12 Wild Wedges for Hot Summer Weddings

When summer wedding season rolls around, we happily welcome a touch of informality on the nuptials circuit. Enter the wedge, a form of heel that continues to be a mainstay of fashionable footwear. Don wedges under a flowing maxi dress, rock the flatform as a statement shoe with an almost-so-short-it’s-scandalous cocktail dress or bring out the standby espadrilles for a stylish sundress. However you wear ’em, you’re probably in need of a refresh. Here are a dozen of the newest, hottest, most colorful wedges for all those summer weddings.

1. Carvela Kulprit Wedge Sandals ($210): We’ll kick things off with a classic… with a twist. This sleek black wedge is made a bit more interesting with the addition of a gold belt or purse-style buckle. We dig it.

2. Holly Low Wedge Sandal ($90): For a more subtle look, these nude wedges have just the right amount of pop with that white toe strap.

3. ASOS Hansel Wedges ($76): Whoa nelly! These are totally crazy, but would make for a great reveal at the foot of an unsuspecting maxi.

4. Allegra Sandal ($195): This color blocked pair might be our favorite of the bunch. It’s those punches of color that add a bit of dazzle to what could otherwise be seen as a clunky shoe.

5. Amelia Avery Platform Wedge Sandal ($120): How awesome is the pattern on the bottom of these? Love the idea of pairing this with a solid colored dress.

6. Melissa Patchouli Wedge Pumps ($145): We heart Melissa so hard! This pair of pumps take a cue from heel-maker extraordinaire Christian Louboutin with their crimson sole.

7. ALDO Helonse Strap Wedge Heeled Sandals ($100): Bold, blue and a crazy cool combination of platform and wedge.

8. Springs Wedge Sandal ($60): This classic t-strap Mary Jane remix is one of those shoes that you can wear for almost any occasion in any season.

9. Savannah Wedge Sandal ($168): Tory Burch certainly knows how to do the not-quite-flat. We love the petite cork heel against the deep teal suede material.

10. Red Driving Force Wedges ($76): Rawr! These killer heels definitely make a statement.

11. ASOS JUMBLE Flatforms ($53): Behold the flatform!

12. Splendid Berlin Ankle Strap Wedges ($128): The stacked wooden heel on this shoe is what sets them apart, and that bright coral patent leather strap seals the style deal.

Bonus! Privileged Disco Nights Platform ($115): And finally, a super ridiculous bonus pair for your enjoyment. Bookmark these and wait eagerly for an excuse to buy them ;)

One of the many difficult things about having a COVID wedding was that I didn't get to fully enjoy being engaged. Not that I didn't enjoy it by any means, but I didn't get to do the typical "bridal" events that most people got to do since everyone and everything was on lockdown. No extreme Bachelorette trip, no huge showers, and definitely not a big reception with a bunch of friends.

As a fashion lover, this means I didn't get to wear a million all-white outfits and make being engaged my whole personality — like I would at this point in my life. With that being said, I can't help but see how many amazing bridal pieces are out there on the market...and it's making me wanna get married (to my husband) all over again. Since I can't, here are all the bridal outfits pieces that I can't get enough of right now. From bridal shoes to bachelorette looks, these are the pieces I've got my eye on!

Bridal Dresses

Reformation

Reformation Pike Satin Dress

This dress is sleek, chic, and so perfect for fall and winter wedding vibes. Whether you're going out on a classy dinner with your girlfriends on a bachelorette trip, or you're getting ready for the toast at your rehearsal dinner, I love this satin bridal look! It's honestly the definition of "simplicity is elegance"!

Anthropologie

BHLDN Pearl Drop-Waist Mini Dress

Maybe I'm biased because BHLDN is where I got my wedding dress, but they truly have some of the most classy and fun options out there that also aren't exorbitant in price. This dress is under $500, and would make for the perfect Bachelorette party dress! It's chic, on-trend, and so fun with the short, tulle skirt and pearl detailing.

