The hairstyle and the bride’s makeup should be simple but elegant. It’s important to remember that the hairstyle and makeup should not compete with the wedding dress. On the contrary, both the hairstyle and makeup should complement the dress.

Knowing the bride’s expectations is just as important as the dress and the makeup. The makeup artist should keep in mind that the bride would like to feel comfortable with and not trapped by her hairstyle and her makeup. Being comfortable also means having simple makeup, not too vibrant. This is not the best day for trying out a new style. The bride won’t want to feel too self-conscious or shy because she has a new look. On the contrary, she will want everyone to notice her beauty that day and admire her in photos during the years to come.

Bridal makeup and hairstyles today are soft and subtle. The effect is more sensual and less rigid. Hair can be worn loose in waves and curls. The updo worn by all brides in the past now has a much more peaceful look. Present hairdos don’t have so much hairspray or hairpins to cover up rebel strands of hair. The effect is a hairstyle that’s a bit informal, soft and stylish. The bride’s hairdo is romantic.

Bridal makeup tendencies also point to a softer, more romantic style to complement the hairstyle and the latest trend in bridal dresses and hairdos. Lips don’t need to be harshly outlined nor is it necessary to apply matte foundation in powder. Even though this is traditional, today’s bridal makeup is more radiant and natural. Modern brides want shine with elegance.

There are some rules concerning hairstyle and makeup for brides, and makeup artists can follow some of these tips to make sure that the wedding day is a marvellous success.

Makeup and Hairstyle Rules

1. Keep on hand a catalogue or section of photographs available so that brides can see samples of bridal makeup. Often brides have a hard time expressing in their own words what they’re looking for. Photos can aid communication.

2. Offer a consultation. This should be done some weeks ahead of time. During the consultation, keep in mind the moment of the day when the wedding will take place, the location, the flowers, the style and the color of the dress, the hair color, the bride’s hairstyle, the eye color, the season of the year, and the bride’s personality. If possible, communicate with the stylist to discuss the hairstyle.

3. It’s also advisable to ask the bride to show you some of the makeup products that she uses. This can give you a good idea of what the bride usually wears.

4. Discuss the different hairstyle and makeup trends for brides. Let the bride see some photos so that she can have a better idea. Get together at a later date with the bride.

5. In this second meeting, you can unveil your makeup plans. Show the future bride your selection. Try more than one bridal makeup style for brides and take pictures of the results.

Examples of color schemes for brides:

• Choose a simple color scheme for bridal makeup. The eyes, cheeks and lips should be made up within the same family of colors: warm or cool. If the bride is dressing in white and has dark hair, use colors in the pink / rose family. Keep it simple. The eyeshadow mauve / pink, the blush pink and the lips pink.
• Choose a different scheme that complements the flower choice. If the bride has a peach flower bouquet, try to use a copper or bronze eyeshadow. Try the combination of pink and peach on the cheeks and the lipstick in peach.
• The bride’s eyeshadow should be soft. Use eyeliner in brown or almond. The line should be subtle and well applied.
• Later use waterproof mascara; remember that brides often cry and can smudge their makeup.
• When you choose the bride’s foundation, think of the duration and the photos. Makeup should last long, even under the photographer’s lights, without being too heavy. You will find different foundations on the market with the ideal finish for photos. Try using a bronzer powder to give a touch of warmth and softness.
• Another trend in formal weddings is strong but sensual makeup. A bride in a formal wedding can use a matte foundation, a black eyeliner applied in a subtle way, pink blush and matte red lipstick. The lip liner should be used to contain the red lipstick and avoid smudging. This is a somewhat dramatic style for an evening wedding and is perfect for such a formal event as this.

Modern brides want to show their beauty in a natural and sensual way. The makeup artist can give the bride confidence and elegance so that she can remember this day forever.