Formal Hair

Going to your school formal is all part of growing up. It's almost a ritual, a coming of age tradition. It's a great opportunity to dress up and have fun and it's led to the creation of a hair salon service that's very much in demand.

Prom Hair is now an actual dictionary description for the amazing twists, chignons and braids, more generally referred to as updos. The term 'updo' basically means styling the hair so that it points up, and it can range from a simple ponytail to an elaborate twist or braid.

One of the oldest and most popular updos is a chignon. The name comes from the French phrase 'chignon du cou' or nape of the neck. The style is achieved by pinning the hair into a knot or 'bun' at the nape of the neck.

Popular Wedding Hairstyle

Variations on this style might include incorporating braids, leaving loose tendrils of hair around the face, or securing the knot with a pretty hairpin or barrette. It's a style that can be dressed up or down as required.

Whilst the name suggests this popular wedding hairstyle originated in France, it actually has its roots in ancient Greece. Worn by men and women, the chignon would be held in place by the most elaborate hairpins. In ancient China, chignons were worn by married women.

When it comes to bridal hairstyling, most people have heard of the French twist. This popular updo involves twisting the hair upwards until it folds in on itself, and then securing it with a decorative comb or hairpin.

Half-Up Hair Styling

The modern version of the French twist is much softer and messier, falling into the realm of half-up hair styling.

Half-up hair styling is a great way of creating a special occasion look that isn't too formal. It's perfect for everyday wear or can be dressed up for a big event. The reason this style is popular is that it combines the impact of an up-do with the femininity of flowing locks.

How casual you go with this look rather depends on your outfit. If it's very formal or has an elaborate neckline, it's better suited to a formal up-do. However, half-up hair styling is just perfect with strapless or spaghetti strap dresses.

Love the Waterfall Braid

Our favourite half-up hairstyle has to be the braid. It's just magical watching a professional hair stylist twist, weave and plait long luscious locks into this amazing creation.

Forget about the single down-the-back plait your mother used to give you for school; today's braids are delightfully feminine and so pretty. Super popular for weddings and formals right now is the waterfall braid.

There are several variations of this but they all feature a mix of braids and loose hair. In its simplest form, the braid becomes a natural hair band to hold the style in place. This style works exceptionally well with long loose curls.

Curls have long been used in up-dos, traditionally styled used rollers or, in the old days, strips of cloth. The smaller the roller, the tighter the curl would be. However, today's curls are softer and can be achieved using a GHD.

Have a Trial Run

When it comes to bridal hairstyling the secret is to have a trial run. In fact, whether it's a wedding, a formal or just a fancy dinner, deciding on your hair and makeup beforehand is essential.

Having a trial run gives you the opportunity to discuss different styles with your hair stylist and find out what suits you, and what doesn't. For example, you may be planning a head of ringlets for your big day - until you actually see yourself with them.

The style you choose not only depends on your hair type but also the logistics of the event. Will you be outdoors? Will it be windy? What time of day are you getting married? What style is your dress? These are all questions a good hair stylist will ask.

Bookwell Makes it Easy

A trial run for your hair and makeup helps you plan the day better, knowing how long it will take. It also removes a big chunk of stress. If possible, book your hair and makeup at the same salon to make it even easier.

With Bookwell, sorting your formal hair has never been easier.