Advice for make-up novices to get it right on the big dayComments: (0)
This is the big 'un for many brides-to-be: if you're not a makeup wearer or your daily routine consists of some mascara and lip-balm, then the idea of cosmetics can be petrifying. Buying and trying beauty products is a minefield for the uninitiated and can result in very expensive mistakes. So what should you do?
“The biggest fear I come across is that brides worry they won't look like themselves,” reveals Queen Beauty Emporium's Leonard Daly. “It's so important to look like the best version of yourself,” he says. If your routine has been minimal up till now, it's too big a leap to suddenly break out the winged eyeliner and 40s red lippie.
Even if you plan to hire a makeup artist, there's no sense going to them blind, so education is key. While it can be scary initially, visiting beauty counters at department stores can be really helpful. Many of them offer makeup appointments for around €25, redeemable against products.
Particularly good for brides are Giorgio Armani, Bobbi Brown, Estée Lauder, Laura Mercier and Trish McEvoy, all of whom offer subtle colour palettes, excellent bases and well-trained staff. Makeup maven Bobbi Brown says, “if you decide to do your own makeup - like me - visit a local makeup counter before the wedding to ask for help designing a look. And don’t forget, practice makes perfect!”
Two-to-three in-store applications will give you a good grounding in what's possible for wedding makeup, educating you on products and application. Now you're ready to go to your makeup artist with confidence (or tackle the task solo) and come up with a look that'll make you feel sensational as you say 'I do'.
Makeup Magic
“For a person who doesn't wear makeup, the wedding day is definitely not the time to experiment,” insists Leonard. Bobbi Brown concurs: “this isn't the moment to try anything experimental or novel, nor is it a time to experiment with the look of the moment. Do your makeup as if you were going to a black tie event. Everything should be stronger and pretty, even if it's a day wedding.”
The most important thing to get right, stresses Leonard, is the base. “The emphasis on skin is vital,” he says. “It's the biggest part of the face and if skin isn't looking good, nothing else will.” Also important to create that radiant look are proper highlighters and contouring for an airbrushed finish. For a bride who isn't keen on a very 'done' looking face, he recommends that you ask your makeup artist for a look that's natural and neutral – essentially you, but better.
Anything else to take note of? “For a natural look, choose an eye shadow that complements your hair colour,” says Bobbi. The most successful makeup is that which enhances without looking overdone. “If people notice your makeup, then you’re wearing too much,” says Leonard.
Published:27/07/2010 - Category:
Beauty tips, products and advicesearch-tags:
make-upbeautymake-up artistsstylebride-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Perfect Canvas:achieving flawless skin for your weddingComments: (0)
Your skin is the cornerstone on which your beauty routine rests, so it's important to tackle it correctly. Knowing what to use can be a minefield, but you're not alone: skincare company Vichy estimate that 69% of Irish women mis-diagnose their skin type and use the wrong products.
It's a frustrating and pricey state to be in, so bite the bullet and visit a reputable beauty therapist. “A good skin care regime is ideal to establish, so you can get your skin in pristine condition,” confirms beauty therapist Elaine Butler-Doolin, and owner of Dublin's Bespoke Beauty salon.
So, when should you get that much-needed skin NCT?
“At least six months out would be a good time,” advises Elaine. This is the perfect time to discuss and set a plan in motion for any issues you have, like fine lines, dryness, acne etc. “A personal programme should be orgainsed that will help ensure you look beautiful and radiant for your wedding.” she says. “If you don’t usually have regular facial treatments then a course of three treatments, one a week for three weeks, will get your skin conditioned,” she advises, adding that once that initial push is done, facials can then take place once a month. “The main reason for having treatments every month or so is that our skin regenerates its cells every 28 days, and this will keep it in peak condition,” reveals Elaine.
