The festive season is finally here, and with that comes a calendar full of long lunches, and those “I’ll just pop in for one” nights that somehow stretch until midnight. It’s fun, chaotic, and sparkly — but the key to enjoying it all is to feel good in your body and grounded in your energy. Here’s how to prepare for the season ahead — to ensure your glow comes from the inside out.
Beauty starts in the belly
Forget quick fixes. True radiance starts with nourishment. In the week leading up to a big event, focus on anti-inflammatory, vibrant foods — think leafy greens, raw veggies, and quality proteins. Steer clear of overly salty or processed meals that can leave you feeling puffy. It’s not about restriction; it’s about fuelling your body to thrive.
Sweat smart
A few sauna sessions can work wonders. They boost circulation, calm inflammation, and help clear that sluggish pre-event energy. Rehydrate well afterwards — water, herbal teas, and hydrating snacks such as cucumber or melon are your best friends.
Hydrate, always
It’s a cliché for a reason: hydrated skin always wins. Aim to drink at least 2.5 litres of water daily, and, if you can, book a HydraFacial three days before your event. Skin Ritual is my go-to clinic for it. The result? Plump, juicy, naturally luminous skin — no filters required.
Skip the supplements (for now)
In the days leading up to your event, skip anything that can cause water retention, such as electrolytes or creatine. They’re great for training, but not ideal when you want that refined, de-puffed look.
Ease up on the caffeine
If you’re prone to anxious energy or restless sleep, swap your coffee for matcha, tulsi, or peppermint tea. You’ll still feel alert, but grounded. Calm always reads better than wired energy.
Sleep like it’s sacred
No serum can outdo sleep. Wind down early with magnesium and a book that makes you feel soft and sleepy. If your mind’s racing, which it usually is before a big event, do a quick journal brain dump. Think of it as clearing mental clutter so you can rest.
Barre for lifted posture
A barre workout on the day of an event is my not-so-secret trick for sculpted arms, lifted posture, and that elegant, open energy that reads as confidence. It’s not about shrinking, it’s about strength, presence, and energy alignment.
Start the day grounded
On the morning of your event, begin with a short meditation on Insight Timer. Breathe deeply, anchor into your intention, and remember: your glow lands best when your nervous system is calm, your body nourished.
Gua Sha
This one’s pure ritual. It helps make-up sit better, softens jaw and brow tension, and brings your face to life. Keep it gentle, and always use a good oil — KAEĀ’s facial oil is my go-to. If it’s a milestone event, such as your wedding, a buccal facial is worth the splurge. Kate at Kumo Skin Spa is my favourite.
Refresh like it’s an art form
Post-event, mix filtered water with cucumber slices and electrolytes, freeze them in ice moulds, and add them to your glass the next morning. It’s like a mini spa moment.
This article originally appeared in Fashion Quarterly’s Summer 2025 issue.
Photography: Supplied.
