Amid the uncertain circumstances, this week You! offers a guide for Summer 2020 brides to get their perfect bridal look…
brides
Weddings are one of the grandest and special occasions in our Pakistani culture. Our weddings are colourful affairs known for the glamour, colour and sheer opulence. They are just another reason for families to come together, party and celebrate for days. Brides agonise over small details of the event, making sure everything is perfect. No matter where the wedding falls on the calendar, planning a wedding without a hitch is no small feat. So, adding a worldwide pandemic into the mix, where our lives have been flipped 180 degrees, makes it far more challenging.
As we anticipate things to get better soon, realistically, no one can tell when we would be back to our old normal without risking our health. Summer 2020 Brides have a lot to improvise given the circumstances and the shifts in their original plans. This week You! offers a guide for brides this season to look their best for their wedding day…
Spa services are now a rite of passage for every bride, but you don’t have to go to a salon to get the pampering you need. For skincare, take little steps like drinking enough water, getting good sleep and using natural ingredients for a glow. Moisturise with natural ingredients like apricot kernel oil, almond oil, avocado oil or jojoba oil. They are medium- to slow-absorbing, which makes it perfect for daily use.
Ideal for sensitive skin and fighting acne, try this mask. Take 2 tablespoons full fat milk or yogurt, add a tablespoon fresh lemon juice and let it curdle.Apply to neck and face, avoiding the eyes. Leave on for at least 20 minutes (longer is okay), and you’ll feel it tightening as it dries. Then rinse with warm water and apply moisturiser.
Use aloe vera gel on your face, hands and feet to hydrate and refresh your skin.And if you’re looking to get rid of some pesky pimples, DON’T POP. Instead, apply a little honey mixed with turmeric. Remember, if your skin is happy, everything else will be easy peasy.
There are two types of brides: 1) You’ve been dreaming of your wedding dress since you were 5 and know the exact specifications you want for it down to the last sequin, or 2) you’ve never thought about it until you actually had to choose one. Unless you already got your dress before the lockdown, getting one now without exposing yourself to crowded spaces may be a little tricky. There is an option to order online but that’s usually expensive and can be subjected to delays. However, here’s another thing that you can do… wear a bright red! While embroidery and sequins add the sparkle to your outfit, even a plain red outfit can make you stand out. Even in combination of colours, red adds that traditional bridal look. So, whether it is a sharara suit or a formal trouser suit, you can opt for something you already have which along the lines of bright red, maroon or orange. Ordering a dress like this online will also be much easier.
A classic look for brides is dark and shimmery eyes, dewy skin and red lips.Since it’s summer, it’s better to choose a matte foundation over a dewy one and a cream concealer.For eyes, choose a brown matte eyeshadow and cover the crease in light strokes. Now, blend a dark shade – a maroon or a dark brown – on the outer corner, then use your finger to apply a shimmer shade in the middle matching your wedding ensemble. An eyeliner on the upper and lower lash linealong with mascara is essential. For your face, lightly apply highlighter on the high points of your face for a nice glow. Finish off with dark red or maroon lips.
For more makeup inspo and tips, you can watch the countless makeup tutorials on Instagram that many top-notch makeup artists have been doing since the lockdown began. You can pick the one that works best for you and do your best. Remember, don’t stray too much from your usual makeup routine. Just make a few adjustments and you’re good to go.
Since it’s summer time and with all the humidity, up-do will be your best friend. A bun – chignon, braided or messy – will look classy and neat, and complement your jewellery. The basic way to do a bun is as follows: part damp hair down the middle with a fine-tooth comb and blow dry hair; secure the hair at the nape of the neck into a low ponytail; wrap the ends to create a bun and bobby pin the hair in place; add some light hairsprayto ensure the look lasts.
You can add a little bit of your own flair by adding flowers, making a side parting instead of a middle, curling your pony before your wrap the ends for a messy look.
If you don’t have a curling iron, you try this. Start off by pulling your hair up into a ponytail. Spray small one-inch sections of hair with water so they are a little bit damp, wrapping each individually around your fingers to create a curl.Use a clip to secure the curl against your scalp. Once you’ve worked through your entire head, let time work its magic.Once your hair air dries completely, unpin the individual curls and voila!
If you are looking for a statement, your accessories do all the talking for you. If you think your outfit isn’t bridal enough, then use the accessories to add the oomph you’re looking for. These days, wearing traditional jewellery especially heirloom pieces are all the rage. Moreover, wearing an heirloom piece – especially if it belongs to your mother – will feel more special. A teeka and jhumar is an essential and timeless accessory. As for bangles, you can use the ones you already have. Even if they don’t match exactly, you can wear them in contrast.
Despite everything that is going on right now, focus on making the most out of your day. Whatever you wear, wear it with confidence, smile for the camera, make memories and look forward to new beginnings!Above all, what truly matters is that you are safe and happy!
Photography Credits: Faisal Farooqui and his team at DragonFly
