Bridal How-to: Old Hollywood Makeup Tutorial

Introduction

The old Hollywood makeup tutorial is your go-to bridal how-to for achieving a timeless and captivating look on your special day. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to recreate classic Hollywood makeup looks from the 1920s through the 1950s, ensuring that you exude an air of elegance and sophistication.

Bridal makeup is incredibly important as it completes the bride’s overall wedding look and creates beautiful photos that will be treasured for years. The old Hollywood makeup style, known for its glamorous and sophisticated appeal, allows brides to embrace the timeless beauty of iconic Hollywood stars.

In this tutorial, we will explore the different makeup styles that defined each decade, from the bold and dramatic flapper flair of the 1920s to the subtle and glowing elegance of the 1950s. Each era has its own unique charm, giving you the opportunity to choose a look that reflects your personal style while embracing the allure of old Hollywood glamour.

So let’s start our journey into the world of classic beauty and discover how to create a makeup style that will never go out of style.

The Step-by-Step Old Hollywood Glamour Makeup Guide

The old Hollywood glamour makeup look is all about channeling the elegance and sophistication of the golden age of cinema. From the bold lips to the dramatic smokey eyes, this style exudes timeless beauty that is perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement on her special day. In this section, we will explore the iconic 1920s flapper flair makeup and provide a step-by-step tutorial for achieving a modern take on this classic look.

1. 1920s Flapper Flair

The 1920s flapper makeup style is characterized by bold lips and dramatic smokey eyes. It was an era of liberation and rebellion, where women embraced their individuality and expressed themselves through fashion and makeup. To recreate this look for your wedding day, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prep your skin

Before applying any makeup, it’s important to prepare your skin for a flawless finish. Here’s how:

Cleanse your face
Moisturize with a lightweight formula suitable for your skin type

This will ensure your makeup goes on smoothly and lasts throughout the day.

Step 2: Create a flawless base

To achieve a flawless base, follow these steps:

Apply a primer to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines
Use a lightweight foundation that matches your skin tone
Blend the foundation evenly using a sponge or brush
Conceal any blemishes or dark circles with a creamy concealer

Step 3: Define your brows

The 1920s flapper look called for well-defined eyebrows. Here’s how you can achieve it:

Use an eyebrow pencil or powder in a shade that matches your natural hair color
Fill in any sparse areas and create the desired shape
Brush through your brows with a spoolie brush to soften any harsh lines

Step 4: Dramatic smokey eyes

Smokey eyes were a signature element of the flapper makeup look. Here’s how you can create them:

Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade all over your eyelids as a base
Take a darker shade and apply it to the outer corners of your eyes, blending it towards the crease
Use a smudge brush to apply a black eyeshadow or eyeliner along your upper lash line and lower lash line, smudging it out for a smokey effect
Finish with several coats of mascara to lengthen and volumize your lashes

Step 5: Bold lips

No flapper look is complete without bold lips. Here’s how you can achieve them:

Choose a deep red or berry lipstick shade that complements your skin tone
Use a lip liner in a matching shade to outline and fill in your lips
Apply the lipstick directly from the bullet or with a lip brush for precision
Blot with a tissue and reapply for long-lasting color

Step 6: Finishing touches

To add the finishing touches to your flapper-inspired look, follow these steps:

Dust a translucent powder over your face to set your makeup and minimize shine
Apply a peachy blush to the apples of your cheeks for a subtle flush of color
Highlight your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow with a luminous highlighter for an added touch of glamour

By following these steps, you can achieve a modern take on the 1920s flapper flair makeup that incorporates long-lasting techniques for all-day wear. Remember to practice beforehand and adjust the intensity of each element based on your personal preferences and wedding theme.

2. 1930s Intensely Defined Look

In the 1930s, makeup styles embraced well-groomed eyebrows and sultry, elongated eye shapes. Here’s how to achieve a softer version of the 1930s defined look while keeping the features balanced and harmonious with the overall aesthetic.

