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The Songs That Make Getting Ready Half The Fun

Alexandra Walker Student Contributor, Pennsylvania State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at PSU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Getting ready is the best part of going out, which means it deserves its own playlist. I can’t think of anything more perfect than doing my makeup with my outfit planned out and blasting my playlist. Even when I may be running late or I keep trying on the same three outfits, playing the right song can significantly improve my mood.

My ideal getting-ready playlist consists of a bit of everything, from pop songs to throwbacks, and songs that require everyone in the room to get up and dance. Here are some songs in my current rotation.

“Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter

Starting off strong, “Espresso” is upbeat, insanely catchy and truly makes even the most basic routine feel entertaining. Whether I am deciding to do my makeup or figuring out how I should do my hair, this song immediately sets the fun mood. It’s also almost impossible to listen to it without singing along.

“Style” by Taylor Swift

There are plenty of Taylor Swift songs that work for getting ready, but “Style” always belongs on the list. It has the kind of energy that makes picking an outfit feel like you’re attending an important event. This is a good song for the moment when the outfit finally comes together, and you stop questioning every choice.

“Promiscuous” by Nelly Furtado ft. Timbaland

Every getting-ready playlist needs a few throwbacks, and this is an easy choice. “Promiscuous” brings the energy up immediately, especially when everyone is getting ready together. Some songs are fine playing quietly in the background, but when this song comes on, the volume gets turned up and someone starts singing from the other room.

“360” by Charli xcx

This is a good song to boost confidence when I need to stop overthinking my outfit and have to just get dressed. It’s fun, a little dramatic and works well in the middle of a playlist. Sometimes all you need is a song that makes standing in front of your mirror feel more exciting.

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

Every playlist has room for a song that everyone knows. “Unwritten” is one of those songs that can turn getting ready into a group performance. Someone starts singing, someone else joins in and suddenly nobody is making progress on their makeup. Honestly, that’s part of the fun.

“Disturbia” by Rihanna

Rihanna is an obvious addition to any going-out playlist, and “Disturbia” is especially good when the room needs more energy. It’s familiar enough to sing along to while still making everyone want to move around. This is a strong pick while making those final outfit decisions before you head out the door.

“Super Bass” by Nicki Minaj

The perfect song to end getting ready and start pregaming. Everyone is doing their finishing touches but getting ready to start the night festivities. It’s fun, nostalgic and gets everyone up singing. The vibes are immaculate. 

A good playlist may be at fault for making me late. However, it sets the mood for the whole night. This alone is why these songs earn a spot on my getting-ready playlist.

Alexandra is a Secondary Education major with a focus in English. She is from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and is currently a Junior here at Penn State University. Alexandra enjoys spending time with her friends, attending sporting events, reading, and spending time outdoors in her free time.