Essentials For a Night Out

Nowadays, it’s rare that I go out. Even contemplating a night out seems like too much effort! Blame it on the weather (this time of the year the weather’s frightful and inside is so delightful, really), not having something to wear (my most common excuse of all), not having someone trustworthy to watch my son (the only excuse that is reasonable here I know!), the reasons are endless. On a day to day basis, I keep it pretty simple: leggings and minimal makeup (lipstick is always a must).

However, there are occasions that come up and that call for a little more sophistication. A work event for my husband’s job, an occasional reunion with some friends we haven’t seen in a while, or the very rare date night out on the town with just me and my husband. All good reasons to slip into an outfit that deserves a little more care and attention and spend a little more time on my hair and makeup.

My typical evening out outfit always includes a clutch. I find that a clutch bag is more practical for a night out for obvious reasons: it’s small and can’t be overfilled with items that are perhaps unnecessary when space is a constraint (ie, multiple lipstick options simply because I cannot make up my mind). A clutch is all about “essentials”, or things you need if stranded on a deserted island. Over the years, I have narrowed these essentials down to a few key items that I lug around from clutch to clutch without giving it too much thought. All the time saved can now be safely spent planning my outfit and accessories.

Concealer

Re-applying concealer on top of a full on make-up face can be a recipe for disaster. It is best to opt for something liquid in texture, something that applies and blends easily onto the skin. My on the go concealer is the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser. It comes in a tube, which is more hygienic than a pot, and it has a handy sponge attached to the tube, which means minimal work applying the concealer and blending it.

Powder

Always a must-have in any bag for touchups or to deshine. I typically opt for something that’s compact and finely milled, something that won’t leave your face looking cakey. The Chanel Poudre Universelle Compact is what does the trick for me. It comes with a sponge and applies easily and feels light on the skin.

Lipstick / Lipliner

This is usually a combo in the color of your choice. For me, my go to lip is MAC Soar lipliner paired with Charlotte Tilbury Very Victoria lipstick. It’s a sophisticated nude/ mauve color that’s very flattering on most skin tones, goes with any outfit and is easy to apply in a hurry. One quick swipe and you’re done.

Hand cream

To be honest this is the first item to be popped into my clutch. I tend to wash my hands often (much more so since becoming a mom) and my hands always feel dry. It’s so important to have a good hand cream, free of parabens and other harmful chemicals, a cream that nourishes and hydrates your skin and nails. L’Occitane makes some of the best hand creams in my opinion, hands down (no pun intended). I’ve used them for years and have recommended them to everyone who crosses my path. Their Lavender Hand Cream (read my full review here) is currently my favorite and goes with me everywhere.

Hand sanitizer

A hand sanitizer is a must especially when using cabs or public transportation. My favorite one, although not natural in formulation, is the Warm Vanilla Sugar from Bath and Body Works. It doesn’t leave the hands feeling sticky or smelling like alcohol.

Travalo 

One of the best inventions out there and perfect for an instant refresher while out on the town. It is a portable perfume container that makes decanting a big bottle so effortless and easy. I picked mine up at TJ Maxx while waiting in the checkout line and over the years I’ve accumulated several Travalo containers. They come in handy when you’re on the go or travelling. I have one in my bag, one in my car and one by my bed side.

Hairbrush

The mini push and pop hairbrush from Sephora is convenient to carry in a clutch. It is a small, retractable brush that folds up to the size of a makeup compact, thus making it very portable.

There you have it: these are my key products for a night out. Do you have some night out essentials that you carry with you?