Overview of 1930s Makeup Style

The 1930s makeup style was characterized by well-defined, arched eyebrows and elongated eye shapes. The focus was on creating a sultry and intense look that exuded elegance and sophistication.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Prep the Skin

Start with a clean, moisturized face as the base for your makeup.

Defined Brows

Use a brow pencil or powder to shape and fill in your eyebrows, keeping them well-groomed and defined.

Sultry Eyes

Apply a neutral eyeshadow as a base, then use a darker shade to contour the crease and create depth. Line the eyes with a dark eyeliner, extending it slightly beyond the outer corners for an elongated effect.

Luminous Skin

Achieve a radiant complexion with a luminous foundation or tinted moisturizer. Conceal any imperfections for a flawless finish.

Soft Lips

Opt for a subtle lip color in nude or soft pink tones to complement the dramatic eye makeup.

By following these steps, you can create a modern interpretation of the intensely defined 1930s makeup look that is ideal for brides seeking timeless elegance on their special day.

3. 1940s Romantic Glamour

The 1940s was a decade characterized by classic beauty and understated femininity. In this section, we will explore the signature makeup elements of the 1940s and learn how to create a timeless romantic glamour look that enhances natural features without being overly dramatic.

Signature Makeup Elements of the 1940s

Luminous Skin: The 1940s embraced a fresh-faced and radiant complexion. To achieve this look, focus on creating a flawless base with foundation and concealer that matches your skin tone. Opt for a dewy or satin finish foundation to add a subtle glow to the skin.
Soft Rosebud Lips: Rosebud lips were a staple of the 1940s makeup look. Choose a lipstick shade in soft pink or rose tones to achieve this romantic and feminine lip color. You can also add a touch of gloss for extra shine.

Step-by-Step Tutorial for 1940s Romantic Glamour

Step 1: Flawless Base

Start by prepping your skin with a moisturizer to ensure it is hydrated and smooth.
Apply a primer to create an even canvas for your foundation.
Use a medium coverage foundation and blend it well into your skin using a sponge or brush.
Conceal any blemishes or dark circles with a creamy concealer.

Step 2: Rosy Cheeks

Apply a soft pink blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending it upwards towards your temples.
Opt for a blush with a satin finish to achieve that natural flush of color.

Step 3: Defined Eyes

Begin by shaping and grooming your eyebrows using an eyebrow pencil or powder. Fill in any sparse areas and create an arch that complements your face shape.
For eyeshadow, stick to neutral shades such as taupe, beige, or light brown. Apply a light shade all over the lid and a slightly darker shade in the crease for definition.
Line your upper lash line with a black or brown eyeliner, creating a thin line. Extend it slightly at the outer corners of your eyes to elongate the shape.
Finish off with a few coats of mascara to lengthen and volumize your lashes.

Step 4: Soft Rosebud Lips

Choose a lipstick shade in soft pink or rose tones that complements your skin tone. Apply it evenly to your lips, starting from the center and working your way outwards.
For added shine, apply a clear or lightly tinted gloss on top.

Enhancing Your 1940s Bridal Look: Tips and Recommendations

To complete your 1940s romantic glamour bridal look, here are some tips and recommendations:

Consider adding false lashes for extra drama and definition to your eyes. Opt for lashes that provide length without appearing too heavy or overpowering.
Use a highlighter on the high points of your face such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow to enhance the luminous effect.
Set your makeup with a setting spray to ensure longevity throughout the day.

Essential Products for a Flawless Base

Moisturizer: [Product Name]
Primer: [Product Name]
Foundation: [Product Name]
Concealer: [Product Name]

Recommended Lipstick Shades

Soft Pink: [Product Name]
Rose Tone: [Product Name]

Recommended Eyeshadow Palette

Neutral Shades: [Product Name]

Incorporate these tips and use the recommended products to achieve an elegant and timeless 1940s romantic glamour bridal look.

