We’ve all been there- sighing over pictures from the latest red carpet events, watching a parade of A-list celebrities and models dazzling, while we’re on the sofa in our pyjamas with baby sick in our hair. As a mother, your reality can feel so far away from the gilded lives of these icons. Looking your best is something that has to be put on the back burner. Or is it?

There is actually a lot of research to show that looking our best makes us happier, confident and more successful, so there isn’t any shame in wanting these things. But the practicalities of finding a minute to yourself with small children to look after can be hard. So here’s how to get your glam on – fast!

Streamline Your Wardrobe

How often have you thought about wearing a cute, co-ordinated outfit, only to be confronted with your overflowing wardrobe and then you end up just pulling out the same old thing? It may sound odd, but having a smaller wardrobe would actually give you more choice. The secret is developing a capsule wardrobe– a handful of well-made, quality basics that work in any combination.

That way, you don’t have to spend precious time thinking about what will work together every morning – and packing for a trip becomes easy. Schedule a decluttering session and don’t keep anything that doesn’t fit, flatter or have function. If you need anything new, shop for specific items rather than just selecting pieces at random. Focus on wearing only what looks good on you and get rid of any low-quality, shabby garments to look instantly more polished.

Go For Time Saving Treatments

It’s hard to get time to beautify yourself on busy mornings when you have children to get ready, so how do you manage to look your best? Well,  a few regular treatments can actually save you time on a daily basis. If you have your brows tinted and shaped, perhaps some eyelash extensions and professional teeth whitening, you’ll look great without much more than a quick swipe of BB cream in the mornings.

This is exactly how the stars look so good as well – Bachelor Star Olena Khamula no longer hides her smile because of treatments that keep her looking good, even with no makeup- and you can have the same. Block book half a day off once a month for your appointments and then you’ll be running out the door in the morning.

Use The Power of Accessories

The right accessories can be a great lazy style hack to add interest and a stylish look to a wardrobe of trusty basics. Think a great print on a lightweight silk scarf, which will instantly turn that plain black polo into a great outfit.

Or the statement necklace which takes a simple tee and jeans to the next level. These things are super easy to throw on and yet they have the power to make your look seem intentional and well thought out – without any real effort! Now that is winning at the busy mama game.