Nordstrom

Lilysilk The Vivi Knit Dress

Coworkers throwing you a bridal shower? This demure little number is perfect for those more modest bridal moments. You still get a fun, flirty, off-the-shoulder moment, but the tea length skirt adds a buttoned-up vibe that's perfectly appropriate. While this looks great with a pair of strappy heels, I could also see this knit number looking amazing with some tall brown boots in the fall!

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Off-The-Shoulder Long-Sleeve Mini Dress

Having an intimate courthouse elopement? Looking for a lowkey afterparty dress? Whatever the occasion, this Abercrombie option fits the bill! I love the elegant off-the-shoulder sleeves — it gives you a great way to show off your jewelry. Plus, the mini dress will let you dance all night long to celebrate your officiated love!

Dôen

Dôen Jessica Dress

This dress is that is giving vintage bridal in a unique, not-so-typical way. The contrasting black lace juxtaposes the white really well, and makes it less overtly bridal, so you can definitely wear it again! Add a vintage satin drawstring bag to really go with the throwback look!

Dôen

Dôen Donetta Dress

The bridal dress of my dreams! It reaches all of the categories you could want: midi, silk, and has a beautiful bridal bow! Can't you just imagine this with a fur coat overtop for the fall and winter?! It would be truly heavenly. Wear this one for an intimate bridal event, or even a rehearsal dinner.

Nordstrom

Reformation X Kacey Musgraves Dress

Kacey Musgraves just gets it. Her collab with Reformation was absolutely amazing, and when I saw this dress I immediately knew it would be perfect for anything bridal related. From the puff sleeves, to the lace, to the bows on the sides — it's perfection! I could 100% see this one looking incredible as a courthouse wedding option!

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Sequin Squareneck Mini Dress

Having a GNO to celebrate your upcoming nuptials? This sequin mini dress is the perfect way to say, "Buy me a shot — I'm getting married." Whether you're having a summer soiree or a winter night on the town, it's versatile enough to match all of your bachelorette party needs!

Nordstrom

House of CB Mesh Dress

If you're wanting a sexier option for a Bachelorette dress then this one is definitely for you! It has a more form-fitting cut with the mesh fabric and corseted bodice. Honestly, this is a 10/10 for me — I just know it's gonna look so good as we head into the fall and winter seasons!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Dress

She's chic, she's beauty, and she's grace. I love the elevated and luxurious look of this bridal outfit — AND, it's on sale! To say I'm obsessed would be an understatement. This dress with a dainty clutch and slingback heel would be perfection for a reception dress!

Reformation

Reformation Tetty Dress

Can I get a little commotion for the dress? This Reformation mini will have you ending your reception with a bang! The long, mesh sleeves paired with the feathered bottom makes for SUCH a fun afterparty bridal outfit! Plus, you won't have to worry about sweating too much on the dance floor with the mini skirt and the lighter sleeves. Win-win!

Dynamite

Dynamite Clothing Tweed Dress

I'm convinced every bride needs a tweed, mini dress for bridal season — they go well for so many different occasions. I even own one right now just because I find them so cute and wearable. For this dress, I would style with ballet flats, and a sweater over the shoulders for very French look! I can totally picture this at your bridal shower brunch where all your mom's BFFs can't stop complimenting you!

Reformation

Reformation Fitz Two Piece

This is casual piece that makes you want to be a bride for just a bit longer... If I were to get married again, then this would be high up on my list since it's a two piece. You can wear it separately or together to really embrace the whole "white" and "bridal" theme no matter the setting!

Reformation

Reformation Jeany Silk Dress

Another great contender for a rehearsal dinner or reception dress from Reformation! This pairing with the fur coat and mesh, black heels is divine! It' giving the most wonderful White Christmas vibes that would be so ideal with anyone having a winter wedding. Grab this chic, classy bridal outfit ASAP!

