Classic vs. Contemporary Bridal Makeup: Which Style is Right for You?
Choosing the perfect bridal makeup style for your big day
Makeup by Alice
When it comes to your wedding day, finding the right makeup style can feel like one of the biggest decisions you'll make. Should you opt for a timeless, classic bridal makeup, or go for a more contemporary, fashion-forward look? In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between classic and contemporary bridal makeup, and help you decide which style suits your wedding day vision.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each style to help you find the one that speaks to you!
What is classic bridal makeup?
Classic bridal makeup is all about timeless beauty. This style typically focuses on enhancing your natural features, rather than creating something overly bold, alternative, or trendy. Think soft, neutral tones, a flawless complexion, and understated elegance. A classic look ensures that you’ll still love your wedding photos decades from now, as this style never goes out of fashion.
Key elements of a classic bridal makeup:
Flawless, natural complexion: Light foundation with a glowing finish, with just enough coverage to even out the skin tone and create a smooth, radiant look.
Neutral eye makeup: Soft, neutral shades like taupe, beige, pale pinks, and champagne are often used on the eyes to create a polished, natural look.
Soft eyeliner and lashes: Liner is usually applied with a soft hand, creating subtle definition, and long, fluttery lashes enhance the eyes without overpowering them.
Blush and contour: A delicate sweep of blush adds warmth, while light contouring subtly defines the cheekbones and jawline.
Classic lip shades: Pale pinks, nudes, or soft rose shades are popular, but for a touch of drama, a classic red lip can elevate the look.
Advantages of a classic bridal makeup:
Timeless appeal: You won’t look back at your wedding photos and wonder why you chose a certain trend. This look is built to last and always appears elegant!
Focus on natural beauty: Classic bridal makeup is all about enhancing your natural features, rather than transforming you into someone else. This means you’ll look like the best version of yourself on your wedding day.
Versatility: A classic makeup look works for almost any wedding theme or venue, whether you’re having a church wedding, an outdoor garden ceremony, or a city venue.
What is contemporary bridal makeup?
Contemporary bridal makeup, on the other hand, takes inspiration from current trends. This style is often more adventurous and fashion-forward, borrowing aspects of what’s currently trending in the fashion world. Contemporary bridal makeup is perfect for brides who want to make a statement or reflect their personal style in a more unique or alternative way.
Key elements of contemporary bridal makeup:
Bold eyes or lips: Modern looks often include one strong feature, such as a bold smoky eye, glittery eye shadow, or a bright lip shade.
Highlight and glow: A dewy, luminous complexion is a staple of contemporary makeup. Highlighter is applied liberally to create a fresh, glowing look.
Graphic eyeliner: Sharp, graphic eyeliner is a popular trend, adding a sleek and modern edge to bridal makeup.
Statement brows: Following whatever the current “brow trend” is, the brows are often a signature of contemporary makeup, helping to frame the face and add drama to the overall look.
On-trend lip colours: Bold colours such as corals or deep reds, or even non-traditional shades like nude browns or mauves can be featured in modern bridal looks.
Advantages of contemporary bridal makeup:
Reflects current trends: If you love staying on top of beauty and fashion trends, this makeup style is a great way to incorporate those into your big day.
Showcase your personality: Non-traditional bridal makeup looks allow you to showcase more of your personality, whether you love a red lip, graphic liner, or something more creative.
Stand out: A modern bridal look often draws attention to a specific feature, such as a bold lip or glowing skin, helping you make a striking impression on your wedding day.
Image credit: AKP Branding Stories
Classic vs. Contemporary: Which is Right for You?
Consider your wedding theme
The style of makeup you choose should complement the overall theme and vibe of your wedding. For example, if you’re having a traditional church ceremony followed by a formal reception, classic bridal makeup may suit the occasion best. On the other hand, if you’re having a more relaxed, contemporary celebration in a contemporary venue, a fashion-forward makeup style may feel more in line with the day.
Think about your personal style
Your bridal makeup should reflect your personal style. If you rarely wear makeup and prefer a more natural look in your everyday life, a classic style will help you feel comfortable and more like yourself. However, if you love experimenting with bold makeup or enjoy following the latest beauty trends, contemporary bridal makeup may feel more like “you” on your wedding day.
How do you want to feel?
Ask yourself how you want to feel on your wedding day. Do you want to feel like a timeless bride with soft, natural beauty, or do you want to make a statement with an on-trend look? Your makeup can play a significant role in how confident and beautiful you feel, so choose a style that makes you feel your best.
Consider your wedding photos
Your wedding photos will last a lifetime, and your makeup choice will be immortalised in them. Classic bridal makeup ensures that your look will remain timeless, while contemporary makeup may capture the trends of the moment. Consider how you want to look back on your photos in 10, 20, or 30 years from now.
What suits your features?
Any style of bridal makeup can be tailored to suit your unique features, but it’s essential to choose a style that best enhances them. A professional makeup artist will help guide you towards a look that complements your face shape, skin tone, and features, whether you go for classic elegance or something more unique.
The best of both worlds: mixing classic and contemporary
You don’t have to stick strictly to one style or the other. Many brides opt for a blend of both classic and modern elements. For example, you could choose a classic bridal base with glowing skin and neutral eyes, but add a bold, modern lip for a pop of colour. Alternatively, you could go for a trendy dewy look but keep your eye makeup soft and elegant. Mixing elements from both styles allows you to create a unique look that reflects your personality and wedding theme.
Ultimately, choosing between classic and contemporary bridal makeup comes down to your personal style, wedding theme, and how you want to feel on your big day. There’s no right or wrong choice - only what feels best for you.
As a bridal makeup artist, I love helping brides-to-be find their perfect wedding day look, whether that’s a timeless, natural beauty or a bold, on-trend style. If you’re still unsure which style is right for you, I’d be happy to help you explore your options during your bridal makeup preview.
Ready to find your perfect bridal makeup style?
At Lucent Hair & Makeup, we specialise in creating bespoke bridal looks tailored to your unique style and vision.
Visit our Bridal Services page or contact us to secure your wedding date and start planning your dream look.
alice@lucenthairandmakeup.co.uk | +44 (0)7500848183 | @lucenthairandmakeup
