5 Festive Fixes, to take you from Desk to Dancefloor!

In an ideal world we’d have plenty of time to beautify ourselves for a big night out. Sadly, life doesn't always work out that way. But with party season right around the corner there's no need to panic: try these quick-fixes to take you from desk to dancefloor in a jiffy.

ONE Preparation is key. Primer and powder are the key to keeping your base in place all day – and all night – long, so spend time on these steps in the morning. Clarins Beauty Flash Balm is one of the original primer products and, in my eyes, still one of the best. For a budget version, try Rimmel’s new Fix & Perfect Pro. Bring your powder for touch-ups -- the stunning new Passion palette from Clarins is one you’ll want to be seen with!

TWO Freshen up! Try spritzing your face with a mineral water spray to refresh and revive your makeup for the night ahead. French brands are great at these: La Roche Posay, Vichy and Avène all have versions that can be picked up at your local chemist.  

THREE Refresh your tresses: dry shampoos or hair powders can add volume and texture to your look in seconds. Try: Ojon Rub Out Dry Cleansing spray for a fuss-free fix – the invisible formula means it suits all hair colours, with no chalky residue. Ojon can be found in Arnotts, Dublin.

FOUR Wing it! A slick of winged eyeliner is the quickest way to change your look from day to night. For the season that’s in it, try metallics or glitters – MUA and NYC are both great budget beauty brands that do lovely glitter liners in a range of colours. You'll find MUA in  Superdrug and NYC in chemists or selected Penneys branches.

FIVE  Add a touch of sparkle! Try a spritz of The Sparkler in Enchanting Gold, from The Body Shop: this boudoir-chic atomiser releases a fine golden shimmer that highlights the face, décolletage, and even the hair. New Lustre Dust from  LUSH is similar; dust on for a subtle golden bronzed look. Ramp up the glitz factor by adding a glitter accent nail to your mani (I love Ruby Pumps by China Glaze over Sally Hansen's All Fired Up) and you’re good to go!

What's your favourite quick-fix party look? Share it in the comments!