Nishtha Bhandari
23-Dec-2025
If your wedding is just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your makeup!
Inputs by: Nishtha Bhandari, Celebrity & Bridal Makeup Artist
As we move into 2026, beauty is no longer just about how we look; it’s deeply connected to skin health, self-expression, and conscious choices. From backstage at celebrity shoots to intimate bridal rooms, here are the five beauty trends I see defining the year ahead.
1. Skin First, Makeup Second
In 2026, flawless makeup begins long before foundation. Clients are investing more in skin treatments, barrier repair, and facial massage than heavy coverage.
Expect to see:
Healthy skin will be the true luxury statement.
2. Soft Sculpting Over Harsh Contours
The era of sharp, obvious contouring is officially fading. 2026 is about soft structure, enhancing bone structure subtly rather than reshaping the face.
Key shifts include:
This approach photographs beautifully and feels far more timeless, especially for brides.
3. Minimal Eyes, Statement Skin
Eyes will become quieter, allowing skin to take centre stage. Think clean lids, soft liners, and wispy lashes, paired with radiant, perfected skin.
Popular looks will feature:
The result is a fresh, elegant look that enhances individuality.
4. Conscious, Multi-Use Beauty
Sustainability and mindfulness are no longer trends; they’re expectations. In 2026, clients prefer multi-use, skin-loving products that align with a wellness-first lifestyle.
We’ll see:
Beauty routines are becoming simpler, smarter, and more meaningful.
5. Individual Beauty Over One-Size-Fits-All
Perhaps the most powerful shift is the move away from copying trends. In 2026, makeup is deeply personal, celebrating real skin textures, unique features, and cultural diversity.
Cover Credits: Instagram @aditiraohydari
