South Asian Wedding Makeup Inspiration for Gorgeous Desi Brides

There’s a rich tradition of makeup for South Asian brides – beautiful, bold looks that transcend current trends and work in tandem with the exquisite fabrics and colours of Asian bridal attire. The modern Desi bride is no different, although there has been more of a shift towards individual expression. The core principle is the same, however – that your bridal makeup should elevate your features and complement your wedding outfits and jewellery. And, of course, make you feel amazing! We’ve rounded up ten absolutely breathtaking makeup looks by the talented Make Me Bridal pros to inspire you.

You can’t go wrong with a red lip! That’s why it remains a staple for South Asian brides, whether in a bright tomato or a deeper berry or maroon, as seen on this bride. This timeless hue is paired with perfectly defined eyes in neutral tones with a touch of white on the lids and inner corners. It’s finished off with a red and gold bindi that perfectly matches the makeup and red and gold wedding attire.

Good contouring will help to create the chiseled cheeks that many brides seek, but here it’s done in gorgeous blush and pink instead of bronze tones, perfectly matching the pastel colours of the bride’s ensemble. The pink is reflected in her choice of lip colour. On the eyes, bold, smoky neutral tones and defined brows provide an ideal balance.

Everything about this bride’s look says ‘golden glow’, from her hair colour and jewellery selection to her wedding makeup palette. Winged liner and fluffy lashes add glamour and sophistication and the final touch is a berry lip that stands out against all those golden tones.

Speaking of golden tones, this bride took full glam to the next level with shimmery metallics featured on her lids. It works beautifully with her outfit and jewellery and is accentuated with pretty blush and neutral lips that allow those eyes to really pop.

A cut-crease is a popular choice for modern Desi brides looking to make a statement with their wedding makeup. Here, a neutral base and bright gold metallics take centre stage. Long lashes elevate the look further and it’s finished in a soft, glossy pink lip.

Some brides prefer to go for a ‘less is more’ approach. This subtle yet glamorous smoky eye look used metallic eyeshadow as a base, with dark brown eye shadow to outline and liquid eyeliner and lashings of black mascara. It beautifully emphasised the bride’s brown eyes. Strong brows and a subtle pop of colour on the cheeks and lips brought it all together.

There’s so much to love about this look, but you can’t miss those bright red lips! It’s no wonder this is such a popular choice for South Asian brides. To really make them pop, pair them with classic neutral eyes, traditional winged eyeliner, and super long and luscious lashes. A showstopper, without being overdone!

This bride chose softer colours for her bridal ensemble and matched them with well-blended smoky eyes with matte brown undertones and a touch of bronze and mauve. The bronze colours are repeated on her cheeks, with a pretty berry-pink on the lips.

How incredible does this bride look? If you’re opting for a heavy lehenga with lots of jewellery then you’ll need a strong makeup look to balance it out and keep the focus on your face. The traditional style is intense smoky bronze and brown eyeshadow, making the eyes look bigger, which is only intensified by defined brows and statement lashes. And, while some modern brides go neutral with the lip, this bride pulled off a traditional deep maroon red that matched her lehenga to perfection!

Of course, neutrals and metallics aren’t your only options for eyeshadow! This bride opted for purple and mauve tones smoked out at the sides for a beautiful winged effect. Gorgeous lashes and flawless foundation are an ideal base, and we love how her berry red lips add an additional dimension.

Looking for a makeup artist for your South Asian wedding? Take a look at our directory to find the pros near you!