No new party dress? Don't fret. Add glamour to your hair and makeup for a completely different look. Here's what you need. What more could a girl ask for?

Chris McKinnon of McKinnon Hair Design on Balsam Avenue South offers these tips for the mane events:

* Set aside enough time to do it yourself or book an appointment with a stylist.

* Take some bling off the Christmas tree. A small crystal star or a big red velvet bow will work depending on your personality.

* If your hair is looking faded and dull, a gloss colour wash technique can brighten your hair in 20 minutes.

* If you only have time for a simple blowout, a five-minute moisturizing treatment will help make hair shine.

* Heavy gels and hairspray tend to make hair look dull. Use volumizing spray, smoothing serums or a medium hold hair spray such as Kerastase Brume Nutri-sculpt, L'Oreal TEC Air Fix or Pantene Classic Touchable Hairspray Flexible Hold.

* Use a flat iron to straighten or curl hair.

* If you have a teenage daughter, do each other's hair and makeup.

New York based Estee Lauder stylist Rick DiCecca suggests getting the party started with the right makeup:

* Add a touch of silver, platinum or gold to the centre of your eyelid to pump up the drama. Estee Lauder's shadow in Silver Ball is $20.

* Intensify the drama with a dark eyeliner such as Estee Lauder's After Hours or Midnight, $19.50. Or pencil liner in Jet Black, $32.50.

* Apply eyeliner in short quick strokes then smudge with a sponge tip for a smoky effect.

* Wear Rich Red lipstick or gloss in Apple Cordial or Garnet.

Kellie Ann Zupet reports on fashion for The Hamilton Spectator. gostyle@thespec.com