Night of the Stars (NOTS) — drab to fab. Why is it that when formal rolls around — on Feb. 19 this year — most of us put more time and energy into what is happening on the outside of us rather than on the inside?
No matter how perfect the dress, the shoes or the hair may be, the night will not meet expectations if we do not feel our best.
Along with the hunt for the perfect outfit, here are a few easy suggestions to make NOTS a perfect experience.
One month before–
Skin
1. Moisturize once a week before you go to bed.
2. Put on lip balm instead of lip gloss.
3. Sweat! It’s actually good for your skin.
4. Pat dry your face instead of rubbing it dry; rubbing stretches your pores.
Body
1. Cut out 200 calories a day; they really add up.
2. Go out and enjoy activities with your friends instead of just sitting in a theater munching on goodies — even cheering at a basketball game counts!
3. Chew gum to burn a few extra calories.
4. Turn your phone off 20 minutes before you go to bed so you won’t be tempted to stay up late. (Studies show that it helps you shed a few pounds because you won’t crave as much food when you get better sleep.)
5. Get 8-10 hours of sleep, whether you have a zero period or not.
6. Stretch when you wake up to rev up your metabolism.
Hair, nails and feet
1. Only blow dry your hair halfway to keep it fully hydrated and to prevent it from being frizzy.
2. Deep condition your hair at home.
3. Keep your hands and feet moisturized.
4. Start looking for hairstyles that you like. Up-dos are good for strapless dresses while half-up, half-down styles compliment a sleeved gown.
One week before–
Skin
1. If you get a zit, don’t panic! Hit it hard with benzoyl peroxide products one night, then do nothing to it the next.
2. Wear very limited make-up or, if you are brave enough, none.
Body
1. Stop drinking soda; the carbonation makes you bloated.
2. Limit your salt intake.
3. Cut out 100 more calories.
4. Drink lots of water.
Hair, nails and feet
1. Moisturize your hands and feet every night.
2. Exfoliate hands and feet for very soft skin.
The day of NOTS–
Skin
1. Wash your face with mild soap.
2. Moisturize with a light lotion.
Body
1. Do some light cardio.
2. Stretch and breathe — it helps to keep you from stressing out.
3. Stand up straight; you will instantly appear to lose two pounds.
Hair, nails and feet
1. If you consult a stylist, give them a picture or specific idea of what you want. If you don’t like what it’s turning into, stop them, or live with the final result.
2. If you want the color of your nails to actually match the color of your dress, take a picture of your dress that shows off its color. If you are getting fake nails, makes sure they are not too long — you want to look elegant, not like a cat.
Feeling your very best will make NOTS one of the most memorable moments of your high school career. With these tips you are sure to be the star of the night.
For more information on NOTS, read the Dec. 8, 2010 article, Leadership makes NOTS plans, preparations.
