Earlier this week, as happens so often, a girlfriend of mine (for privacy’s sake, I’ll just call her “R”) asked me for my opinion on a fashion issue.

As I prepared myself for questions about sexy shoes, a new store and the hottest trends, “R” seemed to come out of left field when she asked me for tips to pep up her look when she’s in a crunch for time (i.e. late to a hot date).

I found myself at a loss for words. I can usually fix any fashion problem, but this was something I had never thought of before. Needless to say, I told “R” I would get back to her soon.

After much careful thought and research, I have devised tips (some you may recognize if you are a loyal reader) to “pep up” anyone’s look when she only has a few minutes to look absolutely fabulous.

1. It doesn’t matter how late you are going to be; without showering, you will look like you rolled out of bed (if really crunched for time, don’t wash your hair… check out the next tip)

2. Flat, messy, greasy hair is vile, but with a touch of baby powder (to absorb oil and give volume) and some aerosol hairspray, that nasty, matted hair can be turned into a hot, sexy mess without the fuss of washing, drying, curling or straightening.

3. If you slept in your makeup from the night before (and don’t have time for tip one), you need baby wipes. Baby wipes are perfect for cleaning off any runny mascara, smudged blush, and clumpy foundation-best of all, you will feel refreshed and clean(er).

4. It’s time for makeup. I know you are used to having endless time to “put your face on,” but all of that can be condensed into what I call the three minute emergency makeover.

First, put on a small amount of concealer: just enough to cover dark circles and blemishes… you don’t have time to paint your face with it.

Second, use the natural brown of your choice (black and other colors look like crap if you mess up) for eyeliner: be sure to lightly outline the top lid, and only go in half way on the bottom… you are not a raccoon.

Third, lipstick or gloss can give a feminine touch and enhances your lips in only 20 seconds.

5. T-shirts and sweatpants tell everyone you are running late: bring some good choices (skirts, tops, jeans, whatever) in your car with you. Jeans are your best pick if you can’t remember when you last shaved your legs. Change when you get the chance, but don’t commit public indecency.

6. Pearls and earrings are undervalued; you can throw them into your pocket, put them on when you get to wherever you are going and look just a bit more put together.

In answering “R’s” question, I think I may have been able to suggest some solutions to an issue that we all face now and again. I know some of you will think I’m shallow, but I don’t care, because it will all be worth it when some random girl on campus tells me that she read my article, and it helped her in a pinch.

I’m not sure I would go with the “I know, right?”