5 Tips how to look better on a video call

OHMYGOSSIP — It’s every work-from-home type’s worst nightmare: You’re snuggled up in your favorite robe and trusty wire-frame glasses – most likely also with your unwashed hair thrown up in a plastic butterfly clip. Suddenly, your boss requests an impromptu videoconference check-in. Cue massive freak-out.

Here’s how to prep for your on-screen appearance.

1. Swipe on Brow Powder
There’s no time for full makeup, so break out some kind of eyebrow liner and give your face definition with few quick strokes. Your handiwork doesn’t have to be perfect–just a little color will help. Keep the butterfly clip (just maybe don’t turn your head) and skip the mascara. No one’s leaning in to inspect your eyelashes.

2. Throw on a Blazer
Who will know that cute “tank” is actually your pajama top? Especially when it’s mostly hidden under the sharp blazer you keep at the ready for just such an occasion. A popped collar does wonders.

3. Grab Some Earrings
Speaking of keeping things at hand: The same goes for a pair of vintage clip-ons or simple gold drops in your desk drawer. They’ll make you look more polished in an instant.

4. Consider Your Background
Don’t let your coworkers glimpse your toy-strewn den or the stacks of unopened mail in your study. Take your laptop and relocate to your put-together dining room or a flower-filled patio for the duration of the call. (You can use a TV tray table as your temporary desk.)

5. Adjust Your Lighting Scheme
Wherever you’re sitting, make sure it’s bright. (A room with lots of windows and natural light is best.) Lastly, don’t sit with the light at your back or you’ll look like a dark shadow hovering in a glaring hal