[2024] The In-Depth Guide to Bridal Hair Accessories and Hairstyles that Flatter Different Face Shapes That You May Not Know About

No two women are alike. So, what looks good on one bride may not be the best choice for another. This explains the diverse options in fashion since there should be something to suit everyone.

Most brides understand the importance of choosing a wedding dress silhouette that flatters their body shape. However, just as you focus on finding a dress that flatters your best assets, you must find a hairstyle and accessories that enhance your facial features.

You may fall in love with a hairstyle you see in a magazine or on the internet. However, the design of your dreams should suit your facial structure and features for them to work correctly. Unless you find the right hairstyle and accessories for your face shape, you may not look your very best on your wedding day.

The first step to getting this right is to identify your face shape. Specific face shapes are easy, like round, square or oval. If you can quickly identify yours, you are welcome to the first step. The first method is to trace the outline of your face on a mirror and identify the condition that it resembles closely.  The second method uses precise measurements of your jawline, cheek-to-cheek width, forehead and length of the face and compares it to the given list to decide your face shape. Choose either of these methods and identify your actual face shape.

Common face shapes and their characteristic features

Eight different face shapes are widely recognized. These are the following:

Oval: Oval faces have more length than width. The forehead is slightly wider than the jaw and chin areas, and overall the face structure is symmetrical.

Round: The cheekbones are usually wide and similar in proportion to the overall length of the face. You will have a small chin area without sharp angular features, and the forehead will be small.

Oblong or rectangle: These face types are longer than they are wide. The measurements are similar for the forehead, jawline and cheeks.

Heart: The chin is narrower than the temples and cheeks. Forehead and cheek measurements are similar, and upper facial features are soft and rounded.

Square: The difference from the oblong face is that square faces are about as long as they are wide. The jaw is characterized by sharp angles, as is the forehead.

Triangle: Triangle faces are similar to the heart shape. However, the angles are sharper, and the chin is generally more pointed.

Diamond: As the name suggests, diamond faces are widest at the cheeks and taper towards the forehead and chin region. This type of face structure is usually symmetrical.

Now that we’ve looked at the different face shapes let us determine what hairstyle and accessories suit each type best.

Suggested hairstyles and accessories for each face shape

Oval face shape

The oval face shape is one of the most accessible types to accessorize. Since the facial proportions are symmetrical, it is relatively easy to balance. Whether you have long, tumbling tresses or wear your hair short, there are many options available when choosing your wedding day hair. For some hairstyle inspiration for this face shape, look at this article on the Marie-claire website. 

If your face is long, it is a good idea to pick a hairstyle that breaks the length of your face. A chignon or a fringe would work well. Also, consider a bun at the nape of your neck or pull back your hair loosely into a ponytail that shows off your face shape. A side part will add more width to your face if it is long. Avoid hairstyles and accessories that add height at the top. Instead, choose hairstyles that add fullness to the sides of the face. Headbands look good on oval faces, especially when they encircle the crown. All the different veils, from birdcage veils to long-flowing ones, are suitable for this face shape.

Round

When your face is round, pick a hairstyle and accessories that create the illusion of length. This will help your face look longer and resemble an oval. Layered bangs and long hairstyles will elongate this otherwise full shape. Women with round faces can slim down their faces using hairstyles with texture and bounce. Deep side parts tend to reduce the fullness of the face and are a style you should consider. If you choose a layered hairstyle, ensure that the layers are graduated and give the neck region a more extended look. Visit this post on the She Knows website for more ideas on hairstyles that work best for this face shape.

Consider a sleek, side-parted ponytail for an elegant and classy look when choosing your wedding day hairstyle. Another option is to wear a hairstyle that adds height at the center and balances the proportions of your face. Hair accessories that add size, such as a tiara in a triangular fashion, are the best. It is also good to add some volume to the area under your veil, so the face doesn’t look chubby. Finally, your cover should flow along the sides of your face, thus elongating it.

Oblong

For this face shape, we suggest hairstyles and accessories that add width but not length. Side-swept hairstyles, especially those with tumbling waves soft curls, add a delicate, feminine quality to this face shape. Avoid long, straight and sleek styles that further accentuate the length of your face. Instead, opt for short layers or fringes along the sides that will add more volume to your face. A side-swept updo or half-up half-down hairstyles will also look amazing on you.

Find a veil with plenty of layers that fall around your face. For hair accessories, ornate combs or dainty hairpins that add sparkle to a side-swept hairstyle work well. You can also wear floral headbands to add texture to a side-swept hairstyle.

Heart

Heart-shaped faces are wider at the forehead than the chin and look good with hairstyles that draw attention to the cheekbones and shift focus from the angular chin. Fringes work well with this face shape. Add more texture or volume to the area near the ears and cheek with hairstyles like textured bobs. If you want a gathered hairstyle, consider an off-center part that takes the hair away from the face but breaks up the width at the top. Refrain from making a center part or pulling your hair back without a role, as this will only make your forehead appear more expansive.

Explore the options in combs and hairpins to accentuate your wedding day hairstyle. Avoid wearing flat tiaras or headbands that add width to your forehead unless you also wear a side-swept fringe with it.

Square

Hairstyles that conceal or shift attention from the fullness of the jaw and forehead are ideal for square face shapes. Since the corners are relatively sharp, they can also add volume to the face. Long, straight hairstyles soften this look. Off-center parts are also suggested as this will open the front up and not enhance the effect of a broad jaw. Similarly, oversize buns with wispy curls around the face conceal the forehead and balance out the jawline. Bouncy, graduated curls are also an excellent way to shift attention from your angular jaw.

