Popular bridal updos have really evolved through time with a lot of brides now favouring more relaxed romantic styles over the classic ringlet curls or clean sleek look. Brides are still choosing a combination of fresh flowers for a youthful romantic bohemian vibe, traditional veils or sparkly tiaras and headpieces to add that touch of glamour to their wedding day style. Below, expert wedding hair and makeup artist Gemma Sutton discusses her favourite wedding hair updo styles.

Our number 1 updo is a stunning soft textured low chignon. The tousled organic framework carefully crafted into a low chignon is formal but with an element of fun and romance with a less contrived feel which is a favourite for many modern brides who aren’t afraid to play with texture and movement. A twist on this is it worked to one side. The sexy textured tousled hair with defined waves highlight movement and with it pinned to the side it gives a sophisticated elegance. This is a lovely option that gives more interest from the front as it is visible from all angles and works wonderfully with both straps, sleeves, or strapless bridal gowns.

Plaits and twists have been a massive hit this season on the runways and continue to be as popular in the world of weddings. They can be great for a more casual natural looking style for a more laid back, romantic, rustic or beachy wedding especially with destination weddings becoming more and more common. Incorporating the plait or twist into the hair at the side of the head, through the bun or across the head with teased wavy textured hair are just some of the popular options chosen.

Hair pulled all back for a real fresh face is a gorgeous bridal option – To keep it feeling modern and to soften the look, a lot of our brides prefer a more deconstructed windswept volume at the front preventing it from looking too constricted or coiffed. With height and the softened texture it creates an effortlessly glamorous A-lister style.

A style that might be slightly less obvious as a bridal hair updo is the long fishtail braid which has become increasingly popular. Again, this is a cool modern style for a more relaxed boho chic wedding style and really offsets a powerful dress. It is a little edgier than a classic bridal style. Decadent without being fussy.

If curls, waves, and romance aren’t your thing then this has to be the all time classic updo with straighter hair. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn, with its polished contemporary elegance, the French Pleat is sleek and graceful with an intricate element for interest. It is a winner for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride and groom and can easily be worn with a hat fixed to one side.

Finally, here are our top 5 tips if you plan on wearing your hair up on your wedding day:

• Speak to a wedding hair specialist regarding your preferences in advance and experiment with different styles before deciding on a final choice.
• Discuss hair care products and let your stylist know if you are allergic to anything.
• If you’ve already purchased hair accessories ahead of your wedding hair trial, take them along with you so that you get a good feel of the finished product.
• Think about your bridesmaids. Will their hair styles match yours, or are you happy for them to wear their hair however they feel most comfortable?
• If you plan on wearing a veil, ensure you feel comfortable with the style of your hair wearing a veil. You’ll more than likely remove it part way through the day, so have a bridesmaid on hand to help remove it and touch your hair up if necessary.