A special occasion is all fun and games but honestly the prep-work is insane and a school ball is no exception.

In the hectic-ness of it all, it’s easy to forget the style essentials. But of course, Billie’s got you covered.

We have gone through and listed all the prep you need to do before the big night - think accessories and beauty.

So time to get buying and booking because a formal/ball/prom look doesn’t magically happen 🥲

Shoes.

Never underestimate the power of a good shoe!

Honestly this probably is just a huge indication of my age but practicality and comfort take priority every time when I’m going to a big event.

Lucky for you though, there is now a much bigger range of shoes that are not only practical and comfortable but ALSO stylish.

If you are buying brand new heels (and you can afford to spend a little bit extra), get a good pair you’ll wear again!

I personally love Kathryn Wilson’s range of heels as they are super cute and fun, but they are also comfy for a heel and not a pair of ankle-breakers in disguise. Plus she has a great range that are also on sale.

While you’re thinking feet, grab some Scholl Party Feet Cushions to help with the comfort levels. If you’re going to be dancing the night away, you don’t want to be in pain.

Lastly, once you’ve got those heels - practice wearing them! If this is your first time wearing heels then you don’t want to look like a baby giraffe on the big night.

Make sure you get used to wearing them at least a few weeks out. This will also help them wear in and should help you avoid any big blisters.

Bags.

Hello, it’s me Sensible Billie again lol.

If you’re going to be dropping big $$$ on a bag, 100000% get something you will use over and over again.

As cute as they tiny, sparkly, rhinestone clutch is you will honestly use it maybe once more in your lifetime.

Instead, invest in something like this Saben Frilly Tilly.

You can wear it crossbody or take off the strap to use it as a clutch but I guarantee you will use this guy heaps after.

Plus the best benefit of all - it has room for your stuff in it! Bet that sparkly rhinestone clutch only fits your lip gloss right?

P.S. don’t forget to pack some plasters, a spare tampon (I bet someone will need one) and some panadol.

Underwear.

You may be thinking “wuuuuutttt!?” but if you have a strapless dress, you’ll need a strapless bra, gal.

There are so many solutions out there for different dress shapes, whether it be strapless, low back, halter-neck, plunge etc etc.

My one piece of advice would be to invest in comfort! I have owned cheap strapless bras and that silicone helping it to stay up can get VERY uncomfortable by the end of the night.

Head to Bras N Things or Farmers and let the experts help you find the best option for your look.

Hair & Makeup.

If you are planning on getting your hair and makeup done professionally for the night - book it in IMMEDIATELY!

Salons and Makeup Artists are in hot demand during ball season so the earlier you book in, the better the chance you will have getting an appointment.

One hot tip ahead of both of your hair and makeup appoints: make a Pinterest of what look you want!

These glam wizards love it when you have a clear vision of what you want but if you’re unsure, just take some pics of looks you like and also a picture of your dress so they will be able to advise you what might work best.

If you are planning on a DIY makeup situation, or you’re doing it on a budget, you can level up your glam by buying some fake lashes and nails!

Ardell Lashes are such a simple way to add immediate WOW-factor to your look. Honestly the first time I used them I kept looking in the mirror thinking “wow, wow, WOW, wow” (a la Owen Wilson).

Here at Billie, we also love the Ardell Nail Addict Range because it’s like getting a boujee manicure for a quarter of the price.

I mean c’mon… where else can you get a mani this good for $22??

Tan.

I mean who doesn’t like looking like they’ve had a two week Fijian holiday in the dead of winter!

In all seriousness though, it’s nice to have a little glow for a special occasion!

I’ve had a few professional spray tans in my time and don’t get me wrong, they were MOSTLY great however they are a lot of effort. I personally prefer to DIY at home with good ol’ Bondi Sands.

First of all, it’s way cheaper. Like you get 30 fake tans out of it for half the price of a salon one.

It can also be done from the privacy of your own home because honestly is there anything worse than having to stand half-naked in front of a stranger while she sprays you down with COLD brown water…

Before you start, make sure to check out this Guide To Self Tanning For Beginners to get all the tips and tricks needed for a flawless tan. Did you know how important exfoliation is before tanning? You do now.

For first timers, you can also buy Self Tan Eraser Gel in case of tan emergencies such as leaving it on too long or streaking.

And for the love of god, ALWAYS USE A MITT.

One last piece of advice…

GIRL! Don’t forget to have fun!

It’s great to get all the prep work done, but remember you’re doing it so you can have the best night ever!

No matter what you wear, you’re going to look STUNNING, so don’t feel too gutted if everything doesn’t go to plan e.g. you forget to get your nails done.

Remember the most important part is to laugh, dance the night away, take a billion photos and have fun with your friends.