It’s round about time to have some well-deserved fun. Want to know the best way to feel confident while doing it?
Being prepped and in-the-know when it comes to the latest party-perfect looks and trends. Everyone loves looking and feeling their absolute best at special occasions, so try following out ultimate party checklist and you’ll be turning heads in the best way!
1. Smooth operator
Pre-event skin prep is absolutely essential. Nobody wants their face or body looking dull and dry for a special occasion. Now, you can book a facial or full body exfoliation a few weeks ahead of the event, or simply do it yourself at home – who doesn’t love a spa day in the comfort of their home anyway?
Cleanse and exfoliate your skin with a gentle scrub, or go the chemical exfoliant route, to get your skin feeling smooth and renewed. We suggest doing a face mask too just to boost your natural radiance. And do not forget to lather your face and body with nourishing serums and creams to ensure you look healthy, hydrated, and glowy.
2. Champagne anyone?
Contrary to popular belief in the beauty industry, champagne shades work well on pretty much all skin tones due to their depth of contrast. Whether you’re swiping on some shimmery metallic eyeshadow or adding some light to the high points of your cheeks, champagne will give you just enough of a glow, so you don’t need to compete with all the glitzy lights and disco balls.
Also read: The Most Important Beauty Hacks
3. Turn the volume up
Sleek and snatched is always nice, but when you’re looking to steal the show, it’s go big or go home. Try experimenting with high volume for a statement hairdo. Different styling techniques, for example blow dryers, backcombings and volumising spray products can be used to achieve fuller looking hairstyles. Curls and waves look pretty up or down, and if you’re a fan of the natural hair movement, why not rock your fro on the dance floor?
4. Sparkle ‘n shine
What’s a special occasion without some glitter and sequins? Spring fashion runways were filled with glitter and sequin accents, from subtle motifs on shirts to glittery tule skirts. If you go the sequined dress route, try pairing it with a shoe in a solid shade of colour, like black or nude. However, if that’s not your style and you’d prefer a satin slip dress, add some je ne sais quoi with a sparkly diamante clutch or glittery statement heels.
5. Ear candy
Earrings are a staple. They just magically pull an outfit together in a flash. Go bold with chunky gemstones and a jumpsuit or slip on some dazzling encrusted drop earrings with a little black dress – the choices are endless. There are so many great new designs out there to choose from, you’ll be like a kid in a candy store all over again.
6. Prints charming
This season has welcomed painterly florals. They’re blooming stunning and bold, so if you’re worried about catching too much attention, simply pair your printed floral piece with a solid garment to tone things down. Adding neutral accessories to your printed ensemble will also help you look put together.
7. Sunset sangria
Red, orange and yellow – the perfect shades to add some warmth and vibrance to your wardrobe this season. If you’re attending an outdoor event, these shades will add to the ambience as you sip cocktails while the sun sets. A sexy red dress with a red lip always looks great on anyone, especially for evening galas. While voluminous yellow and orange garments and accessories suit daytime events perfectly.
8. Hip hip, let’s spray!
The first thing most people do when mingling at events is notice a unique, pleasing scent floating around in the air. And special occasions call for special fragrances, of course. If you want something that says, “I’m here” and lasts long on the skin, sweeter, fruity perfumes tend to linger for hours. However, if you enjoy more complex, deep notes, you’re likely to be appeased by woody, leather and tobacco notes.
9. Candy trippin’
Candy-coloured heels (also called ‘candies) are currently a favourite amongst social butterflies. And they’re exceptionally versatile for the spring and summer months. Playful and eye-catching, they pair well with all white or nude outfits. But remember, you’ll be on your feet for most of your event, so comfort comes first. Strappy, thin heels are fine if you’re comfortable walking in them. If not, we suggest opting for a chunkier, block heel instead.
10. Pucker up
Before any special occasion, be it a date or cocktail party, you should always exfoliate your lips and apply a hydrating balm. Crusty, dry pouts are not fun while chatting away and networking with new people. Right now, luscious lip oils and glosses are trending for their silky aesthetic and guaranteed moisture. You can wear them on their own to achieve a simple, youthful look, or apply a thin layer on top of your matte lipstick. Either way, the juicy lip look is here to stay.
Also read: 6 Ways to Spot Fake Fashion
Words: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images
