Countdown to a Big Night Out

Need to go from work to a party or event? Here's how to get yourself ready -- gorgeous! -- in just 12 minutes. On your mark, get set, go!

0:00-1:00: Wash your face with a mild cleanser. Follow with moisturizer applied to damp skin.

1:01-3:00: Spritz volumizer onto roots of your hair. Flip your head over and blow dry to set the volumizer. Flip head back and finger-comb into place, or pull back into a low ponytail and secure with a jeweled elastic.

3:01-3:45: Smooth a bit of pomade over dry or fuzzy areas of hair to add shine.

3:46-5:00: Dot concealer onto dark circles and red areas. Blend into skin by patting with your middle finger. Add another layer if you need more coverage.

5:01-6:00: Now dot foundation where you need it and blend well with a latex sponge.

6:01-8:00: Apply a light-colored shadow to lids. Then sweep a medium-toned shadow into creases. Finish by lining eyes with a charcoal, dark brown, or navy pencil. Apply two coats of black mascara to top lashes only.

8:01-8:30: Sweep blush onto apples of your cheeks, and up toward your temples.

8:31-9:30: Line lips with a nude pencil. Then apply a deep red or brown lipstick with a lipbrush. Blot lips once. Dust translucent powder over lips with a cotton ball, then apply another coat of lipstick.

9:31-11:30: Slip into your hose, dress, and shoes, and grab your already-stocked bag.

11:31-12:00: Take one last look in the mirror, smile, and you're off!