Time for an Update? Easy tips for a Mommy Makeover

Would you agree that most moms spend more time on their families than on themselves?

 

And would you also agree that when you take time for yourself, look amazing in a new outfit, have a fresh haircut and color, you feel better about yourself – and are generally in a great mood?

Then why is it so hard for moms to merge those two thoughts?

Most will say “time.” But I’m here to argue that after some initial planning, it doesn’t take any more time to pull on a pair of great fitting jeans, a trendy top and a to-die-for jacket than it would to put on a pair of sweat pants, t-shirt and baggy sweater.

Looking your best doesn’t mean that you should become some kind of narcissist who completely ignores the needs of her family – though I realize that is how it might feel. So to help you discover your guilt-free pass to look and feel your best, here are some things to consider:

1. I read an article recently that spoke about love languages. The article said that most men feel love from their wives if she looks nice (pulled together, clean clothes, a little makeup) when he gets home from work. Is it so unbelievable for us to conceive that our husbands prefer us to look nice over the house being tidy and dinner waiting on the table?
2. When we look nice, when we take some time on our appearance and are getting compliments on the way we look, we stand taller and are more able to effectively handle daily problems; we have more energy and feel better about ourselves overall.
3. The most important person in the life of a little girl is her mother. Her thoughts, feelings, life patters and attitudes toward herself and others will be affected by those of her mother.

Wow. It is a mindbender to think that taking care of ourselves and keeping up on our appearance can be part of showing love to our families and teaching our children how a woman looks and behaves.

Have I convinced you yet?

I’m sure you are wondering how to get started. Let me give you some tips to become your own makeover story!

Makeover Your Clothing

Clothing is one area that can quickly date you, making you appear older. A cost effective way to put some life into your wardrobe is to simply wear colors you look good in. A lot has been said about knowing if you are a “spring” or “winter” with your coloring, but it is so much easier than that. Wear a color that is close to your eye color. How easy is that?
Evaluating the style of your clothing is step two to your makeover. Go through catalogs, magazines and websites to find things you like, not things you think you would look good in, but things that draw your eye. Tear out those pages (or print if you are online) and keep them in your style file. You will soon see a pattern – things you like. That is your style. Now go to your closet. Do you see anything that looks like those details? If not, head to the mall and pick up a few pieces in your new “style” and incorporate them into your wardrobe.
I say this to clients constantly: dress for your body shape. Really know what your shape is and show off your best features. If you have great legs, show them off by wearing skirts and heels. If your best attribute is a long neck, then bring attention to it with v-neck tops and jewelry.

Makeover Your Hair

It’s easy to get stuck in a hair rut. According to the experts, a good rule of thumb is to change something about your hair each season, with a big change every three years. This could mean color, adding bangs, letting the length grow out, or cutting it shorter. A great service most salons offer is a free consultation service. Call your favorite salon and make an appointment for a consultation with a stylist (be sure to clarify whether or not the service is free). They can give you ideas on how to update your look and offer some cost options to achieve the look you’re going for.

Makeover Your Eyebrows   

Eyebrows can make a huge different in appearance. The properly shaped eyebrow can lift the visual line of your eyes, making you look more awake and youthful. Improperly shaped brows can make you look angry or upset. Splurge and have your brows done professionally at least a few times a year. It will cost between $5 and $20 and is well worth the time and money!

This article appears in the May 2012 issue of The Family Magazine of Michiana
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