Crystal
For a fresh take on the more traditional tiara, try a sparkly ribbon. Here, it’s partnered with a relaxed half-up style, lightly backcombed for volume and finished with Sunsilk De-Frizz 24/7 Creme for shine and light control. Silk ribbon headband with Swarovski crystals by Bride’s Head Revisited. Ivory chiffon gown by Alberta Ferretti, albertaferretti.com.
Raffia
We love this natural material for its earthy charm. Here, lengths of raffia are wound around a loose updo for a look that’s both angelic and au naturel. Adding some definition and hold: Nexxus Sea Swell Ocean Air Texture Mist. Raffia from dickblick.com. Ivory dress and raffia bolero by Ports 1961, ports1961.com.
Braid
Equal parts Heidi and hippie, the braid-as-headband has been embraced by such stylesters as Sienna M. and Maggie G. Whether you braid your own hair or use a plaited hairpiece, all you’ll need productwise is a little something that conditions and softly defines, such as Sebastian Potion 9. Earrings by Dean Harris. Lamé gown and tulle top by Vera Wang, verawang.com.
Lace
The metallic shade keeps this lace from looking too dainty, and placing the band at the hairline helps lift locks up and away from the face. Using a curling iron to "kick out" the ends adds extra swing, to keep hair from falling in a straight line. Amp it up even more with a healthy dose of Redken Workforce Volumizing Spray. Headband by Jennifer Behr, jenniferbehr.com. Bangles by R.J. Graziano, rjgraziano.com. Dress by Reem Acra, reemacra.com.
Satin
When you take the minimalist approach, every element has to be just right, with hair precisely blown and a headband that’s the pluperfect width. (And while touches of black were seen on many a bridal runway—Vera’s, Oscar’s, Mrs. Herrera’s—this band comes in white, too.) Adding to the polish: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Sheer Lacquer. Headband by Jennifer Ouellette, barneys.com. Earrings by Dean Harris, deanharris.net. Gown by Y & Kei, yandkei.com.
