A CURATED GUIDE FOR THE STYLE EDIT - EDITION NO. 1
BY LEXI LEE HAIRHAIR TYPE CLARIFICATION
HAIR DENSITY / TEXTURE
HAIR LENGTH / COLOR
STYLE SUGGESTIONS
STYLES THAT FLATTER YOUR FACE SHAPE
DRESS AND HAIR PAIRINGS
THE LOOKS –STYLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION
EXTENSIONS
CLIP-INS
OTHER METHODS
ACCESSORIES
VEILS
HAIR PREP
TRIAL APPOINTMENT
DAY–OF TIMELINE
MISCELLANEOUS
What hair type do you actually have? You would be surprised by how many women truly do not have an accurate frame of reference when it comes to this. We totally understand though, the definitions are a bit nuanced. So hopefully our basic explanation below helps!
HAIR DENSITY (thickness) refers to the number of strands per square inch on your scalp. Think of this as the thickness of your ponytail. Exists on a spectrum from thick to thin. This is not a category, but a spectrum. So most ladies actually fall somewhere within the medium-density realm.
HAIR TEXTURE refers to the diameter size of your individual hair strands. Exists on a spectrum from coarse to fine.
Generally, hair texture is something you are born with. But hair density can change during certain times in your life. Understanding the differences between these terms and best understanding your hair type can be a game changer in your hair care routine. And in understanding what styles are best suited for your hair type.
THIN
Low-density hair
MEDIUM
Medium-density hair
FINE
Small diameter hair strands
Easily weighed down by products
Falls flat in humidity
Doesn't hold curl well
MEDIUM
Requires the least maintenance
THIN MEDIUM
THICK
FINE MEDIUM COARSE
THICK
High-density hair
COARSE
Large diameter hair strands
Needs higher hold/concentrated products
Frizzes in humidity
Holds curl well
SHORT: Above shoulder
MEDIUM: At shoulder length or slightly longer
LONG: More than 4 inches past shoulders
A dimensional color refers to any hair that has more than one tone. This can be a brunette who has blonde accents, a highlighted blonde, or any balayage client. Dimensional colors almost always photograph best as the light/dark tones help to create depth and detail in a style.
LOW VS. HIGH PIN PLACEMENT – Please refer to pg. 70 in The Style Edit for visual reference. These examples are given with a half-up style, but apply to all style types.
Low pin placement gives a softer look (ideal for thin faces looking to feel more fullness). High pin placement draws the eye up, creates a more defined shape.
NOTE: Both options can have varying face frame options, as seen on pg. 70 in The Style Edit.
These general guidelines can most definitely be bent, but these suggestions help ensure overall balance in your bridal style!
STRAPLESS, V-NECK, ETC: Most commonly worn dress shapes can look amazing with a variety of styles.
IF YOUR NECKLINE IS HIGH: Wear your hair up.
STATEMENT OR OPEN BACK: Consider your priorities. Do you want to show off the dress most? Wear it up.
IF YOUR DRESS IS DETAILED: Go simple with the hair.
IF YOUR DRESS IS SIMPLE: You have more room to play up other aspects of your style (ex. hair/makeup/accessories)
When describing a style request to your stylist, breaking it down into key aspects of the look is the best way to be on the same page. Reference the first column when articulating this. The remaining columns provide clarification of the ideal hair type to execute the inspiration.
Crown & Pin Placement: See pg.70 in The Style Edit for visual reference
Curl Type: See pg. 68 in The Style Edit for visual reference
Many ladies think they need to grow out their hair for their bridal updo. However, this is often not the case! Several of our models had shoulder length hair. We instead utilize mesh to pin into the bun. This helps provide volume without the need for purchasing extensions. On the contrary, we often find thick/long haired ladies wanting a simple bun. This can be limiting to create a sleek look with a bun that doesn’t start to look too big.
CLEAN & SIMPLE SHAPE UPDO: Great for less hair (fine/shoulder length)
DETAILED & VOLUMINOUS UPDO: Great for long/thick hair
HAIRCUT – Face Framing layers are necessary if softness is desired. Curtain bangs style amazingly with an upstyle.
