Wedding Guest Hair Styles

Image via Victor Hugo Salon.com

I am the least savvy person when it comes to fanciful hairstyles. It would require an army of professional hair stylists armed with a truckload of combs, pins and products to transform my non-negotiable, very stubborn straight hair into something other than, well, straight. I have a close and formal family wedding coming up in the next week, so I have been scouring the net for some inspiring hair ideas. These are the looks that I have loved the most after sifting through what seems like hundreds. I hope that you can help me narrow down my choices.

Floral Fascinators

Images found via Etsy, Brides.com, BrideGuide.com & Modweddings.com

If you're part of the bridal party, make the most of this VIP opportunity by going beautifully dramatic with your hair choice. When else will you get to flaunt pretty floral hair accessories without looking like you stepped off the set of a Midsummer's Night Dream? Try a floral crown with fresh flowers if you are a bridesmaid, or tie the blooms into a waterfall braid. A delicate floral fascinator can be pinned to the side of a romantic upstyle. These floral inspirations are all white, but pick a pastel or bright shade to compliment the colour of your dress.

Braided Halos

Don't worry if you didn't pay attention back when your grandma/mum/great aunt braided your hair. Here's an excellent tutorial on how to create your own halo braid. This Heidi-inspired look is wonderfully feminine, perfect for showing off a great neckline and the back detail of a dress.

Half Up Half Down

With the right styling tools (or friends), the half-up half-down style is one that can be done by yourself without the expense of going to a salon. All it takes is chicly combing back the front section of your hair like Frieda Pinto & Kate Beckinsale have. Then fasten it with bobby pins at the back to a height that you're happy with. Tease at the crown if you prefer extra volume a la Isabeli Fontana. Use a curling tong to twirl the rest of your locks. You can also leave a few loose strands to frame your face, adding a softer feel like Jessica Chastain & Lily Collins.

Side Swept Waves

 One of my favourite occasion hairstyles are glamourous side swept waves. Although I have learned the hard way that my hair simply will not hold a curl, even when doused with a can full of super-glue simulative hairspray. 

Posh Ponytails

 Probably the easiest, no-fuss hairstyle to achieve for an occasion - especially if you've overslept from the party the night before and you're in a hurry - is a ponytail. This timeless style has been modified on the runway of Jenny Packham to include a pretty twist, while Reem Acra's models wore a pompadour with their ponys. Selena, Bella and Nina have all turned to this simply slick but elegant hairstyle for red carpet events.

Elegant Updo's

An elaborate updo would rate for me as the most complicated event hairstyle to accomplish. 

If you're naturally talented in the hair department, you can create one of these graceful looks on your own, but most of the time, it will require a trip to your stylist to get right. Chanel pinned pearls into their classic chignon, Valentino went for a twisted braided upstyle and Dolce & Gabbana modernized the retro beehive. Ashley Simpson took a more laid back approach to her look with a tousled wavy upturned coif. Ashley Madekwe added some sparkle to her high bun with crystal clips. This type of look is ideal for showing off chandelier earrings.

Crystal Headbands

A crystal or embellished headband instantly creates that enchanting princess effect. It can be used to adorn a polished, pulled back ballet bun like Ariel Winter, Sienna Miller and Petra Nemcova. Or try a softer wavy side upstyle like Charlize Theron. Keep your embellishings understated and youthful with lace details and coloured beads. For a more minimalist styling option, wear your hair down like Elle Fanning and Jenna Dewan-Tatum.

I need your best advice...Which hairstyle would you wear to a wedding?