At our recent fashion shoot for our summer/fall 2012 issue (on newsstands in early July--mark your calendars!), we styled our model's hair in a high chignon for one of the looks. Not to be confused with today's trendy top knots (which tend to be more casual), a high chignon is a hairstyle classic--the look is a throwback to a more glamorous era. Part ballerina bun, part elegant updo, we love high chignons for brides. (And bridesmaids!)

If your gown has a high or intricate neckline, heavy detailing at the bust or on the bodice, or a plunging neck or back, wearing your hair in a high chignon will help shine a spotlight on your gown. And if you plan on dancing till dawn, sweeping your hair up and off your face in a high chignon will keep your locks from falling flat by the end of the night.

Be inspired by these eight high chignon styles we love for wedding day hair:

Nicole Richie's polished high chignon + smokey eyes + metallic silver dress = edgy evening glamour. We like it.

Blondies, take a cue from Kate Hudson and pair a soft, high chignon with pink cheeks and lips for a fresh-faced look.

A frequent chignon-wearer, J. Lo sports the look high atop her head--all the better for showing off diamond earrings.

Actress Hilary Duff styled her hair in a full, high chignon when she wed hockey player Mike Comrie in Santa Barbara in August 2010.

SJP rocks a slightly teased high chignon and a Chanel jacket--Carrie Bradshaw would approve.

Jennifer Love Hewitt's loose chignon is large and in charge--this look is a little bigger than we typically like our chignons, but she makes it work thanks to simple makeup and stud earrings.

Got bangs? Sweep them to the side when sporting a high chignon a la this model snapped backstage at a fashion show.

Katie Holmes' slightly messy chignon, rosy cheeks, and glossy lips would look gorgeous at a beach wedding--destination brides, take note!

What do you think of the high chignon? Would you wear one of these hairstyles for your nuptials or do you prefer your locks long and loose?

{Images: Glamour, Getty Images, Curves and Chaos, OK magazine, Celeb Salon, Beauty Editor, Style, Andrew Evans PR}