Get your A-game on: 5 of the best pre-party pick-me-ups

The festive season demands a lot from us. With Christmas parties a-plenty, summer socialising and family commitments on the rise, it’s no surprise you might be feeling a little tired. Yep, ‘tis the season to be perky – whether you feel like it or not.

This year – being pregnant – I’m finding it particularly hard to muster, but sometimes you’ve just got to get out there. And for those days, I’ve honed a pre-party ritual with a few pick-me-up products that help get me looking presentable and get me out the door.

1. A soak in a perfume-oil-filled bath

Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey bath oil

If time permits, running a fragrant bath can be one of the most delicious ways to prep for a party. Not only does it soften your skin, but the oils will hydrate and perfume your skin subtly – leaving a delicate waft of scent in your wake. Jo Malone Bath Oils are the most luxurious thing around. I love Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey for a perfect uplifting mix of fresh florals and delectable sweetness.

2. Pop on a chilled eye mask

Lonvitalite 24k gold & collagen masks

While you’re in the bath (or choosing your outfit) pop on an under eye mask to hydrate and refresh your complexion. I keep a few sachets of Lonvitalite 24k gold & collagen masks in the fridge for emergencies – they are pumped with hydrating hyaluronic acid, collagen and glycerin along with Vitamin C and E. (N.B they’re also great for the morning after, as well!)

3. Slather on some body makeup

Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs

I can’t count the amount of times I’ve had a last minute leg emergency- forgetting to shave or apply self tan before a big event. Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs is a fairy godmother of a product (“you SHALL go to the ball!”) – the perfecting body makeup bronzes skin believably and covers up veins, freckles and scars in a flash. I’ve always enjoyed the spray, but the new cream version is great as it doesn’t make a mess of the bathroom – sometimes I use it on my arms and décolletage, too.

4. Add a slash of crimson lipstick

Tom Ford LIP COLOR IN Alejandro

The hands-down fastest way to up the glamour quotient on your outfit is to add a slash of red lipstick. I pair a cherry pout (Tom Ford’s Alejandro) with a nice glowy base like Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, some fluttery false eyelashes (I like the new Artemes Mink Lashes) and a slick of black liquid liner. It’s a classic combo that works with any outfit you can throw at it.

5. And a spritz of perfume

Miu Miu Eau De Parfum

Don’t forget your fragrance – this should be the last thing you do before you dash out to your Uber. I’m currently swooning over Miu Miu Eau De Parfum- a floral, fresh blend of lily of the valley and rose with a spicy peppery overtone. It’s pretty, playful and the perfect party fodder.

Story and photography by Sigourney Cantelo; In Association with Sally Hansen.