POSTED ON August 14, 2019 BY MASALAWEDS
Four of the wedding industry’s top makeup artists offer foolproof tips on how to look absolutely fabulous for the most important days of your life.
BY CHRISTY LAU
Get to know these modern-day fairy godmothers who are equipped with magic brushes and enchanting powders to transform you into the belle of the ball. They offer advice on pre-wedding prep, top makeup trends, and the best brands for lasting, on-fleek looks, so you are always ready for your close-up.
OJAS RAJANI
Owner of Ojas Rajani Celebrity Makeup Artist N Hairstylist Based in Mumbai, India
For 23 years, celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist Ojas Rajani has been painting the canvases of some of Bollywood’s biggest superstars, including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. A creative at heart, she grew up watching actresses like Helen, Madhuri Dixit Nene and Sridevi, and was inspired to give up a well-paying corporate job to study hair and makeup styling at Beauty Schools of America, Miami Campus.
Her artistic approach, love for current trends and willingness to cater to her client’s vision will keep her relevant for many years to come.
“ I think the au naturel look is here to rule"
How do you differentiate between looks for each function?
“Sangeet looks are always Bollywood glam as brides perform for the function, attaching a certain stylish quotient. In contrast, we keep the look minimalist, demure and ethereal for the wedding day.”
How do you ensure that the hairstyle complements the makeup?
“When deciding on hairdos, it is very important to study the bone structure, jawline, hairline and hair texture. For example, if a bride has a broad face or forehead, she won’t look good in an updo or pulled- back hairstyle. It is also very important for the hairstyle to complement the client’s personality.”
We all know that facials are essential for a wedding glow.
So are there any specific recommendations on prepping your skin for makeup application? “
Skin rejuvenating facials, skin polishing facials, and brightening and toning facials are my top picks. They create an instant flawless base. I would also recommend investing in an under eye treatment to reduce lines and puffiness.”
What are some current popular makeup trends?
“I think the au naturel look is here to rule, as bridal makeup has become soft and glamorous, yet youthful and fresh. Celebrities like Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma have set the bar with their subtle minimal looks, which prove that less is definitely more.”
Ojas’ Top Picks:
Foundation: “For long-lasting waterproof foundations, I love Charlotte Tilbury and Tom Ford.”
Cheeks: “The Anastasia Beverly Hills Powder Contour Kit has a sculpting contour stick and a contour palette to highlight your cheekbones and jawline for a model look.”
For more Information:
For bookings and enquiries, call +91 982 111 7259
Facebook: @ojasrajanimakeup Instagram: @ojasrajani
SIMRAN TAKKAR
Owner of Ablaze by Simran Based in Bangkok, Thailand
Under her own company, Simran Takkar heads an international team of professional makeup artists and hairstylists who have worked with brides from all over the world. Throughout her 15 years of experience, she has garnered prestige and acclaim for her flawless finish. She loves experimenting with colours and styles to present the best versions of her brides. Whether they seek a glamorous look or a subtle classy glow, she can do it all, and more.
“[Brides] should strive to have healthy-looking skin, not perfect-looking skin.”
How do you match a makeup look with the bridal attire?
“Makeup is not about matching colour with what you wear. It is all about playing with different hues, and opting for the right combinations to ensure that all brides stand out from the crowd.”
What special skincare routines do you recommend?
“I encourage all my brides to love their skin. They should strive to have healthy-looking skin, not perfect-looking skin. They need to drink plenty of water, green tea and healthy smoothies. Everyone must follow a daily skincare routine that covers face wash, face oils, moisturiser and sunscreen. To keep your skin hydrated, frequently use rose water mist spray.
Apart from their skin, brides should also take care of their lips. To prep for long-lasting lipstick, I recommend that they use Kiehl's Lip Balm two hours before makeup application. This will prevent your lip makeup from drying out and looking cakey.”
Can you offer any tips on picking the right makeup artist?
“It’s a very special day for brides, so they need to choose an experienced and professional artist who understands them, their requirements, as well as their face and skin type.”
What can you tell us about current makeup trends?
“Makeup trends are dynamic. They change from time to time, season to season. But my all-time favourite, signature look is nude eyes, dark lips and thick, false lashes. This kind of makeup is simply an extension of the client’s personality, adding extra oomph to the entire look.”
Simran’s Top Picks:
Foundation: “Fenty Beauty, Huda Beauty, Bobbi Brown and MAC all sell amazing foundations.”
