Christmas is probably the only time I even have time to think about getting all dressed up, let alone actually go out and have a bit of a party! So why not make the most of it? Today I’ll be sharing some of the best ways to feel gorgeous and amazing before a big night out, a Christmas party, or even a family get together.
Okay, so where to start? Let’s say you’ve got a big night out coming up in a couple of days. In a survey by Very.com, 6% of ladies said that they start getting ready two days before the event, so if this applies to you, a) I applaud your commitment, and b) it’s time to get started!
Okay, so a couple of days before your big event, it might be a nice time to start really pampering your body.
Something I’ve recently started doing when shaving my legs is exfoliating first, to shift off some of the dead skin before you go in with your razor. It really does make a big difference. Is anyone else a bit freaked out by the idea of having dead skin all over their body? Don’t think about it too much, it’s Christmas.
I like to use either Ambrosia shaving cream from Lush (which is nice for sensitive skin, but isn’t really as foamy as I’d like), or just any old shaving cream (usually my dad’s, although I did splash out 84 pence for a Wilko’s own brand one). I use a Wilko’s body scrub to exfoliate (I’ll be writing in more detail about their bath products soon, because they are AMAZING and really, really affordable).
While I’m scrubbing away some dead skin (ugh) I like to blast music. I’m funny with music – sometimes it really irritates me to the point of an awful headache, so I like to be in control of when (and what) music is playing. At the moment I’m loving Meghan Trainor (she of “All About That Bass” fame) – her album “Title” is on my Christmas list.
Once you’ve leapt out of the bath feeling like a super-smooth goddess-type person, it’s time for moisturiser. For about a month now I’ve been using body lotions and body butters every single day, and while my mum is sick of washing it off my clothes, I’m loving it. Try the Body Shop for gorgeously thick body butters to really nourish your skin.
If you fancy tanning (who cares that it’s Christmas? You can be as bronze as you like), this is the time to start. Build up your tan with a gradual tanner, like Dove’s Summer Glow, or if you’re impatient (high five! So am I!) go straight in and try out St Moriz tan, which develops in 5-8 hours.
Once your body is looking and feeling wonderful, it’s time to sort out your skin.
A couple of days before the event, try out a clay face mask. They draw out any gross bits from under the surface of your skin, so it’s best to get this out of the way with a few days to spare (just in case the Spot of Doom appears!).
After your mask, cleanse your skin to make sure there’s no residue left, and remember to tone. I use Lush’s Eau Roma Water toner spray, which is really gentle and good for sensitive skin (and also hilariously fun to use, because you’re literally squirting yourself in the face).
Make sure you follow this routine for the days leading up to your event, to ensure you stay blemish free with amazing soft skin. Now, it’s the day of the party! Yay.
It’s time to start thinking about your makeup, outfit and hairstyle.
I’m going to be super mean and make you wait until tomorrow’s Blogmas post to see my Christmas Party lookbooks!
See you then!