The Meghan Markle Makeup Debate

meghan markle makeup

The Royal Wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle naturally sent the internet ablaze. Finally – the world’s collective curiosity could be satisfied! The dress, his outfit, the kiss.. All would be revealed.

Social media went into a frenzy – sharing first glimpses, that breathtaking entrance – and just about everyone had commentary to share on the lively delivery from the preacher inside the chapel.

But what I don’t think anyone would have predicted was the amount of divisive internet chatter on the topic of the Duchess of Sussex’s hair and makeup!

WHY WASN’T SHE WEARING ANY?? 

To many, it seemed almost crazy that Meghan would opt to walk down the aisle to marry her prince (in front of billions of people) sporting the “natural look”. Wasn’t this the one occasion to dial things up a notch?

While some called it sloppy, others cheered. Meghan for President!

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Meghan presented a fresh and unexpected alternative to the ‘plastic’ makeup look that has now become the norm in society. A fake-it-till-you-make-it Hollywood-inspired beauty trend where makeup application has become the ultimate form of self-expression and self-creation.

Rather than conceal and contour her way into airbrushed perfection, Meghan allowed her freckles, loose strands, and natural glow to steal the show. Beyond the issues of status, politics and race, it was her defiance of these makeup norms that seemed to get people chattering the most! 

Whichever side of the Meghan makeup fence you are on, one thing is for sure, her decision to throw the heavy contour, the bake, and fakery to the side was a statement. In my mind, Meghan was saying “this is me”. She didn’t want to try and be somebody else – she just wanted to be the best version of herself. For herself, for Harry, and outwardly to the world.

We’re wondering – will Meghan’s ‘controversial’ makeup look herald a new era of makeup? Not only for brides but for everyone? Are we collectively growing tired of cake-face and contour? We will wait to find out.

In the meantime, if Meghan has inspired you to be the best version of YOU, keep reading. 

Leading hair and makeup artists Melissa Hope, Brea Mulder and Nicole Hill explain how to successfully achieve the less-is-more mood for your wedding.

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Melissa Hope:

“As a bridal hair and makeup artist, I feel my job is to help you look and feel like the prettiest version of you. Whether your personal style is geared towards glamour or you are more natural, I feel it is important to still look like you. So that you still look familiar to your partner as your walk down the aisle, but just with that breathtaking WOW factor on top.

I love the message that Meghan Markle conveyed with her paired back makeup and classic chignon. Her flawless and sheer foundation proudly bellowed that Prince Harry loves her for her, freckles and all.

It embodied confidence in which I truly believe defines the word beautiful. And the chignon which is a timeless and elegant hairstyle was perfect with the veil and her classic style of dress. I even loved that controversial “stray hair” which in my eyes kept her real and slightly vulnerable.”

Melissa’s tips for being naturally flawless – 

1) Concentrate on one detail with your makeup. If it’s a bold lip, then simplify the eyes and vice versa.

2) If your hair is dark and you’d like to see the detail of your upstyle or waves, subtle highlights that are one or two shades lighter than your hair colour works wonders if showing the movement involved in your style.

3) A hair and makeup trial is vital for so many reasons: – It gives you a chance to build a rapport with your hair and makeup artist so that you feel comfortable on the wedding day. It’s one thing to think you know what you want, but once you see it you might love it or you might not be so sure. A trial gives you the opportunity to explore this and along with the help of your hair and makeup artist you can decide what will be perfect for you on your big day. 

4) Don’t be afraid to accessorise. There are few occasions that really allow you dress up. A bit of bling in your hair looks gorgeous and can really jazz up your hairstyle. And it’s so pretty and feminine.

Melissa Hope Website + Instagram

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