How to Get Ready to Go Out with Friends (Teenager)

Co-authored by Jamie Bushman

Last Updated: December 26, 2022 References

Hanging out with friends is always a blast, and getting ready can be half the fun. We're here to help you get the night started on a fun note before you even head out the door! We're starting out with some tips about how to put yourself together so you're feeling cute and confident. We've also got some ideas about how to make getting ready have a fun vibe so that it feels like part of your event.

1

Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident.

Choose jeans and a hoodie for a classic comfy look. No matter what the occasion, your favorite pair of jeans are probably appropriate.
- Pair them with a cozy hoodie and you’re set to go. Try wearing fashionably distressed jeans to look modern, if you feel like it.^{[1]
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- You can dress this look up by wearing some cute ankle boots or trying a cool new braid in your hair.
- Ditch the denim for a party or other nice occasion. It's fun to glam it up for the evening, so try a cute dress or skirt with a pretty top. When in doubt, black always works.
- If you'd prefer to wear pants, fabrics like satin, velvet, or faux leather can give you a luxe look.^{[2]
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- If you're going to a bar or bat mitzvah, wedding, or graduation, try wearing a dress or a stylish blazer with pants. You can style it with some cute shoes and jewelry.

2

Use cute accessories to upgrade your outfit.

Add accessories but don’t go overboard. You can elevate any outfit with jewelry or cute shoes. While it’s fun to add extras, avoid going overboard. You don’t want to look like you’re wearing a costume. Try adding 1-3 accessories to each outfit to keep your outfit looking cute but stylish.^{[3]
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- Try some cute earrings to enhance your look if your hair is pulled up.
- Add some high top shoes to finish your outfit when you’re wearing bike shorts.
- A stylish backpack can elevate your comfy sweats.

3

Pick a bag that is functional and stylish.

Choose a bag that is cute and big enough to hold what you need. Mini bags are really trendy, so rock one of those if you don't need much. They can only really hold keys, your ID, and a little cash and lipstick. Only take one of these cute little purses if you know you won't need much else.^{[4]
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- Wear a cross-body bag to be comfy and stylish. This type of bag comes in a variety of materials, sizes, and styles. It's great because it's hands-free, making it easy to take selfies and do whatever else you want without having to juggle a bag. Choose the size that works best for you.

4

Style your hair to go with your look.

Choose a polished pony for any occasion. A ponytail has long been a go-to look for a reason. It's easy to do and it can be dressed up or down. Simply gather your hair and tie it back in a high or low pony. You might choose a high pony for a sporty look or a low, side pony for a softer look.^{[5]
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- If you're headed to an event like a party or out for a nice dinner, try slicking your pony back with some product. This will create an elegant look that will stay in place all night.
- Switch it up with a messy bun or a loose braid if you get tired of a pony.
- For short hair, you can add style by slicking your hair back with product to look on trend.

5

Add a cute accessory to your hairstyle for a fun flirty look.

Pair a headband and a clip for a fresh take on accessories. Headbands always look cute whether you have short or long hair. For an updated look, try gathering the rest of your hair up in a claw clip at the nape of your neck before you head out to meet friends. The headband will frame your face and the clip will add a fun twist to the rest of your style, too.^{[6]
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- This works best if your hair is at least chin-length.

6

Do your makeup to match your outfit or your mood.

Wear multiple shades on your eyes for a dramatic effect. If you feel like doing a little more with your makeup, a dramatic look on your eyes is always a fun way to go. Choose 2-3 different shades of shadow for your eyes and put them on in any way that you like. There are no rules when it comes to doing your makeup. Try experimenting with a darker shade, a lighter one, and a medium shade that ties them together.^{[7]
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- For example, sweep a charcoal grey over your eyelid, dust a lighter grey in the crease of your eye, and then finish the look with a silvery shadow under your brow.
- Go with pastels for a softer look. You can go with a light pink or purple on the eyes, a soft pink cheek, and a pink or nude glossy lip.
- If you don't feel like doing much, go for just a dramatic red lip. That will dress up any outfit and make you feel fierce and confident.
- Apply a nude or white color liner on the underside of your eyes to make them look a bit wider and bigger than they are.

7

Make sure your nails look cute and cared for.

Keep your hands and nails looking healthy. Scraggly looking hands can ruin your otherwise cute look. Before you head out, make sure that your nails and cuticles are neatly trimmed. Take a few minutes to moisturize your hands so that they don’t look dry and chapped, especially in the dry winter weather. Spending an extra few minutes will help you look put together.^{[8]
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- Go the extra mile and polish your nails with a fun color or even give yourself an at-home manicure.

8

Put together a cool playlist to listen to.

Try a girl-power playlist to set the mood for a fun hang with friends. Some of the coolest music out is about female empowerment, and what sets the mood better than that? Turn on some jams and sing along as you get ready.^{[9]
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- Good songs to add include "Formation" by Beyonce, "Good as Hell" by Lizzo, "Roar" by Katy Perry, and "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten.

9

Get ready with a friend to start the fun early.

Ask a friend to come over in person or virtually. Invite one of your besties to your house to get ready together. You two can help style one another and have fun taking selfies and listening to music.^{[10]
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- If you're getting ready for a virtual hang, just ask a friend to join you on Facetime or another platform and you can get ready together that way. It will be just as fun.

Community Q&A

Question

How should I pick out my outfit?

Community Answer

Dress in something that is comfortable and makes you feel fabulous. Pay attention to the weather and dress for the occasion.
Question

What basic makeup goes with grey outfits?

Community Answer

Use natural/nude tones, and go for a natural look. Don't apply too much makeup, and focus on neutral tones such as grey and other flesh-tone colors. Apply light eyeliner and mascara, and use a pale pink on the lips if you want to.
Question

How should I get ready when I'm a 10-year-old girl?

Community Answer

First, choose an appropriate outfit for where you will be going. Then, style your hair. Braids, ponytails, and buns are simple, yet can be elegant when done correctly. Then, choose your shoes. Make sure they are comfortable but match your outfit. Then, make sure you have everything you want to take with you. Make sure your breath smells fine.