4. 1950s Subtle and Glowing Style

The 1950s makeup look was all about embracing fresh-faced elegance, with a focus on radiant skin and softly defined eyes in warm neutral tones. The goal was to achieve a subtle and glowing style that exuded timeless beauty. Let’s delve into how you can recreate this iconic 1950s look with a modern twist, perfect for any bride aiming to channel vintage elegance on her special day.

Embracing Radiant Skin

Start by prepping your skin with a hydrating primer to create a smooth canvas for makeup application.
Opt for a dewy foundation finish to achieve a radiant complexion, blending it seamlessly for a natural look.
Use a concealer to brighten the under-eye area and cover any blemishes, ensuring that the skin appears flawless and luminous.

Softly Defined Eyes

Enhance your eyes with neutral eyeshadow shades such as soft browns, taupes, and muted golds to create a subtle yet captivating look.
Consider using eyeliner to define the eyes with a classic winged effect or opt for a softer smudged liner along the lash line.
Finish the eye makeup with lengthening mascara to achieve fluttery lashes that enhance the overall allure of the look.

Rosy Cheeks and Lips

Apply a natural blush in soft pink or peach tones to add a healthy flush of color to the cheeks, focusing on blending it outwards towards the temples.
Choose a rosy lipstick shade that complements your natural lip color, aiming for a satin or creamy finish for a touch of understated glamour.

Suitable for Photography

When recreating the 1950s subtle and glowing style for your bridal makeup, it’s essential to ensure that the look translates beautifully in photographs under various lighting conditions. Consider these tips:

Opt for makeup products that are designed to be photo-friendly, avoiding formulas with excessive shimmer or flashback.
Test your makeup look in different lighting settings (natural light, indoor lighting, flash photography) to make any necessary adjustments for a flawless appearance in photos.

By following these step-by-step guidelines, you can achieve a modern interpretation of the 1950s subtle and glowing style that captures the essence of old Hollywood glamour while remaining suitable for your wedding day photography.

Enhancing Your Old Hollywood Bridal Look: Tips and Recommendations

Essential Products for a Flawless Base

To achieve the perfect old Hollywood bridal look, you’ll need essential makeup products that lay the foundation for a flawless finish. Here’s a list of must-have items along with recommended options to cater to different skin tones and preferences:

Primer: Create a smooth canvas and enhance the longevity of your makeup with a primer. Opt for a silicone-based primer like Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer to blur imperfections and minimize the appearance of pores.
Foundation: Choose a long-wearing, photo-friendly foundation such as Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation for a seamless, matte finish that withstands various lighting conditions.
Concealer: Combat dark circles and blemishes with a full-coverage concealer like NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. Select a shade that is one or two tones lighter than your foundation for brightening effects.
Setting Powder: Lock in your base makeup and prevent shine with a finely-milled setting powder such as Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. This translucent formula works well for all skin tones without adding extra coverage.

Creating a Timeless Canvas: Skincare and Foundation Tips

Prioritize skincare to ensure a radiant complexion that complements your old Hollywood bridal look. Consider the following tips to prep your skin:

Skincare Routine: In the weeks leading up to your wedding, focus on hydrating and nourishing your skin with a consistent regimen. Incorporate products like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for plump, moisturized skin.
Foundation Selection: When choosing a foundation, opt for formulas labeled as “photo-ready” or “long-wear” to withstand the demands of your special day. Visit beauty counters for professional shade matching to ensure a seamless blend with your natural skin tone.

Emphasizing Eyes in True Hollywood Fashion

The eyes are a focal point of old Hollywood glamour, so it’s essential to shape and define them elegantly. Consider the following techniques and product recommendations:

Eyebrow Shaping: Achieve beautifully groomed brows with products like Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz or Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil. Use light, feathery strokes to fill in sparse areas while maintaining a natural appearance.
Eye Makeup: For captivating eyes reminiscent of classic Hollywood starlets, invest in eyeshadow palettes featuring warm neutral tones like Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette or Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Eyeshadow Palette. These versatile palettes offer shades suitable for creating both daytime and evening looks.

