The Fashion Week Glow-Up I Got from Simple Skin Prep — And How You Can Too

We spend a lot of time planning what we're going to wear to Australian Fashion Week — the statement blazer, the "do these boots work with literally everything?" boots, and at least one wildcard piece that pushes us out of our comfort zone. But this year, my biggest fashion week glow-up didn't come from the clothes. It came from my skin.

In the rush of back-to-back shows, pre-event coffees, and the very real chance you'll end up on someone's social feed, your skin ends up doing a lot of heavy lifting. And while a great outfit turns heads, it's the confidence of feeling good in your own skin that actually pulls a look together.

The One Thing I Didn't Expect to Be Grateful For — My Body Lotion

I'd packed the usual essentials — concealer, phone charger, emergency snacks. But what actually carried me through fashion week? A little consistency in the form of body care. Specifically, NIVEA's Rich Nourishing Body Lotion.

I'd used it on and off before, but this time I noticed it had a bit of a glow-up — same iconic blue bottle, now upgraded with Pure Hyaluron. The texture is still creamy and comforting, but the difference in my skin was instant. It felt smoother, stayed hydrated well into the evening, and gave everything — from open backs to mini hemlines — that extra polish. When your skin's this healthy-looking, styling becomes simpler. Every outfit just works harder.

And honestly? That little glow made me feel unstoppable — like I belonged in every room I walked into.

Skin Is Part of the Outfit. We Just Don't Talk About It Enough

It's easy to think of body lotion as a post-shower afterthought, but it's become such a quiet essential for me. Especially during AFW, where there's so much emphasis on showing up polished — whether that means a dewy face or a structured silhouette.

We spend so much energy on skincare for our faces, but giving the rest of our body that same attention? That's self-respect energy. That's turning getting ready into a moment of care, not just preparation.

And when your skin feels good, you feel good. You're not tugging at sleeves to hide your elbows. You're not second-guessing the strappy dress because your shoulders are dry. You're just… in it. Comfortable. Confident. Present.

A Small Shift That Made a Big Difference

I'm not saying a body lotion changed my life — but I am saying that taking five minutes each morning to nourish my skin created a ripple effect. I noticed I was more present in my body. More likely to wear something bold. More likely to take up space in a way that felt genuine.

And that, at its core, is what I've always loved about fashion. Don't think of it as becoming someone else — it's more like showing up as more of yourself.

So if you're prepping for your own big moment — whether it's fashion week or just a night out with friends — don't sleep on skin prep. Throw on the outfit, but take care of the base, too. The glow-up starts before you get dressed.