How to Transform Your Look With a Makeover

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A few years ago, my boyfriend took one look at the baggy pants I wore to brunch and had the audacity to suggest I go on the TV show "What Not to Wear." Around the same time, a friend told me I needed a new hairstyle; he couldnt believe that, as a beauty editor, I only got my hair cut and colored four times a year.

What do you do if your loved ones candidly tell you that your look is no longer working for you? You could get mad, or you could ask yourself if they have a point. In my case, they did. Id gotten so used to being comfortable that I forgot about the rush from feeling your most fierce. I needed a makeover, stat.

Im normally pretty low maintenance, so I needed to make small changes that elevated my confidence. I made haircuts a regular part of my beauty and self-care regimen. I never, ever leave the house without a few strokes of mascara, at least. People have noticed the difference. At 37, I feel like Ive never looked better in my life.

Giving yourself a makeover is about customizing a new routine and a fresh look that make you feel your best, and theres no one-size-fits-all solution. However, Ive got a few tips for inspiration so you can tailor your own routine.

How to Change Your Hairstyle

A new hairstyle is a great first step in a makeover, as it requires a genuine decision that will last for an extended amount of time. It goes a long way in changing your look and making you feel excited about your transformation, too. Whether you want a subtle or drastic hair makeover, consider the following:

Browse magazines, Pinterest, or Instagram for styles that you love.When you make an appointment with a hairstylist, chat with them briefly about your expectations and what they think could work best for your face shape. Bring your inspiration photos to your appointment and communicate very clearly with your stylist. Leave no room for vagueness. Never say things like "a couple inches" or "Im fine with whatever." This makeover journey is about taking control of your personal choices—be direct and honest about what you want.The only caveat to the above is if youre super comfortable with change and really, truly want a dramatic look. If youre willing to let the stylist work their magic, then I wish you the best of luck.You might want to consider color to really breathe new life into your locks. Again, this is something to chat with your stylist about ahead of time.

A New Skincare Regimen

Its easy to fall out of a skincare routine. Not everyone takes pleasure in slathering on creams and serums day and night. Plus, if youre busy, sometimes skin care is the first thing to go. But I promise you, a defined routine will also make you feel like a new person. The practice of taking care of your skin feels incredible when you start seeing results. Begin with the basics.

Day

Micellar water: Always start with clean skin. A lovely micellar water like Bioderma Sensibio H2O ($17) makes cleansing in the morning quick and easy. Just infuse some into a cotton pad and swipe all over your face.Moisturizer or facial oil: Immediately after cleansing, apply a moisturizer or facial oil to seal in hydration right away. Whats the difference between the two? Cream and gel moisturizers are the classic ways to hydrate. In the last several years, facial oils have been gaining popularity since theyre often natural, nourishing, and radiance boosting. Try one of Herbivore Botanicals Mini Facial Oils: Phoenix (for dry skin, $26), Lapis (for oily/blemish-prone skin, $24), or Orchid (for aging skin, $22).

Night

Cleanser: Wash away all the days dirt with a gentle makeup-removing cleanser like Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser ($19).Moisturizer: Choose a rich moisturizer for night so that your face can be rejuvenated as you sleep. Try SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Dry ($64).Eye cream: This can be a difference maker in keeping you looking and feeling youthful long term. Avalon Intense Defense Eye Cream ($15) is budget-friendly and amazing for anti-aging and diminishing dark circles.

Makeup Makeover

New hairstyle: check.

New glow: check.

Makeup can either give you a chance to change things up daily, or you can create a signature look. Ask yourself this: Do you want to rock bold makeup trends, or do you just want to update your everyday look? Or would you like to do either on any given day?

Remember that makeup is about self-expression, creativity, confidence boosting, and enhancing your natural beauty. You dont have to put on an entirely new face, but you can if you want to. Start with what feels good to you.

In my case, daily mascara made all the difference. But for you, you might be interested in trying something you never do, like using lipliner for a polished pout. It might also be as simple as updating your foundation brand or shade. Get your cute self to the makeup counter and start experimenting.

Update Your Wardrobe

Selecting new pieces for your wardrobe is not only fun, but its the perfect time to reevaluate your current style. Do you feel confident? Is it a nice balance of being comfortable, yet put-together and fashion forward? As you begin to decide what to add to your closet, peruse the current runway collections for style inspiration. No need to splurge on designer items unless you want to. Even just picking up a few new on-trend pieces to sprinkle into your existing wardrobe can feel transformative. Take a cue from Marie Kondo: If it doesnt spark joy, get rid of it. Dont be afraid to discard or donate clothes that no longer suit you or make you feel like your best self. Out with the old, in with the new you.

Best Clothing Subscriptions for Women

With a fresh cut and color, an updated skin and makeup routine, and some fresh, stylish new clothes, Ive noticed an extra spring in my step as I leave my home each day. Although I was prompted to start this makeover by other s, I did it for myself, and Im so glad I did.