Bridal beauty in 2026 is all about balance — glowing skin that looks like you, with just the right touch of shimmer, nostalgia, and editorial polish. According to two industry pros, Erica Bogart of Bogart Beauty and Kayla Okpareke of Kayla Kollection, next year’s brides are redefining glam with “strategic glow,” “heritage fusion,” and “quiet luxury.” Here’s your sneak peek at what’s in (and what’s out) for 2026 wedding makeup.

The “Strategic Glow” Era

Forget the glitter bombs and strobing from years past — 2026 is all about delicate shimmer. “Rather than full-on glitter or heavy highlighter, bridal makeup will use shimmer sparingly,” says Kayla Okpareke. “Think highpoints, lids, or inner corners — just enough to catch the light in photos without overwhelming the look.”

Photo courtesy of Kayla Kollection

Erica Bogart agrees: “The days of heavy, mask-like foundation have now faded. Brides are gravitating toward healthy, radiant complexions that look effortless but polished.” Expect to see velvety or dewy skin-like finishes, thin layering for longevity, and a major emphasis on skincare prep.

And yes, blush is still trending, but it’s taking a softer turn. “Layered and locked in with powder to give a more airbrushed, romantic finish than bold pops of color,” says Erica.

Nice & Nostalgic

Both artists predict that nostalgia is back, but in a fresh, elevated way. “Rather than copying one decade, I see more hybrids,” says Kayla. “Mixing small elements: lace collars, embroidery, jewelry motifs, from heritage or heirloom eras into otherwise contemporary looks.” Erica adds that we’ll see a lot of ‘90s and early 2000s inspiration, but softened.

Photo by Betty Globa

“Think velvet skin, metallic eyes, and satin lips with that effortless supermodel feel. Less contour, more glow. Timeless skin that still looks like you,” she says. “The goal is to create a look that feels current and will still look stunning 30 years from now.”

Red-Carpet Meets “I Do”

As global fashion and celebrity beauty continue to push the envelope, bridal beauty is following suit. “What once felt ‘too flashy for a wedding’ is now aspirational,” says Kayla. “Brides want that editorial finish: crisp liner, perfect glow, defined cheek structure. It’s the red-carpet effect, but wedding-day appropriate.”

Photo by Always Us Photography

Erica also notes the growing influence of South Asian and Indian bridal beauty on mainstream trends. “From bold jewelry to bronzed skin and soft smoky eyes, those cultural touches are being celebrated everywhere. It’s so exciting to help brides blend rich traditions with modern, red-carpet elegance.”

Effortless Beauty, Elevated

If 2026 had a bridal beauty tagline, it might be “Natural, but make it intentional.” Kayla predicts that the overall aesthetic will “lean more naturally than boldly, but with points of drama, delicate statement elements integrated into an otherwise understated, skin-forward look.”

Photo by Ali Beck // Beauty by TEAM Hair & Makeup

Erica calls it strategic glamour. “My brides want to look timeless and elevated, like themselves on their very best day. It’s not about heavy glam anymore; it’s about refinement. A statement lip, a touch of shimmer, or a defined eye, but balanced with fresh, radiant skin.”

Destination Bride Must-Haves

Destination brides, take notes. Both artists have favorite products for looking flawless in any climate. Kayla loves Kopari products: “They combine sun protection, luminous sheen, and lightweight texture, and they don’t stain fabrics. Perfect for sunny locales.”

Photo courtesy of Canva

Erica swears by a few layering techniques and skin-loving products. “I’ll mix a drop of Duraline into foundation for all-day wear, and I’m obsessed with Ciele’s clean, mineral-based Skin Tint and blushes; they have SPF 50, so you get that fresh, protected glow wherever you are.”

The 2026 Beauty Moodboard: Quiet Luxury & Timeless Glam

Erica sums it up perfectly: “There’s a big move toward elegance; soft glam, quiet luxury, that old-money feel. Think of Selena Gomez’s wedding makeup: soft airbrushed velvet skin, pinched cheeks, and a beautiful lip, but nothing overdone.”

The final takeaway? Choose a look that feels like you, just a little more radiant — a little more editorial.