Getting ready is not just about looking good; it’s a ritual, a mindset, and an art form that men often underestimate. While they toss on a T-shirt and jeans in five minutes, we’re curating, prepping, and perfecting, step by step. The process might seem excessive to outsiders, but every detail matters and takes time.
1. Finding the Perfect Outfit is a Process
Choosing an outfit is like solving a puzzle where every piece must fit perfectly. It’s not just about color or style—the vibe, the weather, the occasion, and how it makes us feel. Do I look chic without trying too hard? Are the shoes comfortable yet polished? And let’s not forget how lighting and fabric can change how something looks. Getting dressed, especially for an important event, can be a full-scale production, says personal stylist and wardrobe consultant Sarah Meikle.
2. Makeup Is Equal Parts Art and Therapy
Makeup isn’t just about applying products; it’s a calming ritual and creative outlet all rolled into one. Every step—from blending foundation to finessing the perfect eyeliner wing—requires precision and patience according to professional makeup artist Willow Mayor. It’s a moment to focus on ourselves, to set the tone for the day or night ahead. Makeup also has challenges: blending mismatched tones, experimenting with colors, or tackling a blemish or brown spot that suddenly showed up uninvited.
3. Hair Always Demands Extra Attention
Our hair is an unpredictable entity that demands respect. Even if we keep it simple, it still requires washing, drying, styling, and possibly taming rogue strands. Add in the complexity of curls, waves, or updos, and it’s a full-on commitment. The wrong hairstyle can ruin an otherwise perfect outfit, so it’s not just about looking good—it’s about completing the entire look. Men might think a messy bun takes two seconds, but they don’t know the half of it.
4. Accessories Require Careful Coordination
Accessories are the unsung heroes of any outfit. The wrong necklace can clash with a neckline, and the wrong earrings can throw off the balance of an entire look. Coordinating bags, belts, and jewelry takes time because they’re not just additions but statements. Will the gold bangles overpower the dress? Does this bag complement the shoes? It’s a thoughtful process that involves swapping, adjusting, and even crowd-sourcing opinions in group chats.
5. Our Skincare Routine Is Non-Negotiable
Skincare isn’t just a routine; it’s a foundation for everything else. Cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and layering serums and sunscreen all take time, but they’re essential. Radiant skin doesn’t happen overnight, and we’re not about to skip steps for the sake of speed. Men might splash water on their faces and call it a day, but for us, skincare is an investment in how we look and feel—both now and in the future.
6. Wardrobe Malfunctions Are Inevitable
Even the most planned-out outfits can go sideways. A zipper breaks, a strap won’t sit right, or a mystery stain appears. Suddenly, it’s a race against time to find a backup option that works just as well. These little crises are unavoidable and require quick thinking, creativity, and often a second opinion. Starting over feels frustrating, but it’s part of the process—and it’s why we build in extra time.
7. Nails Can’t Be Ignored
Chipped nails or messy polish are tiny details that throw off the whole look. Whether it’s touching up a manicure or completely repainting a nail that got smudged, nails demand attention. Even choosing a nail color takes consideration—should it match the outfit, contrast with it, or play into a seasonal trend? It’s not as simple as it seems, and when men scoff at the time we spend, they’re missing how these details complete the overall look.
8. The Lighting Check Is Crucial
What looks amazing under soft bathroom lights might be a disaster under harsh sunlight or fluorescent bulbs. That’s why lighting checks are a must. We’ll step into natural light, snap a photo, and double-check how everything appears before leaving the house. It’s about quality control, ensuring there are no surprises when we arrive at an event. Men might not understand this step, but it’s why we always look flawless in every setting.
9. Fragrance Selection Is an Art
Fragrance isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a finishing touch that completes the entire mood. Choosing the right scent involves matching it to the occasion, the weather, and even the outfit. A sultry perfume might feel too heavy for a casual brunch, while something fresh and floral might not suit a formal dinner. And let’s not forget the layering—fragrance oils, lotions, and sprays work together to create the perfect aromatic aura.
10. Shoes Need to Be Practical and Perfect
Shoes aren’t just accessories—they’re the foundation of an outfit, and getting them right takes time. Are they comfortable enough to last the night? Do they elongate the legs or cut them off awkwardly? Do they match the bag? The answers aren’t always obvious, and sometimes it takes trying on multiple pairs to find the perfect fit. Men may not understand the struggle, but a good shoe choice can make or break the entire look.
11. Packing the Perfect Bag Takes Thought
The right bag isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. We need to fit all the essentials—phone, wallet, lipstick, compact, and maybe a charger—without overstuffing or sacrificing style. If we switch bags, there’s the added pressure to ensure nothing gets left behind. This process requires a mental checklist and a bit of Tetris-like precision, but it’s a small price to pay for stepping out fully prepared.
12. Jewelry Swapping Always Happens
Even when we think we’ve chosen the perfect jewelry, second-guessing is inevitable. That statement necklace might feel too bold, or the dainty earrings might not make enough impact. Jewelry swapping is a game of trial and error, and it’s all about finding the right balance. The goal is to enhance the look without overloading it, and achieving that harmony takes more time than most men would ever believe.
13. We’re Mentally Preparing
While the physical process of getting ready takes time, a mental element is just as important. As we go through our routines, we visualize the day ahead—thinking about who we’ll meet, what we’ll say, and how we want to present ourselves. It’s a form of mindfulness that helps us step into the day confidently. It’s not about vanity; it’s about setting the tone for how we show up in the world.
14. We Take Photos to Double-Check
Sometimes, mirrors don’t tell the whole truth. Taking a quick photo of an outfit or makeup look offers a fresh perspective that’s often more accurate than what we see in the mirror. The camera can highlight things we might miss—like an awkward hemline or uneven lipstick—and allow us to make adjustments. Men might not understand this step, but it’s why we’re always photo-ready when the time comes.
15. Because We’re Worth the Time
Getting ready isn’t just about appearances—it’s about self-expression, confidence, and self-care. Every step, from skincare to accessories, is a way to show ourselves love and attention. Men might never fully understand why it takes so long, but for us, it’s a sacred ritual that prepares us to face the world feeling like our best selves. It’s not extra; it’s essential.