Securely Place Flowers In Your Hair: A Comprehensive Guide
Adding flowers to your hair is a beautiful way to enhance your style, whether for a special occasion or just to brighten your everyday look. However, the challenge often lies in keeping those delicate blooms in place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to securely place flowers in your hair, ensuring they stay put and look stunning all day long. From preparing the flowers to choosing the right tools and techniques, we've got you covered.
Preparing Your Flowers for Hair Placement
Before you even think about putting flowers in your hair, preparing the flowers properly is crucial. This step ensures that your floral adornments look fresh and stay in place longer. Here's what you need to do:
Selecting the Right Flowers
First and foremost, choose flowers that are sturdy and less likely to wilt quickly. Sturdy flowers such as orchids, roses, carnations, and daisies are excellent choices because they can withstand being out of water for a few hours. Delicate flowers like lilies or hydrangeas, while beautiful, may not hold up as well. Consider the size and weight of the flowers too; smaller, lighter blooms are easier to secure and less likely to pull on your hair.
When selecting your flowers, think about the occasion and your personal style. For a romantic look, roses or baby's breath can be perfect. If you're aiming for a more bohemian vibe, consider wildflowers or daisies. For a tropical feel, orchids and hibiscus are great options. The color of the flowers should also complement your hair color and outfit. Vibrant colors can add a pop of excitement, while softer hues can create a more subtle and elegant effect.
Cutting and Hydrating the Flowers
Once you've selected your flowers, the next step is to cut the stems to the appropriate length. Use sharp scissors or floral shears to make a clean, angled cut. This allows the flowers to absorb water more efficiently. The ideal stem length will depend on how you plan to attach the flowers to your hair, but generally, 2-3 inches is a good starting point. Removing excess foliage from the stem will also help reduce moisture loss and keep the flowers looking fresh.
After cutting the stems, hydrating the flowers is essential. Place them in a vase filled with fresh, cool water. You can add floral preservative to the water to help prolong their freshness. Allow the flowers to hydrate for at least a couple of hours, or even overnight, before you plan to use them. This will ensure they are fully hydrated and less likely to wilt once they're in your hair.
Optional: Sealing the Stems
For extra protection against wilting, consider sealing the stems of your flowers. You can do this by dipping the cut ends in melted wax or using a floral sealant spray. Sealing the stems helps to prevent moisture loss and keeps the flowers looking fresher for a longer period. This is particularly useful if you're planning to wear the flowers for an extended event, such as a wedding or a party.
By taking the time to properly prepare your flowers, you'll not only enhance their beauty but also ensure they stay vibrant and securely in place throughout the day.
Choosing the Right Tools and Accessories
Selecting the appropriate tools and accessories is as crucial as preparing the flowers themselves. The right tools will make the process of securing the flowers in your hair much easier and more effective. Here are some essential items to consider:
Hair Pins
Hair pins are your best friend when it comes to securing flowers in your hair. They come in various sizes and colors, so you can choose ones that blend in with your hair. Bobby pins are particularly useful for holding smaller flowers or individual petals in place. For larger blooms, U-shaped hairpins or floral pins may provide a more secure hold. When using hairpins, be sure to insert them in a way that they grip both the flower stem and a section of your hair. This creates a strong anchor that prevents the flower from slipping.
Floral Tape
Floral tape is a sticky, stretchy tape that is designed specifically for floral arrangements. It's an excellent tool for bundling flower stems together or attaching flowers to hairpins or combs. Floral tape is typically green, so it blends in well with the stems and foliage. To use floral tape, wrap it tightly around the stems or the base of the flower, overlapping the tape as you go. This will create a secure and waterproof bond.
Hair Combs
Hair combs are ideal for creating a more structured floral arrangement in your hair. You can attach flowers to the comb using floral wire or glue, and then simply slide the comb into your hair. This is a great option for creating a floral crown or a cluster of flowers at the back of your head. Choose combs with a sturdy base and teeth that can grip your hair securely.
Floral Wire
Floral wire is a thin, flexible wire that is used to reinforce flower stems or attach flowers to other accessories. It comes in different gauges, with thinner wires being easier to bend and shape. To use floral wire, wrap it around the stem of the flower and then twist the ends together to secure it. You can also use floral wire to attach flowers to hairpins, combs, or headbands.
Hair Ties and Elastics
Hair ties and elastics can serve as a base for your floral arrangement. For example, you can create a ponytail or a bun and then attach flowers around the base of the hair tie. This is a simple and effective way to incorporate flowers into your hairstyle, especially if you have long or thick hair. Choose hair ties that match your hair color to ensure they blend in seamlessly.
By having the right tools and accessories on hand, you'll be well-equipped to create a stunning floral hairstyle that stays in place all day.
Techniques for Placing Flowers in Your Hair
Now that you've prepared your flowers and gathered your tools, it's time to learn the techniques for placing them securely in your hair. There are several methods you can use, depending on the style you're going for and the type of flowers you're using.
