8 things every girl must do before her formal

It’s officially October, which to me signals two things. Firstly, Christmas is (almost) here, and secondly, school formal season is upon us. 

I think I speak for all teens when I say the latter event came around pretty quick.

But don’t panic, girls – we’ve got you (or your beauty look, at least.)

While I can’t make your date act his age, or the DJ play your favourite song, I can advise you on some key beauty steps that’ll take your look from so-so to absolutely stunning. 

After all, you only get one shot at this night of nights, so you might as well give it your beauty best… 

1. Up your glow game

You can always opt for a professional spray tan, but if you’re  looking to cut costs, DIY is probably the best way to go.  For my own formal, I used Dove Summer Glow Gradual Self Tan Body Lotion in the days leading up to build up just a hint of a glow. For a similarly fuss-free method, try St Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower, which you can apply in the shower and rinse off in all of three minutes. 

2. Treat your teeth

This one’s a no-brainer. Why, you ask? Well, you’re going to be brushing your teeth as per normal in the lead-up to the formal – so why not use a whitening one? Try Colgate Optic White Express Paste, which is formulated to whiten teeth in just three days (it contains twice the whitening ingredient as other Colgate whitening products, if you were wondering). Then all you need is a pop of red lippie to get the sexiest smile imaginable. Try Ulta3 Matte Lipstick in Deep Red Rose.

3. Respect your tresses

Chances are you’ll be using some serious styling tools on the night, so give your hair a fighting chance with some extra TLC in the lead up. A nourishing hair mask such as TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes Resurrection will help reverse any pre-existing damage, and get your hair ready for more heat. Oh, and if you don’t use one already, a heat protectant spray is an absolute must. Try Schwarzkopf Extra Care Heat Protection Spray.

4. Prepare your footwear 

I’m not going to try to tell you to wear flats to your formal – but I am going to (strongly) advise you to make your heels as comfy as possible. After all, if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to booty shake to Beyoncé right to the end. Check yo’self before you wreck yo’self with Hollywood Fashion Secrets Gel Heel cushions, which will help stave off tired, aching feet (and fit subtly into sky-high pumps). 

5. Now, walk in them

It may seem obvious, but wearing your new stilettos around the house in the lead up to the big night is an amazing idea. Not only will your strutting give you the best chance of not stacking it as you descend your school hall steps, it’ll also give you the opportunity to perfect your posture. Push your shoulders back and tilt your chin up for a show-stopping entrance.

6. Practice makes perfect

Thinking of attempting a daring new make-up look for your formal? Firstly, you go girl. Secondly, make sure you have a good grasp of it well in advance. Typing 'school formal makeup' into Youtube will bring up thousands of step-by-step tutorials on how to perfect a glam makeup look, even if you're not experienced in the beauty department. 

7. Don’t forget the details

When it comes to formal faux pas, there’s nothing worse than manky mitts. Take the time to file, buff and paint your nails a pretty hue. Try one of these 12 pastel polishes for a sassy spring feel. On the other hand, the top 10 red nail polishes will never go out of style. Whichever you chose, don’t forget to finish with a glossy top coat. Our Trial Team loved the OPI Infinite Shine Gel Effects Gloss Top Coat, just FYI.

8. Choose conifdence over style

When you're shopping for a formal dress, the temptation to go for a dress that is super trendy is real. But there's nothing worse than being uncomfortable all night, not feeling your best. Opt for a style that makes you feel conifdent and is inbetween trying something new and staying within your comfort zone. 
 

Do you remember your school formal? Do you have any other formal beauty tips?

image credit: Gossip Girl, CW Network