Bridal Makeup Looks for the Trendy 2024 Bride

Be it bride, bridesmaid or any bridal starring role: the right make-up can be the perfect accent to whatever nuptial number you might wear for the big day. Weddings are a big deal. Oftentimes, it seems like it’s the dress that takes centre stage, but very few don’t dream of looking dazzling on camera - from head to toe. That’s why, here at Cosmetify, we’ve compiled a curated list of all the best matrimonial makeup looks for you to try. Whether you prefer classic or contemporary, monochrome or multicoloured, unabashed or understated - you’ll find just the look you need to feel picture-perfect.

The Soft Glam

"Soft glam is subjective," states makeup mogul Huda Kattan of Huda Beauty, "but for me, it's all about looking glamorous without the makeup wearing you." Soft glam is not your everyday natural beat: it’s flushed, without any hard lines; eye makeup softly blended and features enhanced, yet with no hard finishes. Think natural glitz, brushed, diffused, neutral and, well, soft. Yet, this is a look that still offers you a touch of glam on your big day.

The Full Glam

Full glam makeup is all about precision and more a daring application. The objective is to create striking, high-impact looks with more intense colours and dramatic features. This style typically involves a more assertive approach to blending and defining the eyes, cheeks, and lips, with richer, more pigmented eyeshadows and bold eyeliner. Of course, no full glam look is complete without faux lashes—more dramatic and voluminous than their soft glam counterparts, adding that quintessential touch of wedding glamour for one of the more intense glam bridal makeup looks.

The Clean Makeup Look

Very few have yet to hear of the clean beauty trend populating social media of late; very many have yet to escape it. Ubiquitous as it may be, it is one trend that could translate well into the bridal world. The clean beauty trend is all about minimalism and prioritises a fresh complexion, achieved with lightweight, nourishing skincare and makeup that lets your skin breathe. Soft, neutral tones are used for a barely-there finish, making it an ideal choice for brides who value simplicity and understated elegance on their special day. Top it off with a sleek bun, ponytail or effortless ‘do of your choice.

No Makeup Makeup

Opting for a complete natural bridal makeup look? Sitting a few notches above the clean makeup vibe, the No Makeup Makeup look is all about enhancing your natural beauty with a subtle, effortless touch. This style focuses on creating a flawless, glowing complexion while keeping the makeup light and fresh - if any at all. Think tinted moisturiser, softly brushed brows, and a hint of lip gloss to give you that healthy, radiant glow. Eyes can subtly accentuated with mascara, and cheeks and lips are kept soft with a nude colour - or just some moisturiser. Perfect for the bride who wants to feel like her everyday self.

Statement Red Lip

She’s bold, she’s daring and she’s classic - and donned by the likes of Taylor Swift and Rihanna to Dita Von Teese and Marylin Monroe. The Statement Red Lip look is for the bride looking to make a powerful impression. This timeless choice is all about confidence and elegance, with the red lip as the focal point of your makeup. Whether opting for a rich, deep crimson or a vibrant scarlet lipstick, the key is in the precision of application, ensuring a flawless finish that commands attention. Paired with complementary eye makeup and a perfectly polished complexion, the statement red lip adds a touch of Hollywood glamour, making it a perfect choice for a lady who isn't afraid to stand out on the day.

The Douyin

A strong trending contender amongst Asian bridal makeup looks is the Douyin. Inspired by the popular Chinese social media platform, this style is characterised by its youthful, doll-like appearance with a focus on flawless, porcelain skin. The Douyin look features bright, wide eyes accentuated with shimmery eyeshadows, delicate eyeliner, and fluttery lashes. Blush is applied generously to the cheeks, often with a subtle ombré effect, giving a fresh, rosy glow. Lips are typically soft and gradient, using pink or peach tones for a sweet, innocent finish. Perfect for the bride who wants a whimsical, ethereal look on her wedding day.

The Vintage Vibe

Channel an old-school vibe, that works just as well for mature bridal makeup looks as it does for a fun and fresh visage, too. Touching on elements of circa-60s influence, this look captures the essence of an era known for its bold yet sweet touch - The Vintage Vibe Look is all about timeless glamour, with a nod to these iconic styles of the past. Picture a voluminous bouffant hairstyle paired with soft, wispy eyelashes that flutter with every glance. Blue eyeshadow adds a retro pop of colour, blending perfectly with a classic winged eyeliner for that unmistakable vintage allure. Lips are typically painted in a rich, classic red or soft pink, completing a look that is both nostalgic and utterly chic, perfect for the bride who loves a touch of retro romance on her big day.

Glitter and Gloss

Ultra-feminine and uber-glam, both glitter and gloss are mainstays in beauty vernacular—combine the two for a look that sits firmly between pretty and otherworldly. With trends such as pearlescent skin, all-over gloss and hypershine popping up in the world of TikTok, the Glitter and Gloss look is all about embracing shine and sparkle, using shimmering beauty and makeup products that catch the light and glossy lips for that extra sweet touch. This style adds a touch of drama and allure, perfect for the bride who wants to make a dazzling statement. Whether it's a subtle shimmer or an all-out glittery effect, this look ensures you're the centre of attention, radiating glamour from every angle.

Now that you’ve got your wedding makeup down to a T, don’t forget to peruse our wedding hair ideas so that you can complete your look.