As I stumbled back to my apartment from a brutal shopping day on "Black Monday" with shopping bags in hand, I was hit by the reality that the holiday season has arrived. It's here! Shopping time, party time, and time to be sure that you have acknowledged friends, family, and everyone that has helped you throughout the year.

It sounds like fun until you look at your "to do" list and your very full calendar. Then you realize your life has turned into an endurance race. Panic kicks in as you think of all your responsibilities. So much to do, and so little time! You feel like running home and jumping into bed and hiding under the comforter. (Sorry to say this doesn't work.)

You can make it through the holiday season with grace, and dignity. Not to add extra pressure, but I am sure you will want to look great for every party and family get together from today to New Year's Day. We tend to see more old friends, go to office parties and get-togethers with the neighbors. Nothing feels better than hearing the occasional "You're looking great" from someone you haven't seen recently.

I know you are thinking, “This guy has to get a grip. This ‘glam’ time will not fit in my life," but it can! So take a moment to chill, and let's figure out how you can make it through the holiday season looking great. The first step is to have a plan so you will be prepared for any and every occasion. It's not a big deal.

Here are five easy points to get you through the season:

1. If you color your hair, do it now. Nothing looks more festive than a fresh touch up. Even if you wear your color with roots showing, make sure your ends are bright. You might think about kicking up your color a shade or two. Remember, a small change can make a big difference.

2. Cut your hair. The only exception would be if you are on a mission to grow your hair long. It doesn't have to be a dramatic hair cut. Your hair cut must be a great shape for your face. Are your layers too long? Does your hair only look good when you tie your hair back? Call for your hair cut appointment today.

3. Come up with three party styles. They don't have to be elaborate. (Check out the pictures below for some simple yet stunning ideas.) Remember you will often be running from work to party without time to go home. Time is of the essence. You must be able to do each one yourself.

One could be your every day style looking perfect.

TIP - The smallest amount of backcombing can transform your day hair to party hair.

The second could be your hair with a different texture. This is the perfect time to experiment making your hair wavy, curly, or straight.

TIP - Bring your curling iron or flat iron to work. Five minutes in the ladies room can do wonders to make hair more glamorous. Concentrate on the top layers of your hair. That's what people will notice.

The third should be an updo that you can do yourself and without a mirror. It can be as simple as a twist with the ends of your hair fanning out.

TIP - Updo's work best on days that you don't shampoo your hair.

4. Add a bit of bling. A delicate headband or ornament will instantly brighten your face and give your hair more of an evening look.

TIP - Less is more. The most understated clip or headband can look the most glamorous.

5. Carry a small bag of supplies that can prepare you for any occasion. It should be small enough to toss in your purse, so you can keep with you at all times. You never know when you will have to give yourself an instant makeover for an impromptu get together. It should contain your favorite mini size styling products, bobby pins that match your hair color, clips, and that touch of bling.

TIP - Be sure to include and spray your hair with a smidgen of your favorite fragrance.

Now you are ready to party! Sometimes at the last minute we all have the feeling, "Do I really have to go out tonight?" The answer is yes, and getting ready will help put you in the mood.

Once you are there, you will have a great time. Kick back and have fun! You know you are the best looking woman at the party!

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!