In conversation with Vows & Vacay, Aarti Makker, Business Owner, shares her perspective on changing bridal preferences, timeless makeup, skincare preparation and the trends set to shape the coming wedding seasons.
Gunjan Sabikhi
Having worked with brides over the years, what are the biggest changes you have seen in the way Indian brides approach makeup and beauty for their wedding celebrations?
I think the biggest change I have seen is that today’s Indian bride is far more informed and individualistic. Brides are no longer looking at makeup simply as a way to look “made up”; they want to look like the best version of themselves while still feeling their best versions with second skin look.
There is also a much stronger preference for skin that looks fresh, healthy and luminous rather than heavy, makeup. Brides are more open to experimenting with softer eyes, minimal or no lenses, and statement lips, depending on their personality. Most importantly, they want their makeup to complement their features.
With weddings becoming increasingly personalised and destination-led, how do you create bridal looks that complement the venue, outfits, weather and overall character of each celebration?
For me, every bridal look starts with understanding the bride and the story of her wedding. I look at the outfit, jewellery, colours, time of the ceremony, venue, lighting and weather, but I also consider the bride’s personality and her vision for her big day.
A beach wedding in Goa, for example, calls for a very different approach from a winter wedding in Delhi or a grand indoor celebration. Humidity, heat and lighting can completely change how makeup behaves, so longevity and skin preparation become extremely important as per the weather.
I always aim for harmony rather than matching everything literally. The makeup should complement the outfit and surroundings while allowing the bride herself to remain the focus.
There is often a fine balance between following makeup trends and creating a look that remains timeless in wedding photographs. How do you approach this while working with a bride?
I believe trends should inspire a bridal look, but they should never dictate it. Wedding photographs are something a bride will look back at for decades, so I always ask myself whether a particular trend will still feel beautiful years from now.
I prefer incorporating trends subtly—perhaps through the texture of the skin, a particular lip colour, softer eye definition or a modern blush placement—rather than creating a look that is completely trend-driven.
My philosophy is simple: enhance the bride’s natural features, understand what photographs well, and then add a touch of what feels current. The result should feel modern today but timeless tomorrow.
What are some of the most common beauty or skincare mistakes brides make in the weeks leading up to their wedding, and what would you advise them to do differently?
One of the biggest mistakes brides make is experimenting too much just before the wedding. Trying a new facial, active skincare product, peel, treatment or even a new makeup product close to the wedding can sometimes lead to unexpected irritation or breakouts.
I always recommend consistency rather than experimentation. Brides should follow a simple skincare routine that works for their skin, stay well hydrated, get adequate sleep and avoid making drastic changes at the last minute.
Another important point is not to underestimate skin preparation. Beautiful makeup begins with well-prepped skin, so I encourage my brides to start taking care of their skin well in advance rather than looking for a quick fix a few days before the wedding.
What bridal makeup trends do you see gaining prominence in 2026–27, and are there any trends that you feel brides should approach with caution?
I see bridal beauty moving further towards refined, effortless luxury—fresh, luminous skin, softly sculpted features, diffused eyes, beautifully defined brows and lips that feel sophisticated rather than overly heavy. Brides are also becoming more comfortable embracing their natural skin texture and choosing looks that photograph beautifully without looking excessively done.
I think personalised minimalism will continue to be a strong direction. It is not necessarily about wearing less makeup; it is about wearing the right makeup in the right places.
The trends I would approach with caution are anything that can overpower the bride’s individual features—extremely heavy contouring, overly exaggerated lashes or brows, excessive glitter, and trends chosen simply because they are viral. Social media trends can look fantastic on a screen but may not necessarily translate into timeless bridal photographs.
Ultimately, bridal makeup should not make a bride look like someone else. It should make her look and feel like the most beautiful version of herself.
