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Every woman wants to look her very best on the day she takes her vows. Sonal Ved helps you get a step closer to gorgeous skin with a list of this season’s must-haves
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i o r g i o Armani once said, “To create something exceptional, your mindset must be relentlessly focussed on the smallest detail.” This is the perfect advice when planning your wedding. Brides often plan everything — from the flowers that will perch on the guest tables, to the song that they will dance to at the sangeet. Yet they often don’t pay enough attention to their bridal beauty kits ending up with some sure shot wedding-day blues. Here is a list of bridal must-haves. Nothing needs more sustained care in the run up to your wedding than your skin. This includes meticulous preparation weeks in advance. While facials are inevitably indulged in, when at home pamper your face with the goodness of Deep Facial Cleanser by Omved. The brand specialises in natural skin care products that do not have an infusion of inorganic ingredients. The sweet, botanical fragrance leaves the skin feeling clinically-clean. To treat your body to a similar experience, opt for the brand’s Refreshing Body Shower Gel that has the essence of juniper berries and invigorating lemongrass — a perfect way to begin or end the day as both these ingredients refresh the senses. A similar experience can be enjoyed with the divine Nyassa handmade soaps. From their exquisite range, the aromas that tantalise the most are Moroccan Rose and Arabian Oodh — both have dense floral notes that leave your skin smelling oh-so-good. They moisturise the skin thoroughly 76 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2013 | G2
because of the natural oils that the bars carry. If you want something subtle, the French Lavender and Almond Butter are wonderful choices. These bars have delicate fragrances but ingredients such as oatmeal, honey and shea butter will hydrate your skin from within and that is something that every bride needs. Another must-do is to give your face an even glow. While cleansers will merely clean, every bride needs something more to ensure her face is radiant right through the wedding celebrations and the honeymoon. A product that will do just that is Dermalogica’s Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque. The product promises restorative benefits for your skin which is necessary today as we begin to show stress signs easily. The white masque clarifies, hydrates and tones facial skin with just 15 minutes of application leaving it well-nourished. The flowery fragrance it cloaks your skin in is an added bonus. Give a similar treatment to your hands, back and feet as well. This means, ensure they are well-hydrated and radiant on D-day. Since feet are the most stubborn, treat them to a four-way pedicure file by Faces cosmetics. The popular Canada-based brand’s multi-purpose product cleanses, exfoliates and softens feet with its nail brush, scrubber, pumice and filer. What’s best is that it will come handy to protect your feet from the monsoons too! Apart from skin care, a bride also needs to focus on feeling her best during the numerous shopping trips, bridal shower, planning luncheons and various other functions before the wedding. A potion that will help you put your best self forward is Eau De Prep Tommy Girl by Tommy Hilfiger. The clear liquid encased in a falcon has spicy and musky notes that create a confident vibe. Add to that, the fragrance is fruity and floral too which makes it delightfully girlie!
Another aspect of grooming is make-up. While you will probably be calling on the skills of professionals for all the important dates, pack-in some of our recommendations for the days before and after the wedding. Since this is the year of the eyes, highlighting them is the order of the day! Start off your routine with Ebony kohl pencil by Faces cosmetics. The long wear cosmetic lasts until the end of the day, creates distinct lines and is smudge-free. It is so sleek it can be sneaked into your denim pockets too! To create a contrast, highlight your eyelids with metallic-coloured eye shadows. Our pick is Round Midnight by M.A.C. The product is deep burgundy in colour and complements most classic Indian-shades. It is long-lasting and leaves a smooth finish on the eye. If you want something more concentrated, opt for their cream-based Paint Pots. We recommend the shade titled Genuine Treasure that dries instantly to provide an intense, vibrant finish. For a more dramatic look, go for Estée Lauder’s Sizzling Copper eye shadow. The ritzy looking golden case encases a powder-based colour that works to magically create art on your eyes. It spreads out finely and shines through the evening, giving your eyes a lift even after an eventful day. Finish off your look with a dash of colour on your lips. Since the brighter the better, you could roll on M.A.C’s Runway Red. The lipstick has a matt touch with a glossy finish and will complete your glamorous look. With so much make-up being used by you all through the wedding celebrations, a must-have for every bride is a set of good make-up brushes. We strongly recommend the range from Colorbar cosmetics. Its set of light brushes work perfectly for all your make-up needs from foundation and blush on to lipstick and eye shadow. G2
Top tips by make-up expert Fanny Aubin of Jean-Claude Biguine Salon and Spa, India If you are going in for traditional Indian make-up, make sure it is waterproof. Get a facial two days before the wedding for a lasting effect. Allow your eyebrows to grow well and get them tweezed right before D-day. This will ensure perfectly-shaped brows. To enhance the look of your face, highlight your eyes. This could be done by opting for fake lashes, eyebrow pencil or glamorous eye make-up. Keep matching face powder and lipstick handy once you are done with the make-up session with the stylist. This will allow you to personally touch-up your make-up during the event. Moisturise your lips every day for a week before the date. This will ensure you have a hydrated and smooth pout. Always remember, glossy shades of lipstick fade faster than matt, so avoid them. Apply foundation on your shoulders and arms to achieve an even finish. Hair care is also equally important. Indulge in rituals at regular intervals before D-day to give your hair much-needed volume, strength and shine. On your wedding day, ensure your hair is clean. Avoid overconditioning as this can weigh your hair down. 77 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2013 | G2