While quarantine has given us an extra excuse to be more introverted than usual, dating is still encouraged. Whether you’re sparking new connections through dating apps or quarantined in a different location than your partner, dating virtually can still be exciting. The only downfall? It’s unknown territory. We’re all clueless about everything from what to wear to how to do our hair and makeup. With physical dates, it’s easy to dress according to the location or activity, but what’s the protocol for virtual dating?
Start by focusing on the pros—virtual dates require the least amount of time, commitment, and effort. Not into it? Hang up. It’s really that simple. Gone are the days of spending hours getting ready, doing your hair and makeup perfectly, sitting in traffic to get to your destination, picking up the bill, so on and so forth. Now, you can get ready in no time—here’s how.
Outfit
There’s no reason you can’t be comfortable from the waist down—keep those sweats on if that’s your thing, but don’t forget to change your top. Opt for something that’s a bit more interesting like statement sleeves, an intriguing collar, or an overall flattering, eye catching print or color that’ll make it on the tiny square box.
Hair
Don’t overthink this one. Just spritz some dry shampoo and instantly add some oomph to your hair in seconds. Your date won’t be able tell it’s been days since you last washed your hair.
Beautylish recommends Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal Biotin Dry Shampoo or Bumble and bumble. Pret A Powder Post Workout Dry Shampoo Mist
Makeup
A date, virtual or not, may be the perfect excuse to get ready like we used to on the daily. I personally have been looking for every excuse to get ready and feel like myself again—from farmers market runs to virtual happy hours. If you prefer the ‘no-makeup’ makeup look, try this foolproof, 4-step routine that’ll enhance your features and takes 5 minutes max.
1. Start with a skin tint to even out your skin tone.
Beautylish recommends Kevyn Aucoin Stripped Nude Skin Tint
2. Add a flush of natural-looking color with an effortless multi-stick.
Beautylish recommends Ilia Multi Stick or Nudestix Nudies Matte Blush Bronze
3. Apply highlighter to the high points of your face for an ethereal glow.
Beautylish recommends Danessa Myricks Beauty Love and Light Beauty Oil or RMS Beauty Magic Luminizer
4. Finish with some no-fuss gloss to your lips.
Beautylish recommends Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre or Hourglass Unreal High Shine
Setting
Find a quiet, well-lit spot with a simple background for your next date. Just like in photos, lighting is key even in video chats. My personal favorite trick for all video calls, including work meetings, is to have either natural sunlight or a lamp facing me for a subtle glow. It may sound weird, but just give it a try.
Filters
When all else fails, filters will be your best friends. Zoom’s ‘touch up my appearance’ option instantly smooths out your skin for a more polished look. Don’t believe me? Go to video settings, check the box next to ‘touch up my appearance’, and you may not even need the 4-step makeup routine.