Your therapist will advise you on the regime and products that’ll suit your skin. Even if your budget won't stretch to a full course of treatments, try to have one or two consultations and facials to educate you and kick-start your new resolutions. You can then maintain those results at home daily with skincare that's right for you. “Think of it as you would with getting fit: you put the hard work in first, then maintain it after that!” smiles Elaine.
Skin Specifics
Once you're confident with your new routine, remember to keep it up. “It's as important to use the correct products at home in between your treatments,” warns Elaine, who recommends a daily regime including a cleanser and toner morning and night, a daily moisturiser with a minimum of SPF15, a night cream and an exfoliator and masque once-to-twice a week. Eyes can be targeted too: if you’ve dark circles or are prone to puffiness, then use an eye gel morning and evening; if skin is dry, an eye cream should be used twice a day.
Any other tips for super skin?
“Don't forget to drink two litres of filtered water per day and keep to a healthy diet and lifestyle, to purify and keep your skin’s functions working at their optimum,” advises Elaine. In the final run-up to the big day, your last facial should be at least a week before the wedding, extractions should be done one month in advance in case of break-outs, and if you plan to have brows waxed or lashes tinted, this must be done at least two days after your final facial to allow for sensitivity to diminish.
Published:12/07/2010 - Category:
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beautyadvicetipscosmetictreatments-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Crowning Glory: Getting the foundations right for your dayComments: (0)
Whether you're wearing your hair up or down, some prep is needed to get it looking its best. Eóin Wright, of
Foundation hair salon, says, “It's important because if you've no condition, then you've nothing else – it all hangs on having hair that's in great shape”. “There's no sense in cutting corners. Professional haircare is the way to go, so visit your hairdresser first and get advice on what to use.”
Start with a good shampoo and conditioning routine and as hair-care moves on, salons are offering more tailored treatments than ever before. New to Foundation is SP Alchemy Club, a state-of-the-art suite of problem-busters costing €20 each. They're tailored to your particular concerns and can uniquely target sebum-prone roots and dry ends at the same time, or provide colour care and volume.It's truly bespoke and ideal for brides-to-be. A great kick-start for your hair, which you can maintain with at-home products.
Tress Tip
How to keep hair in place on the day? “There are a lot of styling products out there,” says Eóin Wright, but the oldies are really the goodies. “My secret weapon is hairspray. Look for one with good hold which you can brush out.”
Haircare to try
- Revlon Professional's Pro You provides salon-quality shampoo and conditioners for all hair types, €9.95. Great for naturals fans with colour-treated hair.
- Pureology's Purify shampoo, €21, gently removes build-up without stripping dye.
- Shu Uemura's Essense Absolue, €50, is great. Camellia oil hydrates hair and washes out easily.
- Kérastase's Bain Bio-Recharge for dry hair, €19, a pro-biotic shampoo designed to alleviate minor scalp irritations and maintain the condition.
Big, bold styles are hot this season, so volumising products are a must:
- Aerate 08, €22, from Redken, designed to deliver full locks.
- Rapidly attaining cult status is Ojon's Restorative Hair Treatment, £29.50. Ojon palm nut oil sleeks and smooths locks.
- Fix it all in place with System Professional Ultimation hairspray, €18.99.
Published:09/07/2010 - Category:
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hairbeautyadvicetips-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BEAUTY BAROMETER: What's hot and what's not in wedding beautyComments: (0)
HOT
|
NOT |
Nude nails: This season's hottest manis are short and squoval, decorated with pale corals, mushroom and taupe shades.
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Gel nails: Nails have gone through a revolution in the past year and acrylics, gels and extensions are out.
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A pop of pink: Blusher is a must for a healthy, well-finished face. Choose pink if you’re fair and rose if you’re dark.
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Over-the-top fake tan: Embrace pale and if you need to warm skintones, a light dusting of bronzer is all that's needed
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Deconstructed 'dos: This season's bridal do is a softer, more feminine take on the rigid upstyles of old. Ask for tendrils around the face and a half-up, half-down look.
