Bride with wavy hair

Wavy hair is different from head to head, but in general it can be very versatile. When it comes to formal or wedding hairstyles, wavies have the option of smoothing hair into a straighter style or working the waves!

The Half Updo

There are several wavy half updos out there, many of which are very simple to do. The first half updo is simply braiding or twisting two sections of hair from near your temples and holding them back with either clips or other accessories. If you are a bride, this is a great style to wear with a veil.

Other half updo, wavy wedding hairstyles can be done by twisting or lightly braiding back sevral sections of hair. To get the look, braid or twist three and four sections of hair on each side starting from the temple up and lightly pin them at the back of your head. Use bobby pins or other embellished hair accessories to secure the hair.

The Full Updo

A full updo is a great option for a formal or wedding style. If you’re worried about frizz, an updo will allow you to use enough hairspray or other strong hold products to keep the style in tact since none of the hair needs to be out and flowing freely. Nobody wants to wear their hair down if it’s stiffened with hairspray, but you can get away with that if you choose an updo. No matter what style you choose, it’s important to start with a clean slate. Here are a few tips for the perfect French twist or bun.

  • To begin with any DIY formal wavy hairstyle, wash and condition your hair, detangling in the shower with a wide tooth comb. The cleaner and more conditioned the hair, the easier it will be to achieve this look.
  • Towel dry and add whatever products you desire. A light leave-in conditioner and anti-frizz serum are a definite plus for this look. Products with a least a light hold will help the style to stay put enough for an intentionally undone sort of updo look. If you are doing a more sleek updo with the hair gathered more tautly, use a product with a stronger hold to ensure that the hairstyle remains smooth.
  • For any kind of bun: After combing your hair and parting it to your liking, comb it back to an angle slightly higher than the desired height you want it to rest at. Gather your hair into a seamless hair tie for better hold. After that, you can twist your hair while holding it straight until it begins to twists into itself and then twist it around the base of the twist and secure with bobby pins to create a chignon. You can also create a looser, undone-looking bun by holding the hair less taut and twisting lightly. Then, place gems, flowers or clips on or surrounding the bun or in the front of your hair.
  • For a French twist: Comb your hair and part it to your liking. Remember to leave out your bangs or a couple of strands of hair before proceeding to the next step. You should have some hair combs or bobby pins handy to secure your hair as you twist it. Twist your hair from the nape of your neck up towards the crown of your head and secure it to the cente of your head as you go. Once your hair is fully twisted, push the loose ends underneath the twist and secure with a hair comb or more bobby pins.

When it comes to a full updo, the hairstyle can be as formal or as informal as you desire. The best way to dress up these wavy wedding hairstyles is by using a product with some hold to smooth the hair and by using fancier accessories.

Final Thoughts

You can always take any of your favorite wavy hairstyles and dress up the look with accessories that are embellished or hand painted. Most styles can also be changed up with a pompadour or side swept bangs in the front. If you’re looking for a way to get more volume in your wavy wedding hairstyle, you can pump it up with some volumizing hair products. With a little bit of patience and a bit of hair spray, any wavy hairstyle can be make you formal-ready. It’s only a matter of finding the right look for you and knowing that you can own it!

What are your go-to formal wavy hairstyles?

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