Thankfully, I had Clinique’s Body Tinted Lotion ($24) on-hand, which gives an immediate bronze to the skin, developing into a coco-hued, natural tan over the next two to three hours. For a bit more oomph, try smoothing Alien’s Sunessence Gel Corps Luminescent ($35, Limited Edition) all over your legs. Its gold-flecked shimmer is a bit over-the-top for a daytime application but gives legs a sensuous radiance for a night out on the town.

If you’re wary of going instantly golden Laura Mercier’s Sun-Free Gradual Self Tanner ($38) vamps up a pale complexion with a gradual buildup of colour each time you apply. But the best part is the delicious, tropical-inspired Almond Coconut Milk scent masking the burnt skin smell you often get from faux-tan products. Even better, you don’t have to calculate drying time into your day since its ‘non-transfer’ formula means it won’t rub off on your clothes (although any white clothing should always be approached with caution!).