Bridal hair extensions aren’t just for brides who want dramatically longer hair.
In fact, one of our favorite reasons to use extensions for bridal styling is simply to add volume, fullness, and structure to a hairstyle.
A fuller ponytail, thicker Hollywood waves, a more dimensional half-up style, or a substantial low bun may all benefit from extensions—even if your natural hair is already fairly long.
But not every type of extension works equally well for wedding hairstyling.
Here’s what our professional bridal hairstylists recommend.
Clip-In Extensions Are Usually Best for Bridal Hair
For wedding styling, we recommend clip-in extensions.
Individual wefts can be strategically positioned exactly where your stylist needs additional length or fullness and hidden within the finished hairstyle.
We generally prefer clip-ins over halo-style extensions for formal styling. Depending on your chosen hairstyle, halos can be more difficult to hide and may not feel as secure.
Clip-ins give your stylist much more flexibility.
Choose 100% Human Hair
This is extremely important.
Purchase extensions that are clearly labeled 100% human hair and suitable for heat styling.
Wedding hairstyles frequently require curling irons or other heated tools. Synthetic fibers can react poorly to heat and may even melt.
Be cautious of products marketed using the words “human hair” when they are actually a blend of human and synthetic fibers.
How Long Should Bridal Extensions Be?
Longer isn’t always better.
To determine the right length, measure your natural hair from approximately the base of your neck to the ends.
As a general rule, we recommend extensions no more than about five inches longer than your natural hair if you want them to blend seamlessly.
Extensions dramatically longer than your existing hair can create an obvious line between your natural hair and the extensions.
If your primary goal is volume rather than length, purchasing extensions close to your natural length can create an especially natural result.
How Do I Choose the Right Color?
Matching extension color can feel intimidating.
Look primarily at your mid-lengths and ends, rather than matching only your root color. That’s where most of the extensions will visually blend.
Hair with highlights or dimension may actually blend beautifully with a dimensional extension shade rather than one solid color.
If you’re unsure, contact us before ordering. We’re happy to help our brides determine an appropriate color and length.
Our Recommended Bridal Hair Extensions
If you’re shopping online, Royal Makeup & Hair has a recommended clip-in extension option available through Amazon.
Shop Royal Makeup & Hair’s recommended clip-in hair extensions on Amazon.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through our Amazon recommendation at no additional cost to you.
Wash Your Extensions Before the Wedding
Don’t take brand-new extensions directly out of the package on your wedding morning.
Many extensions arrive with a coating designed to make them appear exceptionally smooth and shiny in the packaging.
Unfortunately, that coating can also make the hair difficult to curl and can prevent it from blending naturally with your own hair.
Before the wedding:
Wash the extensions with shampoo and conditioner, gently comb them with a wide-tooth comb, and lay them flat on a towel to dry completely.
Do not arrive with wet extensions.
Bring Extensions to Your Bridal Hair Preview
If you’re having a bridal hair preview, bring your extensions.
This allows your hairstylist to determine where each piece should be placed and make sure the length, color, and amount of hair work for your chosen hairstyle.
We can also test your veil or hair accessories at the same appointment.
Can Your Hairstylist Install My Extensions?
Yes.
Royal Makeup & Hair offers clip-in extension placement and styling using client-owned extensions. We do not supply extensions ourselves, which is why purchasing the correct type beforehand is important.
Our bridal hairstylists provide on-location wedding services throughout Savannah, GA; Charleston, SC; Washington, DC; Colorado Springs/Denver, CO; and Hudson Valley, NY, as well as destination weddings.
Whether you’re dreaming of cascading curls, Old Hollywood waves, a voluminous ponytail, or a romantic updo, the right clip-in extensions can give your stylist much more hair to work with—and sometimes make the difference between simply recreating an inspiration photograph and really bringing it to life.
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