From sleek buns that stay put from vows to last dance, to softly undone waves topped with pearlescent clips, winter brides are leaning into hair that feels polished yet effortless. We spoke to Elena Lavagni, creative director at London’s iconic Neville Hair & Beauty, to get her expert take on the coolest styles, insider prep tips and seasonal switches that make all the difference when the temperature drops. Whether you’re planning a city celebration or a country house weekend, these are the winter bridal hair ideas to have on your radar.
How should brides approach winter wedding hair?
The time of year itself isn’t the main factor when choosing a bridal hairstyle. What really matters is the shape and style of the dress, which naturally evolves with the season. A heavier winter gown with structured sleeves or dramatic volume will influence the overall aesthetic and that should guide the hair too. The silhouette sets the tone, and the hairstyle should feel like a seamless extension of that.
What styles feel chic right now?
The freshest bridal hair feels polished without trying too hard. It’s all about balance. If the dress is minimal and pared back, there’s space to go more intricate with the hair, whether that’s a sculpted updo, a soft wave with styled texture or a sleek ponytail with detail. If the gown is ornate or heavily embellished, a classic blow-dry worn loose and glossy is often the most elegant choice. It’s about letting either the dress or the hair take centre stage, but never both.
What details elevate a winter bridal look?
The smallest touches often make the biggest impact. I love delicate details that add interest without overwhelming the look. Think subtle flower clips, pearl pins scattered through a bun or a simple silk bow that ties the style together. These tiny additions elevate the hair and make it feel more thoughtful and personal
How should brides prep their hair before the big day?
Condition and shine are everything, particularly in colder months when hair is more prone to dryness. A few targeted treatments in the lead-up can make all the difference. I love the Neville Shine Backwash Treatment, which enhances natural glow without weighing hair down. Doing this two or three times before the wedding helps the hair stay glossy, healthy and full of life on the day itself.
What’s the secret to keeping the style in place all day?
The best investment is having a stylist on hand for touch-ups throughout the day. Even with the best prep, you can’t always predict how hair will react to cold weather or changes in humidity. A quick refresh halfway through the celebrations will make sure the style looks as flawless in the evening as it did when you first walked down the aisle.
A winter bridal look you loved recently?
One of my favourites was inspired by Charlize Theron in Balenciaga. It was undone and modern, yet soft and romantic, striking the perfect balance of strength and femininity. The bride wanted something fashion-forward and confident without being too ‘done’, and the result was effortlessly chic and perfectly suited to a winter setting.
To Book Your Cool Winter Hair, head to: https://nevillehairandbeauty.net/#onlinebookings
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