Tying ‘The Knot’! Bridal Runway Chignons and Twists Reflect Looser, Relaxed Versions of the Classics

This season, Bridal Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 updos reflected looser, imperfect styles to contrast with the superbly elegant gowns sewn to perfection at the Amsale, Christos and Kenneth Pool shows.  Since Brides today demand perfection in all aspects of the day, why not ‘relax’ a bit when it comes to their hair? Whether it was loosely-opened chignons, playful accessories, or imperfectly textured French Twists, Tearsheet Artistic Director Giovanni Giuntoli, who instructs stylists through on-set styling classes in New York City, created each look to reflect a no-fuss style that allowed each bride to glide down the aisle with angelic perfection. The best news? Each of the three looks can be easily re-created, of course, with some help from a friend:

Swirled-Open Chignon – seen at Christos

"At Christos, we wanted to accentuate the young, modern, clean looks with a twist on the classic bun, creating a looser folded donut. We took inspiration from the typical ballerina bun, but softened it by adding texture and a bit of lift to the crown and sides. Like she did it herself, with a little help from a friend” explains Giuntoli.

To create, first apply Redken spray starch 15 versatile ironing spray (SRP $13.00) throughout hair to allow for extra texture and support of the shape. Make a horizontal part at the crown 4 inches from forehead and section off. Use spritzes of workforce 09 flexible volumizing spray ($15.00) to reduce flyaways as you pull back and secure with an elastic just above the occipital bone. Next, take front section and spray fabricate 03 heat active texturizer (SRP $13.00) through and backcomb lightly in sections to create the height that will show at the top of the finished style. Lightly brush back to meet with the ponytail making sure to keep the textured height, and secure all together with an elastic. Grab the ponytail and swirl it loosely into an open chignon around itself and pin as you create a ‘donut-like’ shape. Hide ends into bun and pin with hair pins to secure. Loosely pull out a few pieces on the sides and top for added texture to the silhouette. Lastyly, finish total look with workforce 09 flexible volumizing spray (SRP $15.00)for a flexible hold.

            Accessorized Updo – seen at Kenneth Poole

"We had a quick turnaround time between Christos and Kenneth Pool, so to easily create a more elaborate look to reflect the added glamour in the line, we tightened the bun and added a large flower orrnation, which instantly gave the look added sophistication to make a bigger, more flirty statement” said Giuntoli.

Try it yourself! Create as you would with the swirled open chignon, just tighten the chignon just a bit more to create a strong base for the ornation. Take a large flower ornation and pin on side of the chignon with bobby pins so you can see the detailing of the headpiece from the front to add ultimate attention to the hairstyle. Finish total look with forceful 23 super strength finishing spray (SRP $15.00) to hold the headpiece and the style in place.

Textured French Pleat with Height – seen at Amsale

“For the timeless Amsale collection, we returned to the classic French pleat, but put a modern spin on it; think Breakfast at Tiffany's, but a little deconstructed and some extra attitude.” says Giuntoli.

To create, mist spray starch 15 versatile ironing spray (SRP $13.00) through the top of head and using a 1 1/2 inch curling iron, curl front section of hair back from hairline in the direction of the back of the head – this gets get the hair to move in the direction you will be pulling it back into. Spray fabricate 03 heat-active texturizer (SRP $13.00) throughout entire head and back comb section by section to creating a voluminous, airy texture. Using a bristle brush, loosely comb hair back into a ponytail, keeping the soft airy height at the crown but still tight at the sides. Create the pleat by loosely twisting ponytail in upon itself up towards the top of the head, pinning as you move up until you get to the top of the twist, tucking ends in and securing with pins. Pull out a just a few airy pieces from the twist to create texture, and finish with workforce 09 flexible volumizing spray (SRP $15.00) for extra hold that will keep the pleat in place, lasting all night.

With these easy tips for more relaxed styles of the classics, show your guests that you can “let loose” a bit with your updo and still have the perfect wedding style! Just remember, no matter how elaborate or simple your dress and accessories, make sure you pick the right hairstyle that fits your attitude and makes you feel your best - after all, it is your big day!

*To sign up for a Tearsheet Bridal or Editorial Styling class, email tearsheet@gmail.com for a reservation form and to reserve your spot!

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