PAGE #
16
17
STYLE: Classic/natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
TEXTURE: Straight
FACE FRAME: Tucked behind ears/partial face framing
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
TEXTURE: Wavy
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
HAIR TYPE PREFERENCE IDEAL FOR
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium length (not well suited for long thick hair)
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium
The low maintenance bride seeking a classic look that does not want to worry about it all day.
The natural bride who wants maximum softness while still having their hair pulled back.
18
STYLE: Classic
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
TEXTURE: Straight
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types (best for fine)
LENGTH: Medium
The classic bride. A look like this never goes out of style. If you prefer to see texture with this sleek style, highlights are a great help!
19
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
TEXTURE: Wavy
STYLE: Classic
BUN PLACEMENT: Mid
TEXTURE: Straight/wavy
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types (best for fine)
LENGTH: Medium
The natural bride. The texture in this style creates more dimension and softness than our model’s first style (pg. 18). A great look to optimize dimension if you do not have a dimensional color.
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium to long (limiting for short or overly long/thick hair types
STYLE: Classic/natural/glam
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
TEXTURE: Straight
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium (not well suited for overly long/thick hair)
Great for a bride that loves volume! Full face frame or curtain bang is necessary
NOTE: Veil placement is difficult with longevity of this style. Consider no veil.
The classic bride who wants maximum softness while still having their hair pulled back.
STYLE: Natural
23
BUN PLACEMENT: Very low (sits slight on the shoulders)
TEXTURE: Straight/wavy
FACE FRAME: Traditional french braid paired with face framing on both sides
STYLE: Classic/natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Mid
TEXTURE: Straight/wavy
FACE FRAME: No part with partial face frame
THICKNESS: Medium to thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
This is a great example of an updo optimized for long/thick hair. Their surplus of hair can be embraced to create detail and fullness in the bun. NOTE: You will feel slight weight of the style on your shoulders as this sits loosely on the nape.
THICKNESS: Thin to medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium
COLOR: Dimensional color suggested with no-part face frame
This modern take on a french twist is a favorite of ours this year! This style can also be executed with a center/side part However, not many ladies consider a style with no partline (all directed back). But we love it! NOTE: We strongly suggest highlights to show the detail of the hair pulled back.
STYLE: Classic/glam
BUN PLACEMENT: High
TEXTURE: Straight/wavy
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium to long
This high bun placement style is definitely making a comeback. Pairing this with a curtain bang gives an updated twist that we love. NOTE: Veil placement is difficult with this style. Consider no veil, or a very lightweight fingertip length veil placed underneath if necessary.
STYLE: Classic/glam/natural
BUN PLACEMENT: High
TEXTURE: Straight
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium
The mid height bun placement has been a popular new request and we love it for many reasons. This look gives great volume and elongates the face. NOTE: Veil placement is difficult with longevity of this style. Consider no veil.
Many of these styles include extensions. Half-Up is a common style where extensions are often necessary. The two core problems they solve are:
• Ensure curl longevity for hair types that do not hold curl well or on high humidity days
• Ensure ample fullness of curls both in front and behind your shoulders
We often see bridal party members moving their hair forward to ensure they feel confident with the style from the front. However, this often leaves the back looking limp and affects the longevity of the style as it is touched often throughout the day. Extensions help to ensure fullness from all angles.
PIN PLACEMENT OF HALF-UP STYLES (REFER TO PG. 70 IN THE STYLE EDIT
LOW PIN PLACEMENT: Creates softness and optimal for women desiring a look more similar to an all down look. More easily paired with a veil
HIGH PIN PLACEMENT: Creates definition draws the eye upwards and elongates the face. Face framing layers/ curtain bang strongly suggested. Veils are more likely to cause friction due to the height of the crown.
31
32/33
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low (infinity braid in crown)
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: High
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Mid
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
HAIR TYPE PREFERENCE IDEAL FOR
THICKNESS: Thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium to long (length necessary for braid)
Optimal for veil due to low pin placement of crown.