Bridal Accessories

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Lucy Satin Pearl Bag

I love, love, love this bag. I haven't seen a purse scream "bridal" more than this! It would make for the most amazing day-of bag, or simply your bag to carry for any bridal occasion. Plus, for $110 that's a fairly good deal for how much wear you'll get out of it.

Cuyana

Cuyana Mini Bow Bag

Looking for something a little less showy as the pearl option? I love this understated option from Cuyana! The bow top and gold chain combo are so gorgeous together! Plus, pebbled Italian leather is gonna last you way longer than you big day!

Reformation

Reformation Natasha Heels

For any bridal events, I would opt for these heels, because they are simple, clean-cute, super bridal, and very easy to wear with almost any outfit option! They are so reminiscent of 90s vintage heels that I'm constantly searching for on Ebay. I might purchase these just for a good date-night heel.

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Reyes Mary Jane

Looking for some flats to pair with your bridal outfits? These Dolce Vitas are perfection! The square toe and Mary Jane style are so on-trend! Plus, the profile is simple enough to go with just about every look you could throw together!

Anthropologie

ViBi VENEZiA Bow Mary Janes

These bow mary janes seem very bridal to me, and they get bonus points for also being great for daily wear too! They're super comfortable, and give the bridal touch with the bows. And guess what?! They can count as you're "something blue"!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations

We're officially one week into Scorpio season — are you feeling it? Is your intuition heightened? Are you super sensitive and a bit more introverted? It’s a good time to slow down, feel your feelings, and tap into the inner wisdom of your soul. Scorpio is often misinterpreted, perhaps because this season coincides with Halloween, the decreasing daylight in the northern hemisphere, or simply Scorpio’s intensity and power. A key word for Scorpio is transformation, which is never easy.

Think of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis — its time in the cramped and dark cocoon. That primordial, gooey existence is anything but comfortable. Transformation requires time, a willingness to experience discomfort, and patience before emerging as a beautiful butterfly.

Ajaila Walker

Scorpio is one of the healing signs in the zodiac, and while the Sun is in Scorpio, we can make great strides toward healing ourselves and helping others. There’s nothing superficial about Scorpio — it demands depth, wanting to uncover layers and expose what’s hiding. That’s why it’s a great time to focus on your inner world and subconscious mind. All forms of therapy are beneficial during Scorpio season, but psychotherapy is especially powerful if that's an option for you.

Eager to know what this transformational energy has to offer? Read on for your weekly horoscope to understand how this can impact your sun and rising sign!

​Astrological Overview For Your Weekly Horoscope

Eugene Lisyuk

The New Moon in Scorpio occurs on November 1 at 9 degrees of Scorpio. You'll want to check your birth chart to see where 9 degrees of Scorpio falls — this is the area of your life where you can experience transformation and growth. New Moons are powerful times to plant seeds for future growth, to dream and plan for the coming month. Take time to reflect on what truly matters during this period of darkness and inward focus.

Yuliia Tretynychenko

Mars, the planet of action and determination, has been opposite Pluto, the planet of transformation, for months. Both Mars and Pluto co-rule Scorpio, creating an intense and volatile energy. This opposition becomes exact again on November 3 and 4. Use this energy to propel yourself in a new direction and honor your true self. Strength and focus can harness this intensity for personal breakthroughs, but be cautious in making impulsive decisions during this time — on the global stage, tensions may rise, and there could be heightened aggression.

Sam Lion

Adding to this turbulent energy, Mercury, the planet of communication and learning, leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius on November 2. As Mercury exits Scorpio, it forms a beneficial trine to Mars and a sextile to Pluto. This is a powerful opportunity for words to contribute to healing, so take care in how you communicate. Be mindful of the power your words hold, especially as Sagittarius can be blunt and outspoken. While Mercury is in Sagittarius until January 9, focus on expanding your consciousness, learning new skills, and broadening your horizons.

