Beauty Trends every bride will love
By Grace Bennet, Intern | Banner photo by Mo Garratt Photography
Here’s a chance to discover the top wedding makeup trends of 2026 so far, blending soft glam with personal flair! Highlighting looks that have got brides completely hooked, here are some expert tips from Ashley Catlett, owner of Bellissima Skin LLC and Eastern Shore Permanent Makeup.
The primary trend that has won over the brides this year leans toward soft, romantic glam, with brides requesting a look that is authentic yet makes them feel beautiful and confident on their wedding day. “Many brides want to look like themselves, favoring natural styles over heavy transformations,” said Catlett.
From dewy looks to natural neutral tones, a key focus this year has been pink and light tones for eyeshadows and lips, which creates a timeless look that is versatile across all skin tones. Dewy finishes continue to be a popular request among brides, as it gives a healthy, natural looking glowing complexion. “Brides are opting for lighter applications to let features like freckles shine through,” Catlett said.
That preference for minimal coverage, unless full concealment is needed for imperfections, allows brides to reflect their personal style while still glowing on their big day.
Eye makeup is evolving, with softer techniques.
“Shadow eyeliners are replacing sharp liquid liners, for a softer, romantic vibe,” Catlett said. “This shift, paired with the resurgence of brown liner and mascara, adds warmth and enhances the gentle, glowing aesthetic brides are embracing.”
Personalization is at the heart of 2026’s bridal makeup trends. Catlett said brides use makeup to express their unique style, but she cautioned against unrealistic expectations. “The pictures of Instagram models they want to use for inspiration are not going to look the same on them. Most of those pictures are filtered or edited, and especially, eye looks are based on the eye shape and color,” said Catlett.
She emphasized how important it is for brides to communicate their vision clearly, while being open to adjustments that are a better fit for their features, as social media images often involve heavy editing.
Skin preparation is another key factor to keep in mind for that flawless, glowy look.
“A great skincare routine is the backbone of perfect makeup,” said Catlett. She urges brides to start working with a trusted esthetician months in advance to boost skin texture and radiance, to not only have healthy, clear skin for the big day but to promote long-term skin health as well.
For brides looking to embrace these trends, booking a makeup trial can be key to testing a look that complements their features and wedding style. Whether they choose the dewy look or their own radiant mix, the perfect wedding-day look can be achieved by starting a skincare routine early, sharing realistic inspiration photos, and selecting a look that accentuates one’s natural beauty.
These 2026 trends — emphasizing radiant, perfectly tailored looks — alongside Catlett’s expert advice, will help guarantee that the bride can radiate confidence on her big day.
