End-of-year stress: Five expert tips to simplify food, fashion, beauty and finances

The end of the year is nigh, and things are about to get hectic. It’s time to embrace simplicity and mental and physical space so we can focus on the areas of life that ramp up as we barrel towards New Year’s Eve. So, how does one thrive rather The nutritionistDr Libby Weaver Dr Libby Weaver. Photo / SuppliedInternationally acclaimed nutritional biochemist Dr Libby Weaver recognises how easy it is to get caught up in the latest quick fix to ‘optimise’ health, especially at a time of year when it feels like we’re being pulled in several directions.“It becomes one more rock in the invisible backpack of mental load you carry around every day. And often what gets lost along the way? The basics,” Weaver says.If you can do one thing to feel your best during the busiest stretch of the year, it’s focusing on the foundations of great nourishment. “Add an extra serve or two of vegetables to your plate daily. It may not be a sexy tip, but as less than 10% of us hit the recommended 5+ per day, a necessary one.”She also suggests cooking an extra portion of dinner to eat for lunch the next day so you don’t need to reach for takeaways. Eating more wholefoods and fewer pre-packaged meals will also minimise the amount of additives your body must process. “It doesn’t have to be complicated – some quality protein, some salad or vegetables, a complex carbohydrate like rice or kumara and a nourishing fat like avocado, olive oil or nuts for a satiation that lasts.”The fashion consultantCourtney Joe Courtney Joe. Photo / Apela BellAs a stylist and creative consultant, Courtney Joe is often helping others “remove the stress of getting dressed”. Her advice for the summer season? Embrace a plan.“During busy periods, I advise sticking to a formula that works for days spent on-the-go.”Her formula starts from the outside in, asking “what foundational outerwear am I reaching for when the weather can’t make up its mind?” At this time of the year, a lightweight trench is the perfect outer layer, and extra points if it’s wind- and splash-proof like one she spotted in the latest Rebe collection.Next, make sure you have a great base layer by reaching for one of her tried-and-true staples. “A well-cut tee and a classic pair of jeans are what I live in daily. These can easily be swapped out with some crisp cotton shirting, a tailored trouser or skirt. Having 1-2 pieces of outerwear, and then 3-4 interchangeable base layers at the forefront of your wardrobe is a failsafe way to remove stress.”If things feel a little boring, let accessories do the heavy lifting. “A sheer pair of shades work extra hard when I don’t quite get my eight hours, and while I prefer to run out the door in a practical flat, I’ll always carry a heeled shoe in my bag to elevate my uniform when required.” She loves Paris Georgia’s Lucille mule for the right amount of effortless lift.Also in her bag are a pair of earrings to dress basic outfits up: “anything sculptural by Jasmin Sparrow, or for something sparkly, Love James has one-of-a-kind vintage gems”.And for the bag to cart around said accessories? The preternaturally stylish creative loves a low-profile carry-all, big enough to carry a laptop and a pair of shoes. “You can’t go wrong with a Yu Mei Teresa tote, or a nylon tote from the brand’s Utility capsule.”The hair stylistEd Hair Ed Hair. Photo / SuppliedAs one of the co-owners of Freemans Bay salon, Drake on Drake, and an industry educator, Ed Hair (real name Gene Edwards) is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to maintaining your locks.“At this time of year, my biggest piece of advice is to make your hairdresser part of your routine,” he says with a smile. “Book in for a weekly blow-out. It’s one less thing to think about, and professionally styled hair will always look more polished and last longer than a DIY blow-dry.”When weeks are packed, it’s tempting to postpone a hair wash with dry shampoo; however, keep it minimal, as product and oil build-up can wreak havoc on your scalp. “If you do use dry shampoo, put it into fresh, clean hair rather than waiting until it’s already oily. It can help prevent the oil and dirt from building up in the first place.”Heat protection is also non-negotiable, particularly when you’re styling more frequently for summer events. “I love Redken Quick Blowout because it’s a great primer, provides heat protection, and speeds up drying time by around 25%. It’s a real time-saver when you’re already stretched.”And finally, don’t get too caught up thinking you need curls or an elaborate style to look polished. “A beautiful, smooth, straight finish can turn just as many heads.”The skin specialistTegan O’Brien Tegan O'Brien. Photo / SuppliedAs a medical skin therapist at The Face Place Takapuna, Tegan O’Brien is passionate about keeping skincare simple when life gets busy. “When you’re sprinting toward the end of the year, your skin doesn’t need a 10-step routine. Focus on the basics: a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, a moisturiser for your skin type, and a broad-spectrum SPF.” She loves Aspect Dr’s Resveratrol Moisturiser for hydration, and Heliocare 360° Fluid Cream SPF 50+ for broad-spectrum protection.To keep the morning achievable, “focus on the items in your routine that make the biggest difference: moisturiser, tinted SPF, a touch of concealer, and a hint of colour on cheeks and lips”. O’Brien loves Airyday’s Mineral Mousse tinted sunscreen, and Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain to do double duty.Keeping things simple also extends to the new and exciting products we can feel tempted to try. “Resist the temptation to throw in new, active ingredients. Stressed skin needs gentle, restorative support,” O’Brien says.As the temperature rises, she also recommends storing products like sheet masks and facial rollers in your fridge to make them even more energising and cooling. Her last tip isn’t exciting but is crucial for glowy summer skin. “Don’t skip out on cleaning the frames of your sunglasses and include your caps in your laundry cycle. Increased sweating can contribute to congestion around your hairline and glasses frame, so it’s a good habit to get into”.The finance expertVictoria Harris Victoria Harris. Photo / SuppliedIf you want to avoid the end-of-year spending spiral, start today, according to co-founder and CEO of The Curve Investments, Victoria Harris. “The earlier you start preparing for the big-spend months, the less it stresses you out. Even putting away $50 or $100 into a separate bank account now, so you’re not tempted to dip into it, makes a real difference come December.”As for buying, she suggests taking full advantage of any sales, going in with friends or family and shopping within your budget. “You get to give something more meaningful without carrying the full cost yourself, and try your hardest to not put gifts on credit; it only costs more in the long run.”“Raiding a friend’s wardrobe for that Christmas party outfit instead of buying something new you’ll wear once” is another top tip, and if you have a pile of unworn purchases? Sell them. “It’s extra cash in your pocket, and it might be exactly what someone else is after.”Once your finances are ready for the holidays, prepare your calendar too by postponing certain events till January. “Right now things can get hectic, so suggest seeing friends once they quiet down. You’re less frazzled, you get better quality time, and it spreads your spending out so cash flow feels more manageable. Win, win!”