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Ashley Singerling

  • November 1 — New Moon in Scorpio
  • November 2 — Mercury enters Sagittarius
  • November 3-4 — Mars and Pluto opposition becomes exact

Read Your Horoscope Based on Your Sun and Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You’re being asked to dig deep into your subconscious this week. Keep your eyes and ears open for messages from dreams or moments of creativity. Meditation or solitude may reveal powerful realizations. If you feel the need to make a major life change, be sure your decisions come from the heart. You’re on the cusp of a creative breakthrough, but make sure your actions are driven by authenticity.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 22 – May 21)

Relationships are in focus for you. This is a great week for couples therapy or deep, transformative conversations with your partner. Be willing to make changes that benefit your relationships, home, and career. Your sensitivity may be heightened, so incorporate self-care and self-love into any changes you make. Don’t shy away from this potential for growth — there’s tremendous opportunity for profound shifts.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Good fortune and harmony are possible, but luck won’t just fall into your lap — you need to be proactive. This could show up in your relationships with others or in your relationship with yourself. Kindness, equality, and fairness are key to success. Be cautious around people exhibiting aggressive behavior. You’ll receive back what you give out, so practice kindness and ensure you’re approaching things with fairness and balance.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You prefer to avoid conflict, but this week you’ll have the chance to step out of your comfort zone. You don’t have to be confrontational, but a bit of assertiveness will help you move toward your goals. The seeds you plant during this New Moon will grow stronger if you add passion and creativity. Follow your intuition, especially when making important decisions. Your dreams need a touch of energy and action.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

The Mars-Pluto opposition has likely stirred up some drama in your life. Have you mustered the courage to start something new? If not, this week offers an opportunity to fully step into your authentic self and begin a new chapter. Don’t hold back, but be prepared for uncharted territory. Your relationships, particularly with yourself, may need a refresh. Self-love and self-care are essential as you embark on these transformations. You might even consider sprucing up your home or making a move.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Career growth is in focus this week, but you’ll need to find a balance between your home life and work life. You may feel the urge to do more in both areas, but it’s crucial to stay grounded. Pay attention to details and avoid overindulgence. A balance between home and work will lead to the best results — be sure to tend to both areas without letting one consume the other.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Your finances and values are the focus this week. Now is the perfect time to ensure your financial life is in order. Meet with a financial planner or make sure your will is up to date. This planning will give you peace of mind and reduce future stress. Once Mercury moves into Sagittarius on November 2, you’ll feel freer to have fun and pursue adventure, knowing that your financial security is taken care of.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Your power and determination will only grow as the week progresses. Use this time to tap into your inner authority and work toward concrete goals. There’s likely to be movement in your career, but it won’t happen overnight. Patience and sustained effort are required. Cultivate joy and focus on long-term goals — there’s no rush, but steady progress will lead to great results.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mercury entering your sign on November 2 invites expansion and learning. If you’ve been waiting to start a new project, learn a new skill, or expand your understanding of the universe, now is the time. Subjects like spirituality and philosophy will be easier to grasp during this time. Be mindful, though — your blunt communication style could come off as caustic, so take a breath before you speak.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Mental well-being should be a priority. Use this time to focus on learning and honing your skills. Your approach to life and work is inspiring to others. If you’ve been dealing with self-doubt, discard any negative self-talk and practice self-compassion. You have a natural ability to teach others, so don’t hesitate to share your knowledge with those who might be facing something similar to your experiences.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

This week focuses on your community and your relationship with like-minded people. Group learning and activities will be more impactful than solo efforts. Mercury in Sagittarius from November 2 will encourage you to learn through travel and adventure. Something exciting and transformative is on the horizon — seize the opportunity for growth through connection with others.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

It’s time to focus on your physical health. The energy of this week will make it easier to start a health regimen and stick to it. While you may become more serious about your health, don’t push yourself too hard. Take small, steady steps to make lasting changes. As the week progresses, you’ll feel more confident and enthusiastic about these positive changes to your well-being.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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The search for the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress is such an exciting journey. You want your final dress to be elegant, stylish, and sentimental, too! As the proud mother, you deserve to shine just as brightly as the bride herself, and finding a dress that reflects your personality (but also complements the wedding's theme) is key.