34
36
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Mid
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Mid
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave (piecey with 1" iron)
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Classic/natural
37
38/39
BUN PLACEMENT: Low
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
ACCESSORY: Hair vine
STYLE: Classic/natural
BUN PLACEMENT: High
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave (piecey with 1" iron)
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
ACCESSORY: 3 pearl hair pins
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Medium to long
Curtain bang/face framing layers suggested.
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: All
A great example to show short hair can rock a half-up style too! If you're looking for a unique accessory, hair bows can be a fun addition.
THICKNESS: Medium to thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: All
Optimal for veil due to low pin placement of crown.
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
*In order to have fullness with the braid & curls, extensions (or thick hair) are necessary.
The more defined/tighter wave is a great option for women that have curly hair. This look gives a more polished feel to your natural curls.
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
This style is great for ladies that feel most comfortable with their hair down.
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
Veil more likely to cause friction due to height of crown.
This style request often needs adjustments with the hair to ensure optimal execution. Extension additions are very common with these two style categories.
BRAIDS: Additional length often suggested to show french braid shape.
PONIES: Ample length and volume needed for ponytail length and height. Layers are a must for most ponies. If the hair is all one length, it can be very difficult to ensure fullness of the pony all day.
See Veils for more detail.
42
43
STYLE: Classic/natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: Low
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
STYLE: Classic/natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: Mid
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
FACE FRAME: Curtain bang
STYLE: Classic/glam
44
CROWN PLACEMENT: High
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Bang
EXTENSIONS USED*: Fine-haired model
45
46
STYLE: Natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: High
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
ACCESSORIES: 6-8 clay
U-shape flower pins
PONY/BRAID COMBINATION
STYLE: Natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: Low
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
EXTENSIONS USED*: Fine-haired model
HAIR TYPE
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
Low pony like this is the most optimal variation if you’d like a veil.
*No veil or veil placement underneath is suggested to maintain fullness of ponytail.
*No veil or veil placement underneath is suggested to maintain fullness of ponytail.
*No veil or veil placement underneath is suggested to maintain fullness of ponytail.
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
A natural/boho bride looking for something unique!
PAGE #
47
SIDE PULL-APART BRAID
STYLE: Natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: Side (braid starts at the bang)
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
EXTENSIONS USED*: Fine-haired model
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
Very long hair or adding length with extensions is a huge supplement to this look.
48/49
PULL-APART BRAID
STYLE: Natural
CROWN PLACEMENT: Centered
FACE FRAME: Full face frame
EXTENSIONS USED*: Fine-haired model
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
Very long hair or adding length with extensions is a huge supplement to this look. Highlights really ensure optimal detail with this look.
If you would like optimal fullness in front and behind shoulders, get extensions. Layers are great to ensure volume on the top/sides all day.
STYLE: Classic/natural
52
SIDE PIN PLACEMENT: Low (behind ear)
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
53
54/55
REVERSE BRAID ALONG
HAIRLINE
STYLE: Natural
SIDE PIN PLACEMENT: Low (behind ear)
CURL TYPE: Piecey curls
STYLE: Classic/natural
BUN PLACEMENT: Low (behind ear)
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
EXTENSIONS USED*: Fine-haired model
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Layers suggested for fullness
THICKNESS: Thick*
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
The simple bride!
Incorporating a hair piece to this look gives a stunning glam feel as well.
Great for a bride looking for something unique!
THICKNESS: Medium
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Layers necessary for fullness
A great example to show not all brides need to grow their hair out and a perfect style to compliment a statement earring.
This style has had quite the hype the last year or two. And we get why, when executed, this look is STUNNING! However, time to give a dose of reality with the constraints of this style.
SEEMS SIMPLE? It's not. This is a very technically demanding style that requires at least 60 minutes to accurately execute. For this reason we ask that bridesmaids do not request this style. We can give them a similar feel to this look, however, we are not able to ensure ample time to create the structured shape of these waves.
NO PERFUME NEEDED FOR A BRIDE WITH THIS LOOK. The amount of product utilized for this style is excessive and necessary to ensure hold of the s-shape pattern.
EXTENSIONS ARE ALMOST ALWAYS NECESSARY. If you have long thick hair and want both sides pinned back, you may be an exception to this.
