5 Steps To Look (And Feel) Great At A Formal Event

2. Shower

For me, the routine – or ritual as I like to think of it – starts in the shower.

I cleanse with a face wash to get my skin clean and ready. This will also provide the base for a clean and comfortable shave or trim.

I also wash and condition my hair to remove excess product and oil; and to ensure it’s looking its best.

We look after our face and we shouldn’t neglect our bodies. A shower gel will not only cleanse your body but it will give you a jump start for the day ahead.

For a formal event, I would also recommend that you keep your facial hair in check. However thick and full it is – or isn’t – keep your facial hair neat, paying particularly attention to your neck and cheeks.

3. Skin Care

Looking after your skin – especially for a long day in the sun – is beyond important; and very personal to you.

I like to start with a facial oil. It floods the face with hydration, smooths it and provides the foundation for my regime.

Knowing that I would be spending a full day outside, I chose a light, water-like moisturiser. If – like me – you have oily skin, I would seriously consider a gel-cream. It will absorb instantly, and give all day hydration without making the skin feel or look oily.

I’ve stuck with the gel theme and gone for a aqua gel SPF. Again, I know I’m going to be outside all day and I want to protect my skin. I always use an SPF 50 for protection  – with UVA (for aging) and UVB (for burning).

Now the next step is up to you, but I’d consider it – especially if you’re having your picture taken at your event – perhaps a wedding.

I was filming an Instagram cocktail video with Lavazza and I wanted to ensure that my skin looked clear and matte. I used a light powder to sweep across my t-zone (forehead and nose) to lift the excess oil and reduce shine.

You can also get a translucent powder that does exactly the same thing.

My final step in this is always fragrance and – for me – it really becomes part of my wardrobe. In a slight nod to my hosts Lavazza, I opted for a seriously luxurious Italian fragrance – Italian Bergamot. It smells great but also gives a great little story for when chatting to people.

4. Hair Styling

Hair is another important consideration. If it’s a formal event, keep your hair neat and tidy.

I started with a thickening tonic to plump my hair before applying a primer spray with inbuilt UV protection. This might seem extreme, but for a day in the sun I don’t want my hair (or scalp) to dry out.

When it came to styling, I wanted a slick hairstyle – opting for a cream with a medium hold and medium shine. This would allow me to keep the style neat but without it hardening during the day.