Whether you’re aiming for a mother-of-the-bride dress that's more traditional, modern, or a blend of both, we've got you covered with these 10 stunning styles that'll make you feel confident and beautiful on your daughter's special day.

Azazie A-Line Pleated Mikado Floor-Length Dress

This gorgeous $169 gown is totally wedding appropriate and oh-so elegant. It boasts a skirt that lands at floor length, a unique asymmetrical neckline, and a long leg slit all in a soft, non-stretchy material that feels just as great as it looks. The rich grape purple color will make you feel stunning! This dress zips up conveniently in the back.

Baltic Born Arianna Maxi Dress

You get the best of both worlds with this affordable (just $68!) MOTB dress. While the long sleeves have a good amount of coverage, the flattering v-neck and high leg slit allow you to show more skin. This flowy red number is made from a super soft and stretchy fabric, and has smocked detailing around the waistline to give your body definition.

Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Sequin Trumpet Gown

This dress just screams elegance! It's as sequined and stunning as can be. The long skirt flaunts a slight, sweeping train while the neckline is fairly no-frills. This neutral pick ($598) is fully lined for maximum all-day comfort.

Dessy Collection One-Shoulder Satin Gown

The knotted design on this $261 gown draws visual interest and flatters your figure beyond compare. The trendy one-shoulder look will also make you stand out without overshadowing the bride's get-up. This design includes a long maxi hem that grazes the floor. It's fitted around the bodice and slightly flares out past the waist, but isn't quite a traditional a-line silhouette.

David's Bridal Studio Cap Sleeve Allover Sequin Sheath Dress

Want to be drenched in shiny sequins? This is the dress for you. It has cap sleeves, an open back, and a sultry leg slit that lets you step and move with ease. Additionally, the fabric has some stretch to it and secures in the back with a discreet zipper. This pick is available on sale for 60 (was $200).

La Femme Off The Shoulder Trumpet Gown

This $328 dress is all about showing some skin – not a bad thing for a wedding, as long as it's done tastefully! This elegant off-the-shoulder design is crafted from a satin-y fabric, so it has some shine to it. It's most fitted around the bust and tummy before falling to a full-length trumpet skirt.

Mac Duggal Beaded Stripe Mesh A-Line Gown

These playful see-through mesh sleeves are everything. The stripes (along with some pretty glamorous sequins) also play a role in shaping your final MOTB look! This long dress ($598) is gathered around an empire waist to elongate your figure further.

Alfred Sung One-Shoulder A-Line Gown

This a-line skirt on this $239 dress gives your look much-needed breathing and moving room. It has a more polished look, thanks to the smooth fabric and waist sash. You'd never guess it by looking at it, but this pick also has pockets! The gorgeous green fabric is non-stretchy but looks so flattering when worn.

Dress The Population Janette Sequin Long Sleeve Mermaid Gown

There is truly no shortage of shininess with this one. It's the ultimate piece to match with other accessories and shoes, depending on the wedding theme. This $438 dress has a boat neck that falls to a v-shaped back as well as modest long sleeves that land right above the wrists. The high leg slit breaks up the look perfectly, too!

Alex Evenings Embellished Sleeve Knot Front Jersey Gown

This $199 dress has dark navy, drapey sleeves with sequin details, as well as a striking knot detail at the waistline. Since it's naturally flowy, the slightly stretchy material it's made from only amps up the comfort levels.

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Lead image via Nordstrom.

I turn to Instagram for mainly two things: hilariously adorable pet videos to share with my daughter before bedtime — a nightly ritual we started a year back — and a steady stream of home decor inspiration. Having studied interior design and spent years writing about stunning spaces, my love for beautiful interiors runs deep. The home decor bloggers I follow offer a mix of styles and experiences, from cozy vintage vibes to refined and sophisticated homes and rooms. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space for the season or simply find joy in nesting at home, there’s a little something from everyone here to inspire you. Happy decorating!

