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BRIDES (special section) Angel Hair

(AP) The engagement marks the beginning of the countdown toward your wedding

day coiffure, say professional stylists.

The decisions about hairstyle and the style of the headpiece should mesh,

early. And you should set up your appointments long in advance, with

appropriate timing for cut and color.

Not all stylists are comfortable working with headpieces, and that may include

the one you've been going to for years, say specialists at the Vidal Sassoon

Salon in New York City. They suggest asking for a recommendation at your

regular salon, keeping in mind you may be selecting a different look for your

big day, and that may mean picking someone other than your usual stylist.

Once you have your wedding date set, stop by your salon to discuss the

long-range game plan, the Sassoon group says. Map out approximate times for

cut and color appointments; having the last color appointment six to eight

weeks ahead and the last cut two weeks ahead of your big day are recommended.

This also is a good time to start getting your hair into top shape with

conditioning treatments, if needed.

Also decide if you are going to do your own hair for the wedding or if the

stylist will be doing the honors, either at the salon or at your house. If

it's the latter, set up the appointment well in advance, blocking out enough

time to ensure a rush-free session.

If you're going it alone, a good stylist will work with you in advance to get

the right look. Then practice it, getting the routine down with the right

products. If you want to experiment, do it early.

Next comes the headpiece, with more decisions. Do you plan to wear it the

entire day, or do you want the option of taking it off for the reception

party? The Sassoon group points out that could make a difference in the

hairstyle choice.

Bring a photograph of the headpiece and dress with you to the salon as soon as

you make the selections. You and your stylist can make sure your plans are on

the right track, or if changes should be made.

Your choice of headpiece, gown and hairdo should dovetail. Denie Schach,

inventor of the Hairdini styling wands for upswept styles, says that the more

elaborate the gown, the simpler the headpiece should be. Similarly, the more

elaborate the headpiece, the simpler the hairstyle should be. "Free-flowing

hair is nicest with modern styles that tend toward simple elegance," Ms Schach

says.

Her own focus on upswept styles, including the chignon and the French twist,

are natural complements to dresses with Victorian-style necklines. Ms Schach

also likes the French twist, with a few tendrils left free, with dresses that

have dramatic cuts that expose the back or shoulders.

And finally, don't forget about your attendants. The Sassoon stylists suggest

talking to them about their hair plans too, perhaps even booking in the same

salon, but with a different stylist.