Unexpected desk essentials

We’ve all been there: you think the only date you have after work is with your couch, but at the last minute, a friend invites you to that fancy restaurant you’ve been dying to try, that guy finally asks you out for a drink, or you’re overwhelmed with the urge to hit the dance floor and shake off the week.

It may not happen every day, but if you want to make the most of your social life, it’s best to be prepared. So while you may already boast a snack stash, tissues galore and more headache tablets than a pharmacy in your desk drawer, there are some unexpected essentials you should keep on hand for #yolo occasions.

#1 False lashes

For those of you who’ve tried, you’ll know applying more mascara after a day’s worth of wear often results in super hard, clumpy lashes. So, instead of stowing eye make-up remover, cotton pads and mascara in your drawer, just keep a pair of falsies on hand so you can accentuate your eyes for the evening. You can apply them straight along the lash line without having to remove any make-up – too easy!

#2 Nail polish dry drops/spray

Whether you need to quickly fix up a chip or pop on a more festive colour, a product formulated to speed up the drying time of nail polish will save you from smudging. Plus, it’ll give you the ability to quickly paint your nails between meetings, during your lunch break or while on a call, and go about your business straight after. They say a woman is only helpless when her nails are drying, but a quick-dry solution means you can be a #bosslady all day, every day.

#3 Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor

Uh-oh. Did somebody think they’d be wearing their blazer and stockings all day and didn’t bother shaving this morning? Well, if you keep the Schick Pure Nourishment Razor in your desk drawer, this doesn’t have to be such a crisis. This super-convenient razor is perfect for last minute hair removal, because it’s designed with a soapy solid around the blades to lather, shave and moisturise in one step – so you don’t need any shaving gel or soap to use it. Even if you don’t have a shower in your office, all you need to do is add some water and the flexible four-blade pivoting head will contour to the shape of your body for a close and smooth shave. Just duck to the bathroom for a few minutes – nobody will ever know!

#4 Perfume

Spritzing a fresh scent will not only make you smell good, but help to reset your senses and get you in a social mood. By having a separate ‘going out’ scent to your regular day perfume, your brain will associate that smell with happiness and a good time. And on those days when you don’t really feel like heading out, a quick spray will be more persuasive than a nagging friend.

#5 Styling tool

Do you like your hair curly and flirty or sleek and straight? Whatever your preference, keep a hair tool at work during the week. That way, on the days when you decide to wash and wear or tie up your strands in a bun, you’ll be able to style your way out of frizziness and kinks. Not to mention, the better your hair is styled, the less make-up touches will be required!

#6 Toothbrush and toothpaste

As much as gum and mints can help get you through the day, if your lunch had garlic in it or you’ve been up since 5am, you’re just not going to feel completely fresh unless you have a proper mouth clean. If you’re currently in the dating game, this is crucial – you don’t want to be remembered as the girl with bad breath! As an added bonus, you can also give your lips a quick exfoliation while brushing, preparing them for a potential kiss later on.

#7 Highlighter

By the end of the day, many of us have lost our glow – but it can easily be restored with the use of a highlighter. Add some to your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow to refresh your make-up.

And you’re ready!