Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Flowers in your hair

It's a timeless, ultra-feminine form of accessorizing that works beautifully for outdoor formal events... and no, it's not relegated to the springtime only!

A relaxed side braid topped with a floral garland creates an angelic appearance
A relaxed side braid topped with a floral garland creates an angelic appearance

The pale pink camellia makes the perfect finish to this waterfall-braided updo
The pale pink camellia makes the perfect finish to this waterfall-braided updo

Floral garland plus big-bodied waves
Floral garland plus big-bodied waves

As these pictures show, you can create a variety of looks depending on how you decide to arrange the flowers. If you're after a hippie chick vibe, then teaming a floral garland with long loose locks or a messy, bohemian-style braid is the way to go. Or if you'd rather look elegant and polished, then a smooth, low chignon with your bloom of choice pinned to the side will work wonders.

My only rule when it comes to wearing flowers in my hair is that they have to be real. Silk flowers just don't have the same effect, and as for plastic ones, don't even go there! You'll find that your florist will be more than happy to arrange your choice of flowers onto very fine wires that can then be easily inserted into your hairstyle, with the wires hidden from view and the flowers displayed exactly how you want them.

The spray of dark pink orchids transforms an otherwise ordinary hairstyle
The spray of dark pink orchids transforms an otherwise ordinary hairstyle

Loving this tousled bohemian style!
Loving this tousled bohemian style!

A beautifully relaxed hairstyle, ideal for a garden or beach wedding
A beautifully relaxed hairstyle, ideal for a garden or beach wedding

As for deciding which types of flowers to use? There are almost too many choices available, as these days it doesn't matter whether a particular flower is in season or not (though you may have to wait a few days for your florist to order in the out-of-season blooms, and yes, they will be more expensive).

Finding inspiration in the form of online galleries such as this one is a great place to start, and remember to keep an open mind; what works well in a vase won't always work well in your hair. So while tiger lilies might be your favorite flower of all time, you might want to consider something a little more delicate when it comes to accessorizing your hairstyle.

For my wedding a couple of years ago, I wore white Singapore orchids in my hair, in lieu of a veil. The effect was gorgeous (if I do say so myself!) but it was an unexpected choice, as I'd originally dismissed the orchids as being too plain. Turns out, plain and simple flowers were what I needed to accentuate my hairstyle rather than overwhelm it - it just took an open mind (and a bit of experimenting) for me to realize it.

The delicate white flowers are the perfect accessory to this braided updo
The delicate white flowers are the perfect accessory to this braided updo

Pink flowers in red hair? An unusual choice, but hey, it works!
Pink flowers in red hair? An unusual choice, but hey, it works!

An on-trend waterfall braid, complete with flowers, is an ideal look for bridesmaids
An on-trend waterfall braid, complete with flowers, is an ideal look for bridesmaids

The positioning of the flowers in her hair evokes a sense of old-world innocence
The positioning of the flowers in her hair evokes a sense of old-world innocence

The simple pink floral garland takes her hairstyle from pretty to divine
The simple pink floral garland takes her hairstyle from pretty to divine

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