You’re going through a rough breakup. You’re crying, drained, miserable—obviously not looking or feeling your best. But you have to meet up with your ex, whether it’s to return his things or because of an unavoidable get-together with mutual friends. How can you prep for the meeting so you don’t look heartbroken? Here are some tips.
Psych yourself
Remind yourself of all the reasons you broke up with him, why this relationship won’t work in the long run, and why you deserve better. Boost your confidence too. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will give you the pat on the back and the occasional whack in the head when you start to wallow in self-pity. In other words, beef up your emotional reserves so that you can walk in there with head held high.
Plan your makeup
The idea is to look put together but in an effortless way. For makeup, aim for a natural look. Just even out skin tone with a foundation that has good coverage but still looks like your skin (nothing thick or cakey). If you have puffy eyes, put concealer just underneath the puffy area, ‘lifting’ it and brightening it. Pink blush with a touch of bronzer can add a youthful, healthy glow to your cheeks. Mascara can also open up the eye area, and white or flesh liner just along the inner rims of the eye can make it look whiter and wider. You can also check celebrity makeup artist’s Lisa Eldridge’s tutorial.
Plan your outfit
Avoid gray or brown which can drain color from your face. Pick something bright and happy, like a salmon or a pink. However, don’t stray too far from the style that he’s used to seeing you wear, or he’ll think you’re trying to impress him. For example, if you’re always in jeans and shirts, don’t show up in a dress. Stick to the jeans but wear a flattering shirt or a beautiful accessory.
Show up with reinforcements
If it’s a party, make sure you have a friend who can provide moral support or at least have someone to talk to so you’re not standing awkwardly in a corner with no one to talk to. If it’s just the two of you, plan to meet up with a friend right afterward, so you have something positive to look forward to.
Bite your tongue
Remember you’ll be replaying your conversation for days so think twice before you say something that you will later regret. Stay calm and poised.