As Harvey Nichols's recent ad campaign proves, we can't all look like Holly Golightly the morning after a party. The English department store chain's holiday ads feature hilarious scenes of women walking home in the cold light of dawn, and demonstrate once and for all that a strapless minidress and six-inch heels send a very different message at six in the morning.
See also: 31 New Holiday-Party Hair Ideas
Though a place like Harvey Nicks may have dress alternatives that will look appropriate even during a walk of shame, smudgy eyeliner and messed-up hair are still a dead giveaway that you didn't spend the night in your own bed. Here are our top tricks for fooling the neighbors.
Fix your hair. Chances are, you can barely fit your phone into your clutch, let alone a can of dry shampoo. Instead, don't leave the house without a pretty hair tie around your wrist (we love Emi-Jay hair ties or Goody Double-Wear ponytail bracelets). The next morning, wrap your hair into a low ponytail or a side braid, which will draw less attention to your face than a messy top-knot.
Take it off. That glittery eyeshadow might have looked cute last night, but the flecks are less flattering on your cheeks the morning after. Stash a few Almay Makeup Eraser Sticks in your purse to wipe off any strays. The remover stays safely inside the swabs until you crack them forcefully, so you don't have to worry about makeup remover spilling all over your iPhone.
Related: The Top 21 Drugstore Beauty Bargains
Freshen up. Unless you're some sort of super-girl, you probably don't smell like roses after a four-hour dance party. Say Yes To Cucumbers wipes take up no space, are gentle enough to be used all-over, and will make you feel instantly refreshed.
Banish pallor. Though a brisk walk home in the morning air might give you a natural flush, before you start your trek, dab on a bit of lipstick and pinch your cheeks to add some color to your washed-out complexion.
Move quickly. One Allure editor admits that she always brings flats in her purse, even if it means carrying a less-cute bag. "It makes that walk of shame go a lot faster," she says.
What about you: Do you have any tricks for surviving the holiday walk-of-shame?
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Photo Credit: Condé Nast Digital Studio
