If you’re not the sort who likes to be doted on and pampered by a professional makeup artist, you may be considering doing your own wedding makeup. Heck, you know what you’re doing, right?
If you’re going to take makeup matters into your own hands, make sure you have these products in your bridal beauty arsenal for the most beautiful day ever.
EYES & BROWS
Chosunga 22 Dong Gong Minn Jello Color Kit 1
This eye shadow compact contains six versatile colors that are infused with argan oil and shea butter, which makes the powder moist and creamy. The well-designed colors work beautifully together, giving you the flexibility to create whatever eye look you wish, from blushing- to vampy-bride. $39 at Sephora
Joey Healy Corduroy Luxe Brow Powder
Defined brows are a must, but be careful not to overdo it. Harsh bridal brows = not good. This matte, neutral grey/brown powder will softly define the brows and will work for many skin tones. Set it with a clear brow gel, like L’Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Plumper Brow Gel. $28 at Joeyhealy.com
Note: if you’re near NYC and have a chance to visit Healy’s Brow Bar for a shaping before the wedding – do it.
Hynt Beauty Forte High Definition Eye Liner and Nocturne Mascara
Add the final touches with dark eyeliner smudged along the lashes and a few coats of mascara. I like the Hynt Beauty products for the eyes not only because they perform impeccably well, but they are also non-irritating and all-natural with organic ingredients. $24 and $20 at Hyntbeauty.com
LIPS
Fiona Stiles Signature Soft Matte Lip Color
Lips should be accentuated, but not too strong. This creamy/matte lipstick formula from Fiona Stiles will stay put and yet be comfortable to wear. There are seven pretty colors available – my bridal picks are Rennie for fair to medium skin and Neptune for darker skin tones. Define the lips and extend the wear of the lipsticks with her lip liners in Cornelia (light-medium) or Traction (dark). $16 each at Fionastilesbeauty.com
CHEEKS
Paula’s Choice Blush It On Contour Palette
I love the versatility of this palette. You have 4 beautiful blush shades to choose from, plus a contour powder and highlighter if you decide to do a little sculpting. I wouldn’t recommend just any contour palette for a bride doing her on makeup – this one is goof-proof. $36 at Paulaschoice.com
FACE
Marini Luminate Face Lotion by Jan Marini
For your best looking skin, start using this lotion at least a few weeks before the big day. It will work to diminish discoloration and uneven skin, help the skin turn over to reveal more youthful skin and reduce any inflammation. On the big day, wear it underneath your foundation for a gorgeous, natural glow. $98 at Janmarini.com
You want your face to look flawless but not overdone, so I would recommend a medium coverage tint rather than a full coverage foundation. This lightweight cream dries down to a matte finish so you won’t be a shiny bride, even when your nerves get the best of you! It also has an SPF of 30, which is perfect if your nuptials are outside. Available in 12 shades. $44 at Narscosmetics.com
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer
Packed with anti-aging ingredients, like hydrolyzed collagen and vitamin C, this full-The formula is crease-proof so it should last you until your last dance. Available in 4 shades. $24 at Itcosmetics.com
Clinique Forevermore Pressed Powder Compact
This translucent powder comes in an elegant compact, perfect for setting your makeup and doing touch-ups on your special day. The compact is enclosed in a fabric pouch, which also holds an applicator brush. You will feel so very special every time you use it! $67.50 at Nordstrom.com
Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind, courtesy of the beauty experts at Lauren + Vanessa (Lauren E. Hack and Vanessa Ungaro), NYC-based duo who provide hair and makeup services for celebrities and brides.
- “Work with an esthetician 3-5 months before your wedding day. Make sure to do your chemical peels at least 2 weeks before your wedding day.
- Don’t go to extremes if your everyday makeup look is more natural.
- If you’re having a spray tan and never had it done before, do a test run. Have your spray tan done the day before your wedding
- Get your eyebrows and lip threaded instead of waxed to prevent breakouts.
- Have your hair color and cut done 7-10 days before your wedding day.â€
