We scored an exclusive backstage pass to one of the hottest bridal runway shows this season — Marchesa. Their newest styles feature cascading peplums, light-as-air ruffles and ultra-feminine sleeves (more on gowns later!), but we also couldn’t wait to show you the equally covetable hair and makeup from the show.
Get the Look: Luminous and Angelic Makeup
Marchesa chose none other than renowned celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman, dubbed by Vogue as “fashion’s favorite face-maker,” to beautify the models for their runway show. The Artistic Director of Revlon took a less-is-more beauty approach, which perfectly complemented the ethereal dress styles.
To create a radiant glow, Westman began by prepping the skin with a luminizer and primer (the key to long-lasting makeup). She used a light foundation, Revlon Nearly Naked, which provided coverage yet still allowed the models’ natural beauty to shine through.
Cheeks were given a subtle pop of color with limited-edition Revlon Baby Sticks for lips and cheeks in Pink Passion. Highlighter was used to illuminize the skin and Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder set everything in place.
A great bridal glow isn’t just limited to your face — highlighting products were applied to the models’ arms and collarbone area, too.
Then, the makeup artists blended purple, brown and grey shades from Revlon’s ColorStay Eye Shadow Quad for a smoky eye effect. Crème Gel Liner was added to the top and bottom lashes; Westman smudged it to keep the look soft.
This look is great for any bride: “You don’t see that it’s shadow. It’s just dark around the eye, which is naturally flattering because it enhances your eye color,” said Westman.
Lastly, ColorBurst Lip Gloss in Crystal Water, a clear gloss with a blueish tint, was applied to the lips.
Top tips for real brides:
1. Keep it natural, soft, and pretty. On your wedding day, you’re already going to have a natural glow because of all the adrenaline, so don’t go overboard or try makeup you’ve never done before (like a red lip). “Makeup should bring out the essence of the girl; the truth is that the guy [your fiancé] wants to marry who he already knows,” said Westman.
2. Don’t wait until the last minute. It is important to take care of your skin throughout the months leading up to the big day. Westman recommends using a gentle Lactic acid scrub to maintain a healthy glow.
3. Bring a miniature makeup palette for touchups. You won’t have much time to reapply your makeup at the wedding anyway, but keep a moisturizing lipstick and a mini concealer on hand just in case.
Get the Look: Coiled Elegance
Super-talented Kérastase lead stylist Akemi Tamaribuchi aimed to create a polished hairstyle to highlight the models’ eyes.
Akemi began by sectioning out the bangs and pulling the remaining hair into a mid-height ponytail. She used Kérastase Double Force finishing spray to slick back the sides, followed by a blast of heat to lock it in place.
Then, she split the ponytail into two sections and applied Mousse Substantive and Elixir Ultime Serum to add volume and shine.
Next, she twisted the models’ locks to create two rope braids. Akemi used her hands to create flyaways to make the style softer.
The strands were intertwined into a detailed shape and pinned close to the head.
Bangs were also incorporated into the coiled style.
The finished look: Striking and powerful!
Top tips for real brides:
1. Develop a relationship with your hair stylist so that you feel more comfortable on the big day.
2. If you’re wearing a veil, ensure that it’s easy to remove and won’t snag any strands.
3. Your wedding hairstyle represents your sense of style. Base the look around how you want to feel on your big day.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of our favorite gowns, before they hit stores:
Tell us: Would you try this beauty look on your special day?
—Mary Gillen
