locks to love

by anne pyburn craig

You want to look impeccable on the Big Day, which calls for pulling it all together from head to toe. So here, for those of us who aren’t full-time fashionistas, are the hairstyles that best complement each style of gown. A general rule: if you’re wearing a headpiece such as a veil, tiara, or floral crown, go with simple and sleek. Beyond that, you’ll find lots of great options for any gown you love. The guiding principle here: Avoid hair that conflicts with or covers up any details of your gown, or any details of you that your gown is designed to show off.

You want to look impeccable on the Big Day, which calls for pulling it all together from head to toe.

If you’re wearing a headpiece such as a veil, tiara, or floral crown, go with simple and sleek.

• Strapless : A strapless gown goes well with any hairstyle you like, from flowing locks or a loose braid to a dramatic up-do.

• Boat neck : This neckline is meant to highlight the grace of your neck and collar bones, so let it do its thing and choose an up-do that gets your hair out of the way. Think sleek ponytail, bun, or braid.

• Off-the-shoulder: Flowing hair will complement this romantic style to perfection. Side-swept styles add drama, and you can’t go wrong with cascading curls. If you’re wearing most of your hair up or back, consider freeing a few tendrils to flatter your face.

• Open-back or dramatic-back gowns go well with hair that’s put up in a fancy bun, or worn in an overthe-shoulder braid, to preserve the full effect of your gown’s elegant detail. Consider a loose Victorian ponytail for longer hair.

Avoid hair that conflicts with or covers up any details of your gown, or any details of you that your gown is designed to show off.

• V-neck: Consider an up-do of some sort or a dramatic side-swept style or side braid. Half-up, halfdown styles with a few dangling tendrils are also great. So is the crown effect of a milkmaid braid.

• High neck: Wearing your hair up or pulled back allows your lovely collar detail to shine while your hair tops off the drama. Consider a side-part updo, centered braid, or sleek ponytail.

• Scoop neck: Try half-up, half-down with this one, or something sideswept. Collar-length curls are lovely too, as is a sleek bun or a cascading updo.

adriana ’ s bridal

Rhinebeck, 845-516-4660, adrianasbridal.com

Invested in creating an intimate and highly personalized bridal gown shopping experience for each of our beautiful brides. Sip chilled prosecco as you chat with your style concierge about your wedding plans and stylistic vision. Our passion is taking the time to get to know each bride-to-be’s personality in order to showcase a carefully curated selection of dresses from our designers like Pronovias, White One, Maggie Sottero & more. Once you have found your gown, we are ready to elevate your look even further by helping you accessorize with jewelry, headpieces, or the perfect veil.

Idpearl Boutique

Woodstock, 845-684-5595, www.shopidPearl.com idPearl stands for pearls of independent designers. We specialize in dresses for every occasion, pearl and gemstone jewelry, and fashion accessories. Established in Brooklyn in 2016, we partner with brands from around the world to bring unique designs ethically made in small batch to the Hudson Valley. Visit us in store and shop online for Free Shipping within the US. Private appointments available.

La V Beauty

Ulster Park, 845-339-3368, lavbeauty.com lambs hill bridal boutique

La V Beauty offers on-site makeup application featuring LaV products. A lifelong artist and designer, Karen’s experience working with photographers and stylists will put your mind at ease. Whether you desire a natural glow or a more glamorous touch, La V will give you a perfect look for your wedding day.

Beacon, 845-765-2900, lambshillbridalboutique.com

Four-time winner of Best Bridal Shop in the Hudson Valley. Enjoy a boutique shopping experience in this elegantly designed shop, conveniently located in downtown Beacon. Try on designer wedding dresses in a wide range of styles, sizes, and price points in your personalized, one-on-one appointment with your stylist. The boutique also carries bridal accessories, bridesmaid gowns, and flower girl dresses.

Leigh Kelley Skin Studio

Kingston, 347-403-0288, leighkelleyskinstudio.com millinery treasures

Leigh Kelley is no stranger to prepping clients for their big day. Her studio offers a combination of holistic and clinical techniques for treatments that are both relaxing and results-driven. Leigh works an array of high-tech modalities, is the premiere provider of iS Clinical and luxury brand MBR in the Kingston area and is certified in Gua Sha Facial Fusion, Sculptural Face Lift and Buccal Massage techniques. Facials are booked by time for a truly bespoke experience. Special package rates are available upon request.

Hudson Valley, 646-286-3092, millinerytreasures.com salix intimates

We can help you find your perfect wedding style whether that’s a cathedral wedding veil, a bridal pillbox, a birdcage veil, a vintage wedding headpiece, or a one-of-a-kind bridal headpiece. Contact us to discuss your needs.

New Paltz, NY 845-633-8028 www.salixintimates.com

Located in the Water Street Market in New Paltz NY, Salix Intimates is a lingerie boutique + apothecary specializing in earth-friendly garments + lifestyle items. Fun + flirty lingerie for special occasions, honeymoons, bridal and bachelorette parties. Expert bra-fitters on staff focusing on comfort, style + fit. Bachelorette party event space available.

Zephyr Float

Kingston, 845-853-2400, zephyrfloat.com

Named one of the top 6 spas in the Hudson Valley, Zephyr Float offers something different. Floatation therapy is a state of total relaxation in an environment free of stimulation. Floating in 1000 pounds of Epsom Salt relieves sore muscles and chronic pain, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep. Pair your float with an incredible massage given by the best massage therapists in the area. Perfect for relaxing before the big day or as a wedding gift for the people you love.