Choose headpieces with asymmetrical details for best results. Please do not wear it in the center. Instead, wear your headpiece to one side of the face. Details like twirls, floral elements, delicate pieces that add sparkle to the hair and feminine curls are suitable. Voluminous veils are good for this facial shape.

Triangle

The most prominent feature of a triangle shape face is the jaw, with its more significant proportions than the forehead. When you choose your wedding day hairstyle and accessories, aim to balance out the face’s proportions and shift focus from your pointed chin area. For this, add width to the jaw area with a suitable hairstyle. A chignon or bun tied at the nape of the neck with a vivid side part will achieve this effect.

Headpieces that broaden the forehead and widen the width of this area are suggested. Wear it close to the temple instead of placing it near the crown. Delicate and dainty headpieces with plenty of detailing will draw attention to your eyes and forehead. When choosing veils, look for ones that do not end near the jawline or have layers in that area. Your cover should preferably fall towards the back.

Diamond

If your face has the shape of a diamond, you are likely to be blessed with sharp, chiselled features. Although your chin tends to have a pointy look, it can be camouflaged with a suitable hairstyle. The hairstyle you pick should ideally reduce the length of your face and balance out its lean look. Aim to shift attention from the center of the face. You can achieve this with hairstyles that add a side part. Layers work well, as these add volume around the face and give it a fuller effect. If you have side-swept bangs, leave them open. Avoid hairstyles that fall flat and straight, as this will highlight the contours of your face.

Choose hair accessories that enhance a side part for your wedding day. You can also experiment with hair clips and combs that add the correct dose of sparkle to your hairdo. Avoid tiaras and crowns unless you leave your bangs open. Never pair this with a sleek updo or pull your hair back on all sides since it will highlight the actual shape of your face. Oversize hair accessories like floral crowns are another great option as this can disguise the exact shape of your face and give it a fuller look.

Other factors to consider

While your face shape is an essential factor to consider when choosing your hairstyle, there are other factors to consider as well. For instance, your hairstyle should match your dress style, and it should be formal or casual based on your wedding style. In addition, the accessories you wear on this day should also go well with the rest of your outfit. All these factors can make it somewhat confusing to find the right combination of hairstyle and hair accessories that go together seamlessly.

If you are unsure of what to choose, you can always ask your bridal dress consultant for suggestions for suitable accessories. Experienced bridal fashion consultants can usually suggest practical additions for each dress style, and you can make your pick from what they recommend. Also, consult your hairstylist. Discuss how you want to look, show her pictures you like and ask for inputs on what would look best on you. Finally, have a trial hair and makeup session ahead of the wedding, and you can see if it comes together correctly and make suitable adjustments as necessary.

At Best for Bride, we have a range of bridal hair accessories to suit every bridal dress style. For ideas on how to plan your wedding day look, browse through our gallery of wedding dresses. We have everything you need for your special day, from veils and tiaras to headpieces, jewelry, and shoes. We also offer the flexibility to buy or hire these articles, as well as your wedding dress as per your preference. So visit Best for Bride today to make your wedding day dreams come true. 

Summary: Best Bridal Hair Accessories and Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes

• Choosing the right bridal hair accessories and hairstyles can enhance your overall look on your wedding day.
• Consider your face shape when selecting hair accessories and hairstyles to find the most flattering options.
• For a round face shape, opt for hairstyles that create height and volume, such as updos or high ponytails. Hair accessories like headbands or tiaras can also help elongate the face.
• If you have an oval face shape, you have the flexibility to choose from a variety of hairstyles, including updos, half-up half-down styles, or loose waves. Hair accessories like combs or barrettes can add a touch of elegance.
• Square face shapes benefit from softening the angles with hairstyles that have soft curls or waves. Headbands or floral crowns can also help soften the overall look.
• Heart-shaped faces can be complemented by hairstyles that add volume around the chin area, such as side-swept curls or tousled updos. Delicate hairpins or clips can provide subtle embellishments.
• Long face shapes can be balanced with hairstyles that add width, such as low buns or side-swept hairstyles. Hair accessories like vines or hair combs can create visual interest.
• Consider the style and theme of your wedding when selecting hair accessories to ensure they complement your overall bridal look.
• Finally, consult with a hairstylist or bridal consultant for personalized recommendations based on your face shape, hair type, and personal style.

FAQ – Bridal Hair Accessories

What do brides-to-be wear on their heads?

A veil is a swath of cloth worn by a bride over her head. According to length, there are a few different sorts of veils, each with its own style suggestion. Many brides have recently opted to forego the veil totally and attend a wedding ceremony without it.

What exactly is a hair vine?

Wire lengths are twisted together with pearls, beads, or crystals to make hair vines. They can be basic or highly designed and come in a variety of lengths, colours, and designs.

What are the most popular hair accessories right now?

Headbands with a vintage vibe, pearl and monochrome snap clips, and big barrettes are all the rage right now.

What is the best way to wear a hair wreath?

Place the headband’s ends in front of your ears, where your hairline ends. There should be some room between the top of your head and the headband at this point. Gently pull the headband back until the ends are behind your ears, then secure the top.

What is the significance of the veil worn by brides?

It has its origins in ancient times when brides were “wrapped from head to toe to symbolize the delivery of a humble and unspoilt virgin.” The veil also “protected her from malevolent spirits who could try to sabotage her bliss.”