By Khanak Mehta
You’ve got your outfit fitted, mastered the perfect tie knot, and practiced the best selfie poses. But have you given your hair and beard a second thought?
According to celebrity hairstylist and educator Franco Vallelonga, what you wear is just as important as how you groom yourself—and it has to be a little more than just slicking your hair back with water. “Putting time into your grooming routine makes you look polished and stylish. It also makes you feel good, which improves a person's self-esteem and confidence—essential for weddings and social events,” he says.
However, this doesn’t have to translate into a day-long grooming session at the barber’s. Here are some simple yet impactful steps you can add to your routine to take your look to the next level.
Your mane act
Vallelonga suggests getting regular haircuts to keep your hair in a healthy and good condition. A day before the big event is the best time to pay your hairstylist a visit; and while you’re there, ask for a blow dry. “Blow drying cuts down on styling time, and adds volume to the hair as well. Your hair will be soft, smooth, and shiny,” he adds.
A close shave
You can never go wrong with a classic, clean-shaven look at a wedding. “It’s best to trim your facial hair and exfoliate your skin a few days before the big day. Shave the evening before, and then again the next morning,” recommends Vallelonga. “Moisturise with a soothing facial oil to prep your skin before a shave,” he adds.
Don’t sweat it
Between impressing your date with some standout moves on the dance floor and posing for endless selfies, things can get pretty sweaty. Opt for an anti-perspirant instead of a deodorant and invest in a travel-sized bottle for easy reapplication. Oh, and if you deal with oily skin, your face is bound to get shiny – so carry a small pack of blotting paper for a quick mid-evening refresh.