7 Wedding Hair Trends That Every Bride Should Consider

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As we approach prime wedding season for 2016, we have our eyes on one important part of the bridal look: the hair. After all, when you're walking down the aisle, you want your mane to look just as gorgeous from the back.

While traditional bridal hairstyles like curls or classic updos will never go out of style, this year's trends suggest that the modern bride may be ready for some updates. From veil alternatives and bright accessories to more low-key looks, the hottest wedding styles of the year feel fresh, reenergized, and distinctly fun. These are the ones we can expect to see run the show (ahem, the ceremony) this year.

Hairpieces
Pabst Photo

Hairpieces

As we see more brides depart from tradition, one of the first things to go is the veil. This classic piece is often replaced with hairpieces, such as small tiaras, brocade, or even jewelry. This is a great opportunity to incorporate something significant to you.

Stylists Natasha and Irene from Beautini suggest looking for a meaningful headpiece, like a family heirloom. An accessory like this often feels classic while still offering a way to update standard wedding traditions.

Ponytails
Zorz Studios

Ponytails

For 2016 weddings, low-key is the name of the game. Many brides opt for a ponytail — either low or slicked back — to help them keep their hair out of their way during what can be a long, tiring day. If a ponytail feels too casual, try updating it with the addition of braids, flowers, or accessories.

To complete the look, pro Vanessa Ungaro from Lauren + Vanessa suggests taking a strand of hair from the ponytail and wrapping around the hair tie to conceal it — it's an easy tip, but one that will instantly elevate your look. To get a sleek, shiny style that will last all night long (without weighing your hair down with product), Beautini stylists rely on MoroccanOil's Glimmer Shine finishing spray ($14).

Middle Parts
Getty | Joe Kohen

Middle Parts

By now, middle parts have solidified themselves as a retro trend that is definitively "back" and apparently going as strong as ever — thanks in part to models like Kendall Jenner. These influencers have taken the look from childhood school picture day to edgy modern trend.

Middle parts work well with a range of styles, including ponytails, updos, waves, and braids. If you're feeling bold, go with a sleek, fashion-forward look — or, if you're not quite as comfortable with sleek-hair middle part, use it as a way to step up your classic curls. Either way, finish it off with a product known to minimize flyaways. Vanessa recommends Bumble & Bumble Semisumo Pomade ($29).

Middle Parts
Getty | Joe Kohen

Middle Parts

Loose Waves
The Light + Color

Loose Waves

Loose waves have been taking over the hair scene over the past few years and officially transitioned into one of the hottest wedding styles. While traditionalists tend to opt for tighter, more cyclical curls, Ryan Cotton, a John Frieda hair care stylist, notes that this trend is on the outs. By combing through curls or using a wand, you can give classic curls a modern refresh.

To get this look on her clients, Vanessa uses a José Eber wand ($49), wraps the hair away from the face, and tugs on the end of the curl once it's released from the hot tool. She suggests finishing the look off by going through each strand with Magic Move soft pomade ($13), and setting with L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Hold Hair Spray ($15).

Loose Waves
Getty | JP Yim

Loose Waves

Braids
VignotoPhoto

Braids

If Pinterest die-hards and Instagram influencers can all agree on one thing, it's the power of a well-executed braid. Braids are a catch-all style that works for virtually every type of wedding. For a casual beach wedding, we suggest going with something loose and wispy, while fishtail braids are well-suited for a bohemian wedding and braided updos work well for more formal events.

If your hair isn't quite textured enough to get the Pinterest-perfect style you're looking for, Beautini stylists suggest pumping it up with Kerastase V.I.P. Volume in Powder Finishing Spray ($23). Or try "a bride's best friend": clip-in extensions.

Flowers
Twig & Olive Photography

Flowers

If flower crowns were the star of 2015, then floral accessories are the star of 2016 . . . cue Scott McKenzie's "San Francisco." Many modern brides skip the veil — or accentuate it — by placing flowers in their hair, often tucked into an existing style. Flowers can be weaved into braids, worked into updos, bobby-pinned into curls, and even work with the wedding colors or themes to coordinate with the bouquet.

If you're tackling this style yourself, Beautini stylists insist upon strong, high-end bobby pins for keeping the flowers (and your hair) in place. Vanessa is a fan of Japanese bobby pins ($4 for 10), a coated, supergrippy product known for keeping everything right where it should be.

Asymmetry
JEFF+AMBER

Asymmetry

An asymmetrical style — the new-school version of the half-up-half-down classic — can come in many different forms, and works with the hair being left down or put up. Cotton notes that this trend is just one of many ways that brides are loosening up when it comes to their day-of hairstyle. Sideswept waves give a nod to old Hollywood glamour, while an off-centered updo maintains the ideal balance between modern style and classic beauty.

Cotton suggests finishing this style with John Frieda Frizz Ease Original 6 Effects Serum ($7) and John Freida Frizz Ease Keraflex Hairspray ($3).

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