Using Hair Pins
The most common and versatile technique is using hair pins. This method works well for individual flowers or small clusters of blooms. Start by holding the flower against your hair in the desired position. Take a hairpin and insert it through the base of the flower stem, then push it into your hair, making sure to grip a good section of hair. The pin should be inserted in the opposite direction of the stem to create a secure hold. You may need to use multiple pins for larger flowers or if you want extra security. Conceal the pins by tucking them under the petals or foliage.
For a more natural look, try randomly placing the flowers throughout your hair. This works particularly well with smaller blooms like baby's breath or daisies. Simply scatter the flowers throughout your hair and secure them with pins, focusing on areas where they will be most visible. You can also create a cascading effect by placing flowers along a braid or a twist.
Attaching Flowers to a Braid or Twist
Braids and twists provide a stable base for attaching flowers. To incorporate flowers into a braid, start by creating your braid as usual. Once the braid is complete, tuck the stems of the flowers into the braid at various points, securing them with hair pins. For a twist, create the twist and then tuck the flower stems into the folds of the twist, using pins to hold them in place. This method works well for both single flowers and small clusters.
For a more elaborate look, consider weaving flowers directly into the braid as you create it. This involves adding flowers to the sections of hair as you braid, creating a seamless and integrated floral design. This technique requires a bit more practice, but the result is a stunning and unique hairstyle.
Creating a Floral Crown
A floral crown is a beautiful and eye-catching way to wear flowers in your hair. To create a floral crown, you'll need a flexible base, such as a wire headband or a piece of sturdy floral wire. Start by wrapping the base with floral tape to create a smooth surface. Then, attach the flowers to the base using floral wire or glue. Begin by attaching larger blooms first, spacing them evenly around the crown. Fill in the gaps with smaller flowers and foliage. Once all the flowers are attached, secure the ends of the wire or headband together to create a circle. Place the crown on your head and adjust the flowers as needed.
When creating a floral crown, consider the overall balance and symmetry of the design. You may want to create a focal point by placing a larger flower or cluster of flowers at the center or on one side. Ensure that the crown fits comfortably and securely on your head. You can use hair pins to further secure it if needed.
Using Hair Combs for a Structured Look
Hair combs are ideal for creating a more structured floral arrangement. Attach flowers to a hair comb using floral wire or glue. Arrange the flowers in a way that complements the shape of the comb and your hairstyle. Once the flowers are securely attached, slide the comb into your hair, positioning it where you want the floral accent to be. This method works well for creating a side accent or a cluster of flowers at the back of your head.
When using hair combs, choose a comb that is sturdy and has teeth that can grip your hair securely. This will ensure that the comb stays in place and the flowers remain positioned correctly. You can also use hair pins to further secure the comb if needed.
By mastering these techniques, you'll be able to confidently place flowers in your hair and create a variety of stunning floral hairstyles.
Tips for Keeping Flowers Secure All Day
Even with the best preparation and techniques, ensuring your flowers stay secure all day requires a few extra tips and tricks. Here are some guidelines to help your floral hairstyle last:
Use Hairspray
Hairspray is your secret weapon for keeping flowers in place. Once you've arranged your flowers, gently mist your hair with a strong-hold hairspray. Be sure to spray from a distance to avoid weighing down the flowers or making them look stiff. The hairspray will help to create a barrier that holds the flowers in place and prevents them from slipping.
Choose the Right Hairstyle
The hairstyle you choose can significantly impact how well your flowers stay in place. Updos, braids, and twists generally provide a more secure base for flowers than loose hairstyles. These styles create a framework that supports the flowers and prevents them from moving around too much. If you prefer to wear your hair down, consider adding some texture or waves to give the flowers something to grip onto.
Avoid Overcrowding
While it may be tempting to add lots of flowers, overcrowding can actually make your hairstyle less secure. Too many flowers can weigh down your hair and make it harder to keep them in place. Instead, focus on using a few well-placed blooms to create a stunning effect. Quality over quantity is the key here.
Rehydrate as Needed
If you're wearing flowers for an extended period, they may start to wilt. To refresh them, gently mist the flowers with water throughout the day. You can also carry a small spray bottle with you for this purpose. If you notice any flowers that are particularly wilted, you can replace them with fresh ones if you have extras on hand.
Secure with Extra Pins
Don't be afraid to use extra hair pins if you feel like your flowers need more support. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to securing your floral hairstyle. Keep some extra pins with you so you can make adjustments throughout the day if needed.
Consider the Weather
Weather conditions can also affect how well your flowers stay in place. Windy or humid weather can be particularly challenging. If you're expecting these conditions, consider using a stronger-hold hairspray and securing your flowers with extra pins. You may also want to choose flowers that are more resistant to wilting in humid conditions.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your floral hairstyle stays beautiful and secure all day long, no matter the occasion.
Conclusion
Adding flowers to your hair is a wonderful way to express your personal style and create a memorable look. By preparing your flowers carefully, choosing the right tools, mastering various placement techniques, and following these helpful tips, you can confidently wear flowers in your hair for any occasion. Whether it's a wedding, a party, or just a day out, a floral hairstyle is sure to turn heads and make you feel beautiful. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flower types, colors, and styles to find what works best for you. With a little practice, you'll be creating stunning floral hairstyles in no time.
For more tips on floral arrangements and hair styling, visit trusted websites like The Knot.
