Where Craft Meets Legacy; Defining Pakistani Beauty for Over Four Decades

Few names in Pakistan’s beauty industry carry the kind of legacy, trust, and artistic authority that Nighat Misbah does. As the Director and Creative Head of Depilex Group, she has shaped generations of makeup artists, set bridal trends, and transformed Depilex into a powerhouse synonymous with timeless beauty and professional excellence.

In this exclusive conversation, she opens up about her creative evolution, winter bridal trends, long-lasting glam, and what truly defines the Depilex bride today.

Depilex has shaped Pakistan’s beauty industry for decades. How do you continue reinventing your creative vision year after year?

The secret is to simply keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and focus on creating unique concepts. I have been heading the group’s creative direction for decades, and I can’t think of a year where my team and I haven’t pushed our boundaries to experiment with new techniques, materials, and trends. It’s been a tremendous journey, and I look forward to the future.

How would you describe the Depilex bride today? What defines her look and attitude?

The Depilex Bride embodies a modern elegance that feels effortless yet impeccably refined. She favours makeup that enhances her natural beauty — luminous skin, softly sculpted features, expressive eyes, and lips that balance grace with confidence. She is empowered, modern yet culturally rooted, timeless yet trend-aware, and elegant without effort.

Winter weddings are around the corner — what makeup trends will take the spotlight this season?

Winter trends focus on making the skin the star of the show. Think very dewy, soft foundations and bases, with hints of warmth added through eyeshadows, blushes, and bronzers.

What colour palettes work best for winter brides, especially for Barat and Walima?

Both events have distinct colour stories. Baraat brides lean towards bolder, warmer tones — reds, browns, and golds. Walima looks, on the other hand, are softer and more neutral with shimmery peaches, nudes, and subtle metallics.

Skin prep becomes tricky in colder months. What essential skincare steps should brides follow before their makeup?

Skin prep is everything — it’s like laying the foundation of a skyscraper. The better the prep, the stronger what you build on top. I identify the client’s skin type and select a cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturiser based not only on her skin condition but also on the event timing, weather, and duration. I focus on prep as much as the makeup itself.

Glowing skin is a signature bridal trend. How can brides achieve a luminous finish without looking oily or heavy?

Many people overload on creams and highlighters, which makes everything feel heavy. True luminosity comes from prep. A hydrating serum and moisturiser, paired with a strobe primer, are usually all you need for that radiant, weightless glow.

What is one makeup mistake winter brides commonly make, and how can they avoid it?

Winter brides underestimate how dry and textured their skin becomes. Makeup alone can’t fix that — it actually makes things worse.
A. Hydrate: Start days before. Use HA/ceramides, drink more water, and apply a richer night moisturiser.
B. Exfoliate gently: 2–3 days before.
C. Use a nourishing mask: A sheet mask on the morning of the wedding boosts moisture.
D. Choose a winter-friendly base: Avoid overly matte foundations; opt for breathable, hydrating formulas like the MM Ultrawear Flawless Foundation.
E. Prep the lips: Lip scrub + balm are essential.

Bridal makeup needs to last 10–12 hours. What longevity tips or products do you swear by?

I rely on Masarrat Makeup Silk Foundation, a good setting spray like the waterproof one from Charlotte Tilbury, and Masarrat Misbah Liquid Lipsticks. I also send clients home with the lip colour they’re wearing, along with a balm and facial mist for touch-ups.

From soft glam to bold reds — what lip looks will dominate this winter season?

Burgundy lips are trending and beautifully complement our skin tone. For softer looks, muted mauves paired with brown liners, nude or pink lips, and a touch of gloss will be very popular.

How important is personalisation in bridal makeup, and how do you tailor each look?

Consultation is everything. I take time before every appointment to understand the bride’s event details, outfit, preferences, hair condition, and skin type. Many artists skip this step, but it’s essential to creating a truly customised bridal look.

Depilex has trained countless professionals. What qualities define a great makeup artist today?

At the Depilex Institute, launched in 1980, we offer international qualifications unmatched in Pakistan. The qualities that stand out for me are humility, lifelong learning, and professionalism. No matter what you achieve, you must remain grounded and committed to growth.

What advice would you give brides who want to stay timeless yet still embrace trends?

No matter what’s trending globally, it has to work for you. Always book a consultation with your makeup artist before the big day — that conversation shapes the perfect balance of timeless beauty and contemporary flair.