CONSIDER HAIR PLACEMENT PREFERENCE. Would you like hair in front and behind your shoulders?
• Both sides pinned/All hair behind shoulders: Less likely to need the help of extensions (still necessary for thin hair).
• Hair in front and behind shoulders: Extensions are very likely.
HAIRCUT CONCERNS: Some layering is typically okay. But if your cut is very layered and texturized; it can be very difficult for your stylist to create that beautiful s-shape wave and ensure those layers stay held together.
HAIR TYPE
PREFERENCE
STYLE: Glam
58
SIDE PIN PLACEMENT: One side pinned
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
EXTENSIONS USED*
THICKNESS: Thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Minimal to no layering
59
60/61
STYLE: Glam
SIDE PIN PLACEMENT: Both sides pinned
CURL TYPE: Beachy wave
EXTENSIONS USED*
STYLE: Glam
SIDE PIN PLACEMENT: One side pinned
EXTENSIONS USED*
ACCESSORY: Stick-on pearls
THICKNESS: Medium to thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Mid to long
CUT: Minimal to no layering
THICKNESS: Thick
TEXTURE: All types
LENGTH: Long
CUT: Minimal to no layering
IDEAL FOR
If you have a dark hair color (or no dimension) like this model, the detail of your wave will not be captured as clearly. However, the beauty of dark hair like this, is the stunning shine!
Bright blonde like this model shows the curl best
Extensions most effective for this look to ensure optimal fullness in front and behind her shoulders.
When used for event styling, we prefer clip-ins above all other methods. They are the most customizable in executing a desired look. Trying to hide sewn-in wefts or tape-in seams can be difficult and limit our styling options.
• Cheapest option
• Most customizable
• Avoid the lifestyle commitment of an extension installation (both functionally and financially)
- You have the option to embrace the hot girl hair when you feel like putting in the effort.
- If your clip-ins are custom colored & cut to your hair, and you take the time to understand placement, clips-ins can definitely be used for other occasions!
BEST FOR:
• The bride who is looking to have consistent fullness for the months leading up to the wedding
• Requesting an all-down hairstyle
• Has been accustomed to a lifestyle of extensions for a while
• Go simple
• Don't go too big
• Let the pair piece compliment your style
• Resist the urge to over-accessorize
• Asymmetrical placement
• Profile preference
ACCESSORY BASE TYPES:
COMB: Great for updos. Less ideal for half-up styles. Metal is best, and plastic is not suggested.
U-SHAPE PINS: Great for half-up and all-up styles.
Half-up, all-up (low bun), and all-down
Ponies, hollywood wave, all-up (mid or high bun)
• Covers up the back of your dress and hairstyle
• Affects longevity of your style (cannot 100% ensure the style will look the same after)
• Easily tugged on when hugging guests
• Another item to be mindful of (veils can fall out)
• Wear it for the ceremony and a few photos, then take that thing out.
• Most veils are attached to a comb. Metal combs are the most malleable and preferred. Plastic combs can be very difficult to work with and often do not stay as well.
• The most functional veils are finger-tip length. With length, comes weight and inconvenience.
• A veil addition is often a bit more difficult with braids/ponies (especially low/mid ponies). The weight of the veil will affect the longevity of your ponytail fullness. Veil placement underneath the ponytail is an option, but the security of this placement is often not as assured (see pg.74 of The Style Edit)
Washed and dried hair the night before (or morning of) is an absolute must! A common myth is that dirty hair is better to work with. For your trial (and on your big day) we request clean hair. It is easier for our stylists to “dirty” your hair with our own texturizing products.
This gives us a great start to create volume at the root. Have a root boost/mousse at home? This is not absolutely necessary, but can certainly help us when working with fine hair! Please apply the product at your roots when damp and blow dry. If you are in the market for one, we love the Moroccan oil root boost and volumizing mousse for the mids/ ends (a little goes a long way).
BUT LOOKING FOR A SMOOTH OR CURLED STYLE: Blow dry as smooth as you can, but please do NOT flat iron!
