There are many wedding decisions Kate Middleton will have to make before marrying her prince next year – not least what hairstyle she wants to go for on her big day. Celebrity hairdresser Errol Douglas MBE, who designed Emilia Fox's wedding day hair, suggests Kate go for a understated yet elegant look as the eyes of the world turn to her...
"My favourite hairstyle for a bride has to be the classic chignon," he says. "It's understated, can be worn with a veil or simply accessorised for a more modern finish, and works with any style of dress.
"For a more interesting finish, try a double chignon. This would suit Kate perfectly and is easy to translate for your own wedding. Personally, I prefer it without a veil, but worn with gorgeous accessories."
To create this look, apply blow dry cream to wet hair and smooth out using a large round bristly brush. Once dry, section off the top area to the crown with a clip. Pull the rest of the hair back into a ponytail, spraying the sides closely with hairspray and brushing over to create a sleek, polished finish.
"Lean your head back when wrapping a band through as this will pull up the nape sleek and tight when you rest you head as normal, no more baggy ponytails! Once you have the hair secure, roll the pony round and round until the hair starts to twist back on itself. Then loop it round into a bun shape and pin all around the edges to make secure. Unclip the upper section, backcombing firmly through the roots spraying as you go.
"Smooth the hair over with a brush and tuck the ends under to form a horizontal roll. Sit this on top of the chignon and pin into place around the sides and spray well. We used a gorgeous pearl necklace and threaded it through the top roll at the sides draping it over the bun at the base."
