It's the Little Things: 7 Simple Ways to Update Your Look Instantly
Remember when a new year inspired a new you?
Finding the time - or funds - for a large-scale makeover may seem impossible. So instead of going Gaga and aiming for complete reinvention, why not tackle a few tiny tweaks instead? Here are 7 easy and affordable ways to update your look that can make a big impact - instantly!
1. Change your part
If you're anything like me, you resolve to get a new look each time you go for a haircut, only to chicken out and wind up with the same 'do you already had. Luckily, my hairdresser taught me the simplest way to change things up without scissors: simply switch the location of your part (best done fresh out of the shower, with wet hair before styling) to instantly transform your look - without spending a dime!
2. Don't be raggedy handy
Remember those old Palmolive ads, when women were accused of having "dishpan hands"? Unfortunately, a daily dose of domestic drudgery coupled with harsh weather - be it strong winter winds or a blisteringly hot, dehydrating sun - makes this cliché ring true. A manicure, whether DIY or professional, adds, ahem, polish to whatever outfit you may be sporting. Veer from tried-and-true hues toward a new color palette to reinvent yourself in minutes flat! To maintain your newly genteel mitts, slide a great-smelling moisturizer, like this eos Nourish lotion, into your bag.
Related: 10 gorgeous makeup trends for spring
3. Get a brand-new bag
Your purse is considered a primary accessory; it provides people with their first clue to your personal style. What does yours say about you? Does it say "swank sophisticate" or scream "OUT OF DATE"? Swap out your tired, old purse for a sleek yet versatile catchall, and don't fear color! This super-stylish bag from Hobo holds more than you think it can. It's big enough to conceal your wallet and that stash of makeup, but small enough to go easy on your posture for a long day running errands. And here's the most beautiful thing about shopping for bags: They ALWAYS fit!
4. Actually wear your jewelry
When was the last time you wore that cute necklace your partner gave you for your anniversary? Or busted out that vintage bracelet you scored from Grandma? Venture into your jewelry box, root around, and dust off an old favorite piece to work into your outfit. A pair of drop earrings or simple, bold bangles can elevate your jeans and sweater combo to date-night cute.
5. Commit to concealer
It's no secret that working women, moms, (or both!) are among the most exhausted people on the planet, but there's no need to stumble through the day doing your best Steve Buscemi. It takes a grand total of ten seconds to sweep a layer of lightweight concealer under your lids. You'll feel so much better and at least look coherent - even if you aren't!
Related: 15 stylish ways to wear a bun
6. Be wise: moisturize!
While it might not always seem it, the sun's damaging rays are in full effect all year round, whether you're practically melting in the August heat or out and about on a cold and cloudy January day. A tinted moisturizer with SPF is a time-saving triple play: It replenishes your skin, protects it from the sun, and conceals a world of skin woes, like blemishes and blotchiness.
7. Raise an eyebrow
If your eyes are the windows to your soul, your eyebrows are the hedges in front of those windows. If you don't keep them trimmed semi-regularly, it takes no time at all for them to grow buck wild and distract from an otherwise lovely view. Keep your brows groomed (and your face unfettered) by stocking up on stalwart grooming supplies, like this all-in-one kit from Tweezerman.
- By Vivian Manning-Schaffel
For 3 more simple ways to update your look instantly, visit Babble!
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