Since it is slow and I could really use some help. I recently chopped off my hair with a sassy cut(chin length) and had it colored and highlighted. I am shocked to receive so many compliments, especially from the guys.
I am tired of looking and dressing like a single busy mom... so I need help to dress more sexy and fun including make-up. The thing is, I am really bad at it at the moment, I could totally pass for someone on the street that TV shows will pick to do a make-over on me.
So... how can I get started? What resources inspire you and help pick outfits together. I totally like Arborgold's outfit she posted earlier... I can't afford Jimmy Choo's shoes though. I am age 35 if that helps any. (Oh, I somehow stopped wearing make-up (all of it) somewhere along 4-5 months ago, I don?t know how I let that happened?)
Re: SO with a new wardrobe and make-up - need help
Since there is boatloads of outfits on there, what can I type in the search to narrow down everyday and dating outfits and not go through all of the formal attires? I feel overwhelmed.
This! Also, go shopping and the sales people can give suggestions for outfits. I know Eddie Bauer, The Limited and Ann Taylor do this. Pay attention to what others are wearing and think how you can pull off a similar look.
As for the make-up, department store make up counters will do free "make overs" that could give you ideas.
3/12 5 mi -- 49:22 Pace: 9:52
5/1 Half Marathon -- 2:11:22 Pace: 10:01
5/22 10k -- 56:29 Pace: 9:00
5/24 3.6 -- 29:03 Pace: 8:18
7/10 15k -- 1:44:46 injured Pace: 11:14
10/29 5k -- 28:24 Pace: 9:04
Agree with pp. go to a store and have someone help you shop. I remember your pic from the winter formal--you're beautiful and should feel that way. By wearing something that makes you feel good, you will shine. Check out jcrew, their associates are always helpful. Nordstrom too if you have it. You likely don't need a lot of makeup. I wear just some tinted moisturizer, blush, mascara and lip gloss most days. It takes 5 mins and is easy to do. Laura Mercier is my favorite makeup.
Thanks for the compliment. Like everyone is advising, I will pay more attention to what others are wearing and try to gather some whole outfit ideas. I am definitely planning more shopping trips in the future and will ask the sales people for help. I do have Nordstrom so I will try that too. I think it will be a trial and error thing. I hope I can feel confident enough to make outfits decisions.
I recommend visiting a make-up counter (or local makeup artist) and having them do a make-up lesson with you. I have had great success as the MAC counter and store, but of course it can be a little hit and miss.
For clothing, use a Nordstrom personal shopper. They are free and amazing. While the clothes can be a bit pricier, I've gotten WAY more wear out of the 10 pieces I bought there than anything I've purchased on my own. They are also great about making recommendations on alterations, etc.
I think looking at others for ideas is good, but it's important to know what's going to look good on your body you know?
You will probably feel a little self conscious in the beginning. I used to be a very "safe" dresser until I worked at Eddie Bauer. The other staff pushed me to try to wear things that I wouldn't have normally worn. Now that I have stepped out of my comfort zone for a while, this is a lot easier for me.
3/12 5 mi -- 49:22 Pace: 9:52
5/1 Half Marathon -- 2:11:22 Pace: 10:01
5/22 10k -- 56:29 Pace: 9:00
5/24 3.6 -- 29:03 Pace: 8:18
7/10 15k -- 1:44:46 injured Pace: 11:14
10/29 5k -- 28:24 Pace: 9:04
I would definitely recommend getting some basics to get you started:
white button down shirt can be paired with a lot of different things/worn different ways
a great pair of jeans in dark denim
I'm obsessed with nude heels so I consider those a staple
serviceable flats that can go with jeans or leggings
a great little black dress that is timeless
layering tanks in different colors to mix and match
a tailored blazer can be worn for work or for a night out
Also, XP this on the F&B board. They are great with this kind of advice.
I recently bought new make up at Giorgio Armani at Nordstrom. It's very natural and the sales person helped me pick out colors, etc.
For clothing I like to buy all solids and use purses, jewelry, coats to change things up. Always choose something that flatters your body even if it's not the most trendy...use accessories to make it trendy.
I would also read fashion/beauty blogs for ideas of how to style and apply make up... I like veronabrits blog and dafashionista. There are tons of videos about applying make up, curling hair, etc.
You received a lot of great feedback already, but also I like to sign up for catalogs from my favorite stores (even if I can't afford to shop there!) and get style ideas, and then look for similar items in more affordable places. I agree with the pp about finding items that look good on you and fit well, if you get some basics here and invest in them, you can gradually start building as it becomes more comfortable again. Depending on where you work, I would recommend, great jeans, a dress or two, slacks and a white shell to get you going.
Make-up wise, a lot of the make-up counters will provide you with a pamphlet that shows you how to put on your make-up, but if this is still intimidating, I would start with basics like foundation, highlighter, brow definer and mascara, and then start experimenting as you get more comfortable with it again.
Thank you Achase! This is very helpful to get started.
Go with a simple makeup look, some mineral foundation, mascara, lip loss, and blush. Once you get comfortable and want to play around more, get more stuff.
I would go to an ULTA or Sephora and have them match you for bare minerals matte foundation and and tarte amazonian clay blush. both are natural and amazing. stila makes great lip stains...I let it dry and then use regular chapstick over top. it stays put all daylong.