating a frame. Let them hang straight, or allow them to dry and use an iron to add one small ringlet curl.

Read more: Best Way – Long Bridal Hair Styles | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/way_5390860_long-bridal-hair-styles.html#ixzz0zsBuJmZt