Summer Wedding Hairstyles

Summer is prime wedding season. Between the heat and humidity, it can also be one of the worst times of the year for hair! Check out these ideas for summer wedding hairstyles to keep you looking your best all day long.

In general, the prettiest styles for hair in the summer months are those which are unfussy and not too contrived. Very elaborate and formal hairdos simply don't fit in with the relaxed vibe of summer, especially at an outdoor wedding. On the other hand, throwing your hair up in a ponytail to keep it off your neck like many of us do on a typical steamy August afternoon does not exactly cut it for a wedding. The answer lies somewhere in between, neither too formal nor too sloppy.

Brides with curly hair may have problems with it turning frizzy on a humid day. To combat this, your best bet is to use de-frizzing styling products before your hair is arranged. The key is to work with the nature of your hair, rather than trying to force it into a style for which your hair was never intended. 

A soft updo tamed with an anti-frizz serum with a few loose pieces near the face is ideal for a summer bride. By working with your hair rather than against it, you can achieve a style with staying power. Add some elegance with pretty bridal hair jewelry such as a scattering of hairpins.

Even brides whose hair is normally smooth and well-behaved may have trouble with it on a hot day. The humidity can turn smooth silky tresses into a limp mess. Rather than leaving your hair down, choose a style which will get it up off of your neck. A low bun is chic and pretty, and looks wonderful with this season's most popular type of bridal hair jewelry, the slim headband. Choose a headband which is jeweled with crystals or pearls to match the rest of your bridal jewelry.

Summer is a time for ponytails, and if done right, this can be a great style for a bride. The basic pony that you pull your hair into as you run out the door to the gym is not what we are talking about here; a special occasion ponytail is very smooth and flawless, and should be done by a professional. Most of the time, the crown of the hair will be backcombed before the tresses are smoothed over the top with a light pomade for a perfectly sleek look which also has a touch of lift off the crown. The ponytail itself should also be smooth as silk to give it the appearance of elegance. Cover the elastic band by wrapping a small section of your hair around it. A fresh flower or a small spray of white feathers will be the perfect hair ornament.

An excellent bridal hairstyle for any hair type is a braid. Braids have been making a comeback lately, and they are a terrific way to keep summer hair looking pretty and under control. Best of all, braids can be created to work with the natural texture of the bride's hair. Smooth hair can be plaited into a low sleek braid or curly hair can be more loosely woven. A variation on this is to create several small braids which are then twisted into a low bun. It is a classic hairdo which will be able to withstand any type of summer weather beautifully.  Bridget Mora