So, in 2020 things changed – drastically. Many of us went from getting dressed and doing our makeup and hair for work to skipping all of that and commuting to our couch in our jammies. While we adjusted to this new normal, our skin and hair were suddenly showing signs of health, growth, and improvement.

Now, it’s 2021, and we need a balance. Maintaining that great hair and skin health that comes from using fewer products and nurturing our natural beauty is key. But at this point, we’re totally over our co-workers looking like they rolled out of bed.

Much of our personal lives are being conducted over Facetime, Zoom, WhatsApp, and other digital ways of interaction, and we don’t know when that will end. But we know we want to stop looking like a schlub and put our best face forward again.

With new screens come new tips on looking your best for every meeting, date, or digital rendezvous.

Tips for virtual glamour

Are you ready for your close up? Honestly, why isn’t there a great virtual meeting filter that just makes you look incredible? We’re sure that that’s in the works and will be available eventually. Until then, these tips will help you look professional for work, romantic for that virtual date, and normal enough for your video calls to your mother (so she can stop worrying).

Do that normal stuff

Remember when you brushed your teeth, did your hair, showered, put on clothes, and all of that normal stuff that used to be part of your routine. It’s time to reinstitute some of those habits that are good for your health and appearance. If you’ve learned some things like your hair is healthier with less than daily washes, stick to that – but don’t let it go too long. Brush your teeth, wash your face, put on clothes that make you feel good.

Put down the cocktail

A lot of people are turning to virtual happy hours to stay connected. And that’s all well and good, but excess alcohol isn’t pretty on anyone. It wreaks havoc on your body and your skin. How about trying a mocktail that’s packed with nutritional benefits. This can keep happy hours happy and have you feeling refreshed in the morning, rather than full of regrets.

Your background matters

Do not hold a meeting in the bathroom. Sure, the lighting is great, but come on. No, believe us, it happens. Instead, create a corner of your home that will be your most flattering zone. It’s where you are a virtual goddess. Paint walls, put up artwork or books or diplomas, whatever it takes to make it look super-impressive. It’s fun if you treat it like an interior decorating challenge.

Camera angle

While you work with your camera at about elbow height, that angle in a meeting gives you so many chins and shoots right up your nose. It’s awkward taking notes on your keyboard when the camera is eye-level, but you’ll look a lot better. Consider a separate monitor and keyboard for virtual meetings to have the best of both worlds.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important elements in a video or photoshoot. It’s not a bad idea to learn a little about lighting and to experiment a bit. Warm light is usually best, and you want to be front-lit. A light ring is not an expensive investment and might be worth it.

Colors and clothes

Your background color should be one that flatters you. Your clothing should do the same. It probably doesn’t matter what pants you’re wearing – or even if you’re wearing any. But your shirt is crucial. Pick something that’s not too busy or too printed. Typically a solid in a pastel color is your best bet.

Hair and makeup

Play with your lighting by looking at yourself on screen. Do you look washed-out or fresh-faced? Do you look too red and flushed, or like you’re hiding in shadows? Once you get the light right, you can focus on where your makeup might need to be refreshed. Learning some shading techniques can help, but don’t be too heavy-handed; natural is the trend now—effortless natural. And speaking of natural, it’s the same with hair. You want to have naturally healthy hair that’s not loaded with products or artificial ingredients. Hair La Vie’s Shampoo and Conditioner Set is designed to nurture your hair with 21 natural ingredients that include essential oils, proteins, antioxidants & vitamins. Just wash, condition, and then let your hair air dry so you can see what it wants to do and work with that.

Final thoughts

If you’re still hitting those virtual meetings with the just-rolled-out-of-bed look, it’s definitely time to stop. That was cute for a minute, and now that’s over. You want to look like you’re still a professional, you still care about that virtual date, and you want your friends and family to see that you’re thriving.  

How your background looks is important, and your camera angle and lighting help put you in a flattering position, and your clothing can send a message. But the thing that’s most important now is how you’re doing. Focusing on self-care and taking a natural approach to health and beauty is where it’s at. Being home more means fewer errands you have to do, less running around commuting, and more time to tend to yourself. Use this time as a gift, and treat yourself to all of the healthy habits you’ve been meaning to develop. It will show on your virtual self. But, more importantly, you’ll see the results and feel it inside.