Perfect wedding make-up

Ready to walk down the aisle, but not sure how to create that ideal, classic look? Here are some foolproof tips to make sure your make-up looks perfect when you say ‘I do’

You’ve got the guy, the dress and the flowers, but don’t overlook the one detail that will make your wedding: your face. The make-up you wear when you take your vows should be a little different and more dramatic than what you wear every day. So, take a look at our make-up dos and don’ts to look picture perfect.

For your face

  • Do keep your skin looking dewy and fresh by using a tinted moisturiser or moisture-balanced make-up. Foundations with yellow undertones work best with flash photography.
  • Don't get carried away with shimmer highlighters. In photos, these products give you an unflattering and highly reflective shine.
  • Do use a bronzing powder to warm your skin tone. Using a natural bristle brush, lightly apply colour to the areas of the face where the sun would naturally hit, such as your forehead, cheeks and the bridge of the nose. If needed, apply a light dusting on your neck and chest for even all-over colour. Remember to do this before you put on your dress.
  • Don't get too much sun before your wedding. Sunburns, peeling skin and tan lines can sabotage your special day.
  • Do give your foundation staying power by using a gel foundation primer before you apply your make-up. Add a light dusting of loose powder to prevent any unwanted shine.
  • Don't use a heavy pressed powder to set your foundation. Too much powder can leave your skin looking chalky and dull in your wedding photos.
For your eyes

  • Do use a slightly darker brow powder or gel than your natural hair colour to keep your brows looking their best. If your brows are scant, fill them in with a brow pencil in a light neutral shade and then, using a brow powder and brush, go over this shape to create a natural effect.
  • Don't use heavy pencils or dark shadows to define your brows, as this can leave you looking stern rather than stunning.

  • Do use flattering neutrals to contour and highlight your eyes. For eyeliners, stick to classic colours like black, navy or brown.
  • Don't get too trendy with your eye make-up. You may think that sparkly eyeliner is a good idea today, but chances are you’ll look back at the pictures years from now and regret it.
  • Do create lush lashes by using an eyelash curler – applying two coats of lengthening mascara if necessary. (Make sure you allow the first coat to dry before deciding if you need to apply the second.) Waterproof mascara is always a good choice – it’s longer lasting and won’t run if you shed a few tears of joy.
  • Don't overwhelm your lashes with too many coats of mascara. Clumpy lashes are a turn off, especially on a blushing bride.
    • For your lips and cheeks
    • Do choose a warm flattering cheek colour in a pinky peach or rose. When applying the colour, focus on the apples, or rounded parts of the cheek, and blend the blush back and up toward your hairline. For oily skin, a powder blush is the perfect choice, but if your skin tends to be a bit dry, try a cream one to achieve a dewy natural glow.
    • Don't skimp on blush. You don’t want to overdo it, but you’ll need enough to avoid looking washed out in your photographs.
    • Do create a pretty pout by first applying your lip colour using a lip brush, then using a lip pencil in a complementary colour. Be sure to follow the natural line of your lips. Not only is it easier to define your lips after the colour is already applied, but it also creates a softer, more natural look.
    • Don't use a lip liner much darker than your lipstick to define your lips. This technique looks harsh and very unnatural in pictures.
    • Do choose a lip colour in a warm, fairly bright shade. Roses, pinks and reds look great in photos and keep wedding whites looking fresh.
    • Don't wear a lipstick that is too neutral or frosted. These colours can leave you looking pale or tired.

    Finally,Do try a test-run of what you’d like your make-up to look like on your wedding day a few weeks before the big event.

      Don’t leave it until a few hours before you walk down the aisle.