Mayra Minguez is the latest addition to the star staff at the Anushka Salon, located in the heart of the Palm Beaches at CityPlace. She specializes in those really gorgeous creations you see worn by celebs, socialites and of course brides-to-be. As the new Special Occasion hair designer, we just had to ask her all about what’s trending. We were thrilled to hear about ways in which we could filter in some of her stylish techniques to our everyday look, and feel fabulous doing it!
How do you discover the right style for your clients?
I encourage my brides to describe the hairstyle that makes them feel their most beautiful, but still like themselves, and then we make that mega-glam!
What are the latest trends in special occasion hair?
Many of my brides like their hair half up, half down. This style allows me to infuse the sophistication and beauty of an updo with the elegance of long, gorgeous locks. For my adventurous brides, I incorporate a luxe braid. For the conservative bride, we play with a sophisticated bun, which can be elegant or trendy depending on how they wear it. For something a little more stylized, an off center bun or textured, pieced together updo is a popular option. Fancy pony tails are another way to add style and texture to the hair, while keeping the bride maintenance free the entire evening. For a perfect finish and shine, I use Oribe’s Shine Light Reflecting Spray ($39 at the Anushka Salon).
How do you glamorize everyday hair with special occasion touches?
If you’re headed out on a date, to a bar with friends or shopping, we all want to look a little glam. Stylizing your hair is a quick and easy way to do that. Like your fashion choices, your hair choices and accessories can transform your whole look. Some tips:
- Curl just your ends to add luxe texture
- Place a jeweled headband on for instant sparkle, or purchase a braided and embellished bo-ho headband, adorned with feathers for a retro vibe
- Pick up a piece of hair, twist and pin back (you can do the same with a ½ crown braid!)
What are the hot new accessories in special occasion hair?
I see a lot of similar ideas, just updated. For instance, jeweled headbands and clips are being replaced with vintage brooches, floral crowns (and braided!), and feathers. For optimum potential, many brides add extensions to increase length or volume, which is also wonderful post-wedding for glamorous hair thru the honeymoon and months into marriage!
How are you seeing florals and feathers used differently?
Fresh flowers or elegant feathers are a sure way to add romance to the bride. Of course, matching the flowers to either her dress or décor is a nice way to synergize the occasion. For added flair, I incorporate delicate sparkles or gems into the design. I’ve worked with some brides who go for a vintage vibe with feathers and a birdcage overlay. Another beautiful way to incorporate flowers is to construct a crown, either with full flowers or just vines, which looks gorgeous with long, wavy layers.
What’s your take on the Braid trend?
Braids are like an art form and stylists these days have really taken the artistic ability of them to the next level! I’ve been working with a lot of asymmetrical braids lately, multiple layered braids and waterfall looks, which not only provide structure for holding the hair in place, but look mesmerizing. Your guests won’t stop talking about how cool your style is!
