Before the Wedding

• Damaged, color-treated hair
  
  A canvas in excellent condition is a better starting point for a masterpiece than a damaged one. Keep this in mind as you carefully assess the condition of your hair. Is it dry or oily? Frizzy or brittle? Do you have split ends or dark roots? Because the texture of straight hair, even minor flaws are easy to spot, so visit your salon or drug store and purchase the conditioning products that work best for your hair type and budget. Schedule a cut with your stylist approximately three weeks before your wedding. If you color your hair, make sure you schedule a touch-up in the same time frame so the color can settle in. Regular deep conditioning and a fresh cut and color will ensure that you have the best possible canvas to work with on your wedding day.
  
  

Options and the Elements

• Half-up, half-down with a flowing veil
  
  One of the common misconceptions about straight hair is that it isn't special enough for a wedding. However, "special" is in the eye of the beholder, and there are many options for straight hair to suit every type of event. If your wedding is casual, you can wear your hair down, tucked behind the ears, or pinned back for a half-up, half-down effect. If your event is an elegant affair, consider slicking back the bangs and side pieces, using hair extensions for added volume at the crown or pulling the hair into a neat, polished bun.
  
  One of the great advantages of straight wedding hair is that it doesn't have to be "shellacked" in place like an up-do. The style you choose should depend on the look you want to achieve, as well as what your hair tends to do under certain conditions. Heat, wind, humidity and rain can sometimes turn straight hair into a frizzy, flat mess, so choose your style and your styling products accordingly.
  
  

Equipment

• Gathered in a simple bun
  
  Depending on the texture of your hair, you will need either a straightening iron or a blow dryer with a round brush to achieve a perfectly smooth effect. Both types of equipment operate on the same premise: heat straightens the hair, while the gentle downward motion of the straightening iron or round brush seals in moisture and shine. Experiment with the option that gives you the best results, preferably with a friend who can help with hard-to-reach sections. Also experiment with finishing products such as hair spray, shine serums and pomades to find one that provides the right amount of hold without looking stiff.
  
  

Accessorize

• Long and loose with a fresh flower
  
  Remember that you don't have to underplay a straight hairstyle. Consider using accessories to focus attention on it. A single flower or a small, glittery barrette are subtle options for drawing the eye to a particular place, while a brightly colored feather, crystal tiara or voluminous veil are more dramatic choices.