Fashion

Not in the Party Mood? These Quotes Will Help!

by Hilary Phelan

Theoretically, I think parties are great. I love them, because what's not to love, right? But in reality, we all know the stress that comes with trying to get out the door when you really don't feel like it — be it because you're not coping well with a winter bug, your hair is not cooperating or you just don't want to deal with people. And I think that today, of all days, is the perfect time to offer some helpful tips that'll have you feeling fabulous when you venture into the social wilderness this evening. As always, we can seek some inspiration from the iconic fashion and beauty quotes out there.

Tonight is the one night of the year when the pressure to have the best party EVER is higher than any other night of the year. I'm not going to be able to keep you from getting arrested or anything dramatic like that. But I can give you my favorite tips that I use to make myself feel great when I'm heading out the door and dealing with busy social occasions. I know the social butterflies among you will not know what I'm taking about. You've probably been bouncing around for hours in anticipation of the night ahead. But for the rest of us, I've collected my favorite quotes to put some spring in your step this NYE.

I too hear the voice that says you could just stay home in your pajamas with hot chocolate and movies, and YES... it does sound tempting. But NO! We are going to do this thing; you and I together! We are going out, and we are going to feel fabulous doing it.

1. YOU ARE UNIQUE, AND THAT MAKES YOU AWESOME

It sounds cheesy, but embrace who you really are! (Anyway I love cheese so I never really understood why cheesy is perceived as such bad thing!) Trying to be someone you aren't takes so much energy, and will leave you feeling (and looking) exhausted.

2. HAPPY, HAPPY JOY JOY

Little Orphan Annie sang, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile,” and she was right. Thinking happy thoughts really lifts your spirits and studies have shown that women are considered more beautiful if they smile.

3. DON'T LISTEN TO THE MONSTERS

We all have them — those horrible little monsters in our heads that whisper, "Are you really going to go out wearing that?” Don’t give them that headspace: Kick them out, hold your chin up and think, “YES I am gonna wear it, and I look fab."

4. EMBRACE WHAT YOU LOVE TO WEAR

I’m gonna follow up this quote with a quote by Iris Apfel: “I always feel that if you’re gonna be uncomfortable and unhappy in something, just because you think it’s in or it’s chic, I would advise you to be happy rather than well-dressed. It’s better to be happy."

5. WEAR SOMETHING CRAZY

I love clothes with lots of colors and fun prints, and I even started making my own dresses because I couldn’t find anything wild enough to satisfy those two criteria. If you're wearing something daring and notice people looking at you, the voice in your head can say loud and proud, "They must think I’m fabulous and inspirational!" And not, "OMG why are they looking at me? Is my hair a mess? Have I spilled wine on myself? Is my skirt tucked into my underpants?"

6. WE PROBABLY WOULDN'T AGREE ON THE TYPE OF SHOES, BUT...

Victoria Beckham once said that she can’t concentrate in flat shoes. Well, I’m the opposite! I’ve tried, but I just can’t do heels! I have some fab flats though, and I really enjoy wearing them and knowing that you can do glam and pretty without torturing your feet!

7. NOTHING TO WEAR?

Boy do I know this feeling! Go with what you feel like on any given day! That will make you the most comfortable; don’t try to wear something that induces self-doubt or unease in any way.

8. WE LOVE J. LAW

The lady speaks the truth! Don’t try to compare yourself or your style to people from TV-land; you just don’t have the resources they do!

9. BE FIERCE!

What more to say but, "RaaaarrrrRRRRRRR!"

So in conclusion, remember that you are excellent, wear what you love and be happy! Sounds simple right?

I wish all of you a fantastic NYE. And even if the night does not go as expected (because it never does) try to have a smile on your face when the clock strikes 12! I know I will! I'm so excited to wear my self-made crazy dress for the first time!

Images: Author