This year, Mr Lyns and I had a lovely low-key Valentines Day as we’re trying to save some money. We didn’t do flowers, chocolates and the big meal out and instead chose to have a gorgeous and intimate breakfast date at Miel et Moi before I had to rush off to act in a mock court trial (don’t ask) and I have to say that I loved it every bit as much as I would have had we went all out.

That being said, I do find that there is something that is good for the soul in spending an hour pampering yourself whether it be for a cute date night or a big girls night out. Taking the time for yourself and dolling yourself up can help make you feel a million dollars. Whilst it’s lovely to head off to the hairdressers and nail salon in preparation of your big evening, there are several things you can do at home which are more purse friendly and don’t take too much time.

The first thing I like to do is ensure that I have a lovely healthy glow so that I’m confident when getting my legs out if I’m wearing a dress or skirt. I love a good tan and Lord knows I’ve tried a lot of them. But this Velvet Finish Tanning Gel* is a dream to use and a bargain to boot at just £7.99. The gel applies with ease and doesn’t leave a sticky/tacky feeling on the skin meaning you can apply and get dressed soon after. After 4-6 hours the colour develops to a very natural, healthy glow while keeping your skin moisturised and silky smooth.

The next hurdle for me is getting my hair to behave. I have really limp and lifeless hair so it takes a little effort to get that ‘just out of the hairdressers’ vibe at home. This is where these Scünci Boost Its* come in. The Boost Its come with three sponge like clips that you insert in your hair where you want a bit of extra volume. The clips are super light weight, so comfortable to wear and the velcro like back ensures your hair stays put to cover them. I like to use the bigger clip at the back of my crown just to give my hair that little lift. Quick and easy.

For make up, it’s key that my base is flawless and that I have a nice neutral toned smokey eye. Lately I have been road-testing more affordable make up brands and I’ve been really impressed with this Sleek MakeUp Vitality Foundation*. This formulation is oil free and super hydrating which is exactly what my skin needs right now. It has a light to medium coverage but is easily buildable. The formulation also contains soft-focus powders which help smooth the surface of the skin, evening out skin tone. At just £8.99 and often on a 3 for 2 or BOGOF offer at Boots, it really is a bargain. Sticking with Sleek, the I-Divine Eyeshadow Palette in Au Naturel has everything that I need to create a sexy, neutral smoky eye. I love the formulation of these shadows too and they definitely give some of my high end products a real run for their money. To finish off my look, I go for a comfortable neutral lip colour and lately I’ve been reaching for this YSL Rouge Volupt in  the shade Nude Beige. The formulation of these lipsticks are super creamy and comfortable on the lip and the packaging it to die for. Even bringing it out of your handbag to touch up is a joy – I am allowed to maintain a little luxury here!

Finally, to really make myself feel super polished and ready for a night out, I will apply false lashes and nails. These red Kiss Gel Fantasy* nails are so easy to use and look like you’ve had a professional manicure. At £5.99 a pack (which can last me up to a week after application), it’s a cheaper and quicker alternative than going to the nail salon. Kiss aren’t just good for nails, they make the best false lashes too. For a night out I’m likely to opt for something more dramatic than usual so these Faux Mink Lashes* in the style Gala scream night out to me. These lashes are only £7.99 a pack, and if you look after them, you can get several uses out of them. They are easy to apply and the band is lightweight which works well for my usually sensitive eyes.

So there we have it, getting ready for a date night/girls night out can be done on a budget and when you’re low on time.

What are your favourite budget hacks for a big date night or girls night out?

Thanks for reading!

Lynsey xox

* all products marked with an asterisk were sent to me for review. All opinions are 100% my own as always.