Blushing Beauty and Luscious Lips

Blush and lipstick play pivotal roles in completing your old Hollywood bridal look. Here are some recommendations for achieving that timeless allure:

Blush Application: Add a touch of color with peachy-pink blushes such as NARS Blush in Orgasm or Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso. Apply blush lightly to the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush that complements radiant skin.
Lipstick Selection: Opt for classic reds like MAC Ruby Woo or Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Red Carpet Red for an iconic old Hollywood lip look. Consider using lip liners to define and fill in lips for extended wear.

Setting the Stage: Finishing Touches and Longevity Tips

Complete your old Hollywood bridal look by incorporating finishing touches that enhance longevity and radiance:

Setting Spray: Seal the deal with a setting spray such as Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray to lock in your makeup all day and night.
Finishing Powder: Gently dust a luminous finishing powder like Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder over strategic areas of the face for an ethereal glow that withstands camera flashes.

By curating essential products and following these tips, you can emphasize the timeless beauty of old Hollywood glamour on your wedding day while ensuring long-lasting perfection that captures beautifully in photographs.

Creating a Timeless Canvas: Skincare and Foundation Tips

In this section, we will discuss the key elements to consider when creating an old Hollywood-inspired bridal look. From skincare prep to the final touches, these tips will help you achieve long-lasting perfection on your wedding day.

Prepping Your Skin for Radiant Makeup Application

Start your skincare routine early, focusing on hydration and nourishment for a glowing complexion.
Incorporate gentle exfoliation to ensure smooth and even texture for makeup application.
Consider scheduling a professional facial treatment a week before the wedding for ultimate radiance.

Choosing the Perfect Foundation

Opt for a long-wearing foundation formula that offers buildable coverage without looking heavy.
Test foundation shades in natural light to ensure a seamless match with your skin tone.
Select a photo-friendly foundation to avoid flashback during photography sessions.

Emphasizing Eyebrows for Elegance

Shape your eyebrows according to your face shape for a polished and timeless look.
Use eyebrow products that provide natural definition without appearing too harsh under camera flash.
Consider consulting a professional for expert shaping and grooming before the big day.

Eye Makeup that Captivates

Choose eyeshadow colors that complement your eye color and overall bridal theme.
Invest in high-quality eyeliners and mascaras that are waterproof and smudge-resistant.
Practice your eye makeup look beforehand to ensure it enhances your features without overpowering them.

In summary, achieving an old Hollywood-inspired bridal look involves:

Meticulous skincare preparation
Thoughtful selection of foundation
Elegant eyebrow shaping
Captivating eye makeup

By focusing on these key elements, you can create a timeless canvas for your bridal makeup that will elevate your overall look on your special day.

Emphasizing Eyes in True Hollywood Fashion

When it comes to achieving an old Hollywood-inspired bridal look, emphasizing the eyes is key. This section will guide you through the essential techniques and products needed to create mesmerizing eye makeup looks that pay homage to the glamour of Hollywood icons.

Techniques for Shaping and Defining Eyebrows

The first step in creating captivating eye makeup looks is shaping and defining your eyebrows. Here are some techniques to help you achieve elegantly framed brows:

Eyebrow Shaping: Start by brushing your eyebrows upwards using a spoolie brush. Then, use tweezers to remove any stray hairs that fall outside the natural shape of your brows. Remember to follow your brow bone’s natural arch for a flattering shape.
Filling in Sparse Areas: If you have sparse areas in your eyebrows, use an eyebrow pencil or powder to fill them in. Choose a shade that matches your natural brow color and use feathery strokes to mimic the appearance of real hair.
Setting with Brow Gel: To keep your eyebrows in place all day, apply a clear brow gel or wax. This will ensure that your brows stay groomed and defined throughout the festivities.

For achieving the desired effect, here are some product recommendations:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil
NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil

Step-by-Step Guide to Captivating Eye Makeup Looks

Now that your eyebrows are beautifully shaped and defined, let’s dive into creating mesmerizing eye makeup looks inspired by old Hollywood.

