When Kate Middleton walked down the aisle of Westminster Abbey in 2011, she stunned the world not just with her Alexander McQueen gown, but with her radiant makeup look – which she famously applied herself. After taking private lessons from makeup artist Hannah Martin, the future Princess of Wales created a timeless beauty look that continues to inspire brides worldwide.

Start with perfect skin preparation

Begin by applying a hydrating toner followed by a lightweight moisturizer to create the perfect canvas. Once your skincare has settled, apply a medium-coverage foundation with a natural finish. The key is building thin layers rather than applying one thick coat. Use a makeup sponge to press the product into your skin for a seamless finish.

Under the eyes, use a light-reflecting concealer to brighten and perfect. Set everything with a translucent powder, focusing on the T-zone while leaving the cheeks with a natural glow.

Create the signature smokey eye

Kate’s eye makeup balanced sophistication with romance. Start by sweeping an ivory eyeshadow across the entire lid as a base. Take a matte gray shadow and blend it into the crease, building the intensity gradually. Use a medium gray shade along the lash line, softly smoking it out.

Line your upper and lower lash lines with a dark gray or black gel liner, then add white eyeliner to your waterline to make your eyes appear larger. Finish with two coats of waterproof mascara, focusing on the outer corners for a subtle cat-eye effect.

Perfect the rosy flush

The Duchess achieved her naturally flushed look with a muted rose-pink blush. Apply the color to the apples of your cheeks, blending upward toward your temples. Layer a subtle highlighter on the high points of your cheekbones for that royal radiance.

To maintain the fresh-faced effect throughout the day, keep a setting spray handy for quick touch-ups.

Define your brows naturally

Kate’s brows were polished yet natural. Use a brow powder to fill in any sparse areas, following your natural arch. Brush through with a spoolie to soften any harsh lines, then set with a clear brow gel to keep everything in place throughout the celebrations.

Complete with the perfect pink lip

For the finishing touch, apply a medium-toned pink lipstick with a satin finish. Start by lining your lips with a neutral pink liner, then fill in with your chosen shade. Add a touch of clear gloss to the center of your lips for dimension, but keep it subtle – you want your lips to look naturally plump, not overly glossy.

The beauty of Kate’s wedding makeup lies in its timeless elegance and achievability. By focusing on enhancing your natural features rather than masking them, you’ll create a look that’s both photogenic and lasting – perfect for your own special day.