5 Bridal Hair and Makeup Tips for Outdoor Summer Weddings

Look your best with these tips for NYC summer brides.

There’s something truly magical about a summer wedding in New York City. The sunshine, fresh blooms, and golden-hour photo opportunities can all feel like something out of a dream.

But for brides, summer also brings its own set of beauty challenges: humidity, heat, sweat, and wind are not always a makeup or hairstyle’s best friend. If you’re planning an outdoor summer wedding, you want to ensure your hair and makeup look flawless from the first step down the aisle until the last dance of the night.

At Warren Tricomi, we’ve worked with countless brides who dreamed of a timeless, elegant look that could stand up to unpredictable summer weather. With our expertise, we’ve curated a list of five essential bridal hair and makeup tips to help you look stunning and feel confident all day long.

1. Opt for a natural, dewy makeup look

Summer is the season of lightness, and your bridal makeup should reflect that. Heavy foundations and thick layers of product can feel uncomfortable under the sun and often break down faster in the heat. Instead, the goal is to create a fresh, glowing look that enhances your natural beauty.

Start with a lightweight, long-wear foundation or a tinted moisturizer with SPF. This will give you coverage while still allowing your skin to breathe. Add a touch of cream blush for a radiant flush that looks natural on camera and in person. Neutral eyeshadows in soft taupes, bronzes, or champagne tones are universally flattering and won’t overpower your look. A thin swipe of waterproof mascara will help define your eyes without worrying about smudging.

To finish the look, go for lips that are soft yet defined: think rosy pinks, corals, or even a nude gloss depending on your skin tone and dress style. The goal is to look like yourself – just the most radiant version possible.

2. Use a primer to help your makeup stay put

Think of primer as your wedding day insurance policy. While your ceremony and reception may only last a few hours, your photos and videos will last a lifetime. The last thing you want is to worry about your makeup melting off halfway through your vows.

A primer creates a smooth base for your makeup while ensuring longevity. For brides with oily or combination skin, a mattifying primer helps control shine in the T-zone, which is especially important when outdoor temperatures rise. For dry skin, a hydrating primer keeps your makeup looking fresh and prevents it from clinging to dry patches.

Don’t forget an eyeshadow primer, too. This will help prevent creasing, especially if you’re outdoors all day. With the right primer, your foundation, blush, and eye makeup will stay flawless through humidity, laughter, and even a few happy tears.

3. Choose a hairstyle that can withstand the heat and humidity

When it comes to summer bridal hairstyles, functionality meets fashion. The combination of humidity and heat can cause even the most carefully styled hair to frizz, flatten, or lose shape. That’s why it’s essential to pick a style that’s both elegant and weather-proof.

Updos are a classic choice for summer brides because they keep hair off your neck and shoulders while maintaining a polished appearance. A sleek, low bun or chignon is timeless and sophisticated, while a loose, tousled updo offers a romantic, effortless vibe that photographs beautifully.

If you prefer wearing your hair down, consider soft waves with texturizing spray to maintain volume and structure even if the air is humid. Shorter-haired brides can shine with chic textured bobs or layered pixie cuts that hold their shape without too much upkeep.

No matter your style, the key is prep. Your stylist will likely use anti-humidity products, smoothing serums, and long-hold hairspray to ensure your look stays intact as you move from the ceremony to dancing the night away.

4. Use hair accessories to add some flair to your hairstyle

Summer weddings are the perfect time to add a touch of personality and flair with hair accessories. These not only enhance your hairstyle but also add a layer of security to keep hair in place.

For a whimsical, romantic look, consider fresh flowers or delicate floral clips that echo your bouquet. If you want timeless elegance, a tiara or crystal headpiece can create a regal effect without overwhelming your overall look. Brides going for a bohemian or playful vibe might choose a pearl-studded headband, jeweled pins, or a silk scarf woven into braids.

When selecting accessories, always keep your gown in mind. A minimalist dress may pair beautifully with a bold accessory, while an intricately beaded gown might call for something more delicate. The key is balance. You want your accessories to complement, not compete with your overall bridal style.

5. Pack some essential hair and makeup products

Even with the best preparation, the reality of an outdoor summer wedding means touch-ups are inevitable. Having a small beauty kit on hand will help you stay fresh and confident throughout the day.

Here are some must-have items:

• Blotting papers to quickly absorb oil without disrupting your makeup.
• Travel-sized setting spray to revive your look and lock makeup back in place.
• Mini hairspray to keep stray hairs from escaping, especially during windy rooftop receptions.
• Lipstick or gloss for reapplying after eating, drinking, or kissing your new spouse.
• Bobby pins and hair ties in case you need to secure your style during dancing.

Designate a bridesmaid or maid of honor to hold your beauty essentials so you don’t have to carry them around. That way, you can focus on the moment without worrying about shine or flyaways sneaking into your photos.

Warren Tricomi’s bridal hair and makeup services are just a click away!

An outdoor summer wedding in New York City is a dream come true. But for brides, balancing style with practicality is key. At Warren Tricomi, we believe every bride deserves to look radiant, confident, and camera-ready no matter the weather. With these tips and the support of our expert bridal team, you’ll not only withstand the summer heat – you’ll shine brighter than the New York sun itself.

Our bridal hair and makeup services begin with a complimentary 15-minute hair and makeup consultation where we’ll discuss your goals, show you different styles, and recommend the best look to achieve your desired outcome. Simply head online using our online booking portal or mobile app to schedule your appointment at any of our locations.

Learn more about what to expect when visiting a salon like Warren Tricomi on our blog.