Hair trade

Up, down, flying around...however you want your hair, a good stylist will get the best from your barnet

Hair, possibly the most problematic aspect when getting married. OK, so choosing the perfect dress can sometimes be a nightmare, and opting for your dream venue can be a bit time consuming, but what on earth are you going to do with your hair?

If you don't feel comfortable with your hair, it could ruin your day. But there's no pressure…honest! The best advice is don't opt for a style that you feel uncomfortable with – and find a good hairdresser. If you love wearing your hair down, then opt for a hair-down style with extra elegance.

There are no hard and fast rules, but avoid getting your hair chopped off before the big day. Very few of us like our hair the day we get it cut, and it can take weeks before you feel comfortable with your 'do'. Most professionals advise a small trim a week before the big day.

If you are comfortable with your hair up, but like the idea of tousled, natural-looking hair as well, consider the condition of it. To carry off that hair-about-to-tumble over your shoulder look, you'll need healthy and shiny looking locks. For fuss-free hair, wear it up. This can look extremely glamorous, and add height to the entire outfit, and best of all you probably won't need to keep fiddling with it the whole day!

Don't think that you must have long hair on your wedding day; short styles can look just as glamorous. Adding small accessories like diamante clips and fresh flowers add a feminine touch to the look, making it extremely versatile.

If however you do decide to grow your hair, make sure you start as soon as you begin to plan your wedding, and keep getting trims to ensure your hair remains healthy. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you get help and advice from your hairdresser.

Talk through what you want and, if necessary, have a few styling practise runs using some of the hair accessories and/or veil you plan to wear on the day