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Go for the Gold with Bronzers

Fall Weddings

Go for the Gold with Bronzers

We put these faux glow products to the test to help you "naturally" shimmer at your wedding

No matter what your complexion, there's no denying that sun-kissed skin with a healthy glow is the way to go on your wedding day. But if you're planning a fall wedding, just how are you supposed to make those summer rays last through the season?

Eschew the tanning beds and try these faux glow options. The Brides.com team (and a few of our friends!) tested the season's newest bronzers and tanners to see which will make you a beaming bride (all season long)!

Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Bronzing Powder

I have been looking for a great everyday bronzer for a while, so I was really glad when I came across this product from Elizabeth Arden. It gives you a great natural day look (sans sparkles) that isn't orange-y or fake. You can use it every day on your cheeks, neck and chest to get a little hint of a summer glow.—Cari Wolfert, Associate Editor

Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Bronzing Powder, $32, elizabetharden.com

Clinique Almost Bronzer SPF 15 light/medium

The little bronze case, the flip top tray that stashes the just-right size brush, and the two-tone powder leads to fool-proof application for day-long facial glow. No blotches, no uneven color. And even if there were, do not underestimate the luxury of knowing you can wipe it all off and have a do-over if necessary.—Michelle Preli, Editor-in-Chief

Clinique Almost Bronzer SPF 15, $29, clinique.com

Clarins Delicious Self-Tanning Cream

You'll love this product's great scent and its easy application. Apply it extra-evenly to ensure you don't have lines, and give yourself some time before dressing, otherwise it will get all over your dress. Try it out with a thin coat of the cream first to see how your skin will take the product. If you want more of a tan, apply it thicker next time.—Cari Wolfert, Associate Editor

Clarins Delicious Self-Tanning Cream, $42, clarins.com

Scott Barnes Body Bling

Anything with bling is sure to get my attention, so I was certain that I'd enjoy testing Scott Barnes' Body Bling. (That, and the fact that he's Jennifer Lopez's go-to makeup artist.) The shimmery bronzer did not disappoint. I applied a bit to my arms and shoulders before a night out in an off-the-shoulder top and received plenty of compliments on my "glow." Whether it's the for your bachelorette party or your big day, a little bling on your décolletage will give you enviable sparkle.—Elayne Fluker, Managing Editor

Scott Barnes Body Bling, Original or Platinum, $38 each, skinterra.com

Lancôme Tropique Minérale Smoothing Loose Bronzer

This shade went on light with just a little bit of sparkle. It's great for brides who want a subtle, sun-kissed look that doesn't scream "fake tan."—Kathryn Papanek, Editorial Assistant

Lancôme Tropique Minérale Smoothing Loose Bronzer, $39, lancome-usa.com

Lancaster Beauty Variations Illuminating Compact Powder

The idea of this stridated compact is a good one—it enables you to carry just one compact for blush and bronzer touch-ups. The powder is fine and soft, and the mirror is a plus. However, use a smaller head makeup brush with this compact or you could easily mix the much darker bronzer with the pink blush and have a muddy mess on your cheekbones.—Tanya Steel, Editor-in-Chief, Epicurious.com

Lancaster Beauty Variations Illuminating Compact Powder, $38, bloomingdales.com

gloGolden Bronzing Stick

I should admit that I'm a foundation/bronzer rookie—smearing what felt like thick lipstick on my face felt a little foreign at first. What I did like about gloGolden Bronzing Stick was the oh-so-subtle shimmer. I would recommend applying it for a night out with the girls—it looks great in soft lighting. Use it on your wedding day to dress up your décolletage and add a pretty shimmer to your deep-v; but watch out for your hubby's white collar when he comes in for the kiss—it tends to rub off easily.—Brie Schwartz, Executive Assistant

Glo Golden Bronzing Stick, $22, gloskincare.com

24.7 Skincare Anti-Aging Mineral Foundation

This is actually one of my mom's favorite brands! The suggested method for application made me a little nervous about spilling or wasting the product (they say to shake some in the cap of the jar and then swirl a brush around before you sweep it on your skin). I think it's best to sprinkle a little at time and apply as you go. If you're looking for a more noticeable tanned look, try a deeper shade for gorgeous results.—Kathryn Papanek, Editorial Assistant

24.7 Skincare Anti-Aging Mineral Foundation, $16, cvs.com

Smashbox Bronze Lights

If you are looking for a long lasting matte bronzer, look no further than Smashbox's Bronze Lights. The lightweight formula creates an easy-to-wear look that will give you a natural glow as you walk down the aisle, and it also includes antioxidants that fight off free radicals.—Cari Wolfert, Associate Editor

Smashbox Bronze Lights, $28, smashbox.com

DuWop Revolotion Bronzing Moisturizer

This odorless bronzer isn't streaky or greasy (a big plus!); but if you're not careful to really muscle it in, you're going to appear bruised (which I guess beats looking orange). But after you've rubbed the moisturizer in fully, you'll have a nice, natural-looking tan. A hint: Be sure to test it first so that you chose one that's the right tone for you.—Brie Schwartz, Executive Assistant

DuWop Revolotion Bronzing Moisturizer, $28, duwop.com

[ more Fall Weddings features ]

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   Dance the night away in gold-colored shoes
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   Exchange vows with a white, yellow or rose gold wedding band

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   A wedding in the Golden State
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Bridal Beauty
Top off your look with a gold-colored headpiece
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The Gold Standard
Book your wedding at one of these historic locations
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Gold Record
   Romantic and playful first kiss and processional songs
   Get the party started with one of these tunes
   Songs you don't want to hear at your wedding
   Great songs to end the night

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