Summer beauty prep school

Few things trigger fear-induced nausea like a last-minute summer-party invite: the posh wedding (did we mention that your ex and his new girlfriend will be attending?), the au naturel camping/cottage excursion or—the most dreaded of all social engagements—the bikini-baring pool party. As soon as the invitation lands in the mailbox, so begins the frantic rummaging for a certain low-cal cook-book, the aching regret over skipping biweekly spin classes and the crushing realization that your morning muffin has translated into an inglorious muffin top. Instead of wishing for a time cap- sule, let’s just get real. Here’s our round-up of quick fixes guaranteed to have you looking your best, no matter what the occasion. So, go ahead and RSVP.

FORMAL AFFAIR

The official position
Weddings are a time to celebrate love and commitment with close family and friends. The reality: Weddings equal photos—lots of photos. Whether you’re a bride, a bridesmaid, a guest or a plus one, the summer wedding (and requisite photog) doesn’t have to equal insomnia. Here’s how to prep.

MONTH BEFORE
Step lightly
Adding high-energy dance classes to your routine is a great way to get cardio and muscle training. It’s also excellent preparation for the reception dance floor. “I love Zumba classes because they really work your waist and create a feminine silhouette,” says celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza.

Bar bill
Cutting out alcohol will help you slim down, but if you’re not ready to pass on your post-work cocktail, Braganza suggests sipping on a spritzer (half white wine, half sparkling water) as a compromise.

Lighten up
Colour your hair and touch up highlights at least two weeks before the big day; get your teeth whitened two weeks in advance as well, so your smile will be camera-ready. If you dabble in injectables, make sure that you schedule your Botox or filler treatment at least two weeks ahead to prevent bruising and swelling.

WEEK BEFORE
Tea time
Celeb trainer Jennifer Cohen recommends drinking at least three cups of decaf green tea to eliminate toxins and deliver a rich dose of antioxidants that will improve your overall complexion.

Backup plan
Do a series of back workouts the week before to improve your posture. “You’ll instinctively stand taller and look leaner, which is great for posing in photographs,” says Braganza. (For more information on Braganza’s workout routines, visit ramonabraganza.com.)

DAY BEFORE
Mad dash
Go for a jog to boost your endorphin levels; these trigger positive emotions and will have you looking as good as Her Royal Hotness, Pippa.

DAY OF
Blushing bridal
“A coral blush instantly warms your overall complexion,” explains Lori Taylor, pro lead artist for Smashbox. Women with fair to medium skin look best in a cantaloupe or honeysuckle shade, while a deep coral suits women with darker skin tones. Taylor recommends dabbing a cream blush on the apples of your cheeks for a natural and dewy look.

The mister
Even the most cynical among us can’t help but tear up at weddings. (Father-daughter dance, anyone?) Water-resistant mascara is less drying than the waterproof kind but strong enough to withstand the day’s heat, humidity and emotion. Taylor also recommends keeping an under-eye brightener on hand to mask any post-cry puffiness or redness.

Get ready to sport your bikini on the next page ...