With the Toronto International Film Festival making it's way into the city any time now, we'll be inundated with celebs, photogs and red carpet events. This got me thinking about all the prep that goes into an A lister event. Only I'm not talking about guest books and table settings, I'm talking about deciding on your dress, your makeup and shoes! 

Now, I was a dedicated Girl Guide (or Girl Scout) growing up so I'm always prepared for anything that comes my way. And when I'm out for the night at a fancy event, I often find myself having some sort of beauty emergency. I like to have a full kit, complete with items fit for anything that comes my way. Unfortunately, I am a huge klutz and at some point in the evening, I will inevitably spill something on myself. So, when my kit fails me, I also have a list of DIY stain removal options to get rid of virtually anything. 

Let's talk beauty survival kits, shall we? Here's what I like to keep in my bag for those 'just in case' emergencies: 


1. Tide To Go Stain Remover Pen (C$4.39)

2. Needle and thread for any lose buttons or tears, check out tutorials, like this one, if you are a sewing newbie. 

3. Flash Tape (US$7.00) to make sure you aren't letting 'the ladies' play peek-a-boo!

4. I like to use claw clips to gather loose fabric if needed on a dress that's too big or for a quickie up do when your hair falls. 

5. A strap rips? A tear appears? Safety pins are your best bet. 

6. Fashion-Aid (C$12.99) helps to keep straps or necklines where they should be. 

7. Ditch the pantyhose, which can rip and go instead with Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs (C$15.89). They're easier, offer a bit of coverage for any bruises etc. and won't give up on you halfway through the night.

You were extra, extra, super duper careful and you still spilled on that dress of yours? If your handy stain removal pen fails you, don't freak out just yet. There are a ton of DIY stain removers for an at home remedy and products you may be able to find in a pinch. 


1. Aspirin helps to remove sweat stains, read more here. 
2. Baking soda and detergent make for a simple spot treatment. 
3. Vinegar can be used to remove blood stains (sounds weird, but nose bleeds happen!). 
4. An oldie but a goodie, remove red wine with club soda. 
5. Rubbing alcohol and 6. Hydrogen peroxide can both be used in DIY stain removers but if needed, try spot treating with it for stains like lipstick. 

What emergency fixes do you carry with you for a night out?