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Severe up-dos: Hard to pull off, especially if you don't normally wear your hair pulled back. This year's style is deconstructed, softly finished, half-up/half-down
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Colourful lips: Chalky-looking nude lips are out. Look for lipsticks in neutral pinky browns, rose or plum. Avoid gloss, but toplump it up, dab a small amount of clear gloss in the centre of the lips.
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Following trends: Forget that directional new beauty look you saw in a magazine and save it for the honeymoon instead.
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Lash extensions: A brilliant choice for any bride, lash extensions (or carefully-placed re-usable lashes) open up the eye and create drama without that overly made-up look
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Light-reflective foundations: Containing light-reflective particles, these foundations impart radiance but don't shoot well. Instead, look for semi-matte and matte bases with no shimmer. |
Published:08/07/2010 - Category:
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beautymake-upadvicetipsstyle-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The 8 week guide to perfect wedding hairComments: (1)
Choosing a hairstyle for
your big day can be as arduous a task as finding the perfect dress. Ease your stress with this wedding hair survival guide, as suggested by hair
stylist Michael Leong. Michael is one of the hottest stylists on the wedding
circuit and has worked with celebrity names including Elle Macpherson, Sienna
Miller and Helena Christensen.
What to start thinking
about
Look for a stylist at
least three months before your wedding day. Arrange to meet for a chat and to
schedule your first trial. Be sure to bring some tear sheets from magazines
with you to assist the stylist in visualizing your desired look. Finding a
stylist early is important as it gives you time to prepare your hair
accordingly, such as growing out a fringe or layers. If you need some inspiration, we've written some detailed tips on wedding day hair accessories.
8 weeks before
Have your first trial with
the stylist eight weeks before the wedding. Bring along key accessories such as
veil, jewellery and if possible, a photo of your wedding dress. Your wedding
dress will play a key role in how you will wear your hair; as the neckline
shape is vital. Bring a digital camera to take pictures of the hairstyle at all
angles. You may also want to get your stylist to create a “rainy day”
hairstyle, in case of bad weather on the day.
6 weeks before
Now start your hair
preparation by getting a good trim and treatment. Ask your stylist for some
take-home treatments to maintain the conditioning process, or pick up some Kerastase products. And if you're planning
to show off your curls, be sure to include a healthy amount of protein in your diet.
3 weeks before
Schedule your final trial
and wear a shirt or blouse to the appointment for easy undressing when you get
home. Time how long it takes to do the hairstyle from start to finish; so you know when to start the process on the big day. Three
weeks before the wedding is the ideal time to get your highlights done, but if
you're getting a semi-colour, wait until two weeks before.
The day before
For an up do, you should
wash your hair the day before the wedding to prevent static and to allow your
hair time to settle. Hair that's prone to greasiness should be washed on the
morning of the wedding.
The big day
If you've followed
these steps than you'll be free of preparation commitments on the morning of
the wedding. Do check however, that your bridesmaid has packed a small bag with
an aerosol hairspray for the ceremony and wax if you intend to let an up do
down in the evening. Using wax when you have let down your hair will loosen up
your curls and create a stunning expense free second look to dazzle your
guests.
Published:14/06/2010 - Category:
Beauty tips, products and advicesearch-tags:
advicebrideexpert advicehairstylist-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Motherly love: pre-wedding pampering with your motherComments: (1)
In the run up to your wedding, don’t forget about your old faithful mother. Bring her out for some TLC before the big day and you know she will appreciate it. We've written about how your mother can bend over backwards to plan your special day, so how can you both relax, regroup and temporarily halt the anxiety of not finding the appropriate shade of off-white table napkin?
The weekend getaway.
The Beauty Rooms at Ashford Castle in Cong, Co. Mayo, offers a number of gorgeous pampering therapies designed to melt away napkin induced tension. Therapies include Swedish full body massage and Yon-Ka facials. These treatments would surely relax even the most stressed out pre-wedding mother and daughter, and after a day of pampering you can even grab a delicious light lunch or a sweet afternoon tea.
