When to Cut Your Hair Ahead of Your Wedding Day

Whether you're dreaming of a long wedding hairstyle that would make Rapunzel jealous or a sharp and modern, short cut, there's one thing both have in common: regular haircuts. Skipping a trim could result in frazzled and fraying hair—the opposite of that perfect bridal hairstyle you're after. But how often should you cut your hair to maintain its health and shape? We spoke with wedding hairstylist Ashley Branda for expert advice on when to get a haircut before the wedding.

How Often You Should Cut Your Hair

"I tell my clients every 11 to 13 weeks, depending on how you take care of your hair," says Branda, noting that the exact timeline is a little different for everyone. Those who regularly heat treat their hair with blow-dryers, curling irons, and flat irons should aim for closer to 11 weeks for optimal hair health. And yes, this applies to all desired styles.

"Brides that are trying to grow out their hair or their bangs for the big day should still get trims and dustings on the same schedule," she adds. Keep in mind that haircuts don't always mean losing length. While a dusting aims to get rid of split ends without sacrificing length (think: a quarter-inch or less), a trim is necessary to maintain the shape of the haircut. "I promise you this schedule will leave you with long, beautiful, healthy hair," assures Branda, who always adds texture within the haircut to give shape without removing very much length at all.

When to Get the Last Cut Before Your Wedding Day

As for the final haircut before the wedding, timing is everything. "I book my brides a week and a half before the date for color and cut," Branda says. "I love when the hair is fresh but has been lived in as well." Be sure to schedule this final cut in advance, though. We all know how hectic those last few weeks can be. In fact, you might even want to book your final appointment first and then book backward for regular trims and dustings in the weeks and months leading up to your wedding.

Who needs a post-wedding chop when you can do it during the wedding? While most hairdressers would advise against cutting your hair on the wedding day, there is one exception. Some brides are taking it to the next level by chopping their hair mid-ceremony in order to achieve a jaw-dropping second look. Though not for everyone, this wedding trend is one that's sure to turn heads, especially if you consider yourself spontaneous. If your hairstylist is on board and you have a clear vision of the 'do that you want to debut, then what better way to mark a fresh beginning?

Above all, Branda stresses that haircuts aren't scary! Everyone should be cleaning their hair every three months. "Long hair is beautiful when it is healthy," she adds. "Long hair that has dry, brittle ends is not appealing." And even worse, dry, brittle, and broken ends will travel up the hair shaft, leading to breakage and undesirable texture. As Branda insists, "Stay on top of your haircut schedule, and you won’t have to do a big chop too close to the big day." Easy enough!