Updos vs. Loose Waves: Finding the Right Look for Your Calgary Wedding
When it comes to choosing the perfect bridal hairstyle, two of the most popular options are classic updos and romantic loose waves. Both styles can elevate your bridal look, but selecting the right one depends on several factors, such as your wedding setting, the style of your dress, and your personal preferences. In this guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of updos versus loose waves, helping Calgary brides make the best choice for their big day. Plus, we’ll include advice from local stylists to ensure your chosen hairstyle lasts all day, no matter the weather or venue.
Updos: The Classic and Elegant Choice
When to Choose an Updo
An updo is a classic bridal hairstyle that offers both elegance and practicality. It’s perfect for brides who want a polished look, as well as those who are looking for a hairstyle that can withstand a full day of activities.
For Formal Weddings: Updos are ideal for formal weddings, especially those held at upscale venues like the Fairmont Palliser or Hotel Arts in Calgary. A sleek chignon, twisted bun, or French twist can create a sophisticated look that matches a formal gown and wedding theme.
For Outdoor Weddings: If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Calgary’s unpredictable weather (such as at Fish Creek Provincial Park or in the Rockies), an updo can offer stability. It will stay in place despite wind or humidity, ensuring you look flawless throughout the ceremony and reception.
Pros of Updos
Long-lasting hold: Updos, especially structured ones, tend to stay in place longer than loose styles, making them perfect for long wedding days.
Versatile accessories: Updos pair well with veils, tiaras, and decorative hairpins. Your stylist can position these accessories beautifully without disrupting the hairstyle.
Showcase your dress: An updo is perfect for highlighting intricate dress details, such as lace backings, high necklines, or dramatic sleeves.
Cons of Updos
Can feel too formal: For brides who prefer a more relaxed or bohemian look, an updo may feel too structured or formal.
Not as relaxed: Some brides prefer a more natural, undone look, which is harder to achieve with an updo.
Loose Waves: The Romantic, Natural Option
When to Choose Loose Waves
Loose waves are a popular choice for brides who want a soft, romantic, and effortless look. This hairstyle works well for both indoor and outdoor weddings, particularly if you're going for a more laid-back or bohemian vibe.
For Casual and Outdoor Weddings: Loose waves are a great option for more casual or outdoor weddings, such as those in the Rockies or at garden venues like The Meadow Muse Pavilion. The relaxed style complements nature-inspired settings and simple, flowing wedding dresses.
For Boho or Vintage Brides: Brides who are channeling a bohemian or vintage aesthetic often lean toward loose waves to complement the ethereal look of their dress and accessories.
Pros of Loose Waves
Soft, romantic look: Loose waves create a gentle, romantic style that pairs beautifully with both modern and vintage dresses.
Works with natural texture: If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, loose waves can enhance your hair’s natural texture without the need for heavy styling products.
Movement and flow: Loose waves offer a sense of movement, making them perfect for outdoor weddings where the wind can add a dynamic, windswept element to your photos.
Cons of Loose Waves
Less staying power: Loose hairstyles are more susceptible to changes in weather conditions, such as wind or humidity, and may require touch-ups throughout the day.
Can hide dress details: If you have intricate details on the back of your dress, loose waves may cover them up, limiting their visibility.
Advice from Calgary Stylists: Making Your Hairstyle Last
Local Calgary hairstylists recommend a few key tips to ensure your bridal hairstyle, whether an updo or loose waves, looks flawless throughout the day:
Weatherproof your style: Calgary’s weather can be unpredictable, so work with your stylist to select a hairstyle that can withstand the elements. For outdoor weddings, hairstylists often use stronger styling products, like humidity-resistant hairspray, to keep your hair in place.
Hair Trials Are Key: According to stylists at Finesse Bridal and The VIP Bridal Stylist, scheduling a hair trial is essential. It gives you the chance to test different styles and ensure that your hair will last throughout your wedding day. Be sure to bring any hair accessories, like veils or headpieces, to the trial to see how they’ll work with your chosen style.
Extensions for Volume: Calgary hairstylists often recommend hair extensions to add volume or length, especially if you're opting for loose waves. Extensions can help your waves hold their shape longer and provide more structure for styling.
Calgary Hairstylists Specializing in Bridal Hair
Finding the perfect bridal hairstylist is key to achieving your dream wedding look. Whether you envision a romantic updo, soft waves, or a timeless style, Calgary is home to talented professionals who specialize in long-lasting, photo-ready bridal hair.
1. Something Borrowed Beauty
Something Borrowed Beauty is a luxury bridal beauty team offering expert hairstyling for Calgary brides. Their team specializes in effortless, soft-glam looks, ensuring your hair stays flawless from "I do" to the last dance. Whether you want boho waves or an elegant chignon, their mobile services bring the salon experience right to your wedding venue.
📍 Why Brides Love Them: On-location services, personalized consultations, and stunning, natural-looking bridal styles.
2. Lavoom Salon Bridal Team
Lavoom Salon’s expert bridal stylists specialize in elegant updos, voluminous curls, and polished, timeless styles. With a keen eye for detail and experience in South Asian and Western bridal hairstyling, they create looks that complement both traditional and modern bridal aesthetics.
📍 Why Brides Love Them: Custom bridal styling, expert consultations, and a full-service salon experience.
3. Top Knot Brides
Top Knot Brides is a go-to choice for Calgary brides seeking beautifully tailored wedding hairstyles. Their experienced stylists create everything from intricate braids to sleek, sophisticated buns, ensuring each bride’s vision comes to life. Known for their attention to detail and passion for bridal beauty, they work closely with brides to design a look that suits their style and wedding theme.
📍 Why Brides Love Them: Experienced team, versatile styling options, and a reputation for long-lasting, flawless hair.
No matter your bridal beauty vision, these expert Calgary hairstylists will ensure you look and feel your best on your wedding day. Be sure to book early, as top stylists fill up fast during peak wedding season!
Whether you choose an elegant updo or romantic loose waves for your Calgary wedding, the key is to select a style that complements your dress, venue, and personal preferences. Updos offer stability and a polished look for formal settings, while loose waves bring a relaxed, natural vibe ideal for outdoor or bohemian weddings. Working with an experienced Calgary stylist and scheduling a hair trial can ensure your chosen style stays flawless throughout the day.
For more bridal hairstyle tips and to explore Calgary’s top stylists, visit YYCBride.com!
