From Dubai to Chandigarh: The Makeup Trends I Learned from AOFM

The moment I decided to turn my passion for makeup into a profession, I knew I wanted to learn from the best.That journey led me to Dubai — a city that breathes fashion, artistry, and luxury — and to the Academy of Freelance Makeup (AOFM), where I honed my craft among some of the world’s most talented artists.

What I discovered there went far beyond brushes and products. It was about mastering a new philosophy of bridal beauty — one that blends flawless technique with individuality. Now, I bring those international trends and techniques back to India, creating looks that feel global, yet perfectly suited for the modern Indian bride.

Trend 1: The ‘Glass Skin’ Glow — Re-imagined for Indian Brides

“Glass Skin” — that dewy, luminous, almost translucent glow — is a signature look in Dubai. Brides there love that radiant, high-fashion finish that still feels soft and ethereal.

The Dubai Technique:

In Dubai, the look is achieved through illuminating primers, lightweight, skin-like foundations, and liquid highlighters layered strategically to create a natural sheen — not a shimmer.

My Adaptation for Indian Weddings:

Of course, our Indian climate brings its own challenges — heat, humidity, and long celebrations that last well into the night or maybe next morning! That’s where my experience comes in:

• Balancing Primers: I use a mattifying primer in the T-zone and an illuminating one only on the high points of the face, keeping the glow under control.

• Hybrid Formulas: I rely on long-wear, transfer-resistant foundations that stay flawless yet radiant.

• Lock It In: A powerful setting spray ensures your glow stays fresh from the pheras to the dance floor.
  

The result is a soft, luminous complexion that feels light, photographs beautifully, and lasts through every emotion of your big day.

Trend 2: Soft Brows for a Modern, Effortless Look

Brows have evolved — and I love it. Gone are the days of heavily sculpted, ultra-defined arches. Today’s trend is all about soft, feathered brows that look natural and elegant.

The Dubai Technique:

In Dubai, artists enhance the natural shape using fine, hair-like strokes, then set them with a clear or tinted brow gel. The focus is on structure without harshness.

My Adaptation for Indian Brides:

This look works beautifully for Indian weddings — it keeps your expression open and youthful, complementing the richness of bridal jewellery and detailed lehngas without overpowering them. It’s timeless, graceful, and pairs perfectly with both bold eyes and classic bridal tones.

Trend 3: Modern Metallics — The Subtle Touch of Luxury

Metallics are having a major bridal moment — but it’s all about balance. Dubai’s signature glam often features soft shimmers and metallic accents that catch the light beautifully, not chunky glitter particles stealing the spotlight.

The Dubai Technique:

Makeup artists there love using rose golds, bronzes, and champagne tones, applied precisely — a pop in the inner corners, a sweep on the centre of the lid, or a thin metallic liner for that luxury finish.

My Adaptation for Indian Weddings:

For my brides, I use this technique to add dimension and glow while keeping the look refined.A touch of shimmer enhances your eyes in both daylight and candlelight — stunning for photography.Pair it with a rich, bold lip (a timeless Indian bridal signature), and you have a look that’s sophisticated, modern, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Blending Global Trends with Indian Elegance

My international training taught me that great makeup isn’t about following trends — it’s about understanding them and making them your own. By blending Dubai’s luxury techniques with India’s vibrant bridal culture, I create looks that are as unique as the brides I work with — elegant, long-lasting, and truly personal.

"Your wedding is your story — and your look should reflect that."

Ready to Create Your Global-Inspired Bridal Look?

If you’re planning your wedding — whether it’s a royal celebration in India or a destination affair. I’d love to bring your bridal vision to life. Book your bridal consultation here.

Your destination wedding is your canvas, and I’m here to make your bridal dream glow — wherever you are in the world. FAQs : Destination & Bridal Makeup

Q1. What makes your bridal makeup style different from others? A: My approach blends international artistry with Indian sensibilities. I trained at the Academy of Freelance Makeup (AOFM) in Dubai, where I learned modern global techniques — and now I adapt them to suit Indian skin tones, weather, and bridal traditions. Every look I create is elegant, lasting, and uniquely personal.

Q2. Do you offer makeup services for destination weddings outside India? A: Absolutely! I travel for weddings across Italy, France, Norway, Sweden, Australia, and other dream destinations. My kit and techniques are designed for different climates, so your makeup looks flawless no matter where you celebrate.

Q3. I love heavy bridal looks — can you still do that style? A: Of course! My goal isn’t to change your style, but to refine it. Whether you want a soft, radiant look or a full-glam bridal moment, I’ll customize it to suit your features, outfit, and comfort while keeping it timeless and photo-ready.

Q4. Can I see real, unedited photos of your bridal work? A: Yes — transparency is key for me. I always share real, unfiltered images and client photos so you can see how the makeup looks in natural light and real settings, not just under studio lighting.

Q5. How far in advance should I book you for my wedding? A: For destination weddings, I recommend booking 3–6 months in advance to ensure travel and schedule availability. For local weddings in India, 2–3 months ahead usually works well — but earlier is always better during peak season!

Q6. Do you do makeup trials before the wedding? Yes, I offer bridal trials so we can test products, shades, and styles together. This ensures that your final wedding look feels comfortable, confident, and completely “you.”

Q8. What products do you use for bridal makeup? I use a mix of high-end international brands that perform beautifully in both HD photography and real-life settings — brands like Dior, NARS, Charlotte Tilbury, and Mac. Every product in my kit is chosen for quality, longevity, and skin compatibility.

Q9. Do you provide hair styling or work with a team? Yes — depending on your location and needs, I can do the hair-styling on my own ,bring my own trusted hairstyling team or coordinate seamlessly with your preferred artists to ensure a cohesive bridal look. Q10:How can I get in touch? A: You can drop me an email on contact@makeupbytanyathakur.in & I will get in touch with you within 48 hours.  I’ll be happy to discuss your wedding destination, theme, and dream bridal look in detail before we lock in your dates.