Skincare

There’s always a great to celebrate; summer is still in full swing, and the wedding invites will have been plentiful for some. Even though autumn is afoot (don’t worry, there’s still sunshine left), there is always a party, celebration, or shindig to enjoy, and you’ll want to feel just as fresh and confident for each event you’re planning to attend.

There’ll be autumn weddings too, not to mention birthday bashes, Halloween and bonfire get-togethers, and dare we mention the festive party season? No? Okay, too soon. However, there’s no harm in thinking about all the fun stuff you’ll have coming up, and preparing a little beforehand so that you can feel your best in every single Instagram shot (alright then, most of them).

The following are some ideas, inspiration and advice for those who want to look and feel their very best for each event they have on their upcoming calendar, and even for the ones they haven’t RSVP’d to yet.

Make up and nails

When it comes to doing your own makeup for an occasion or party, make sure you have several practice runs in the evenings, or the weekend before the event. You might need to brush up on your eyelash application or get that contouring technique perfected, so it’s worth remembering that practice makes perfect!

Take a look on YouTube and Pinterest for some inspiration and tutorials on formal makeup looks, and test out what’s going to suit your skin tone, hair, and outfit choice. You’ll want to turn up to the wedding venue or rooftop bar feeling your very best, and if you’re not feeling your face; you won’t be able to get into the swing of things with confidence.

Try and work out how long the makeup will take you to do beforehand, and give yourself some extra time, in case you need to correct anything or fix a smudge (it’s bound to happen).

For some tips on achieving a flawless makeup look, you can always head towards a friendly face at a cosmetics counter in-store. It’s also the ideal excuse to splurge on that CC cream or liquid lipstick you’ve had your eyes on. You can ensure the condition of your nails by using a cuticle oil on a regular basis before you come to paint them or visit someone for a manicure.

When it comes to your nail polish choice; your options really come down to a neutral, nude shade, or a pop of colour, that will stand out on your fingernails and toes. Classic berry tones and reds suit every skin tone, and will go with a huge variety of colours, ensuring your nails wouldn’t clash with your clothing; but, instead, would complement it.

If you’re unsure and wary of looking too busy; pick a taupe or a pale pink shade, which will definitely go with your outfit, whatever the colour. Or, use your nails as a canvas to have some fun; nail art and mirroring techniques can be beautiful, but, if you’re not trained, these are best left to the professionals, so book yourself in the week beforehand.

Hair and skin

Whatever your hair type might be; you want it looking the best it can on your big night out, day of dancing, or whatever celebration it is that you’re heading towards (even if that is the fact it’s a Friday, and the weekend is here). On the run up to the event, make sure you take some time to indulge in a hair mask or two, so you know your hair is as strong and conditioned as possible.

It’s important to nourish your hair before any styling, straightening, or curling, as most of these techniques require the use of direct heat to your hair, along with products and sprays that you’re not used to. Figure out if you’re going to use a professional stylist at a hair salon, or if you’re confident enough to execute the hairstyle of your choice yourself.

If you’re going with the salon option, make sure you’re booked in as soon as you’ve RSVP’d to the invite. Give yourself enough time to get dressed and apply your make up after the stylist (whether it’s you, or somebody else) has worked their magic. If you choose to get your hair done in the morning, ensure your style is locked in with enough spray, and it will see you through until you get in the Uber to go home.

It’s always a treat to pamper your skin, but in the days leading up to the event; make sure you moisturise each day after your bath or shower. If you plan to apply a fake tanning product, it’s key that your skin is hydrated, particularly around your knees, elbows, and heels. Fake tan a couple of evenings before; so it looks as natural as possible, and there’s time to fix any potential mistakes.

If you don’t feel the need to change the shade of your skin in any way, ensure it’s looking as bright, soft and glowing as possible. Applying specialist foot cream to your feet and toes, and popping some cotton socks on them, before bed each night will ensure they are soft and open-toe-shoes ready. The morning of the event is a great time to use a body scrub, to get rid of any dry areas of skin, and pop your body cream, butter, or souffle of choice on from head to toe.

Glad rags

Just because you’re heading out to a formal event or an invite-only bash, doesn’t mean you have to feel completely uncomfortable, or unlike yourself. You can rock an outfit that fits both the occasion and your personal style; so bear that in mind when you head onto ASOS to do your shopping. Thinking about the best colour palette for your hair and skin tone is a wise place to start; you might think you’ve found the outfit of your dreams, only to find the colour makes you look washed out and unwell. Order a few things; that’s the beauty of free returns! Feeling your best self will ensure that you’ll have a great time, no matter what the occasion.