Runway 2008 Hair and Makeup Trends that Are Perfect for Your Wedding Day

Fall is a beautiful time to get married: the weather's not too hot and not too cold; the scenery abounds with gorgeous colors from Mother Nature. And let's not forget the clothes! The makeup! The hair! No other season makes me so excited to live in Chicago as autumn, and this year is no exception.

Hair: Side ponytails and loose chignons are all the rage this season. Soft, bohemian styles are replacing traditional coifs and perfect updos that have ruled spring and summer. Romantic tendrils, haphazard buns and carefree curls make the fall bride an instant classic. Another hot trend is long, flowing locks. Many brides are forgoing an updo in favor of volume, and nothing looks more luscious than thick, gorgeous hair in soft waves under a soft white veil of tulle. Not using a veil? Add some decadence with crystal accents that catch the waning sunlight while you dance with your new husband. Sprinkle pearls through your do for a contemporary twist on a classic trend.

Makeup: As a wedding planner, nothing makes me cringe more than when a bride tells me she's doing her own makeup. Not that my brides can't, but wedding makeup is different from everyday makeup. You're not wearing an everyday dress, ladies, so why use your everyday makeup look? Top trends from the fashion capitals of the world are bold red lips on a soft, neutral face or big, smoky eyes with nude lips. For wedding makeup, first assess what you can and cannot tolerate. You don't want to drastically change your look for your wedding day because you won't feel comfortable. When working with a makeup artist, try different looks and see which one best expresses your own natural beauty. A good makeup artist will not only work with you on your wedding day look, but will know what works best with your features. Runway looks, while very dramatic, can easily be manipulated to work for a wedding day look. A formal wedding would be the ideal forum for a soft natural eye with glowing pink cheeks and lovely, deep red lips. This look is so classic but works only on brides who have the confidence to pull it off. Red lips are not for everyone.

Another great look is the alternate smoky eye. This look doesn't have to be just greys and blacks. Incorporate some color to enhance your eyes' natural beauty and watch them jump off the pages of your photo album in years to come. Purples and mauves work best on brunette beauties with hazel or brown eyes. Browns and greens are great for lighter eyes. Add depth and drama to your eyes with espresso browns, dark greens or purple/greys. Line the outer corners of your bottom lashes with a black or dark brown liner to enhance the look and draw the eye out. For large eyes, line the lower lashes completely, enclosing the eye and creating a softer look.

Whichever look you decide on, remember your pictures will last forever. Go with a look that transcends time. You want your daughters to swoon with romantic longing, not die of laughter.