PrettyOnFridays

PrettyOnFridays

Writer Deema Tabbara Lopez's Friday newsletter, Merci Ktir, offers a glimpse into all the pretty things bringing her joy each week. Her home is so cozy, filled with vintage charm and lovely DIYs and how-tos (and stunning paint colors!). You'll want to dive into her feed for all the inspiration this fall.

ThisHouse5000

ThisHouse5000

Home decor enthusiast Elena Lohse and her handyman husband have been renovating their 1935 home in Toronto’s west end, the Junction, for the past 4+ years. Her style is clean, fresh, and never boring. I love her DIY videos, and her blog follows their travels too through a unique design lens.

Erin Conway Kismet House

Kismet House

For a masters in warm, cozy traditional spaces, follow Erin and Matthew of Kismet House who share tips and tricks for creating homes that feel unique and full of character.

Michael P.H. Clifford

a1000xBetter

Designer Kirsten Blazek creates rooms that are authentic, stylish, and so comfortable. She really thinks about spaces you want to live in. I'm still swooning over this kitchen of hers that we featured. Her first book A1000xBetter: A Rebel By Designshowcases her eclectic interiors and love of vintage treasures along with her design inspirations and tips.

Banda Property

𝗦𝗮 𝗚𝗿𝗮̂𝗰𝗲

Principal designer Ithabeleng Mothabeng has such a talent for creating stunning interiors. She blends a timeless elegance with modern touches and the result is always gorgeous and sophisticated.

Sam Arneson

Sam Arneson Home

Sam Arneson, an LA-based realtor, brings a thoughtful approach to design with a focus on sustainability and slow living. Her soulful feed is full of inspiration, from mid-century modern gems to cozy woodsy cabins.

OEZLEM OEZSOY

OEZLEM OEZSOY

This Hamburg, Germany-based photographer and home decor enthusiast is known for her sophisticated eye for vintage and mid-century decor, creating beautifully curated neutral spaces.

LEMIEUX ET CIE

The Organic Bubble Vase, Théophile Candle Holder, and Cadoret Bowl

Christiane Lemieux

NYC-based Christiane Lemieux is an author, designer, entrepreneur and the founder of LEMIEUX ET CIE, a luxury home furnishings brand. If you're looking for elevated interiors with a smidge of fantasy and the unexpected, her feed is the place to be. She was also the co-host and a judge on Ellen’s Design Challenge on HGTV and is a regular guest on MSNBC.

Some other favorites to look out for:

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From Kamala Harris-inspired bobs to silky Lindsay Lohan-esque tresses, the season of the silk press (or straighter hairstyles) is officially here! It's been fun watching watching TikTok videos of women going to the salon to get their hair straightened, but it made me ask myself if people truly know how to maintain this style at home. It's one thing to watch a licensed hairstylist work their magic, but the upkeep may not be as straightforward for some people!

Luckily, celebrity hairstylists, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Natalie Lamorena, are here to answer all my burning questions. Sturdivant-Drew has over 20 years of experience working in the film and commercial industry, styling clients such as Kerry Washington, Lucy Liu, and Ashley Graham. She also worked on TV series like Suits and the Oscar-nominated film Ray. Lamorena owns Polished Pub Hair & Nail Bar— not to mention she invented the viral "Headicure" service for clients who love the idea of getting a manicure while receiving the best blowout of their lives. And with all that experience, the two of them have plenty to say about silk presses.

TL;DR

  • You should rely on professionals for the majority of your silk presses, but you can maintain them at home with "the right tools and products."
  • Different hair types require different temperatures and products — be sure to research and check with your hair dresser to make sure your treating your hair the right way.
  • Don't get a silk press if you've recently straightened your hair.
  • Heat protectant is key for any silk press or hair straightening.
  • Naturally curly or textured hair should limit silk presses to once or twice a month; other hair types should keep it to no more than once a week.
  • Be sure to wrap your hair correctly and use a bonnet to maintain your style.

