From wedding hairstyles to wedding makeup, you want to look your best on your wedding day. Here are a few bridal beauty tips to help you make the right wedding hair and wedding makeup plan, including: how to decide which wedding makeup will look best on you, whether or not you should try a shimmer effect and how to handle frizzy hair, so you look beautiful in person and in your wedding photos.
Q. I was never really into wearing makeup but I'd like to wear some on my wedding day. The problem is that I don't really know how to put it on -- or what I even need to buy! Where do I begin?
A. You can start by checking out department store cosmetics counters. Many of the people that work at the counters are well trained and will do a great job helping you choose what you need. They may even give you a complete makeover for free. Let them show you what colors they think are best for your skin tone. Watch in a mirror as they apply the makeup, and when they're done, leave the store. You'll want to see the makeup in different, natural lighting, and check how it looks several hours after application (very important). You might also want to ask your fiance what he thinks -- if he doesn't recognize you, wash your face and don't go back to the store. On the other hand, if you decide that you like the look, go back to the cosmetics counter and buy what you like, or schedule a makeup appointment for your wedding day.
Q. I want to try shimmery makeup for my wedding day, but my mom says that glossy eye shadow and foundation won't look so good in my wedding photos. Is she right, or should I go for the glow?
A. When it comes to your wedding day, you'll want to avoid too much shine. In this case, mom is right: Matte makeup will give you a timeless look that won't make you cringe when you look at your wedding pictures 20 years from now. That's not to say you can't dabble in the latest shimmery shades -- the key to pulling off this look is moderation. Shiny makeup can make your skin appear oily in photographs, as your mother warned, and ultra-glossy lipstick might look too overdone. You can fake a dewy complexion with some of the new powders and products designed to enhance, rather than conceal, your natural skin tone. Maybe try one of the new oil-free moisturizers containing light-reflecting particles that hide the smallest lines and imperfections. As far as makeup goes, there are subtle ways to shine: Blend some dewy cream blush into the apples of your cheeks; dab some sheer glossy eye shadow onto your lids; or apply bronzer or highlighting cream on your brow and cheek bones for a sun-kissed effect. Finally, dust a little sparkly powder on your decolletage, and you'll be ready to dance the night away.
Q. I'm getting married in a humid climate in July. The problem is that my hair is really wavy and tends to frizz when it's humid. I'd like to blow it out and wear it straight but I'm afraid the second I step outside it'll explode into an unruly mess. How can I keep my hair under control?
A. To take out the wave and fight frizz, you need to use the right styling tools: a large, round brush; a product that will smooth your ends (like a shine serum); and some hair clips. When blow drying, start with a small section of hair from the nape of your neck. Secure the rest on top of your head with the clips. Start drying at the roots, following the length of hair with the round brush and the dryer. Don't be afraid to pull the hair up a little -- be sure to hold it taut with the brush.
Continue until the section is completely dry before moving on to the next section. When you've finished drying your entire head (be patient, this may take a while), apply the finishing balm to smooth down any stray hairs and add moisture. This should hold your straight hair in place and add a little shine. Practice doing the style before the wedding day, and if you can't get the look to work, don't force it and instead wear your hair wavy. You won't want to have to worry about frizzy hair as you're walking down the aisle, so in the end go with a style that you know will stay in place.
-- The Knot
Photo: Winfield Little Photographic Studios/The Knot
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