*Disclaimer: I’m not getting married, but I know lots of people who are so I hope you find some inspiration from this!

We all have bad hair days from time to time, but troublesome tresses are a big no no on your wedding day. When it comes time for you to walk down the aisle, you’ll no doubt want luxurious locks that perfectly complement your outfit. There are plenty of gorgeous styles to choose from, and here are five of the most popular.

1) Elegant waves

If you don’t like over complicating things, elegant waves might be just what you’re after. With this style, there’s no need for hundreds of hair pins. With some practice, you might feel confident enough to attempt the look yourself, or to get one of your bridesmaids to have a go. Just make sure you have your curling tongs and plenty of hairspray to hand. For a summer wedding, you can add a floral note by weaving some flowers in.

2) Classic bun

Another wedding favourite is the classic bun. This can be ideal if you want to keep your hair off your face and buns are great for hanging wedding veils off too. You can choose whether to go for neat versions or softer, looser arrangements. To boost volume and to achieve the perfect shape, use a sponge hair ring.

3) Understated side ponytail

If you’re not sure whether to have your hair up or down, a side ponytail could offer the ideal compromise. You get the benefit of having your hair tied back, which can be especially handy if you’re getting hitched outdoors, but you can also let your locks fall around your face. You may decide to curl your ponytail or wear it straight and sleek instead.

4) Simple chignon

It’s also worth considering the simple chignon. This sophisticated style works especially well with side partings and you add detail to it by plaiting sections of your hair. Kate Middleton is a fan of this style and she can often be seen sporting it to events.

5) Glamorous bouffant

For something a little more glam, you can opt for a bouffant style. These voluminous creations are certainly eye-catching. To get this look right though, you’ll need expert help. After all, it’s not easy to backcomb and arrange your hair from behind and, if this look goes wrong, it can go very wrong! Also, bear in mind that while you can wear a veil with these styles, it’s not wise to choose one that covers your hair. Instead, it’s best to attach your veil at the bottom of your bouffant and let it flow down your back.

Whichever style you decide to go for on your big day, make sure you practice it. You’ll have enough to worry about when you’re getting ready to walk down the aisle without suffering last-minute panics about your hair.

If you’re styling your locks yourself or getting a friend to help, make sure you have at least one practice run. Meanwhile, even if you’re getting a professional to fix your hair, it pays off to have a trial. This way, you can make sure you’re totally satisfied with the end results.

Author bio: Anna Longdin writes regularly about fashion and beauty, and she visits sites including Marlows Diamonds to stay in touch with the top trends.