Minimal Vs Maximal

Which side are you on? Barefaced beauty or gorgeous glamour? We discover what it takes to create the most popular bridal makeup looks.

- Nicola Smith

Thanks to Instagram, we’re constantly bombarded with images of dramatic makeup looks. This could be right up your street when it comes to w-day makeup, but it’s not every bride’s cup of tea – you might prefer an enhanced, au naturel look for the moment you say ‘I do’. So what do makeup artists think about these two very different looks, and how do you get what you want for your big day?

IT’S ALL NATURAL

“When it comes to natural wedding makeup, the important thing is that you feel like the best version of yourself,” says Edinburgh-based makeup artist Emily Millar. Kate Middleton famously applied her own makeup the day she married the future king, as she wanted William to recognise her as she walked down the aisle. We’re not suggesting you follow suit with the DIY approach, but we like the Duchess of Cambridge’s insistence on looking natural. For your day, some professionally applied products that enhance your features, rather than mask them, could do the trick.

Getting a barefaced look can take just as many products as a bold one – it just won’t look as if your features have been painted on. “You’ll need to go slightly heavier on the lips and eyes to have staying power to last all day and show up in your photographs,” points out Claire Aitken of Spotlight Professional Make Up, Hair & Beauty.

LESS IS MORE

We all know we should look a er our skin, but it’s especially important to take your routine seriously as your wedding approaches. “It is imperative that your skin is well hydrated and nourished,” insists makeup artist Rae Mathieson. “This will create an even texture, in turn making it easier to achieve a glowing, flawless finish.”