Q&A Fashion & beauty Look the best version of you with our expert advice HAIR GOALS I want to wear my hair loose for my wedding. How do I make sure it looks its best? It’s all in the preparation! How we wash and dry our locks can greatly impact the style outcome. Bridal hair is always best done on clean hair, preferably washed the night before or the morning of the wedding with two shampoos and a small amount of conditioner followed by drying your hair upside down to create volume from the roots. If you have naturally curly/ wavy hair, you can use a big round brush to smooth out some frizz and curls. A favourite loose style for 2023 is the Hollywood wave, a glamorous style where all the hair is curled in the same direction and lightly brushed into each other to create seamless flowing waves. The best way for these to stay in place is by using a light gel spray before curling each section and then spraying some more to keep the locks in place. The boho beach waves are another popular style over the last few years. It’s created by curling the hair in different directions using salt gel spray and gently combing the locks with a tooth comb or hands. Both styles look beautiful with a headband, or some brides prefer a clip to take back one side of the hair. If you’re going for volume, use volume powder at the root of each section before using a fine comb to tease the hair downwards gently, then choose your preferred end style. Loose hair can also hold a veil at the back, best held in by some backcombing or using two bobby pins to hold everything in place. Invest in some good products, have patience and practice the look to ensure you’re happy with whatever style you go for! Amiee Osborne | Aimee Lauren Hairdressing www.amieelaurenhairdressing.co.uk BRIDAL ESSENTIALS I’m nervous about my first bridal appointment. What can I expect, and what should I take with me? It’s essential to understand exactly what you want before the appointment. Check out wedding blogs, websites and social media pages to find inspiration while saving photos of the dresses you like. You may buy something different to what you’d envisioned, which happens more often than not, but this preparation will reduce the time spent searching for that very outfit. Set a budget for the dress; this way, you won’t try something you cannot afford. Understanding your wedding venue has a huge impact on the style. You’re unlikely to buy a fluffy princess dress for an outside wedding, as the hem would collect earth and blades of grass already at the first pass along the path. Visit both popular stores with an established reputation and lesserknown ones. The former may provide better service, but the prices may be higher. It’s wise not to take more than one or two people with you, maybe a close family member, a good friend or a stylist. The entourage should know your style, figure and budget – they should not criticise. Light make-up is needed, but it’s better to avoid foundation and bright lipstick that could stain the fabric. Wear clothing that’s easy to take off and put on. Opt for neutral and smooth underwear so it doesn’t distort the proportions or texture of the fabrics. You’ll need comfortable shoes, especially if you visit several salons simultaneously. Check out the dresses on the hangers and select the ones you like before they’re brought to the fitting room. After this, the consultant can suggest other outfits. Experienced providers have a keen eye, so they might grab a wild card that will make you look amazing, even if it’s a style you would haven’t considered. After the team will take custom measurements when a gown is chosen, and offer a selection of accessories – veil, shoes, jewellery and outerwear. Don’t buy the first dress you like, but don’t spend months searching either. It becomes incredibly confusing with more fittings and visits, so trust your feelings! Take photos and videos because mirrors can be deceiving. Choose a size that makes you feel comfortable and fits best – even if it’s different from what you’re used to. You’re buying a dress, not a label with numbers sewn onto it. Above all, enjoy the experience! You’re preparing for one of the most beautiful days of your life – savour every moment. Inna Voronova | Inna Voronova Bridal www.inna-voronova.co.uk www.gettyimages.co.uk 67 ASK THE EXPERTS
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