Around this time of year, there are more occasions than ever for dressing up. Office parties, holiday parties, family dinners, engagement parties, church services, reunions… the list goes on and on. This is ALSO the time of year a lot of people feel self-conscious. I know for me, I eat a lot of sugar around Christmas, so stressed zippers and the occasional breakout isn’t uncommon. Whether your concerns are mental or physical (or both!), I’ve got some tips to help you realize you’re killin’ it in your party dress.
Plan your outfit
Whether you’re pulling out a classic, well-loved LBD or ordering something completely new, planning out your outfit is a great way to prep for a party. Instead of leaving it to last minute, pick out everything (shoes and accessories, too!) and try it on in front of a mirror. You can get a good idea of the type of underwear you need, how much of your legs to shave, if you need to run out for tights, and whether or not you need to paint your toenails (lol). I stress less when I know that my outfit is totally prepped and ready.
Wear something new
If budget allows, buying something specific for an event makes me look forward to dressing up. It doesn’t have to be big- earrings or a new nail polish work- but it can really make a difference! It’s an easy way to pump yourself up for the event and even take your mind of things you’re a little iffy about.
Have a self-care day the day before
If that means hitting the gym, hit the gym! If that means a hair mask and a mani, do that! Now is the time to bust out your beauty pampering treats and go nuts. The night before my company Christmas party, I took a sumptuous bath, painted my nails, shaved my legs, and went to bed early. It. was. awesome.
Eat healthy food day of
Now, “healthy” can be what you make it, but I try to choose light but filling meals that I’ve had before. I try to minimize any chance of bloating or upset stomach the day of my event. If you’re the kind of person that can eat pizza and a big milkshake and be fine, then a) jealous and b) go for it! Just choose food that you know has a minimal chance of making you feel gross.
Hand out compliments like candy
… and don’t self-deprecate when you get compliments back! Don’t fish for compliments, of course, but noticing how nice other people look is a great way to open up conversations and show off your confident, charismatic self (even if you don’t always feel like you’re either of those things). Plus, it will give people an opening to tell you how amazing you look (since they’re already thinking it), which definitely helps boost confidence.
Those are the top tips I have for really rocking your holiday party look, and speaking from experience, they work! Now go out, snap some photos, drink a tasty cocktail, and have a great time at your party!
