Your day-of-glam is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your nuptials. Your wedding makeup will be seen in many photos, which you’ll be able to look back on over and over again. It can be hard to choose the right look, with all the options available.
We have compiled 27 of our favourite looks that can be used by everyone. The perfect look for you, whether you are looking for natural makeup for your boho wedding or a glamorous look for your black-tie event.
We answered many of the most common questions regarding wedding makeup so that you are fully prepared to make your decision and go for it on the day. Pro tip: We recommend that you book a trial with your makeup artist for wedding makeup.
This will allow you to visualize the final result before your big day (and make any adjustments). The Knot allows you to find local makeup artists who can bring your vision to reality.
Before you book anything, however, you will need to find inspiration. This is where we come in. Below are our top picks for wedding makeup.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO DO MY OWN WEDDING MAKEUP?
You can do your wedding makeup yourself. We strongly recommend hiring a professional to do your wedding makeup for several reasons. They are skilled at what they do.
Even if your skills are limited to applying liquid eyeliner, the pros can apply each product flawlessly. They’ll also bring high-performance products that are suitable for your skin tone and will last through the ceremony, reception, and after-party (if one is being held).
Plus, you won’t have to stress about being too late or making a mistake that will force you to start over.
HOW CAN I FIND A PROFESSIONAL WEDDING MAKEUP ARTIST?
The Knot is the best way to find a wedding make-up artist. The Knot allows you to quickly find beauty professionals in your area or near your venue. You can also use our filters to narrow down your search to those that are within your budget.
You can use our DE&I filters if you are interested in supporting minority-owned businesses. Spending your money wisely is another way to personalize your wedding.
WHICH MAKEUP SHOULD I PURCHASE FOR MY WEDDING?
You won’t likely need any makeup if you work with a wedding makeup artist. They usually bring their own makeup kit. If you have a favourite product, make sure to bring it on your wedding day. Talk to your makeup artist if you plan on bringing a complete line of products. We recommend that you keep a selection of lip products and powder on hand for touch-ups. For inspiration on products to buy, see our Sephora shopping guide or our Beauty Awards. These feature our editors’ favourite beauty picks.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING MAKEUP LOOK?
It can be difficult to narrow down the options when it comes to wedding makeup looks. We have compiled a list of ways to narrow down your options.
VENUE
Use the planning experience you have gained so far. The location you choose can influence the direction of your wedding makeup. A waterfront location may require natural makeup, such as no-makeup looks. A more glamorous cat-eye might be better suited for an elegant ballroom.
PERSONAL STYLE
Your personal preferences are the best way to choose your wedding makeup. Are you someone who likes to wear red lipstick when you go out? You might consider wearing it on your wedding day. Use it if you are a fan of colourful eye makeup.
You don’t have to wear a lot of makeup for your wedding. There are many natural, no-makeup, and natural looks that you can do. It is important to feel confident and comfortable.
DEREK BEDWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Line your outer eyelids only to open up your eyes. Finish the look with a medium-coverage foundation and concealer.
ANGEL PATRICIA PHOTO
Make your eyes stand out. Add mascara to the top and bottom corners of your eyes. To draw attention to your beautiful gaze, keep the rest of your makeup simple.
MARCELA PULIDO PHOTOGRAPHY
Do you want natural bridal makeup? You can enhance your eyes by using neutral eyeshadows and a subtle winged liner.
WHIMS AND JOY
You can swap a neutral brown eyeshadow with a deep purple shade. This look is especially stunning for to-be-weds who have brown eyes. The violet color will compliment your beautiful eyes. To bring it all together, add a liner, mascara, nude lipstick, and nude lip gloss.
CLY BY MATTHEW
Your beautiful eyes deserve to be highlighted. To create a beautiful wing, apply a neutral eyeshadow to your lids.
ROMANTIC WEDDING MAKEUP LOOKS
AMANDA NIPPOLDT PHOTOGRAPHY
A pink wash of eyeshadow is romantic. For extra sweetness, pair it with mascara and a berry-coloured lip.
SOCAL STANDARD
A brick-coloured shade can instantly make red lipstick more romantic.