Eyeliner Techniques: Old Hollywood makeup often features bold and defined eyeliner. Whether you prefer a classic winged liner or a sultry smudged look, mastering eyeliner application is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Start by applying an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base for your eyeliner.
Use a gel or liquid eyeliner to draw a thin line along your upper lash line. Extend the line slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye for a subtle cat-eye effect.
If you prefer a softer look, smudge the eyeliner with a smudging brush or cotton swab.
For added drama, apply a black or dark brown eyeshadow along the lower lash line using an angled brush.
Eyeshadow Application Tips: Old Hollywood eye makeup often features soft, smoky eyes in neutral tones. Follow these steps to achieve an enchanting eye look:
Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade all over your eyelids as a base color. This will even out the skin tone and create a canvas for the rest of the eyeshadow.
Choose a slightly darker shade and apply it to the crease of your eyelids using a blending brush. Blend it well to create a seamless transition between colors.
Add depth by applying a darker shade to the outer corner of your eyes. Blend it carefully to avoid any harsh lines.
Finish off by highlighting the inner corners of your eyes and brow bone with a shimmery eyeshadow to add brightness and dimension.

Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to mastering eye makeup looks. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and techniques until you find the perfect old Hollywood-inspired eye makeup look that suits you.

Cheek Contouring and Lip Perfection

Blushing Beauty: The Role of Blush

Blush adds a youthful, radiant vitality to a vintage-inspired bridal look.
It brings warmth and dimension to the face, complementing the overall makeup ensemble with a touch of color.
When aiming for an old Hollywood glamour style, consider opting for classic shades like soft pinks, peachy tones, or rosy hues.
These timeless colors can beautifully enhance your natural glow and exude an air of sophistication.

Lipstick Selection: Choosing the Perfect Shade

Selecting the right lipstick color is essential when completing your old Hollywood bridal ensemble.
When exploring lipstick shades, it’s crucial to consider your skin’s undertones and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.
For fairer complexions, classic reds with blue undertones can create a striking contrast, while deeper skin tones may be beautifully complemented by rich berry or wine shades.
Additionally, prioritize long-lasting formulas that offer excellent staying power throughout the day and evening festivities.

By paying attention to these fundamental aspects of blush and lipstick selection, you can elevate your old Hollywood bridal look with timeless elegance and charm.

Setting the Stage for Lasting Beauty

Essential Bridal Makeup Products and Tools

When aiming for a timeless bridal look inspired by old Hollywood glamour, it’s essential to have the right products and tools at hand. Consider the following:

Skincare for Bridal Makeup

Prioritize a thorough skincare routine leading up to your wedding day. This can include gentle exfoliation, hydrating serums, and moisturizers tailored to your skin type.

Foundation for Bridal Makeup

Look for a foundation formula that offers both coverage and a natural finish. Opt for long-wear foundations that are suitable for photography and won’t require frequent touch-ups.

Eyebrow Shaping for Bridal Makeup

Well-groomed eyebrows can make a significant difference in framing your face elegantly. Invest in high-quality eyebrow pencils or pomades to achieve precise shaping.

Eye Makeup for Bridal Look

Curate a collection of eyeshadows, eyeliners, and mascaras that allow you to create captivating eye looks reminiscent of old Hollywood icons.

Blush for Bridal Makeup

Choose blush shades that bring a youthful vitality to your vintage-inspired look. Consider your skin tone and select suitable blush hues accordingly.

Lipstick for Bridal Look

Finding the perfect lipstick color is crucial. Look for shades that complement your undertones and offer long-lasting wear without constant reapplication.

Long-Lasting Bridal Makeup Tips

To ensure your bridal makeup stands the test of time, consider the following tips:

Setting Powder: Setting powder plays a vital role in prolonging the wear of your bridal makeup. It helps keep everything intact throughout the festivities, preventing excess shine and ensuring a smooth finish.
Role of Setting Powder: Explaining how setting powder can help maintain makeup integrity and reduce the need for frequent touch-ups during extended events.
Recommendations: Opt for finely milled, translucent setting powders to avoid potential flashback in photographs. Some popular options include [Brand A’s] translucent setting powder and [Brand B’s] HD setting powder.