How do you know when to straighten your hair at home or go to the salon?

Sephora

Desperate times call for desperate measures when you're due for a hair appointment and can't book one. I'm sure all of us have turned into an armchair hairstylist by giving ourselves a trim, quick haircut, or dye job. You've probably even watched a few tutorials about how to give yourself a homemade silk press or blowout. I know I've recently purchased a few things to help me maintain my hair at home, but should we be straightening our hair at home?

Lamorena says, "While it’s possible to straighten hair at home, I’d recommend going to a professional for the best results. Stylists know how to work with different hair types, adjust heat settings accordingly, and use high-quality products that protect your hair." If we decide to forego a stylist's expertise, she says we can "accidentally cause damage with uneven heat or over-processing."

Sturdivant-Drew agrees that it's best to see a stylist "for the first few silk presses," but it's not impossible to safely straighten your own hair. "If you have the right tools and products, along with research, you can achieve this hairstyle at home," she says.

How should different hair types approach a silk press?

Sephora

Just like everyone doesn't have the same skin complexion or undertones, hair types can differ too. This means someone with a fine hair isn't always going to have the same routine as someone with thicker strands — which is why all silk presses aren't the same. "There's definitely no one-size-fits-all approach. The technique used depends on the client’s hair type and texture," Lamorena confirms. This isn't to scare you, however!

Sturdivant-Drew says, "The process of getting a silk press is pretty standard — prepping the hair with shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant, followed by straightening with a blow dryer and flat iron, and finishing with a lightweight oil or serum."

She and Lamorena do agree that some hair textures require a little more than others though. Lamorena says you could only need "a simple blowout and flat iron" while someone may need "more intensive treatments like keratin or a Brazilian blowout for longer-lasting results." If your hair is very curly or textured — and you're ultimately not seeing the results you want — she says chemically straightening your hair is another option. However, Sturdivant-Drew reminds me, "Stylists usually adjust heat settings based on their client's hair health and texture."

Either way, we always recommend you check with your stylist before making any permanent or lasting decisions!

What should you avoid doing before getting a silk press?

Mike Jones

Getting a silk press doesn't always involve chemicals, but there are still things you need to avoid before your appointment. Unlike the steps you may follow at home, Lamorena wants you to "avoid loading your hair with a bunch of heavy products " because this can "make the straightening process less effective and lead to more heat being used" than you need. Also, she doesn't want you to wash your hair because "natural oils protect your hair from the heat."

It probably goes without saying, but you also shouldn't book a silk press appointment if you've already straightened your hair. "...that can make it harder for the stylist to work with and could increase the risk of damage," says Lamorena. Besides that, Sturdivant-Drew advises against "using color or relaxers should be avoided before getting a silk press" because "this could lead to a lot of breakage."

What increases a risk of heat damage with this style?

Amazon

As gorgeous as silk presses are, it's possible to use "too much heat," according to Lamorena. She says, "People tend to crank up the heat on their flat irons and blow dryers, but that can seriously damage the hair cuticle, especially if your hair is fine or already fragile." Something I've learned over time is that a licensed and experienced hair stylist has better knowledge of what's really going on with our hair. They're able to have a clearer view of your scalp, roots, split ends, and more.

The other thing that contribute to damage is not protecting your hair. Lamorena implores that heat protectant products are "are crucial for minimizing damage." Even if you use the right products, you could be straightening your hair way too often. It's normal to want to have straighter hairstyles for a little while, but you should keep in mind that you don't want to overdo it.

