Achieving Elegant Finger Wave Wedding Hair
Introduction
finger waves wedding hair are a timeless hairstyle that epitomizes retro glamour. This iconic wavy style involves sculpting the hair into deep, defined undulations using the fingers – aptly named for the technique used to set the shape. For brides seeking a romantic, vintage-inspired look on their wedding day, finger waves beautifully capture classical elegance.
In this article, we’ll explore how to successfully style stunning finger wave wedding hair. We’ll cover the history of the style, steps for achieving it yourself or working with a stylist, tips on complementing the waves with accessories and headpieces, and maintaining the look. Read on for a comprehensive guide to incorporating this sophisticated wavy style into your bridal beauty aesthetic.
History of finger waves wedding hair
Finger waving dates back to the 1920s flapper era and peaked in popularity through the 1930s and 40s. Used on short and long hair alike, the labor-intensive process involved dampening and precisely molding the hair into sculpted S-shaped undulations. When set, dried, and combed out, deep waves resulted.
Hollywood starlets like Rita Hayworth and Betty Grable made finger waves an iconic symbol of classic glamour. The sensuous, rippling style continuesconjuring images of retro bridal sophistication today. Modern techniques make the look achievable for brides seeking dramatic wedding hair with vintage spirit.
Benefits of Finger Wave Wedding Hair
- Timeless, elegant, and romantic
- Evokes Old Hollywood glamour
- Sculpted shape holds up well against veils and headpieces
- Allows hair to be styled up or worn down
- Polished waves photograph beautifully
- Versatile for all hair lengths and textures
- Lets shortcut hair achieve vintage styling
Well-defined finger waves wedding hairflatteringly frame the face while providing texture, shape, and intrigue.
How to Achieve Finger Waves
Prep the Hair
Shampoo and condition hair, detangling thoroughly. Blow dry straight using a flat brush. Ensure hair is smooth, sequin-free, and not overly dried out.
Section the Hair
Part hair cleanly from forehead to nape. Make horizontal partings to section off the top and sides of the head. Clip up the remaining hair not being waved.
Dampen the Section
Use a spray bottle with water or setting lotion to dampen the section being waved. Hair should be wet but not soaked. Comb through to evenly distribute moisture.
Sculpt the Waves
Using the tail end of a comb, make deep horizontal bends in the hair, pressing into the created ridges with your other hand’s fingers. Curl each ridge alternately away from and towards the face.
Set the Waves
Once waves are sculpted throughout, mist hair with setting spray or lotion. Use duckbill clips to set in place as it air dries. A blow dryer on low heat can help set quicker.
Refine and Finish
Carefully remove clips once hair is fully dried. Use pomade to slick down flyaways. Back comb at the roots for lift. Soften any tight ridges by gently combing through.
Styling Tips for Finger WaveES Wedding Hair
- For dramatic waves, opt for hip-length or longer hair
- Incorporate a deep side part to accent the sculpted shape
- Pull front pieces out to softly frame the face
- Twist ends into victory rolls or pin curl them for retro styling
- Use finishing serum for glossy shine
- Carefully arrange any veil or headpiece to avoid flattening waves
Thoughtfully styled finger waves make a striking bridal hairstyle statement.
Pairing with Wedding Accessories
- Delicate crystal hairpins and vintage-style combs
- Fabric hair wraps like silk or pearl scarves
- Sequin or crystal hair jewelry scattered throughout
- Rhinestone-dotted veils or birdcage veils
- Decorative hair sticks and forked picks
- Feathered clips or fascinators as whimsical accents
Ornate accessories lend even more Gatsby-era richness to bridal finger waves wedding hair.
Maintaining the Look
- Use firm holding hairspray to set the sculpted waves in place
- Carefully position any veil or headpiece over the top
- Bring small duckbill clips to touch up any flattened spots
- Mist with water and finger-press to revive limp waves as needed
- Take care when hugging guests or leaning back in chairs to not flatten waves
- Plan to keep complicated styling for the ceremony and portraits, then let down
Manage the setter hairstyle gently to help sculpted waves last while photographs are captured.
Pros and Cons of Finger Wave Wedding Hair
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Striking, romantic vintage look | Very labor-intensive to sculpt waves |
| Sculpted shape frames face nicely | Requires professional expertise |
| Holds up well all day | Can fall or flatten if not set properly |
| Gorgeous in wedding portraits | Looser hair types harder to achieve sculpted look |
| Allows creative accessorizing | Needs careful handling and maintenance |
Conclusion
finger waves wedding hair wedding hair strikes the perfect balance between vintage sophistication and romantic bridal style. Defined sculpted waves add painterly movement, framing the face in elegant curves. This iconic wavy style conjures timeless Hollywood glamour – perfect for brides seeking dramatic retro allure.
The sculpted shape allows creative accessorizing for ornate embellishment. With practice and the right setting technique, finger waves can be adapted for all hair types and lengths. For brides who want to make a glamorous statement on their wedding day, finger waves wedding hair hairstyling weaves together artistic flair and nostalgic romance.
FAQs About finger waves wedding hair
How long does finger wave hairstyling take?
It takes 30 minutes to an hour to sculpt defined finger waves, longer for very thick or long hair. Factor in extra time for trial runs before the wedding. The shaping requires great precision and patience.
How can you practice the technique for your wedding day?
Book your stylist well in advance to test out the look together. Practice sculpting waves yourself following online tutorials. Refine techniques over several tries. Match your hair products and tools to what the stylist will use.
What are the best products for defined finger waves?
Strong hold setting lotion or gel applied to dampened hair makes sculpting easier. Use actual wave setting lotion for mirror-like shine and hold. Pomades slick down strays. Hairspray secures the finished look.
How long will the waves last on wedding day?
With proper setting technique and strong hold hairspray, the sculpted waves should last several hours before loosening up. Handle hair gently and bring clips and touch-up products for maintenance. Let waves down later on for dancing and comfort.
What accessories work with finger wave wedding hair?
Ornate crystal pins and clips accent the waves beautifully. Rhinestone or pearl headbands sit neatly against the sculpted ridges. Silk flowers or feather details blend nicely into the texture. Choose accessories that lie flat to avoid flattening waves.
What hair length is best for bridal finger waves?
Waves show up best on shoulder-length or longer hair. But practice makes perfectly defined waves possible at shorter lengths too. For bobs, sculpt diagonal waves from the roots for lift. Long hair provides the most fluid, rippling effects.
Can you achieve heatless finger waves overnight?
Yes! Use foam rollers or pin curls to set waves, then finger-style once released. Wrap hair to preserve the waves overnight. Finger press any flattened spots in the morning for defined, lasting results all day long.
How can you revive finger waves later in the wedding?
Carry mini duckbill clips and setting lotion to revive any limp spots. Gently mist flattened sections, re-sculpt with fingers, clip to set, then release once dried. Light back-combing at the roots also perks waves up.
What face shapes do finger waves best suit?
The sculpted shape and sideways volume suit oval, long, heart and diamond face shapes well. Soft waves visually balance sharp angles but don’t overwhelm petite features. Very wide or round faces can elongate and slim the look with side parts and height on top.
Can you wear a veil with finger wave wedding hair?
Yes, choose a veil shape that lies smoothly over the top of sculpted waves without denting them – like crystal combs or tiered veils. Secure it gently in place, avoiding tightly pinned styles that might flatten waves. Lighter veils meld with the texture nicely.
