Q&A Fashion & Beauty Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best A SMOOTH COMPLEXION How do I get my skin looking its best in the run-up to my wedding and what products do you recommend for a flawless base? Besides a healthy diet, good sleep and regular use of SPF, you also need an effective skin routine. This does not have to be expensive or complicated, as there are thousands of amazing brands out there for every price point. Every skin type has texture and pores, regardless, but there are many products to help minimise these issues. Step one to a flawless face is a good skin regime to balance, nourish and hydrate. If your skin isn’t hydrated, it will absorb moisture from the foundation, leaving you looking cakey and patchy. Take time to really massage skincare in to boost blood circulation and get the ‘inner glow’ in photographs. I adore the award-winning Tropic Smoothing Cleanser for this, plus the citrus scent enlivens tired skin and smells delish. Remember, less is more! The better the skin, the less product is required, ensuring a beautiful, natural and radiant finish. My bridal clients benefit from a ‘beauty concierge’ service to get ‘skin fit’ following a trial to ensure I am working on balanced, hydrated skin on the big day. Build up using thin layers of product; you can always add, but going in too heavy too soon won’t be flattering. Work from the centre of the face outwards. About five to ten minutes after your skin care, apply a primer for your skin type: textured or oilier skins need mattifying primers; wide pores use a silicone-based pore-minimising primer (such as YSL Blur Refining Primer); smoother or dull skins opt for illuminating and brightening ones, respectively, such as Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter Under Makeup. Next is foundation: for drier skin choose a serum or hydrating foundation, and for oilier or textured skin, opt for a mattifying foundation. Follow with concealer and set lightly with translucent colourless powder (such as Laura Mercier) for a long-lasting radiant finish. Phillipa R.C.Hughes www.phillipa-hughes.com ACCESSORISE AND SHINE How do I choose the right wedding veil for my dress? Choosing the right wedding veil to complement your dress is an important decision that can enhance your overall bridal look. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect veil style for your dress: Take into account the style and silhouette of your wedding dress when choosing a veil. For a simple and elegant dress, a long, flowing veil may add a touch of drama. Whereas for a more intricate or embellished dress, a shorter veil or one with minimal detailing may be more appropriate to avoid overwhelming the overall look. The length of your veil should complement the length of your dress. A cathedral-length veil, which extends beyond the train of your dress, is a dramatic choice for a formal wedding gown. A fingertip-length veil is a versatile option that works well with most dress styles. A birdcage veil or blusher is a shorter option that adds a vintage touch to your look. Consider the details of your dress, such as lace patterns, beading, or embellishments, when choosing a veil style. A simple tulle veil may be the best choice to allow the details of your dress to shine. Alternatively, a veil with lace trim or beaded accents that match the details of your dress can create a cohesive and harmonious look. The style of your veil should complement your hairstyle on your wedding day. For an up do or a half-up hairstyle, a veil with a comb or pins for easy attachment is a practical choice. For loose, flowing hair, a veil with an added headpiece will add a touch of glam. Before making a final decision, try on different veil styles with your dress to see how they look and feel. By following these tips and considering the style, length, details, and coordination with your dress and hairstyle, you can choose the right veil that enhances your overall bridal ensemble and makes you feel beautiful and confident on your special day. The team at The Bridal Boutique Crickhowell www.bridalboutiquecrickhowell.com www.angharadthomasphotography.co.uk 76
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=