The changing seasons bring different light, temperatures, and atmospheres to weddings, and your bridal makeup should adapt accordingly. From fresh spring blooms to cosy winter celebrations, let me guide you through seasonal makeup trends that will ensure you look stunning no matter when you say "I do".
Spring/Summer Bridal Makeup
The Vibe
Spring and summer weddings are all about freshness, radiance, and natural beauty. Think dewy skin, soft colours, and an overall luminous finish that captures the warmth and light of the season.
Skin
Dewy, glowing skin is the hallmark of warm-weather bridal makeup. However, this doesn't mean sacrificing longevity - modern formulas allow for both luminosity and staying power. Airbrush foundation works beautifully in warmer months, providing a natural finish that won't slide off in the heat.
Light to medium coverage is ideal. Let your natural skin show through for that fresh, barely-there base. Use illuminating primers and highlighters strategically on the high points of your face - cheekbones, bridge of nose, cupid's bow.
Eyes
Warmer tones reign supreme - think peachy pinks, warm bronzes, champagne golds, and soft corals. Cream eyeshadows work wonderfully in spring and summer, creating a soft, blended effect that looks effortlessly romantic.
Waterproof formulas are essential for mascara and eyeliner, especially for outdoor ceremonies or emotional moments. The last thing you want is raccoon eyes from happy tears or a light spring shower!
Lips
Peachy nudes, rosy pinks, and warm corals are perfect for spring and summer. These shades complement sun-kissed skin beautifully and photograph gorgeously in natural light. Opt for long-wearing formulas or lip stains that can withstand champagne toasts and kisses throughout the day.
Blush
Cream blushes in peach, coral, or warm pink tones create a natural, sun-kissed flush. Apply to the apples of your cheeks and blend upward and outward for a lifted, youthful effect. The cream formula melts into skin for a seamless, radiant finish.
Key Products for Spring/Summer
- Luminous, dewy foundations or airbrush formulas
- Cream eyeshadows and blushes
- Waterproof mascara and eyeliner
- Long-wearing lip stains in warm tones
- Setting spray designed for heat and humidity
- Minimal powder to avoid a heavy look
- Peach, coral, warm pink
- Champagne, gold, bronze
- Soft browns and warm taupes
- Fresh, light, and luminous
Autumn/Winter Bridal Makeup
The Vibe
Autumn and winter weddings call for richer, more dramatic makeup that complements the cosy, romantic atmosphere of the season. Think deeper colours, more definition, and a sophisticated elegance that suits candlelit venues and intimate celebrations.
Skin
Whilst still radiant, cooler months allow for slightly more matte finishes that won't look out of place indoors. Medium to full coverage foundations work beautifully, creating a flawless canvas. The skin should still have dimension and life - not flat or mask-like.
Contouring and highlighting become more prominent in cooler months, adding drama and definition that suits the season. Think sculpted cheekbones and a perfectly defined jawline.
Eyes
Deeper, moodier tones take centre stage - burgundy, plum, deep bronze, smoky greys, and rich browns. These colours add drama and depth that looks stunning in low lighting and flash photography.
Don't be afraid of a more dramatic eye for winter weddings. A soft smoky eye or deeper crease colour can be absolutely beautiful and still photograph as romantic rather than harsh.
Lips
This is your opportunity to embrace richer lip colours! Deep berries, wine tones, rich roses, or even a classic red can look absolutely stunning for autumn and winter weddings. These bolder lip choices complement the richer colour palettes of cooler-season weddings and look gorgeous against jewel-toned or deep-hued dresses.
If you prefer softer lips, mauve nudes and dusty roses work beautifully whilst still nodding to the season.
Blush
Deeper berry tones, mauves, and rich roses add warmth and colour without looking too summery. Powder blushes work particularly well in cooler months, adding subtle colour and dimension.
Key Products for Autumn/Winter
- Medium to full coverage foundations
- Deeper, richer eyeshadow palettes
- Bold, long-wearing lip colours
- Contouring and sculpting products
- Setting spray for indoor heating
- Powder blushes for longevity
- Burgundy, plum, deep berry
- Rich browns, copper, bronze
- Mauves, dusty roses
- Deep, warm, sophisticated
Transitional Seasons: Early Spring and Late Autumn
Early Spring (March-April)
Bridge winter and spring by keeping some depth whilst introducing lighter tones. Perhaps a deeper eye with a peachy lip, or softer eyes with a berry-toned lip. This is the perfect time to experiment with the best of both seasons.
Late Autumn (October-November)
Similarly, late autumn can borrow from both summer's warmth and winter's richness. Warm bronze eyes with a deep berry lip, or a soft smoky eye with a nude lip - these combinations work beautifully in the transitional months.
Adapting Trends to Your Wedding
Consider Your Venue
An outdoor garden wedding in June calls for different makeup than a winter ballroom celebration, even if you personally prefer deeper tones. The setting matters.
Time of Day
Morning and daytime weddings suit fresher, lighter makeup regardless of season. Evening celebrations allow for more drama.
Your Personal Style
These are guidelines, not rules. If you're a winter bride who loves peachy tones, wear them! Your makeup should reflect you first, season second.
Lighting Conditions
Natural daylight shows every detail - keep this in mind for outdoor summer weddings. Indoor winter weddings with dim lighting allow for more drama that still photographs beautifully.
Universal Tips for Every Season
Longevity Matters
Regardless of season, your makeup needs to last from getting ready through to the last dance. Primer, setting spray, and high-quality, long-wearing products are essential year-round.
Photography
Your makeup needs to photograph well. What looks perfect in person might appear different in photos, so always test your look with photography in mind.
Skin Preparation
Beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin. Maintain a good skincare routine in the months leading up to your wedding, adjusted for seasonal needs (more hydration in winter, lighter formulas in summer).
Comfort
You'll be wearing this makeup all day. Ensure it feels comfortable on your skin and suits the temperature and conditions of your wedding day.
Working with Seasonal Light
Spring/Summer
Abundant natural light means makeup needs to look flawless up close. Blending is crucial, and heavy-handed application will show. The benefit? Natural light is incredibly flattering and creates gorgeous photos.
Autumn/Winter
Lower light levels allow for slightly more dramatic makeup. What might look "too much" in bright sunlight can photograph beautifully in softer, dimmer lighting. Flash photography is more common, so avoid products with SPF or excessive shimmer that can cause flashback.
Final Thoughts
Seasonal bridal makeup trends offer guidance, but your wedding day look should ultimately make you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself. Whether you're a summer bride who loves a dramatic lip or a winter bride who prefers soft, peachy tones, the most important thing is that you feel confident and radiant.
The best bridal makeup transcends trends whilst acknowledging them - creating a look that's timeless yet appropriate for your specific celebration. Work with your makeup artist to find the perfect balance between seasonal inspiration and your personal style.
If you're planning a wedding in Gloucestershire, I'd love to help you create a makeup look that's perfectly suited to your season, venue, and style.