Party Essentials
First things first it’s all about the getting ready playlist – I’ve been loving Spotify lately for this and whilst I’m starting a new ‘December 2014 Favourites – in all honesty I still have my August 2014 Favourites on repeat. Basically my favourite songs of the year and the vast majority are ones that make me want to get up and dance. With the exception of the odd Sam Smith tune (love him). A playlist is essential for getting ready to head out-out. A little bit of Uptown Funk goes a long way when getting ready!
Make-up wise, it’s a tough line to balance between looking glowing, not sparkly like a disco ball or greasy… so for this I’ve been loving Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder foundation * (most probably my most loved brand of 2014) this is the make-up I used on my wedding day and have reached for it regularly ever since. The trick I find is using a primer to prep the skin that ideally gives a bit of a matte look to make sure the balance between glow and shine stays good for the whole night. For this my favourite is Bourjois Happy Light Matte Serum Primer * as I think it helps just take that bit of shine so the only glow is controlled by the foundation. Topped off with the gorgeous combo that is the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow *. To add a little contour/bronze plus a gorgeous champagne highlight. This is pure glow not shimmer and it’s fabulous.
Complexion wise, for the handbag my absolute must have is the Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick * – another staple I used on my wedding day – as it can double up as touching up foundation and as a concealer. Plus it’s not messy as it’s just a neat little compact stick that fits in the smallest of clutches. This was a foundation introduced to be via a wedding make-up trial with Bobbi Brown at Brides The Show and I’m so glad it was – as honestly it’s not one that would have caught my eye otherwise but it’s just SO versatile and actually looks amazing then buffed into skin (you would maybe expect super heavy/cakey finish from a foundation stick but not at all the case with this). Perfect for touch ups all night.
As for lips and lashes – lashes wise I am absolutely head over heels for this Burberry Bold Lash Mascara in Ebony. It’s a beauty – with a wonderfully shaped wand that’s fluffy but with a nice narrow tip so can easily do top and bottom lashes. This one layers amazingly too – so if you want a bold look you’re all good. Lips – I’ve been blown away by the colour and staying power combo of the Rimmel Provocalips range. The two deep/bright shades from the collection have seriously impressed me. They simply DO.NOT.BUDGE. so are perfect for a night out without needing to worry about touch ups. I don’t know if it’s just me being rubbish but I do love a bold lip… I’m just terrible at touching it up during the evening! But with this, there’s zero need to worry. Also, top tip – to actually remove when you want to… a bit of oil cleanser massaged in for a bit then buffed off with a damp flannel should do the trick! You can always take it out with you just in case or if you want to touch up the more glossy top coat part.
Lastly for the handbag… a little can of Batiste just to freshen up hair when out. Mine is very fine and even with some of the best styling I could ask for, still has a tendency to flop – a little spritz of dry shampoo and a ruffle of the roots and I’m good to go again. Also, a little perfume (or mini deodorant if preferred so you always feel fresh when you’re out) I’ve been re-reaching for the classic Stella in this mini sized bottle. It’s a great nighttime scent and love this size as can tote around without needing a huge bag.
Another little tip on a night out – well, one that’s been working for me. I have been opting to order gin & tonic whenever it’s a big night. I like but don’t love a G&T, so it means when I order one I drink them a lot slower than I would something I like… so I naturally pace myself! Whatever your tipple of choice – have a great time (whilst being careful too)!
Oh, and don’t forget your perfect party shoes… these are the current loves of my life that I recently ordered from KG Kurt Geiger on ASOS. Now just need to find somewhere suitably sparkly to wear them!
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