Finishing Touches for Your Bridal Look

As you complete your old Hollywood-inspired bridal ensemble, pay attention to the finishing touches:

Use high-quality makeup setting sprays to lock in your meticulously crafted look and enhance its longevity.
Consider investing in a portable touch-up kit containing key products like lipstick, blotting papers, and a mini powder compact for quick fixes throughout the day.

By incorporating these essential elements into your bridal makeup routine, you can achieve a stunning old Hollywood-inspired look that exudes timeless elegance while lasting flawlessly from the ceremony to the reception.

Final Touches of Elegance

1. Subtle Highlighting

When aiming for an old Hollywood-inspired bridal look, it’s essential to enhance key features without looking overly shimmery. Subtle highlighting can be achieved through the strategic placement of illuminating products. Focus on the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow. This technique adds a touch of elegance and dimension to your overall makeup.

2. Setting Spray

Consider using a setting spray to ensure the longevity and cohesiveness of your old Hollywood-inspired makeup. A high-quality setting spray can help lock in your meticulously applied makeup, keeping it fresh and flawless throughout the day and into the night. Look for a setting spray that is designed to keep makeup in place for extended periods without drying out the skin or causing any unwanted texture.

3. Blush

The right blush can add a beautiful flush of color to your cheeks, completing your old Hollywood bridal look. Opt for shades that complement your skin tone and tie in with the overall color scheme of your makeup. Rosy pink hues are classic choices that exude romance and femininity, while peach tones bring warmth and radiance to the complexion. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks for a natural-looking flush that enhances your features without overpowering the rest of your makeup.

4. Lipstick

Your choice of lipstick plays a crucial role in perfecting your old Hollywood bridal look. Whether you opt for a timeless red lip or a softer, more neutral shade, it’s important to select a lipstick formula that offers longevity and comfort. Matte lipsticks are known for their long-wearing properties, while creamy formulas provide hydration and suppleness. Whichever option you choose, ensure that it complements your overall makeup and withstands the inevitable kisses and photo sessions throughout the day.

5. Finishing Touches

As you finalize your old Hollywood-inspired bridal look, pay attention to any finishing touches that may enhance its allure. This could include delicately defining your collarbones with a touch of shimmer, adding a subtle veil of translucent powder to perfect the skin’s texture, or gently misting with a hydrating facial spray for a radiant glow.

By carefully considering these final touches of elegance, you can elevate your old Hollywood bridal look from stunning to truly unforgettable.

Conclusion

Embrace Your Inner Starlet and Create Your Own Old Hollywood Glamour

As we conclude this old Hollywood bridal makeup tutorial, it’s important to remember that the key to achieving a timeless look is to embrace your own interpretation of old Hollywood glamour. The silver screen era was all about individuality and self-expression, so don’t be afraid to have fun and experiment with different vintage-inspired looks. Let your inner starlet shine through!

The power of makeup artistry allows us to transport ourselves to a bygone era and channel the elegance and sophistication of old Hollywood. By learning the techniques and styles that were popular in each decade, you can incorporate them into your modern bridal aesthetic and create a look that is truly unforgettable.

Whether you choose the bold lips and smokey eyes of the 1920s flapper flair, the intensely defined eyebrows and sultry eyes of the 1930s, the romantic beauty of the 1940s, or the subtle and glowing style of the 1950s, each look has its own unique charm and allure.

To ensure that your old Hollywood-inspired makeup lasts throughout your special day, consider these final touches of elegance:

Subtle highlighting can enhance key features without looking overly shimmery.
Illuminating products strategically placed can add an extra touch of radiance.
Use a setting spray to lock everything in place, ensuring the longevity and cohesiveness of your makeup.

Incorporating these tips and recommendations into your old Hollywood bridal look will help you create a stunning and timeless aesthetic that will not only complete your overall wedding look but also capture beautiful photographs for years to come. So go ahead, embrace your inner starlet, and let old Hollywood glamour be your guide. You’re ready for your close-up!