With the social season in full swing, we ask four fashionistas what they do to look and feel their best on the red carpet.
With parties and balls taking place left and right, society stars are bringing out their best frocks. But beauty is all-emcompassing, and everyone can use some tips on how the finest among us prepare themselves for a big night. Here, we catch up with four fashionistas to hear their secrets to nailing that red-carpet-ready look.
Bonnae Gokson
“With all the social events coming up after the summer holidays, I like to return to my outdoor exercise routine with my personal trainer, Orlando To. Other than that, I allow myself to indulge in oxygen facials. However, I want to try the Cellu M6 Endermologie facials and body treatments, as I’ve heard great things about them. My secret to always looking fresh? Great hair! Thank god I have my good friend Kim Robinson on speed dial, but even so I always need to book him way in advance as he’s so busy.”
Lianne Lam
“I believe preparation is key to looking great before any event. A few days beforehand, I like to have an idea of what I’m wearing, so I choose my dress, shoes, bag and jewellery in order to reduce any stress on the day. The night before an event, I get plenty of sleep, and I like to apply a hydrating mask so that my skin feels supple and my make-up sits nicely the following evening. On the day of the event, I try to do a bit of exercise in the morning. I love what pilates does to the body and mind. Later in the day, I get my hair and make-up done at home and, if I have the time, I try to squeeze in a power nap too. Lastly, I always make sure to have a snack before heading out as some events serve the meals quite late.”
Mahnaz Lee
“I think the key to looking good is consistency. For example, I like to exercise regularly and I always try to eat clean so I don’t look bloated or feel puffy. I cannot function on less than eight hours of sleep a night, and I’m a huge believer in napping. I always like to take care of my skin, and I apply a moisture mask before an event so that my skin has a nice healthy glow. I tend to do most of my shopping overseas and I make sure I have enough dress options for the whole season. What a lot of people don’t know is that instead of rushing to salons or relying on professionals, I do all my hair and make-up myself.”
Maya Lin
“I don’t think there is any real secret to looking fresh. In fact, I believe my routine is quite straightforward. I exercise quite regularly and a week or so before the event I drink lots of homemade soup that is packed with ingredients that provide collagen. Sleep works wonders for the skin so I get at least eight hours the night before and do an overnight hydrating mask too. On the day itself I like to have a cup of coffee or tea before applying my make-up as I don’t want my skin or body to retain too much water.”
This article was published in the November edition of Hong Kong Tatler.