The era of heavy make-up is fading, making way for a more natural, luminous look that enhances, rather than masks a bride’s features. Bharat Godambe of the famous celebrity make-up artist and hairstylist duo, Bharat and Dorris, shares his expert insights with Jyoti Verma on how to achieve the ultimate bridal glow.
A bride’s wedding day isn’t just about vows and celebrations—it’s about stepping into the spotlight, radiating confidence, and feeling her most beautiful. Whether she’s exchanging vows beneath the grand arches of a Rajasthani palace, basking in the golden glow of a Goan sunset, or celebrating amidst the vineyards of Nashik, today’s bride is redefining beauty with effortless elegance. When it comes to looking her best across those settings, it’s not necessarily under layers of heavy make-up, insists Bharat Godambe. For the celebrated artist, there are a few sure-shot secrets that ensure brides have the ultimate glow-up on the best day of their lives.
Glow Naturally with the No-Makeup Makeup Trend
The biggest bridal beauty trend for 2025 is the “no makeup” look—minimalist, refined, and focused on radiant skin. Brides are moving away from dramatic contouring and instead prioritising skincare to enhance their natural features. “Minimalist make-up with polished, glowing skin is the way to go,” says Godambe. Achieving this look starts well before the wedding—prepping at least a month in advance with exfoliation, hydration, and a nourishing skincare routine. The golden rule? Avoid introducing new products too close to the big day to prevent unexpected reactions.
This trend is not just about looking effortlessly beautiful—it’s also about feeling comfortable. A fresh, dewy complexion, soft blush tones, and well-groomed brows take centre stage, ensuring the bride looks like the best version of herself. The key is to let skin breathe while using lightweight, high-performance products that enhance features rather than overshadow them.
Bridal Beauty, Your Way
Today’s brides are embracing personal style over tradition, making choices that reflect their personalities and comfort. Millennial and Gen Z brides are particularly experimental, prioritising sustainability, individuality, and authenticity in their looks. From the dreamy romantic who has envisioned her wedding since childhood to the bold fashion diva eager to steal the scene, every bride has a distinct aesthetic.
Understanding the type of bride you are can help narrow down the perfect make-up approach. Are you a Dreamer, meticulously planning every detail for years? A Traditionalist, sticking to classic elegance and heritage beauty? A Vogue Bride, turning heads with cutting-edge trends? Or perhaps a Princess, embracing the grandeur of a fairy-tale wedding? Whether you identify as a Party Soul, bringing energy to every moment, or a Non-Conventional Bride, challenging traditions with modern flair, knowing your style ensures a look that complements both your personality and your venue.
Another crucial factor in bridal make-up is its durability. Destination weddings, in particular, pose unique challenges for make-up longevity. Whether tying the knot in a humid tropical paradise, a breezy mountaintop, or a sunlit vineyard, weather conditions must be factored in when selecting make-up products. Waterproof, lightweight formulas, setting sprays, and strategic layering techniques ensure a flawless look that lasts from the first vows to the final dance.
Prepare and Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Preparation is key for a long-lasting, picture-perfect bridal glow. Brides should start their skincare routine at least a month before the big day, focusing on regular exfoliation, intense hydration, and proper nourishment. One rule remains non-negotiable: never introduce new products too close to the wedding to avoid unexpected breakouts or irritation.
Beyond skincare, lifestyle habits are crucial to maintaining a glowing complexion. Getting enough sleep, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet all contribute to a naturally radiant look. Brides should focus on mindfulness, relaxation, and self-care in the lead-up to the big day.
Sustainable Glam, Beauty with a Conscience
More than ever, modern brides are making sustainable beauty choices. Ethical, cruelty-free, and vegan make-up brands are becoming a priority, offering high-quality products that align with eco-conscious values. These brands often favour sustainable practices, such as using renewable resources, eco-friendly packaging, and minimising waste.
“As make-up artists, we do our part by minimising waste and choosing sustainable products,” shares Godambe. While professional hygiene standards limit product reuse in applications, brides can make informed choices by selecting brands that are transparent about their sustainability efforts. From eco-friendly packaging to biodegradable glitter, there are numerous ways to embrace glamour with a conscience.
Your Moment to Shine
With evolving trends, skincare-first beauty, and sustainable choices, 2025 is the year of radiant, self-assured brides. The modern bride is not just following trends—she’s setting them, choosing beauty that feels personal, effortless, and timeless. Whether she envisions herself as a regal, traditional, or unconventional bride, the ultimate goal is to feel like the best version of herself.
With careful planning, a glowing complexion, and a touch of glamour, every bride is destined to steal the show on her big day. After all, the most stunning make-up is confidence—and that’s the glow that lasts forever, a timeless trend that never goes out of style.
