If only we had a magic button that made enjoying all of the season’s treats (and looking gorge in that Christmas party dress) as easy as pie, huh? Unfortunately, I’ve yet to find said button. Instead, read on for ways to “fake” your most ravishing self for the season’s many RSVPs. Don’t forget – half of it is in the confidence.

Get a blowout. Yes, you can do your own hair, but a professional blowout will last through an entire night’s worth of pictures. So worth it. Pop into a blow-dry-only spot like Blo Blow Dry Bar (in seven states and Canada) and drybar (in six states) before your event, and emerge happy.

Freshen up your makeup. Get your makeup done – for free – at a store like Sephora or Bloomies. It’s suggested that you purchase a product after, but not required. Don’t want to schlep to the store? Try a bold cat eye and red lip.

Go bronze. It’s no secret that a tan makes you look instantly slim. Skip the bed and try airbrush, or pick up one of my favorite products: LORAC’s Body Bronzing Luminizer. It goes on like a lotion, washes off in the shower, and gives that covetable, just-back-from-St.-Tropez bronze we all crave.

Choose red. Black? So slimming. And so safe. Red screams confidence, and you’ll be amazed by how good you feel when you slip it on.

Try draping. Expertly draped dresses are an easy way to hide problem spots, and look Grecian-goddess pretty while you’re at it.

Wear SPANX®. Did I even have to mention this? Their Tight-End Tights® make you look a size smaller, I swear.

Pick the right heels. Wearing black tights? Try black heels. Bare legs? Choose nude pumps. Your gams will look plenty lean – and miles long.

By Joanna Berliner, Editor

Have a tip for looking your best in holiday garb? Share it in the comments below, or tweet us @ruelala.

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