Your wedding beauty cheat sheet

Embellishments

MM: Since the trend this season is all about going glossy, I see a lot of metallic and mirror embellishments. Zari embroidery and thread work continue to charm, along with textured sequin paired with abstract mirror work.

CW: False lashes with Swarovski embellishments make the eyes look glamorous.

Accessories

MM: I see some statement, old-world-inspired rose-gold earrings coming into play in the contemporary Indian ensemble. 

CW: Hair accessories like floral headbands add a dash of fun. However, on the wedding day, keep it clean and simple. 

Jitters, panic attacks and nervous breakdowns — these are just a few emotional ups and downs you’ll have to worry about as a bride-to-be. What you won’t have to worry about though is looking like the perfect bride, because Manish Malhotra and Cory Walia are sharing pro tips on style and beauty.   

Colours
Manish Malhotra: This season is about more greys, wines, burgundies, and perhaps even blues and lime greens. The classic vintage red, and shades of metallic silver will take on a new twist in the traditional wedding ensemble this season.

Cory Walia: For the lips, smooth, glossy, non-sticky textures in bright cherry reds, burnt oranges and deep hot pinks are your go-tos. Mauve, too, has made a comeback, but must be paired with hues like lime green, which is ideal for a daytime occasion. Opt for soft glitter in copper and bronze shades for your peepers. Eyeshadows with black bases do twice the work, giving lids the colour and hint of a smoky look.

Cuts and styles 

MM: A big trend this season is innovative textures in saris and lehengas. I love new-age lehengas, which are more like flowy skirts, adding an extra edge to the festive season with glamorised racerbacks and embroidered capes. The long flowy kalidars or beautiful gown saris are great options for each of these occasions. I also love mirror work as it reflects everything festive.  

CW: For me, cuts and styles instantly mean hair. It is very important to pick a hairstyle according to facial proportions. Subtle soft curls look good on all face types. Minimise the usage of hairspray or bobby pins and let curls look carelessly natural. No matter how long the style takes to put together, it should look like a three-minute routine.

Tips and tricks

MM: One tip for every bride: don’t go hunting all over for the perfect dress or the perfect colour; the best place to look when trying to decide your wedding colour palette is your closet. Your closet is the key to finding a hue/shade that really suits your style and personality. 

CW: The trick to minimising the use of the foundation and concealer, is prepping your skin and taking care of it so it looks fabulous naturally. The skin should reflect luminosity. Also, a combination of foundation, moisturiser and a few drops of water, goes a long way in keeping skin glowing.

Photographs: Shivaji Juvekar