Arianna's First Guest Blogger

Richard Harvey-Cabrera | www.richmakeup.co.uk

Meet Richard, our trusted hair & make up artist that's behind the beautiful styling of our photo-shoots.  He's our fairy godfather and amazing to work with and we've asked him to do a blog post about one of our favourite hairstyles 'half up half down' featuring our handmade Luna Draped Halo, AR576.

Over to you Richard ...

Half up half down is such a popular hair style, when 'then' Cheryl Cole married Ashley in 2006 this was her style and it was as influential as the 'Rachel' cut in the 90's which changed wedding hairstyles from very set-up do's that still remains popular now.

There are many versions of the half up half down hairstyle to suit every bride; lots of height with subtle and tight curls to a brushed out wave. The beauty of this style is that it keeps hair out of your face but you can still have a few tendrils to soften the look and works well with your existing parting. I'd suggest back combing your hair as this works well to secure your tiara, veil or any other accessory that you're going to wear.

I really recommend starting a Pinterest board before you have your hair trial as there are so many types of waves and curls and I find that if a bride shows me a few pictures it's easier for me to read what look they might be going for which then saves time on the trial. 

My Top Tips ...

1.   I would always get hair curled a little tighter that you might like as hair usually drops and it's easier to relax out than to re-curl and let's face it, you want your hair to last as much as the day as it can.
2.  If your hair is a little on the thinner side then a half set of clip-in extensions can really add to the look, increasing volume and length if wanted.
3.   If you want height or volume in your hair then it's better to wash your hair the day before as clean hair won't hold those curls as well.
4.   When your hair is being curled resist the urge to run your fingers through it until it is totally cooled as it lasts a lot longer.

Must Have Product ...

Wella's Perfect Setting Lotion is my absolute favourite product for spraying in dry hair before it is waved / curled using any straightener or tong. It protects hair from the heat and helps achieve a better effect without using too much hairspray and avoiding it looking too crispy.

www.parfumdreams.co.uk £9.28