Whether it’s for your own upcoming nuptials, or you’re just looking to top up that (not-so) secret Pinterest wedding board, we all love checking out bridal inspo. From the gorgeous flowing gowns to the perfectly tousled hair and makeup, it’s enough to make even the biggest marriage cynic waver just a little.
The best time to do this research? Straight after New York Bridal Fashion Week. One of the biggest events of the bridal calendar, it’s the place to see the latest hair and beauty trends that will soon be all over your Facebook feed.
We’ve scoured all the shows to find the seven need-to-know hair, nail and makeup trends worthy to make the transition from the runway to the aisle.
1. Ornate hair
Forget about jewellery; the focus on bling moved up to the hair this year. From ornate bun cages that resemble mini crowns, to encrusted flowers intertwined with braids, it’s a sophisticated way to add sparkle to your wedding day. Princess childhood dreams = made.
2. Dewy skin
Natural-looking beauty is still big — this year, designers sent their models down the runway with beautifully prepped dewy skin. It's a way of making the skin look flawless on the big day without being too made-up. An illuminating foundation on top of perfectly primed skin is essential for the look; or use a face mist to add a touch of sheen.
The bushy brow trend also shows no sign of slowing down, with neat but natural brows a popular accompaniment to dewy skin. (Post continues after gallery.)
Behind the scenes of Bridal Fashion Week.
3. Metallic nails
It's common to go for neutral or baby pink colours, but both Reem Acra and Di Santo embraced metallic and glitter for bridal nails. A major trend spotted on the mainstream runways earlier in the month, they're an easy and subtle way of updating a classic look to something a little more fun.
4. Half-wave hair
The hairstyle to make all lazy girls rejoice, half wave hair was spotted on several of the bridal runways. Looking undone and effortless, it's a refreshing variation on the same-same tousled curls we've seen far too much of lately.
It's a low-maintenance style that looks natural and means you don't have to worry about your waves falling out as you crazy dance to T-Swift. Win-win. (Post continues after gallery.)
The Glow's basic beauty cupboard essentials
5. Strobing
Strobing really is absolutely everywhere. Packing on the highlighter above the cheekbones, under the brow bone and on the cupid's bow is a great way to make skin glow, and makes you look even more amazing in photographs as the light hits your face. Behind the scenes, makeup artists were not afraid to layer it on, and neither should you.
6. Sleek hair
On the opposite scale to half-wave hair, a sleek, middle-parted bun is a great way to get hair off your face, and perfect for showing off all that strobing. Ensure all flyaways are slicked back with a hair oil or hairspray to last the day. Want to take it to the next level? Pair with an ornate headpiece or statement earrings.
7. Selfie stick
Because apparently a professional photographer and a hundred Instagramming guests just aren't enough any more, brides can now have their own selfie stick.
To be more specific, a bejewelled and lace-covered selfie stick with matching headphones, a la Reem Acra. Yes it looks a little ridiculous, but don't deny that you secretly want one.
What's your favourite bridal trend this season?