WELCOME TO THE REST OF YOUR LIFE

The wedding has finally come to an end. The day that you have dreamed of ever since you were a little girl has been perfectly executed right down to the last detail. 

Rise and shine 

You looked like a vision of bridal beauty, the décor was exquisite, and the food was scrumptious.

You bid a tearful adieu to your family and embarked on a wonderful new journey with your significant other.

After a wedding day of your dreams, it is only fitting that you start the first day of the rest of your life on the right note!

The day after the wedding is often overlooked by many, but it quite important. After stressing over wedding preparations, the event itself is sometimes a surreal experience. So, it is only on the next day when brides get to have a restful night of sleep and wake up feeling fresh and energised.

Also, waking up as a newlywed bride is a special experience; a once in a lifetime feeling when she radiates a redolent aura of conjugal bliss. And as they say, you only get one chance at making a first impressions, even more so in a new household full of unfamiliar faces!

A day as special as this begets an exceptional way of dressing. While brides are expected to look a certain way for all wedding-related events, which usually involves professionally done makeup, fancy outfits and jewellery, the day after however is not so.

Every bride worth her stilettos is aware that nailing the day after look requires a bit of forward planning. Consider the itinerary of the day and plan ahead. Many brides overlook this crucial day and arrive at their new home completely unprepared. 

Usually the bride's family sends over breakfast on the morning after the wedding, which is then shared by the groom's family and the relatives invited especially for the occasion. A light sari in a sweet colour is the ideal choice of attire . It may be very tempting to slip in your well-worn, comfy sweats but today, give it a miss.

A shalwar kameez is another option. Simplicity is the name of the game in the morning. After spending hours wearing heavy makeup the night before, let your skin breathe and your bridal glow shine through. Keep makeup to a minimal, but make it effective. Ditch the contour kit and fake lashes. A light layer of illuminating foundation, some 'kajol', flushed cheeks and a swipe of a bright lip colour is all you need. Let your freshly-washed hair loose and choose simple, light jewellery.

Family heirlooms are perfect for this day. Comfortable footwear is essential. Walking about the house in high heels is neither practical nor stylish, so a pair of low to medium heels is recommended. Spritz on some floral perfume, put on some glass bangles and may be a tinkling silver anklet!

After enjoying a sweet day with your new family, it is time to consider evening plans. Relatives and friends are likely to drop by throughout the day, especially during night-time. In many families, there is a tradition of welcoming the new bride with sweet treats such as pitha, payesh and other delicacies, which are lovingly prepared by the womenfolk of the groom's family.

Needless to say, such a special occasion deserves an outfit change. This time, one can go for slightly heavier, rich saris such as katan or even embellished numbers. Choose a flattering, bright colour such as pink, orange or green. All the relatives and friends dropping by expect to meet and greet the bride so step up the make up a notch.

Bright lips paired with beautifully done eyes are perfect. Switch to slightly heavier jewellery; a tikli will look beautiful and complete the bridal look. Add some fresh flowers in your hair and charm all around! 

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Model: Mysha, Abdullah Al Mahfuz

Wardrobe: Artistic Couture

Jewellery: Sparkle

Makeup: Farzana Shakil's Makeover Salon

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha