Bradley Leake knows how important a bride’s hairstyle is on her wedding day.
While the professional hairstylist’s long list of celebrity clients includes Hannah Godwin, Brittany Cartwright, Stassi Schroeder and Chrishell Stause, Leake has also created countless wedding day styles. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with so many beautiful brides that I couldn’t pick just one favorite,” he tells PEOPLE.
The Los Angeles-based stylist has been in the hair business for 10 years and specializes in sun-kissed hair colors, red carpet hairdos and editorial hairdos. He recently opened his new salon BRDY JAY in Santa Monica, California.
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While Leake says hair trends can often change quickly, he’s always for a style that’s “clean and simple.”
She adds: “Hair off the face and something that looks simple and timeless.”
Below, Leake shares more dos and don’ts to help brides choose the right hairstyle for their big day.
Bradley Leake styles Hannah Godwins hair.
Studio Cinzio Bruschini
What are the common mistakes brides make when choosing a hairstyle for their wedding day?
“I don’t think one of the greatest looks like you,” Leake tells PEOPLE. “Although your wedding is such a special moment, I personally feel that looking the best version of yourself is key to not looking back and regretting your appearance.”
Do you style your hair up a lot or do brides opt for down hair?
“I believe that the right hairstyle brings the whole look and atmosphere together,” he says. “It is important to keep in mind the atmosphere of the place, dress and weather conditions and most importantly what makes the bride feel most comfortable. Are we going for a tousled boho chic up style or for sophisticated and elegant glamorous waves?”
What are the biggest wedding day hair trends?
“I think sophisticated luxury and pure girlish aesthetics are here to stay. It’s classic, timeless and simple and something most brides won’t look back on and regret.”
How to keep your hairstyle to last all night?
“Choosing the right products to care for your hair and fight the elements is key,” explains Leake. “Creating a solid foundation and setting the look is key to ensuring your bridal look lasts all night. I’m obsessed with the Color Wow Dreamcoat to combat the hot summer humidity and the Kerastase Hair Oil for extra hydration.”
How long before the wedding should a bride cut or dye her hair?
“Assuming you’re going to someone who knows you and your hair color routine, I think two weeks before the wedding is ideal for color. That way it’s fresh, but it also gives you and your stylist time to make any last-minute changes if needed.”
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Bradley Leake styles Stassi Schroeder’s hair.
Studio Cinzio Bruschini
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Advice for brides who want to add a little something extra to their style on their wedding day, but still feel like themselves?
“I always recommend adding extensions for your big day. I especially love using Hidden Crown because they have so many styling options – clips, ponytails and halos as well as color options. I recommend asking your stylist to adjust them so they look super natural and blend in with your desired length and style.”
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Where should brides look for inspiration for their wedding hairstyle?
“I love Pinterest for ideas and Instagram guides for a realistic idea of what to expect.”
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education