"Not prepping or using a heat protectant on your hair will cause a lot of damage. Silk presses require a lot of heat, so it's best to use good heat protectant," adds Sturdivant-Drew. She personally prefers to use Smooth Moisture's Thermal Hair Strengthener because "their system is built for silk presses specifically." She loves that it truly upholds against heat and "adds a nice shine to the hair" once you apply it.

When would it be recommended that a client avoid getting a silk press?

Kaboompics.com

Here comes the not so fun part. As much as you don't want to hear this, your hair may not be able to handle getting a silk press right now. "If your hair is already damaged, it's best to hold off on straightening. Hair that's brittle, dry, or over-processed can be further damaged by heat styling," says Lamorena. What you can do in the meantime is help strengthen your hair by giving yourself "deep conditioning treatments," according to Lamorena.

This is completely up to you and your stylish, but Lamorena suggests staying away from having your hair straightened "during really humid months...if you're prone to frizz" because "the style may not last as long."

Is there a limit to how often clients should receive a silk press?

Tomaz Barcellos

I'm not an expert, but even I know too much of something can become a bad thing. In the case of using excess heat, I can imagine the implications of that over time. Lamorena says, "There's definitely a limit. You don't want to be straightening your hair too often," and shares her rule of thumb for textures:

  • Naturally Curly or Textured Hair — Limit silk presses to once or twice a month to avoid weakening the hair or losing your curl pattern.
  • Other Hair Types — Keep it to no more than once a week.

All hair types are capable of experiencing "long-term damage," but giving "your hair a break between sessions helps maintain its health," Lamorena says.

Sturdivant-Drew stresses, "Taking a break between silk presses is important in allowing your hair to recover and maintain the health of your hair. I recommend limiting your silk presses to every 6-8 weeks."

How can clients maintain this style at home during the fall?

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Even though cooler temperatures means you won't have to fight against possible frizz, you still have to take care of your silk press. "Maintaining a straight style during the fall can be tricky with cooler weather, wind, and dryness in the air, but it’s doable," says Lamorena. She suggests that you use:

  • Use a flat iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid unnecessary damage. Tools like the Dyson Corrale or GHD Platinum+ are solid options
  • A wide-tooth comb is great for detangling without pulling or breaking the hair

"Keeping up with a regular routine and using the right tools and products can really help your style last, even through the challenges that fall weather brings," she says.

No matter what your hair type is, Sturdivant-Drew suggests "wrapping your hair correctly and using a bonnet" as they're "key to maintaining" a silk press. Similar to what Lamorena said earlier, Sturdivant-Drew believes "humidity is your worst enemy...so try to avoid humid environments as best as possible!"

Shop Other Expert Silk Press Recommendations

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Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer

"Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Some favorites include Oribe Royal Blowout and Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," she says.

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Moroccanoil Treatment

"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.

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John Frieda Frizz Ease

Another option you can use to beat the frizz is John Frieda's Frizz Ease. It's another one of Lamorena's recommendations that will "help seal in moisture and keep your style sleek even in windy fall weather."

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Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime

Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."

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Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

"To extend your style without washing, use dry shampoo. This is a great option to absorb oil without having to restyle with heat," she says.

Our Silk Press Recommendations

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Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Serum

This anti-frizz serum will not only keep humidity from messing up your silk press, but it'll help improve your hair's elasticity over time and will even add an extra boost of shine to it.

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Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser

If you decide to straighten your hair at home, you need a good blow dryer that'll work with your texture. Wavytalk has an inexpensive option that comes with a comb attachment, diffuser, and nozzle to help you dry your hair no matter what style you're wearing. It also has the right amount of heat settings that'll lessen the chance you cause any damage.

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CHI 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant

Not only do I personally love this heat protectant, so does our Affiliate Writer Meredith Holser! It's been our go-to product whenever we straighten our hair because it truly does a great job of protecting our hair from heat and has a slightly fragrant smell we can't get enough of. In my experience, a little goes a long way so you'll get plenty of uses out of it.

Follow our Amazon storefront to see which hair products we'll always keep in our bathrooms.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.