The Reality of Bridal Hollywood Waves Hair: What Every Bride Should Know
Whether you call them Hollywood waves, glam waves, or my favorite, “simple waves,” this is a popular look amongst my brides!
I've been doing Hollywood waves since 2016, and people always ask me, “Are people still doing that look?”
The answer is **YES!** It's just evolved over time, from a tighter wave to a more flowy, voluminous look.
One thing that hasn't changed, though, is how long it takes to achieve this look and how high-maintenance it can be.
If you're considering Hollywood waves for your wedding day, I have a few things for you to consider before committing to the look.
Hair Extensions: Your Hollywood Waves Bridal hairstyle will Probably Need Them
Around 90% of my clients who end up getting Hollywood waves are wearing extensions.
I know you already have a lot to budget for and think about when planning your wedding, so I'm willing to work with whichever extensions you decide to get. But the truth is, **the extensions DO matter.**
My personal favorite to work with is Bellami Silk Seam hair extensions. I love the fullness they provide, and they're my go-to for creating that big, glamorous Hollywood wave look.
I also have a discount code to help my brides save a little money: **BRIANNAV**. Bellami also runs sales throughout the year, so it's worth keeping an eye out for those!
Another option I recommend is Airship. They have a brick-and-mortar store in Orange County, which makes it convenient to get color-matched and take your hair home the same day.
And here's something you might not expect: I even have brides with long hair who get extensions simply because extensions can help their natural hair hold a curl better and give them that extra fullness.
You don't necessarily need extensions just because you're getting Hollywood waves, but if you're going for that full, voluminous look, they're definitely worth considering.
Timing: This Is Not a 45-Minute Hairstyle
Hollywood waves can take anywhere from **1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes** to complete, depending on your hair and the look we're creating.
Remember those extensions we have to put in? That's an art in and of itself!
The extensions have to be strategically placed to create the look you're going for, and that takes time. Then your curls need to be curled, cooled, and set in place before we can start shaping everything into those signature waves.
One curl out of place can change the entire look.
This is why Hollywood waves aren't always a realistic bridesmaid hairstyle, especially when we're working within a standard 45-minute appointment. I don't like to completely shut down my bridal party gals who want this look, but we do have to manage expectations about what's possible within that timeframe.
This is also why bridal hairstyling costs more and comes at a premium. There's a level of detail, precision, and time that goes into creating a bridal look that simply isn't always possible during a standard appointment.
The Truth About Hairspray: These Waves Aren't Meant to Be Touchable
Let's talk about the reality of Hollywood waves in real life versus what you see in photos.
That soft, flowy, touchable look you see in inspiration pictures? In reality, **Hollywood waves are going to be pretty heavy on the hairspray.**
This isn't typically a hairstyle you can run your fingers through. The waves need to stay in the position they're styled in, and running your fingers through them or roughing up the hair can cause the waves to loosen, separate, or become frizzy.
Wedding-day hair is photo hair! All that hairspray and setting is meant to help your hairstyle hold its shape so you look amazing in your wedding photos.
Does that mean your hair will never move or change throughout the day? Of course not. Weather, humidity, and your natural hair texture can all affect how the style holds up. But the goal is to create a beautiful, structured wave that lasts as well as possible.
If all of this sounds like a lot, it's because it IS!
I've had brides come to their trial not wanting all that hairspray, and I'm always happy to work with them. I'll usually suggest a little experiment: let's do one side of your hair the way you want it, with less hairspray, and on the other side, let's do it my way.
Surprise, surprise... they all end up choosing my way!
It's almost like this is my job, haha.
The point isn't that there's only one way to wear your hair. It's that I want you to see the difference for yourself so you can make an informed decision about the look you want for your wedding day.
How to Choose the Right Hair Extensions for Hollywood Waves
If you've decided to get extensions for your wedding, there are a few things you'll want to consider before purchasing them.
1. The Weight
Hair extensions are measured in grams. Generally, the more grams you have, the more hair you're getting, which can help create a fuller look.
However, the right amount depends on your natural hair density, the length you're starting with, and how full you want your finished hairstyle to be. More hair isn't automatically better if it doesn't blend well with your natural hair.
2. The Color
If you're planning on changing your hair color before the wedding, **get your hair color done first, then match your extensions.**
You'll generally want to match the extensions to the ends of your hair since they'll be extending your natural length.
If you're unsure about the color, getting professionally color-matched can save you the headache of ordering extensions that don't blend properly.
3. The Length
Grab a tailor's measuring tape (you probably have one in a sewing kit somewhere!) and measure from your temples down to your desired length.
Keep in mind that your hair will appear shorter once it's curled, so you'll want to account for that when choosing your extensions.
And one final tip: **please get your extensions before your bridal hair trial!** If you're planning to wear them on your wedding day, you'll want to see the full look during your trial so we can make any necessary adjustments ahead of time.
So, Are Hollywood Waves Worth It?
Absolutely! This isn't meant to scare you away from Hollywood waves. In fact, it's actually my favorite look to do because I think it looks incredible on everyone.
You just have to find the version that looks good on YOU!
Whether that means adding extensions for extra fullness, adjusting the wave pattern to suit your hair, or finding the right balance between a softer finish and a more structured look, there's a lot we can do to personalize the style.
My biggest piece of advice is to go into your bridal hair trial with an open mind, communicate what you love about your inspiration photos, and trust your stylist to help you figure out what will work best for your hair.
I want you to love your wedding hair, but I also want you to understand what goes into creating the look you're asking for. The more we can plan ahead, the better prepared we'll be for your wedding day! Thinking about Hollywood waves for your wedding?
Let's find the version that works best for your hair! Learn more about our bridal hair and makeup services or book your bridal hair trial to start planning your wedding-day look.
I wish you all the best with wedding planning, and I can't wait to see you in my chair soon!
XX,
Brianna
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