Constance Lau, Maddy Barber & More Share Their Best Getting-Ready Tips For Party Season
From pre-party rituals to outfit-picking tips, five stylish celebrities and influencers share how they look their best at events
By Valerie Wong and Gracie Stewart -
The festive season is here which means an endless stream of party invites. From family gatherings to office Christmas parties and catching up with friends before they head to different corners of the country, there’s really no shortage of festivities and Yuletide cheer.
But before you fret over what to wear and how to do your makeup, take a leaf (or two) from these stylish women. From pre-event rituals to outfit advice, their tips on getting ready for an event will have you a step closer to feeling red-carpet-ready this holiday season. Something they all agree on? Be comfortable and have fun!
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Text: Valerie Wong/Her World and Gracie Stewart
Pre-gala ritual?
I try to squeeze in a regular facial a week prior so that if anything happens after the facial, there’s still time to recover. After which I do the bare minimum leading up to the the gala. Less is more.
How do you decide on your outfit?
When I’m selecting my outfit, I dive straight into the colour section because I love wearing them! I try to avoid plunging necklines as they are generally not flattering for my body type, however I do make exceptions if the design is special. My rule of thumb is no more than three colours on my body, so when it comes to shoes and bags, ideally I would prefer these two items to be of the same colour (although sometimes I make an exception).
Pro-tip for first-time gala goers?
Wear something you feel comfortable to move freely in because if you don’t, you’ll end up feeling uneasy and worrying about the problems the outfit will give you instead of enjoying your night.
Pre-gala ritual?
I apply a few face masks the night before - usually a wash-off mask after my shower, and a sheet or sleeping mask after to ensure I wake with plump and hydrated skin. On the day of the gala, I use another sheet mask for radiance so that makeup goes on smoother and my skin looks fresh and radiant.
How do you decide on your outfit?
I have to admit that many times this can be rather last minute! I don't like planning outfits in advance because it kills the fun that goes with the spontaneity of dressing up. If it's a more formal event however, I will have to get a gown in advance, but the rest I decide on the fly - makeup, hair, shoes and accessories I play around with once I have on the gown, depending on whether I'm feeling girly, playful or elegant.
Pro-tip for first-time gala goers?
Don't stress and don't take the whole thing too seriously! You want to look your best, but even if you "get it wrong" somehow, know that it is just one night in your long life; so chill out and have fun dressing up - and definitely let loose and have fun at the party.
Pre-gala ritual?
I'd use a deep hydrating or brightening sheet mask the night before, and take a nap in the afternoon. After which I will apply an eye mask to reduce puffiness from the nap, before putting on my makeup and getting ready for the big event.
How do you decide on your outfit?
I'm a very last-minute person so I usually just wear what I feel like that day. More importantly, what (Madly) jewellery will I be wearing to accompany that gown? I'm quite comfortable being seen and photographed in a dress I've been seen in previously. If the Duchess of Cambridge has no problem with that, why should we?
Pro-tip for first-time gala goers?
Have fun with the process and harness that excitement. Ultimately, the glow on your face is going to come from how much fun you are having and not what you are wearing.
Pre-gala ritual?
Planning my outfit is definitely the first of my priority! After I’ve selected what I am going to wear, I can then think about the other little details, like my nails, accessories, shoes, hairstyle and make up etc. Oh, but if there’s one thing that I definitely do before any big event, it’ll be to apply a face mask the night before.
How do you decide on your outfit?
I’d like to call myself an emotional dresser. I’m quite versatile in my choices for outfits and I love exploring various styles and cuts. I usually dress based on how I’m feeling.
Pro-tip for first-time gala goers?
Be comfortable. You need to be comfortable and feel comfortable in order to have fun. The smile on your face would be your best accessory. But of course, take this opportunity to doll and dress up! The process itself is always so much fun!
READ MORE: 9 Black Dresses Under $100 Perfect For Hiding Your Festive Food Baby
Pre-gala ritual?
The night before, I always do a mini home facial with my Dior Prestige sugar face scrub and mask followed by a good night's rest. There’s nothing better than a good eight hours or more of beauty sleep.
How do you decide on your outfit?
I usually play dress up at home, mixing and matching different styles and accessories a few days prior to the event to define the outfit. This not only helps me to know what I’m missing to complete a look but whether or not to go shopping for a whole new look.
Pro-tip for first-time gala goers?
Make sure whatever you choose to wear is reasonably comfortable. There’s nothing worse than being at a gala event and not being able to fully enjoy yourself because of what you choose to wear.
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