While weddings remain classic and classy undertakings, modern brides now have the option to infuse fashionable and trendy touches into their I-do repertoire. And what better way to add color and style than with hair and makeup? Here we list the season's hottest beauty looks to try.
Luminous Skin
Clear skin has always been the perfect canvas for makeup to glide on and look its finest, which explains the recent popularity of airbrushing among makeup artists--practically gone are the days of cakey foundation. And, even without a fine-misting machine, everyone can now achieve that dewy, multi-dimensional effect of clear skin, thanks to true-to-complexion face bases featuring feather-light formulas and extra supple finishes. Even old school matte liquid foundation can get a flattering sheen by mixing in a few drops of luminizer (such as Nars Orgasm Illuminator).
Edgy Updos
From messy ballerina buns to textured pompadours seen on the runways, the classic chignon has taken quite the rebellious turn in recent seasons. While wedding ceremonies usually call for an elaborate bouffant, one can still have fun with a more "disheveled" look. Instead of the usual sleek side-parted updo, ask your stylist to loosen it up a bit and go easy on the hairspray to get a softer effect. Hair products that don't flake when brushed out are perfect for this. Try: L'Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray.
Ombré Hair
Celebrities like Drew Barrymore, Jessica Biel, and Sarah Jessica Parker have been spotted with dyed tresses that start dark along the crown, and fade out in lighter shades towards the bottom half of strands. For your big day, try a more subdued--but still photogenic--version by going for deeper gradations within the same color family; doing this will give hair dimension without going overboard. Ideally, book an appointment way in advance to allow for trial and error, and make sure to only go to a reputable salon and stylist. Bride approved: Kaizen Salon's chief colorist, Rose Velasco.
Colorful Eyeshadow
At the New York and Paris Fashion Weeks, models paraded vibrant peepers with bursts of purple, aqua...even neon. Designer Jason Wu's show featured smoky eyes using violet eyeshadow, while Peter Som had lids lined in bright lemon yellow. If you're feeling extra adventurous on your wedding day, go for any of these eye-popping shades as the highlight of your makeup, keeping everything else low-key. But, if you want something less outlandish yet still bold, go for muted, jewel tones such as emerald and sapphire--with the latter possibly being your "something blue." Try: Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencils in Ava and Zaire.
Fruity Lips
What better way to draw your future husband in than a fruit-colored kisser? Juicy shades of melon, strawberry, or orange on lips create a lovely centerpiece for clear and luminous skin (see #1) and look great in pictures to boot. If donning bright rouge, be sure to go for a long-wearing formula, and don't forget to stash it in your bridal bag for touch-ups. You can either top the color with gloss for a slick ‘n shiny effect; or a basic balm for a stained-in, matte finish. And, whichever look you prefer, go with a flavored lipstick topper to guarantee one sweet smooch. Try: Nivea Lip Care Cherry or Strawberry
