The DL on Wedding Hair Extensions

Updated: Dec 20, 2022

Extensions can add length, volume, and texture to your wedding day style. Choosing the right kind of extensions, however, can be overwhelming. Not only are there tons of brands to choose from, you’ll need to sort between clip-in, sew in, beaded, keratin bond, etc.

Don't fret! We've got the DL on wedding hair extensions and we're spilling the tea:

Opt for Clip-ins

For wedding hair styles we recommend clip-in hair extensions, which can be purchased in one or multiple pieces, called wefts. A typical set of clip-in extensions includes 3-5 wefts of hair in varying widths to accommodate different placements on the head.

For this gorgeous bride we added extensions for length and fullness. {Photo: One Another Photography}

Benefits

Clip-in extensions are easy to add to the hair, easy to move around without causing damage, are virtually invisible and are easier on the bank account than more permanent options. They are by far the fastest, most affordable way to transform a hairstyle.

Clip-in hair extensions are great for:

Adding length to a half-down or all down hairstyle
Adding fullness to a half-down or all down hairstyle
Adding volume to an up style such as a bun or ponytail
Adding fullness and texture to a braided style (just like in the photo below!)

Julia's extensions added texture and fullness to her braid.

Extensions aren't for everyone

If your hair is too short, too thick, too fine or too fragile, extensions may not compliment your look.

Let’s unpack this a little more:

As a general rule, your hair should be chin length or longer in order for the extensions to blend well and be able to be hidden.
Additionally, if you have short hair you don’t want to purchase Rapunzel length extensions unless your goal is to have a bridal mullet!
To find your correct length of extensions, measure your hair length from scalp to ends. Cut this measurement in half and this is the longest length you can wear while still having your hair look natural when worn down.
If you have extremely thick hair, kind in mind you will need to purchase a ton of wefts to blend them into your natural density. This may be costly and uncomfortable to wear for your entire wedding day.
If your hair is extremely fragile or thin, hiding the clips of the extensions and making sure that they are well attached could be challenging.

We added extensions to achieve a fuller look in this fun updo. {Photo: http://www.sarahkathleen.com}

Once you’ve chosen to invest in clip-in hair extensions, there are a few features you want to be sure to look for:

Find multicolor extensions as opposed to one solid shade. Multiple colors in the weft will make the extensions look more natural and will help blend the color with your real hair.

ALWAYS choose human hair vs. synthetic hair. DO NOT BUY SYNTHETIC EXTENSIONS! Not only will human hair last longer than synthetic material but it will look more natural and you can treat it the same as you would the hair on your head. (i.e. blow dry, curl, color, etc.) Synthetic hair will melt if heat tools are applied. Don't do it, babe.

Finally, make sure the human hair clip-in extensions you purchase are REMY hair. This means the hair is picked one strand at a time and the cuticles are facing the same direction (just like how it grows out of your head!) This is considered the highest quality of hair, looks the most natural and is ultra soft. It is pricer, but is 100% worth it.