Gemma Crow is a jewellery designer based in Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire. A big thank you to Gemma for kindly sharing with us the top 2011 trends in bridal hair accessories for the modern bride!

As a jewellery designer involved in the wedding and prom industry, it is very important for me to stay up to date with the latest and most popular trends and themes.

It seems that this year’s brides are torn between several styles, I have whittled them down to the two most popular:

First we have ‘Glamour’ incorporating the sleek and simple lines of the Hepburn era, with High Chignon Hair-do’s, Taut French -Twists and heavy swept fringes.

Second we have the floaty, wispy and whimsical ‘Romantic’ styling with tousled tresses, loose, flirty up-dos and Avant-Garde Twists.

The romantic theme has so many variations and can include the ‘Vintage’ look with lashings of lace, pearls and floppy silk flowers.  And even the ‘Bohemian’ look with bare feet, daisies, long natural locks, ethnic statement jewellery, and forehead bands.

Well, as you have probably gathered reigning in my designs for hair accessories is not made any easier by these trends!  They are as broad as ever and so full of scope, the good thing is that you, the bride don’t have to worry whether your hair accessory is on trend!

The first thing you need to do is have a few practice sessions with your hair, decide on a style that suits you and compliments the style of your dress.  Once you know how your hair will be you can start looking for hair accessories.  The range available is endless and this doesn’t necessarily make it any easier!

Here are a few examples from my range of tiaras, fascinators and combs:

‘Glamour’

This glamorous High Chignon is simple and bold. Shown here adorned by a gorgeous coronet featuring woven pearl flowers and leaves.

A slightly more colourful twist on the traditional tiara, this piece oozes sophistication and with its twinkling crystals and lustrous Swarovski pearls, has glamour written all over it.

High Chignon Shown with a simple yet Striking and elegant beaded flower.

‘Romance’

Romance and boho at its best! Picture golden sands, ice blue seas and a gentle warm breeze on your skin. This very flexible and versatile hair accessory can be worn like a tiara, or lower down on the forehead, it can also be worn on the back of the head to support an Up-do or even around the High-chignon style shown in the ‘Glamour’ section. Perfect for beach and summer weddings.

The Flower Garden Tiara; It doesn’t get more romantic than sparkling flowers, twisted tendrils and flowing scrolls! This Stunning tiara looks gorgeous nestled amongst flowing locks and untamed curls, but will also stand proud on a more sleek style too.

Coordinating Comb

Combining pearls and flowers to create the ultimate romantic look, this pretty and delicate side tiara/fascinator will look great on tousled loose curls or sat within a flirty Up-do. Choosing a band is a good option for shorter or fine hair as combs can often feel insecure. The band can be disguised easily enough by your hairdresser if required.

Aside from trawling the shops and internet there are other options that you could consider; outlined below are two services that I offer to brides.

Bespoke Service: Have something made especially for you.

• Contrary to belief a bespoke service can save you money! It can also save a lot of time, frustration and good shoe leather!
• Having your jewellery made enables you to co-ordinate perfectly with your Bridesmaids, the Groom and Ushers and now even your Cake! Yes Cake!
• We can work together to incorporate sentimental items, jewellery, beads or fabric used in your dress, the possibilities are endless.
• You can design your own and have it made.
• Or you can explain what you are looking for and have it designed and made for you.

Make Your Own: Receive guidance and tuition to make your very own Tiara, fascinator, comb or hair vine.

• You will feel so proud walking down the isle wearing jewellery that you yourself have created, and when all the compliments come flooding in, you can take full responsibility!
• You can have a one-to-one session where you learn the techniques required to create your very own hair accessories and/or jewellery.
• Or, you could have a group workshop where you and your bridesmaids get together to create all the accessories and jewellery you need. Workshops are great fun and so rewarding; they create lasting memories and provide great keepsakes to treasure long after the big day.

If you would like to see more of my designs and services please visit my website www.adornjewelleryandtiaras.co.uk.  I am always happy to discuss your ideas with absolutely no obligation, so please get in touch.

Wishing you every happiness!

Gemma Crow, from Adorn Jewellery and Tiaras.