Being asked out after work is simultaneously so nice and so problematic. While socialising after a long hard day can be the perfect way to blow off some steam, not feeling party ready is guaranteed to put a dampener on the night. But arriving at the office in full glam simply isn't an option for most of us. So here are the very best products to spruce up your fading day makeup and help you transition into a more glamourous vibe. Bonus: they're all super easy to transport and can be applied on the go with ease.
Foundation and Blush
To top up a fading base, a foundation stick is undoubtedly the best fuss-free method. The Revolution Fast Base Foundation Stick is a fantastic budget option. It can be drawn on exactly where you need it and then tapped in with fingers for custom coverage right where you want it. It also has a lovely, glowy-yet-natural finish.
Blush is the best way to add a bit of life back into a tired face, and the very best for easy application are the Glossier Cloud Paints. They're a creamy liquid formula which can be easily blended with fingers to give the most natural flush to add dimension to cheeks. They also last really well, in case the night ends up being a long 'un. Dusk is the perfect nudey, suits-all shade, and can also be used as eyeshadow in a pinch.
A tinted brow gel an spruce up brows in seconds, adding structure to the face and making you look generally a little more groomed. The Maybelline Brow Precise Fibre Volumiser also contains tiny fibres which attach to your brow hairs to add bulk and make them look a little thicker. And again, this is so fool proof it can be applied on the bus with no cause for concern.
About Those Eyes and Lips . . .
If you want to add a hint of night time glam to an otherwise natural makeup vibe, either play up your eyes or lips. For eyes, glitter is always a good idea, and the Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow makes adding glitter incredibly easy. Simply dab on using the applicator, then tap the edges to blend. Sparkle in seconds. The more neutral shades like Sultry Storm or Kitten Karma are great beginner glitters.
If you'd rather go for a bright lip, the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipsticks are one of the greatest formulas on the market. They're a moussey formula which, once painted on and blotted, will last through as many after-work drinks as you can throw at them. The shade range is also extensive and wonderful, with classic reds, hot pinks and vampy shades and more. Adding a lip takes seconds and can totally turn a look from office to bar.
Finishing Touches
If you're happy to rock a simple and natural face during the evening, but still want to freshen up and add a glow, a facial spray is a great choice. Mac Fix + is a classic for a reason - it almost seems to "reactivate" your old makeup and make it look freshly applied It also adds a super flattering, hydrated glow and will help make your other products last a bit longer. Lastly, and this is by no means least, it feels fantastically refreshing after a day of work.
Hair, too, can be a problem when it comes to going from day to night. The two most common issues are greasy roots and dry ends, and they're both easy to deal with on the go. To extend hairs wear time between washes, dry shampoo is a real lifesaver. Batiste do some of the best on the market in a variety of fun scents, and the travel sizes are ideal for carrying in your purse. For thirsty ends, the OGX Argan Oil Spray is ideal to tame frizz, add moisture and give hair a glossy sheen.
Finally, adding some perfume can help you feel fresher and more put together. Carrying a heavy glass bottle around, though, is usually a recipe for disaster. The Vapour Spirit Scent Solid Perfume is a genius alternative. It almost looks like a lip balm, but the waxy formula is packed with fragrance oils which you can smooth over pulse points for a gorgeous boost of scent. It's also much less antisocial than spritzing your personal fragrance in a public place.