Beauty Inspiration for the Daring Bride

Milky cream and pale ivory are classic bridal colors, but there's always room for change, even within a sacred ceremony like a wedding. Fortunately, many fashion designers are letting go of old artistic convictions in favor of experimentation with shape, color and form. No longer held to the rigid constraints of white, a contemporary bride can choose from a diverse assortment of non-traditional alternatives—think structured silhouettes in shades of scarlet and vermillion to lush, textured textiles. Furthermore, if a bride isn’t keen on convention in general, who is to dictate hair and makeup choices? Inspired by the trailblazing favorites chosen from New York's 2013 season wedding fashion, we cordially invite you to rethink the way you envision bridal beauty.

Accessories can make or break a bride’s look, and occasionally the drama of a veil just isn’t enough. A fascinator can turn gimmicky without proper styling (hello Princess Beatrice!), but a luxe headpiece adds a royal touch to an outfit. Carolina Herrera’s lace floral accessory (left) is the quintessential crowning glory, while Douglas Hannant’s diaphanous eye-gazer (center) effortlessly balances the patterned chinoiserie below.

LEFT: Carolina Herrera 2013 Bridal Collection (Photo by George Chinsee/WWD), RIGHT: Douglas Hannant 2013 Bridal Collection (Photo by Thomas Iannaccone/WWD)

When it comes to this season's ceremonious runway, Vera Wang stole the show with a collection of dramatic, opulent gowns in varying shades of vermillion, cerise, coral, wine, and maroon. Perhaps our favorite aspect of her styling was the no-fuss approach to the hair and makeup. When choosing such a statement-making gown, it’s important to opt for a sculpted, yet nude beauty palette for a modern take on dark romance.

LEFT, RIGHT: Vera Wang 2013 Bridal Collection (Photos by Dan Lecca)

It seems the early 20th century isn't enough of a vintage feel for some designers this season, who reached back to the medieval era for design cues. Oscar de la Renta's crushed maroon velvet gown (center) looks the part of a gorgeous peasant girl, while Romona Keveza’s slinky silver skimmers (left, right) remind us of knights in chain mail. And the bottom line for locks? Whether curled and topped with a crown of blossoms or slicked back to perfection, the hairstyle should mirror and complement the aesthetic of the design.

LEFT, RIGHT: Romona Keveza 2013 Bridal Collection (Photos by John Aquino/WWD), CENTER: Oscar de la Renta 2013 Bridal Collection (Photos by John Aquino/WWD)