four tips for getting black-tie glam!

Wedding season is officially under way, and I'm sure you guys have full social calendars this summer! I’ve gotten my black tie prep routine down to a science (what can I say? this girl loves her gowns!), so I want to share a few beauty tips and tricks that will be helpful to you guys when getting your own fancy on this summer.

Let me know if there is anything missing from this list that I should try!

Splurge on Luxe Locks

Whenever I have a really exciting event coming up, I try to squeeze in time to get my hair done beforehand.  It adds a layer of polish to your look that's hard to re-create at home and makes the evening feel really special. And a great blowout lasts for a few days, so you can look chic for Sunday brunch, too!

If you Build Buy it, They Will Come

I love to buy new dresses for special occasions, but I hate the pressure that comes with needing something right now, which inevitably means that I’ll spend a whole day shopping and not find anything I like.  So now I make an effort to find dresses I love before I need them so that I have something on hand in a pinch! And even better? I just discovered Rent the Runway, where this Bagdley Mischka gown is from! You can "rent" a gown for a special event and then return it afterwards -- genius! (And no, ha ha, this post isn't sponsored, I promise!) This was such a gorgeous statement dress and I loved not having to worry about when I'd wear it again!

Lashes for Days

Hair, nails, a dress – cha ching! A quality pair of drugstore lashes, however, are often less than $10 and arguably do more for your look than anything else. A fuller lash immediately gives me a boost of confidence and sense of femininity. The best part is, if applied correctly, nobody will be able to put their finger on exactly why you look so good!

Be Present In the Moment

It's so easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of a big event that you lose focus and wind up stressed out. By taking a few minutes to focus on being mindful and present before a party or a big night, I can start the night on a more calm, relaxed note. It just takes a few minutes -- as you're getting ready, set a timer for just a minute or two and sit calmly, focused on your breathin. Then take a big breath, slow down, and enjoy the getting ready process!