A day at the salon.
For those mothers and daughters who don’t have time to take an entire weekend off from wedding preparations, but who still want to treat themselves, simply getting your hair done is an instantly reviving experience. The fabulous folk in Pzazz Hair Salon at the Powerscourt Townhouse and also at The Hill, Stillorgan have relaxing manicures, hair treatments, highlights and lunch. It’s a lovely way of spending some time with the most important woman in your life and looking after yourself without cutting into vital wedding organisation time.
In the run up to your big day with so much going on it’s easy to neglect the woman who at one time or other has been your cook, taxi driver, counsellor and best friend. So before you get swept off your feet by your handsome prince, how about sweeping your mum off her feet and giving her a treat?
Published:28/05/2010 - Category:
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mother of the brideadvicetipmother and daughterbeautytreatments-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hollywood wives: Get that Hollywood wedding glamourComments: (0)
Style and grace: Audrey Hepburn
"To get this polished, sophisticated look it’s all about focusing on the eyes," says Marie Joseph, a professional make-up artist working in the wedding business for over 20 years.
She used Clarins True Radiance, No 3 foundation as base and then manimised the eyes with Mac Viva Glam II in tawny brown. She then applied false eyelashes, and topped with cake eyeliner by Face 2.
Award-winning hair stylist, and professional bridal consultant, Anthony Murray has created this look many times, and says it always results in a very happy bride.
"The Audrey Hepburn look is huge among brides to be – it’s the ultimate fantasy, really, and amazingly a lot of women can pull it off.”
To create the chignon seen here, Anthony matched a hair piece to the model’s real hair adding a tiara to give the look that seamless polish.
Think 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' when creating this ultra classic look. Must have extras are pearls, long gloves and a tiara.
White fur wrap, €240, Bronte Bride. Fake pearls €40, Tulle. Bustier €89, Isabelle by Bronte Bride. Tiara from a selection at Anike
Ladies with an attitude: Brigitte Bardot
Think big hair, smouldering eyes and fluttering eyelashes if you want the original blonde bombshell look.
"The big thing about weddings in the sixties", says Celine from Ciara Bridal, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre "is that they always wore white and always had a veil."
To get the Bardot style right, Marie created a "very baby-doll look" using a pinky base, blush and blue eyeliner. All make-up was from Make Up Forever.
“This really is a very pretty look for brides - and great for spring and summer.”
“If you’ve a good mane of long, blonde hair this will be fairly easy to achieve,” advises Anthony. “If you don’t have the natural assets, a hair piece, as used here works wonders.”
White '60s veil, €69.95 Ciara Bridal. Bodice, €500 Megan at Bronte Bridal
Gave good face: Rita Hayworth
For the classic old-world Hollywood, think red lips and creamy, flawless skin.
"There’s very little to this look" says Marie "It’s about working up the lips and playing down the eyes. The idea is to get a very polished overall look, and to do that the foundation is the most important thing to get right."
After applying the base, Marie washed Rebecca's eyes with a brulee cream base colour and then applied brown cake eyeliner close to the lashes. She then used a lip liner on the lips, finishing with a deep red lipstick, and lastly dusting with loose powder.
Marie used Clarins True Radiance, No 3 foundation; Eyeshadow Cream no.5 by Make Up Forever; Black eyeliner No. 142, Hint of pink crème blush, Deep red lipstick all Make Up Forever.
Hairdresser, Anthony treated a hair extension piece to the Rita effect by waving and hair-spraying it before applying it to the models real hair. The overall effect? Smokin’!
Dress €845 by Joanne Hynes at Tulle. Necklace and ear-rings, €95 and €35 by Anike. Hairpiece, from Indochine, Powerscourt Townhouse, D2
Published:24/05/2010 - Category:
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stylehairmake-upcosmeticchicglamourideasinspiration-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------