High School Formals

By Kate

Your high school formal is just days away. You've bought the perfect dress, organised your spray tan, hairstylist and makeup, and even bought the perfect clutch. Now what to put in it? Unless you've got a bag like Mary Poppins or Hermione Granger, chances are you won't be able to pack and plan for every possible formal emergency. But it's a good idea to have the necessities with you.

So, other than the obvious cash, cards and mobile, what else should you pack just in case? Here’s a list of supplies that will help you be ready for anything on your big night:

Formal tickets/invitation to the after party – The perfect entrance won't mean much if you're turned away at the door!

Camera – Professional photos are great, but you'll also want to take plenty of your own during the night (channel your inner paparazzo). Remember to fully charge the battery before you leave home.

Lipstick/gloss – Eating, talking, and laughing all night means you might need to reapply a few times to maintain that perfect pout.

Press powder – We all have a tendency to get a little shiny as the night wears on—particularly if dancing is involved—so it's a good idea to keep a compact on hand to touch up before photos.

Mints/chewing gum – Let's not let that late-night conversation be ruined by bad breath!

Perfume – Try to grab a sample, miniature or travel container that will fit easily in your bag, to make sure you smell delicious all night.

Bobby pins – That just-done look doesn't last long—you might need to tame a few strands along the way.

Headache tablets – Between the stress, excitement, and thousands of hair pins, a pounding head is a definite possibility. Make sure you invest in rapidly absorbed tablets to get back into the action as soon as possible.

Tissues – As fun as the night will be, saying goodbye to five years of high school means there are bound to be some tears as well. Pack some travel tissues to avoid blubbering into your corsage.

Bandaids/heel cushions – A new pair of shoes and a few hours on the dance floor usually make for pretty tired feet and a blister or two. Have some relief on hand!

Sewing kit/safety pins/dress tape – For those rips, tears, and general wardrobe malfunctions.

Mini mirror – Just to confirm that you look spectacular...and in case you don't trust your friends who say there's nothing stuck in your teeth!

With a little prior preparation and planning you can show up to your formal with a well-stocked clutch that will ensure you are ready for almost every eventuality. This will free you up to have more fun at your formal knowing no matter what disaster may strike, you’re prepared for it!