Cheeks: “Burberry blush, Laura Mercier highlighters and NARS contour palettes.”
For more Information:
For bookings and enquiries, call +66 (0) 81 665 7240
Facebook: @simtakkar Instagram: @simran.takkar
VARDAN NAYAK
Celebrity Makeup Artist Based in Mumbai, India.
Vardan Nayak began his journey as an assistant to makeup maestro Mickey Contractor during the blockbuster movie Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). Over time, he has worked on more than 250 projects under Mickey's leadership, gaining creative expertise and technical knowledge which make him one of the most in- demand makeup artists in the Bollywood industry today.
His most recent clients were Isha Ambani during her brother’s engagement celebrations, Janhvi Kapoor for the film Dhadak (2018) and its promotions, and Ananya Panday for her debut film, Student of the Year 2 (2019).
“ Less is always best.”
Since you began your career, have you noticed any considerable differences in the makeup industry?
“Ten years ago, basic minimalistic makeup was the norm, but today, everybody loves experimenting. Makeup artists have also gained a lot more respect, and people are finally considering it a serious profession.”
What special skincare routines should brides-to-be follow?
“Less is always best. Brides should have facial or skin bleaching treatments done one to two weeks prior to their functions, since they sometimes cause breakouts. A regular routine of using proper herbal products combined with a good diet is critical. They should always opt for an Ayurvedic treatment, rather than adulterated products which can cause a lot of skin damage.”
During her wedding, the bride usually carries some essentials for a quick touch-up. What do you recommend she put in her bag?
“Keep lipstick in the pouch, along with a sponge, blusher and blotting papers.”
What makeup trends do you see becoming popular this year?
“In my opinion, glossy red lips and flawless skin, as well as flushed cheeks will be trendy this year. Recently, many brides want a lot of shimmer on their eyes.”
Vardan’s Top Picks:
Foundation: “Armani and MAC. To enhance the foundation, you can use Marc Jacobs Finish Line Perfecting Coconut Setting Powder.”
Cheeks: “Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit is the best for a flawless glow.”
For more Information:
For bookings and enquiries, email him at vardan.nayak23@gmail.com
Facebook: @makeupbyvardan Instagram: @vardan.nayak
NATASHA MOOR
Award-winning Celebrity Makeup Artist and Cosmetic Innovator Based in Hong Kong
Natasha Moor’s ethos is to inspire women as they have inspired her. Prior to becoming a professional makeup artist, she was working in the public relations industry where her personal looks quickly garnered everyone’s attention. However, it was during her work as a part-time makeup artist when Natasha discovered her true passion — making people feel beautiful and confident.
In 2017, she took her profession one step further by creating her own cosmetics line, Natasha Moor Cosmetics, which includes lip hues, correctors and concealers perfect for all women. A percentage of the profits go towards domestic abuse victims around the world, proving that this talented artist really is a beauty with a heart.
“Wedding makeup should never really be about trends. It should be about beauty and elegance.”
What inspires each look for different functions?
“I like to decide with all my brides. Once I arrive at the wedding destination, we plan the look based on the outfit.”
Any tips for the bride to follow to avoid looking tired during her busy week?
“Just be happy! The bride looks least tired when she is positive, excited and happy to be marrying the one she loves, even when she has gotten no sleep at all.”
What skincare routines should brides-to-be follow prior to their wedding?
“I recommend going to a dermatologist at least six months before your big day. Whether you seek to brighten your skin with a peel or clear your acne marks, this is a good timeframe to give yourself. If you have no major skin issues, a chemical peel treatment with 15 or 20 percent TCA is something I suggest brides should try out. Remember to always stay hydrated and moisturised to ensure a radiant glow. There is no need to go over the top.”
In your opinion, what are some popular makeup trends?
“Wedding makeup should never really be about trends. It should be about beauty and elegance. Twenty years down the line, you want to look back and say, ‘wow, I looked so elegant,’ rather than ‘wow, what I was thinking!’”
Natasha’s Top Picks:
Foundation: “I’m not a fan of foundation. I don’t use it on any of my brides. I use a corrector (No Bag Vibes) and concealer (Secret Perfector and Liquid Magic) from my own brand, Natasha Moor Cosmetics.”
Cheeks: “For contouring, I use my Secret Perfector 4, because it blends really well, and contours and shapes your face perfectly.”
For more informaton:
For bookings and enquiries, email her at info@natashamoor.com
Facebook: @thenatashamoor Instagram: @natasha.moor
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