HAIR GURU IN THE MAKING

FROM BEING A STUDENT OF INDUSTRY VETERANS TO BECOMING A TRAINER HERSELF; FROM BEING JUDGED AT THE WORLD SKILLS COMPETITION TO BEING A JURY MEMBER HERSELF - THAT’S THE AWE-INSPIRING JOURNEY OF NIKISHA BHATIA, HAIR AND MAKEUP PROFESSIONAL, AND CONSULTANT AND ARTISTIC AMBASSADOR. PRIYANKA PARSHURAMI CHARTS HER CAREER PATH AS PART OF OUR YOUNG GUNS SERIES.

Nikisha Bhatia, a third-generation make-up and hair professional, is currently helming the family legacy in the beauty industry by creating inspirational looks that transcend time and trends. Her charismatic personality and go-getter attitude has led her to don many hats, one of which is that of an educator. Not only does she impart technical knowledge about hair and make-up to her students, she also brings to the table her own learning from the vast exposure that she has received at national and international competitions such as WorldSkills and OMC where she has represented the country in many foreign lands. From bagging brand collaborations to winning pan-India competitions, from working on clients to curating looks at fashion weeks, from delivering over 300 seminars and 100+ masterclasses to designing IPs; Bhatia has done it all.

Ahead of the wedding season, she has curated the Modern Bridal Collection. In an exclusive interview with Professional Beauty x Hairdressers Journal, she tells us about the muse behind her latest work and the milestones she aspires to achieve.

DECODING THE CONTEMPORARY INDIAN BRIDE

“Modern bridal make-up and hairstyling for me is effortless and strongly based on individuality. The one thing that I definitely believe is to ensure that while expressing our artistry and craft, we keep the actual personality of the bride intact, instead of changing her appearance through your magic wand of make-up/hair. A modern bride needs to look effortlessly put together. Her look depicts her lifestyle and her thought process. And most importantly, through our art we need to communicate how comfortable she is in her own skin and style.”

GETTING INSPIRED BY MODERN FEMININITY

“Artists generally ride high on their imagination and thoughts. However, what inspired me to curate this collection are the statements that modern brides are making through their choices of make-up, hairdos and outfits. Indian women have started listening to their inner voices and want to retain their original personalities even throughout their wedding rituals. So, individuality, personalisation and the ‘I am my own self’ attitude of today’s bride inspired me to create this collection. It’s a tasteful fusion of tradition and modernity!”

ENCHANTED VERMILION

“It’s a complete bunch of roses put together in a beautiful bun – very extravagant. The contemporary Indian bride opts for hairstyles that range from classic buns adorned with fresh flowers to chic, modern updos and even soft waves. This look depicts a strong and powerful personality yet maintains the delicate sweetness of the bride. We have covered more than half her hair with flowers, making it look rich and elegant. So Indian! As I often say -Not less, only more, but with a touch of tasteful elegance.”

INHERENTLY INDIAN

“This look depicts the gorgeous Indian bride. We have used a lot of bronzer, which is different from the rosy and peachy soft blushes. We kept it classic to show a powerful look that’s not disturbed by too many colors, maintaining the sheerness & glow of her golden-brown skin. So yes, ‘Inherently Indian’ is a modern bride with a dusky skin tone.”