Once I get through brushing my teeth and hair, my first step is usually to decide what to wear. I’m the kind of person who believes dressing well not only gives a good impression to those you meet, but also sets the tone of your attitude to your day. For confidence or a social day, I like to pick out a nice dress or skirt combo, and on other days where I’m a little more tired, a sweatshirt for maximum cosiness is definitely needed. A quick check of the weather app is also usually in my routine, just so I know if I need my outfit to go with my boots and rain jacket. A couple of staples in my closet are stockings/tights so I can keep wearing my skirts while battling the north wind, and a scarf that my friends joke that I’m never without past October time.
I believe that dressing well not only gives a good impression to those you meet, but also sets the tone of your attitude to your day
If I have the time, I always like to put on a tiny bit of makeup. As someone with dry skin, I’ve never been able to make foundation work for me. A tub of Kiehl’s moisturiser is a step I never skip and I let it dry down slightly while I put my clothes on. Then because I don’t really have a habit of - or the skills for - a full face, my go-to items include blush (usually repurposed NYX eyeshadow or NARS Orgasm for events), tinted lip balm (Vaseline) and either mascara or eyeliner (from Korean brand TONYMOLY). Those usually take me about five minutes to put on, and for touchups, my Vaseline goes everywhere with me. If I’m feeling like a treat or have a date planned, a little bit of cult favourite Dior Addict Lip Glow gives me a tiny happiness boost.
When I throw my lip balm in my bag, I also check that I’ve got everything that I need. For lectures, I’ll usually be carrying a tote bag on me with a couple of pens, my diary and my laptop. Then before I leave, make sure to have at least one coat (if not two and the aforementioned scarf) and my keys before probably speed walking my way to campus.