When it comes to wedding makeup, bold is back—and it’s here to stay. In a world where self-expression reigns supreme, brides are ditching the traditional and embracing colour, confidence, and creativity. Enter Kate McCleary, a Melbourne based hair and makeup artist with an eye for fearless beauty. From vibrant pops of colour to unexpected touches of glitter, Kate shares her insights on how modern brides can create a wedding look that’s unapologetically them. Whether you’re drawn to playful hues, subtle accents, or a full-on statement look, this interview with Kate is packed with expert tips to help you shine on your big day! It’s bright, bold, and unapologetically you on Polka Dot Wisdom today!

Photography by Madeline Kate 

What are some of the bold makeup styles you’re seeing right now?

Makeup is really moving into some fun and expressive places in recent times. From really cool pops of colour on the eye to coloured graphic liner and glitter accents on that inner corner of the eye. Even different shades of fun blush are really allowing clients to have fun with their looks. I recently did a black winged liner but drew a really delicate lavender line running underneath that outer wing and then pressed glitter over the top. So subtle but so fun!

Photography by Miranda Stokkel 

How can a bride choose colours that reflect her personality?

It’s about choosing the colour and look which will bring you joy, not necessarily about reinventing the wheel. If you love peach, go for it! If you always wear warm reds then reach for that beautiful lipstick. If you love all colours and are having a hard time choosing, have a chat to your makeup artist about how to utilise the colour wheel to really make your eyes pop. This is a foolproof approach to incorporating some colour into your Makeup look and really working with your features.

Photography by Mrs White Photos

What role do accessories and attire play in choosing a makeup look?

Such a big part! Details are everything and the thoughtful and intricate elements are what makes the final look come together. I love seeing playful

References to the clients colour palette for the day.  From their soft pink veil to the gorgeous shades of pink their florist has used. Or weddings where it’s a colour explosion and the bride has cornflower blue shoes, red lipstick and a statement hair accessory. Accessories are a playful way to push the look as far as you want to go. They provide a chance to really create harmony in your chosen colours or throw caution to the wind and do whatever makes you happy.

Photography by Miranda Stokkel 

How can makeup artists help their couples feel confident about trying colour?

By remembering it doesn’t need to be overt or in your face to be effective and fun. Are you referencing your pink wedding dress with baby pink blush or a contrasting warm red lip? Or Perhaps you are wearing green velvet heels and want to trade your black eyeliner for a rich green one to reference. Maybe you are embracing a touch of blue through your styling and use of blue hydrangeas in your bouquet and want to team your classic look with a touch of blue eyeshadow or blue eyeliner instead of black. Booking a trial with your Makeup artist is really key as it gives you a chance to talk everything through and to trial those key products

Photography by Smith + Archer 

Do you have any advice for brides who prefer a minimalist approach but still want a hint of colour?

Don’t forget about your nails! Nail colours are such a fun and wearable way to incorporate some colour into your look. A coloured french is a really modern and playful way to show your personality whilst still feeling like yourself.

Photography by Madeline Kate 

What’s one piece of advice you would give brides about embracing bold makeup?

Be true to yourself and do what makes your heart sing! Your look is designed just for you so make sure you love what you see in the mirror. There are no rules!

About the Author: As a vegan, animal lover and a committed advocate for our environment and sustainability, Kate passionately incorporates all of these values into her hair and makeup work. With over 14 years experience, Kate McCleary is a highly sought after hair and makeup artist, known for her modern and fresh style. Kate has a flair for colour and design with each look tailored to reflect each client. Behind the scenes, Kate is a cat enthusiast, queer loving avid gardener who is passionate about punctuality and always first on the D floor.

A huge thank you to Kate McCleary for sharing her expert insights and inspiring us to embrace bold, joyful beauty on our wedding day! Her tips are the perfect way to round out Dopamine Issue, celebrating the power of colour, confidence, and self-expression.