BUT LOOKING FOR A STYLE TO EMBRACE YOUR CURLS: Style as usual with your preferred curl products (try to stray from any gels/mousses that are too high of hold).
1-3 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE BIG DAY
WHY? Because your hair is most similar to your day-of hair. This provides more clarity on your full look inspiration on the wedding day. It also gives an opportunity for your timeline to be discussed. We suggest having a morning or early afternoon appointment time to see how the style photographs in daylight. It also gives you the opportunity to see how it wears throughout the day. NOTE: This likely will be on a weekday for most bridal hair specialists.
This is a common policy in the industry, however, ask your stylist to confirm
SMALL VARIATION DIFFERENCES: Not a big deal! Come with both photos. And it is likely the stylist can show both options.
CONSIDERING TWO, VERY DIFFERENT STYLES: Ideally, coming to the appointment with one in mind is suggested. However, you can talk it out with your stylist and see what they think. Be prepared to make a decision on what style you would like her to execute at that trial appointment.
We can discuss the morning of logistics and avoid back-and-forth via email. At your trial appointment, we will request a final confirmation of your headcount and getting ready location. So please access your contract and come prepared with these details so we can confirm your timeline and payment totals! You will be electronically invoiced for your service totals the month of your wedding with payment due 3 days before your big day!
1-3 INSPIRATION PHOTOS: We love pictures for trial runs! It allows us to truly be on the same page with the style you dream to achieve. Please try to narrow down your options to 1-3 photos that are similar in style.
VEIL AND/OR HAIR PIECES: Please bring any veils, hair pieces, extensions, etc. so that you can see your style with your accessories!
FRIEND/FAMILY MEMBER: Confirm with your stylist prior. At The Studio, Lexi Lee Hair welcomes additional visitors as possible. But often, we find we can connect best with our bride’s true desires during a one-on-one appointment.
Provided is a general review of what we see as industry standard. However, DO TALK with your hair/makeup artist directly. These vary based on professional preferences.
HEADCOUNT CONFIRMATION allows us to find the length of our time slot needed to complete the number of styles requested.
"READY-BY" TIME: An estimated idea of when your bridal party needs to be fully finished getting ready.
NOT SURE? This is likely a question for your photographer! This varies depending how many photos will be taken prior to your ceremony.
From there, the stylist can provide a getting ready time in line with these constraints:
COMMON START-TIME: 7 - 9 AM
COMMON END-TIME: 1 - 2 PM
Listen to the professional. When it comes to the number of styles completed by an artist, each hair/makeup artist’s preference is quite different.
We prefer a fluid timeline. This means we clarify a start time/end time and an allotted amount of time per style. However, do not expect the time slots within the timeline to be 100% exact. Things change as hair/skin types are not always the same. So one bridesmaid may take 25 min, but another 35. This may change the timeline with the exact order of when women anticipate getting their style completed.
But we promise - all ladies will be completed on time! We will end with a final touch up on all styles to ensure optimal longevity with each hairstyle as well.
Consider options of women finishing later than your “decided end-time." Mother of the groom or flower girls tend to have flexibility in their responsibilities for this.
Bridal party members can do hair or makeup first. Either works great!
What about the bride? Hair or makeup first? This varies on stylist preference, ask your hair/makeup! We generally like to have the bride in the middle of the timeline for hair. We find this helps us see how the style is settling and revisit with a final touch-up when the hair/makeup is fully complete.
Feel free to create a sample timeline of your own like the two provided here! No need to write in exact names. We find it isn't needed (especially if a large majority of bridal party members will be present all morning).
More comfortable with creating an exact order? Go ahead! We can use that as a guide (however, the ultimate priority is to stay moving with services – so if mom has yet to arrive or Sarah is still getting her makeup done, we will take another lady who is ready in the meantime).
THINK ABOUT TIME AWAY FROM LOVED ONES.
All down style transitioned to a ponytail/simple bun? This is the most realistic. It is a quicker process with the hair all prepped. Hair up to all down? This will likely take longer.
BE PREPARED FOR THE ADDITIONAL COST.
You are asking your stylist to stick around for a few hours and then come back. Costs will likely reflect the full time allotment on booking.
