Bridal beauty is ever-evolving, with new trends emerging each season. For high-end brides in Sydney – especially Chinese and Vietnamese brides who often blend modern style with cultural tradition – the latest trends offer a fresh take on wedding hair and makeup. If you’re looking for inspiration to elevate your wedding hair and makeup look, here are some of the top bridal beauty trends making waves now:


  • Luminous “Glass” Skin: Radiant, healthy-looking skin is the ultimate foundation for any bridal look. The trend of “glass skin” – a term popular in Asian beauty – emphasises a dewy, almost translucent complexion. Brides are achieving this by focusing on skincare as much as makeup: think regular facials, hydrating sheet masks, and nourishing serums in the lead-up to the wedding. On the day, makeup artists are using lightweight, luminous foundations or BB creams instead of heavy matte layers. The result is skin that looks like your skin but glowing. This trend works beautifully for Asian brides, as it enhances natural complexion without masking their features. A light dusting of highlighting powder on the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose) adds to that youthful, fresh glow. The goal is to look lit-from-within and effortless – perfect for a classy daytime tea ceremony and still radiant into the evening reception.
  • Soft Glam with a Pop of Colour: “Soft glam” is dominating bridal makeup palettes – think neutral tones, soft peaches, and rosy hues that flatter your skin tone. This approach enhances your features in a polished way without veering into heavy, dramatic makeup. For many Asian brides, this is manifesting as the statement lip. A bold red or rich berry lip is extremely popular, not only because it’s trendy, but also because red holds cultural significance (prosperity and happiness in Chinese tradition). A bride might opt for a classic red lip during the banquet or when wearing a traditional qun kua or áo dài, and use a softer nude or pink in other moments. Alternatively, the pop of colour could be on the eyes – for example, a hint of pearly pink shimmer on the eyelids or a soft smoky rose tone blended into the crease. These touches of pink and rose are on-trend and add a romantic twist that complements the overall natural look. The key is balance: if you play up the lips with a vibrant colour, keep the eye makeup soft and vice versa. This trend ensures you have that one feature that truly stands out in photos (imagine your radiant face with that perfect red pout against your white gown – stunning!), while still looking elegant and not overdone.
  • Emphasis on Eyes and Lashes: Bridal eyes are becoming the centrepiece of the makeup look. For many Asian brides, the focus is on making the eyes appear bigger, brighter, and more defined – all while keeping the effect refined. Long, fluttery lashes are a must-have trend, achieved either through natural-looking faux lash extensions or high-quality strip lashes applied on the day. They instantly make the eyes pop without needing heavy shadow. Eyeliner styles are also getting special attention: a classic clean line with a slight flick (nothing too exaggerated) to elongate the eye is very popular. Some brides are also embracing a touch of sparkle on the eyes – a delicate glitter liner along the lash line or a dab of subtle glitter in the inner corners for that extra twinkle. Monolid and hooded eye brides are working with artists skilled in techniques like the gradient shadow, which opens up the eyes softly. The overarching trend is definition without excess. Well-groomed brows (natural shape, just filled in to look full) frame the face. Combined with the glowing skin trend, defined eyes, and lush lashes create a captivating look that reads beautifully on camera – every glance and emotion of yours will be highlighted.
  • Elegant Updos and Adornments: On the hair front, we’re seeing a return to timeless elegance, often with a modern twist. Sleek low buns and chignons are favourites for 2025 brides – these hairstyles have a sophisticated, graceful profile that suits both traditional ceremonies and modern receptions. Many Asian brides love updos because they pair well with veils and also accommodate cultural headpieces. Traditional meets trendy in hair accessories: for Chinese brides, gold and red hairpins inspired by phoenix designs or jade ornaments can be worked into a chic bun (honouring heritage and looking fashion-forward at the same time). Vietnamese brides wearing the áo dài might modernise the look by having a stylish bun or braid that holds the khăn đóng (traditional circular headpiece) comfortably in place. Another hair trend is the use of pearls and delicate crystals in hair accessories – pearl-encrusted combs or hair vines have become hugely popular, as they add a touch of luxury and femininity to any hairstyle. Even brides who choose to wear their hair half-down or in soft waves are incorporating small fresh flowers or pearl pins to elevate the look. On the other end of the spectrum, Hollywood glam waves (those shiny, uniform vintage curls) are also trending, especially for reception or second looks. Whether you choose an updo or flowing locks, adding an accessory that speaks to you – be it a sparkly barrette, a floral clip, or a meaningful family hairpin – is very “in.” It personalises your style and makes your hairdo truly bridal.
  • Multiple Looks and Day-to-Night Transformations: One trend particularly seen with luxury weddings (and common in Asian wedding celebrations) is the bride having two or even three distinct looks throughout the day. Instead of one static hair/makeup style from morning till night, brides are opting for a transitional beauty strategy. For example, you might start the day with a more natural makeup look and a traditional hairstyle for a cultural ceremony, then amp it up for the evening with a bolder lip colour, smokier eyes, and a more glamorous hairstyle. Changing outfits from a ceremony dress to an evening gown is already expected – now makeup and hair changes are part of the fun. This doesn’t mean you need a completely new makeover on the day (which could be time-consuming); it could be as simple as adding dramatic false lashes and swapping your lip colour to deep red before the reception, or pinning up your hair into an updo after wearing it down for the ceremony. To accommodate this trend, many Sydney brides are booking their hair/makeup artist for full-day services, or at least scheduling a return visit in the late afternoon for a refresh. It’s a bit of a splurge, but it ensures you look fresh and appropriate at each stage of the celebration. The ability to wow your guests with a second look – perhaps a glamorous updo with a glittering hairpiece when you enter the reception – adds an element of surprise and couture-level flair to your wedding. It’s the ultimate trend for those who want to make the most of their moment in the spotlight.


When considering trends, remember that the best ones are those that resonate with your personal style. This season’s bridal beauty trends are versatile and can be tailored to fit your comfort level, whether you lean towards classic elegance or love a modern twist. From glowing skin to meaningful pops of colour and cultural accessories, there are so many ways to make your look special. As you plan your wedding hair and makeup, use these trends as inspiration to craft a look that makes you feel like the most beautiful bride in the world – a look that captures both who you are and the significance of the day you say “I do.” Here’s to looking and feeling gorgeous on your wedding day!