Create a sumptuous wedding look for your special day with these sparkling tips, says Solange Burrell

A glorious gown, glamorous make-up and an exquisite hairstyle all come together to make a perfect wedding day.




To help you along your way we've put together some essential tips and professional advice on how to choose the most divine hairstyle, to make sure your dream day comes true.

Start your search off by thinking of ideas that you like. Once you have an idea of what you are after, start collecting pictures from magazines or the internet. Make sure you choose a style to compliment your dress and one that suits the shape of your face. This is only the first stage of planning your dream day, so stay open minded to new ideas and suggestions from your stylist.

PURE AND SIMPLE
Simple and understated is definitely a popular option as Claudia Chung, bridal specialist from Quality Time hair salon says: 'Keep the style simple but elegant, not too busy, as it could look complicated in your wedding pictures. Take the headdress into consideration. If the bride is wearing her hair down, planning the style first, is essential.' Claudia advises that you should practice the style months before the wedding. She recommends Keracare's Spritz Spray, as it is great for hold and subtlety.

UP OR DOWN
Once you have decided whether to wear your hair up or down, the possibilities are endless. If you have long hair you may want to try out a cascade of loose romantic curls that lie comfortably around your shoulders. Or if you have short hair you might want to add some extensions, for body and length. Or why not choose a short gamine crop that frames your face and top off with a simple tiara.

OVERALL PICTURE
It's always important to take in the overall picture so think about the make-up, dress and hair as one. Top London stylist Junior Green of Junior Green Hair Salon says: 'Take your dress into consideration as it is very important that the hairstyle compliments it. It is a must to have a consultation before the actual day.'

Inevitably the dress will always be the deciding factor of your final hairstyle. For example if your dress is slim and fitted, a simple sweep a la Audrey Hepburn will compliment the look. If you choose a more romantic style then curls would be more suitable.

Your wedding hairstyle should reflect your personality, so it should be something that you are completely comfortable with. The last thing you want is to feel anxious and awkward on your big day, so no experimenting with new or drastic looks.

'I would try to see the bride six months before the wedding, for the initial consultation to avoid any last minute disasters,' says Natasha Dixon, BBH/Wahl award finalist from Jamie J Salon. 'Any chemical treatments must be done a week before the wedding to safeguard any reactions or unforeseen circumstances.' Natasha advises using Africare Silk Spray or Elnett Satin Spray, because they allow the hair to be natural, without making it look too stiff and lifeless.

OTHER FACTORS
The height of the groom should also be considered. For example, if he is much taller than you, your hair would be more complimentary worn in a sophisticated upsweep, with some hair let down around the face to soften the style.

You should also have a wedding consultation as it is a chance for you and your stylist to experiment with different hairstyles to eventually find something you're comfortable and happy with. This is very important as it gives you a chance to try out the styles that you desire and to see if they actually work. You should bring your magazine cuttings, a picture of your dress or any hair accessories along with youto give your stylist a clearer picture.

Jimmy Campbell, of Jimmy Campbell Salon says: 'If you want to wear your hair down on your wedding day, keep it as simple as possible, don't use too much spritz. Nice clean lines close to the face, are flattering and help to bring out bone structure.'

'I would recommend LAKME Lakstyle Maximum Hairspray,' he says. 'It's a professional hair spray that is very natural and provides shine and elasticity.'

AU NATURAL
If you have natural hair there are many hairstyles you can try. Try an elegant braided updo, or canerows at the front and press the back of the hair straight to create a sleek chignon. Morris Aberdeen, of Morris Roots Salon says: 'I would always suggest an updo or a wrap for natural hair and locks. It looks more formal and sophisticated. Wearing the hair down is better left for the reception and after party.' To maintain a shiny healthy look throughout the day, Morris Aberdeen suggests using, Morris Root Sheen spray, as it is mainly made of plant extracts which is nutritious for the hair.

ACCESSORIES
Hair accessories are also important and can often add a nice finish to the style as that extra touch of bling will add a special glitz to your whole look.

Hector Obeng, of Hector's Global Hair With Zeal says: 'Keep a bridal style as true as possible. By true I mean be true to yourself, think of what would suit you, and be realistic. Keep the style simple, sleek and elegant. Have a trial two months before the wedding, then two more a month before the big day. Mizani Afrofixx Spray is a always a good option as it will leave your hair looking natural, but with suffcient hold so you don't need to worry abou it.'

The next step is to relax. Once you've decided on your hairstyle and had your consultations, look forward to your big day, be confident with your decisions and start living your dream wedding.

'YOUR WEDDING HAIRSTYLE SHOULD REFLECT YOUR PERSONALITY, SO IT SHOULD BE SOMETHING THAT YOU ARE TOTALLY COMFORTABLE WITH.'