Guest blog: this year’s hottest bridal make-up trends

Rachael Keely, Professional Beauty London speaker and celebrity make-up artist for High Definition, offers her insight on the key make-up looks for bridal season and how to create them.

Brides-to-be want a make-up artist who can make them look and feel the best version of themselves on their big day. And the bridal market is big business; it’s a sector of the industry that, if managed correctly, can see word-of-mouth become your salon’s best form of PR – with brides’ ecstatic with the make-up services you offered keen to spread the word to friends and colleagues.

As we edge closer to bridal season, these are the make-up looks set to be big this year…

• Barefaced chic – the new bridal season brings with it plenty of lighter, fresher make-up looks, so it’s no surprise that as the temperature rises barefaced chic takes centre stage. For this look think nude-looking skin, neutral tones and a sun-kissed glow with natural highlights.
  
  
• The wet-look – this was a universal beauty trend on the SS17 bridal catwalks, with the likes of Sachin & Babi showcasing some serious sheen. The most popular way to sport the look is with dewy-looking skin. To recreate this glossy effect on clients and give skin the appearance of sheen, but with a flattering finish, use an illuminator after applying your usual base. Apply it to the top of cheekbones to highlight and add definition.
  
  
• Pretty pastels – lids and lips that match are really on-trend look this season but in much softer shades. Whether you want a subtle interpretation or all out retro look, use a soft and creamy blushto give a velvet finish with excellent adhesion to the skin.
  
  
• The luxe look – if au naturel isn’t quite edgy enough for your client, opt for a soft smoky eye which is set to be big this season. The look is about creating thick, dense lines that are soft enough to smudge easily.

Things to consider
When it comes to make-up for the big day, durability and suitability is key. Every look needs to complement the bride resulting in a timeless, elegant style that fits with their wedding dress, style and location, while lasting the duration of an often very long day.

Lighting also needs to be considered, both natural and otherwise, because the photos taken tend to last a lifetime. It’s crucial you use the right products in the right way and water resistant and long-lasting formulas are an investment clients won’t ever regret.

Bridal make-up is very different to someone’s day-to-day look, so always offer a trial before the big day to make sure you get it right. Preparation is everything and will ensure a smooth ride with no unnecessary drama on the day itself.

It’s not just make-up that needs planning. I always recommend clients schedule in the perfect skincare, brows, hair and nail routine too.

High Definition have a wide range of make-up products to help you create the perfect look for your bridal clients. See the full range here.

Keely will be talking about this subject in greater detail in her talk “Bridal make-up masterclass” on Monday 27 February, 2pm, as part of the “How to…” seminar programme taking place at Professional Beauty London. Book your place here for only £5 per session.