The Resurgence of Minimalist Bridal Makeup: Why Less is More in 2025

Bridal beauty is taking a softer turn in 2025. The era of heavy contouring and cakey make-up is stepping aside to make way for clean, minimal looks that celebrate natural features. This rise of minimalist bridal make-up isn’t just another fleeting micro-trend; it reflects a cultural shift towards authenticity, individuality and comfort. Brides are choosing to feel like the best version of themselves with skin-first, glow-focused looks that feel both timeless and effortless.

In May 2025, Mumbai-based luxury make-up artist Shradha Luthra decided to say I do. For her intimate roka ceremony, she embraced a minimal look. “When it came to the make-up, my signature minimal magic with a soft flush of pink just felt right. It’s one of the most requested looks when I’m dolling up my brides, and I knew it would make me feel like the most beautiful version of myself, and that’s exactly how I felt that day,” Luthra shared in the caption of her Instagram post.

In the past, she has worked with A-list celebrities, including Alanna Panday and Aaliyah Kashyap. The Style List spoke to the expert on the rise of minimalist bridal makeup.

From your years of experience, why do you think the minimal bridal look has gained sudden popularity among the Indian crowd?

Brides today are far more self-aware and intentional about how they want to feel on their wedding day. Social media has exposed them to a variety of global beauty trends, but what resonates most is authenticity — looking like the best version of themselves rather than a heavily transformed version. Minimal make-up celebrates natural features and feels timeless. It’s a shift from “more is more” to “less but better."

How do you adapt this minimal look for brides coming from diverse cultural backgrounds and personal styles?

Every bride’s idea of ‘minimal’ is different. For some, it’s barely-there makeup, while for others, it’s simply a softer take on their cultural norms. I begin by understanding the bride’s heritage, outfit, jewellery, and the mood of the ceremony. For example, a South Indian bride may want a classic kohl-rimmed eye, while a Sikh bride might prefer pastel tones to complement her Anand Karaj ensemble. My role is to bring balance—honouring traditions while ensuring the bride still feels like herself. 

What are your key techniques and the products you swear by for achieving this minimal look?

For me, it’s all about perfecting the base without weighing it down. I focus on thorough skin prep first, then apply thin layers of foundation or skin tints, building coverage only where needed. Cream products are essential for that skin-like finish—cream blushes, soft highlighters, and contour that subtly sculpts rather than reshapes the face. I also like to use finely milled powder only on the T-zone to keep the glow intact.

Is there a specific skin prep routine brides should follow to achieve a flawless yet minimal look on their big day?

Absolutely. Minimal make-up relies heavily on the skin’s natural radiance, so consistent skincare in the months leading up to the wedding is key. I recommend regular cleansing, gentle exfoliation and deep hydration. Facials tailored to the bride’s skin type can work wonders, but nothing beats at-home care—drinking plenty of water, eating balanced meals and applying SPF daily.

During the week before the wedding, avoid experimenting with new products to prevent irritation. On the big day, I always give my brides a thorough prep with hydrating masks, serums and a soothing massage to ensure the make-up sits beautifully.

What advice would you give to upcoming brides who wish to embrace the minimalist makeup look for their wedding day?

Don’t confuse minimal with simple; it’s a highly considered look. The key is to enhance your features in a way that feels effortless but is carefully thought out. Trust your artist’s eye, and invest in your skincare well in advance of the wedding. Most importantly, choose a look that makes you feel both confident and comfortable. 

While working with different celebrity clients, how do you ensure each look feels unique yet still recognisably yours?

I think my signature lies in creating makeup that feels lived-in and believable, skin that looks like skin, eyes that hold expression, and lips that enhance rather than overpower. For every client, I study their face shape, natural colouring, and personal style before building the look. The uniqueness comes from tailoring the palette, textures, and accents to them; the recognisability comes from balance and subtlety. Whether it’s a celebrity or a bride, my goal is always for people to notice her, not just the makeup.