Summer is nearly upon us, and this time of year can get very busy with Christmas parties and other events.

Many of us will be rushing out straight from work, so with that in mind, the looks below are quick and easy to complete.

Preparing skin to last the distance is recommended; apply primer and a long wearing foundation to keep your base looking perfect all day and night.

Keeping a touch up kit in your handbag is a great idea to keep you looking fresh.

Handbag essentials include: pressed powder, eye drops, lipstick, concealer, comb, mini hairspray, bobby pins and a hair tie.

Coloured liner
A quick way to up the ante for evening is to play up the eyes.

With the colour blocking trend huge on the catwalks this year, coloured eyeliner is an easy way to work this into your makeup.

Be bold and apply a thick line of your chosen colour across the top lash line. Extend the end of your line out for a winged effect (to elongate the eyes), or smudge the edge of the line for a softer look. Long wearing gel liners are perfect for this job. Try cobalt blue, purple, bright orange or a jade green.

Finish this look with two coats of black mascara to the top lashes, and keep eye shadow and lip colour neutral.  

Bright lipstick
Again, lipstick is a very quick way to give a flash of colour and glam up your look. Bright colours for lips are hot this season, with pink and orange an alternative to classic red.

Choosing a long-wearing formula will ensure your colour stays on through eating and drinking, and lining your lips with a matching liner will also keep colour on for longer.

If you want to wear gloss over your lipstick, just apply a tiny dab to avoid colour “bleeding” outside the lip line.

Ballerina Bun
This gorgeous hairstyle is surprisingly easy to undertake, and is great for days when you don’t have time to wash your hair.

Tie hair in a very high pony, making sure hair is brushed smooth over the head (spray your hand with hairspray and smooth over the hair for a sleek finish).

Tease the ponytail gently at the roots to give some volume, and spritz lightly with hairspray. Twist the hair into a loose bun around the base of the ponytail, tuck the ends under and use bobby pins to secure.

Check the back and sides of your hair with a mirror to make sure the bun looks great from all angles. Finish with a spritz of shine spray and a cute headband if you wish.  

Bronzed legs
Party season calls for party dresses, which means bare legs.

Get your pins looking perfect in no time with a hint of colour, either from a self-tanner or a temporary bronzer.

Bronzing creams and sprays are great when you’re short on time, and wash off easily in the shower (try Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs).

Self-tan is longer lasting option, but will require a few coats applied in the nights leading up to your event.  Make sure you have shaved and moisturised your legs lightly before application.

Perfect nails
A flawless manicure will make you feel instantly groomed. With so many nail bars around you can get a basic manicure for around $20.

Alternatively try a longer-lasting gel polish like Shellac which lasts for two weeks (no chipping either which is a bonus). 

For perfect DIY nails at home use quality polish like OPI, and buff nails before application for a smooth finish.

False nail kits for use at home are fantastic for a special occasion, and give a beautiful professional look. Try Kiss glue-on nails.  


By Stephanie Coulter