My husband and I stayed up late last night, to watch Game Six of the World Series (go Cardinals!). Of course, we sent our baseball-crazed nine-year-old to bed in the fifth inning, because today is a school day and he needed his sleep. But we’re grown ups! We can maul through!

Maybe.

Being a grownup means getting too little sleep too often, for all kinds of reasons, good and bad. I was glad I stayed up until the end of the game last night, but this morning I’m beat — and I’m sure I look it. Here are a few quick tricks for faking awake on the morning after a late night.

Skip the black: You’ll look washed out and Twilight-like. Also skip navy and deep brown, for the same reason. Unless you’re really going for that vampire look.

Opt for color: Years ago, a friend taught me that one way to balance the pallor of too little sleep is by wearing something bright. A pink or red sweater or scarf is an easy way to put a little color in your cheeks. Bonus: if your sweater or scarf is extra soft, it’s like having a warm blanket with you all day.

Keep makeup light: A little blush, a little mascara, a little lip gloss and you’re done. Stick with rosy shades that give your face a glow. Do not try to camouflage dark circles with heavy concealer — you’ll wind up drawing more attention to them.

Sunglasses are your friend: Just ask Rachel Zoe. But please take them off inside (exception: you can leave them on for your coffee run on the way to work — everyone will automatically assume that you’re in a hurry/tired from last night’s extra innings/possibly famous).

Drink water: Too little sleep can leave your face puffy, especially around the eyes. Start the morning with a big glass of ice water — before your coffee, even — to combat this. Stay hydrated and steer clear of salty foods today; you want to give your body healthy options rather than just loading up on junk.

Get some sleep: But don’t nap — just power through today and go to bed at your normal time. Unless Game Seven goes into extra innings — then you’re on your own.

What’s your best trick for looking good on the morning after a late night?

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