The Journal · Beauty

Bridal Makeup for Every Skin Tone

What a good bridal artist should know about undertone, texture and photography.

By Afifa Latif · The Hollywood Bride

Every bride deserves an artist who knows her skin. Matching shade is only the start: undertone, texture and how your skin behaves on camera all shape a look that feels like you on your wedding day.

Undertone matters as much as shade

Two people with the same depth of skin can have warm, cool or neutral undertones. A foundation that matches your depth but not your undertone can look grey, orange or flat in photos. A skilled artist mixes and adjusts shades rather than relying on a single bottle.

Avoid flashback

Some powders and sunscreens reflect camera flash and leave a white cast in photos. This is especially noticeable on deeper skin tones. Ask your artist which products they use under flash and how they test for it.

Enhance, do not mask

The best bridal makeup keeps your features recognisably yours. That means choosing contour and blush shades that suit your complexion, and highlight that looks like a glow rather than a stripe.

Texture and longevity

Oily, dry and combination skin all need different prep. Bring up your skin type at your trial so your artist can choose primers and setting methods that last through a long day.

Questions to ask before you book

  • Can I see work on brides with a similar skin tone to mine?
  • How do you match undertone?
  • How do you prevent flashback in photos?
  • What would you recommend for my skin type?

At The Hollywood Bride, products and techniques are chosen for your skin tone, undertone, texture and bone structure. See the latest looks on Instagram.

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