Shake Up Your Look
20 tips for mixing it up in the new year
Amid the resolution-making, maybe you’ve told yourself that it’s time to step out of your appearance comfort zone.
If you’re tired of the same old hairstyle or your typical “blah” outfits, we’ve enlisted the help of four local pros to help you make some changes, whether you want something subtle or head-turning, a simple change to your routine or a full overhaul.
Robyn Haagsma, Aboutstyleconsulting.com
Robyn Haagsma
Stylist, Aboutstyleconsulting.com
1. Do a closet overhaul. If you’re overwhelmed by your closet and its jumble of outdated, ill-fitting pieces, make a point to clean it out and donate what you no longer wear.
“Having a well-edited, organized closet will make wardrobe selection and shopping easier since you can clearly see what you have,” Haagsma says. This also makes it easier to see what you don’t have.
2. Invest in basics. Pieces like black trousers, a white button-down shirt, black pumps, a great-fitting blazer and even shapewear are wardrobe basics that serve as building blocks for endless combinations of outfits. Check out your (newly reorganized) closet to see if you’re lacking these pieces –– or if yours are looking a little haggard.
“Most of these articles will most likely be on sale this time of year, so stock up,” Haagsma says.
3. Add color. The next time you wear all black, try adding a pop of color in the form of a scarf, knit cap, shoes or even jeans, which is a big trend right now.
4. Experiment with jewelry. Mix it up with bold accessories like a large cuff bracelet, an oversized ring or layered necklaces. “Also keep in mind that ‘matchy matchy’ can be a bit predictable,” Haagsma says. “I think it’s far more interesting to have accessories that complement each other but don’t necessarily come from a set or are the same color.”
5. Try sparkle year round. Don’t put away your holiday attire just yet. “Metallics and sequins are a huge trend right now, and let’s face it –– wearing a bit of glam is bound to make a woman feel pretty,” Haagsma says.
Sparkle Myers, MakeUp By Sparkle
Sparkle Myers
Owner, MakeUp By Sparkle
6. Forget about fallout. If you’ve noticed eyeshadow specks falling below your eyes, try applying your eyeshadow before your foundation.
“This will prevent you from having to reapply your foundation and makes it easy to remove excess eyeshadow without ruining your foundation,” Myers advises.
7. Skin is in. Been hiding under foundation for too long? Letting your skin shine through is an important part of a natural look, Myers says. The natural look also is low maintenance and easy: Simply mix your moisturizer with your foundation to even out your skin tone.
8. Get primed. Can’t get your eyeshadow to really pop? Try using a primer, which helps bring out the color and conceal any discoloration or dark spots on your lids. Primers also help your shadow last longer.
And for a smooth canvas, try foundation primer. Primers can help absorb oil during the day and can help you achieve an even finish, Myers says.
9. Be efficient. Cut some time out of your routine with multitasking products. Many companies make an all-in-one product for cheeks, lips and even eyes. Myers’ own line features a Double Duty Lip and Cheek Cream.
10. Make it last. Prolong the wear of your lipcolor by using this trick from Myers. Apply a coat of lipstick and then hold a thin tissue over your lips. Dust translucent powder over the tissue to “set” the lipcolor.
David Miller, David & Mary Salon Spa
David Miller
Co-Owner, David & Mary Salon Spa
11. Get in order. Applying your face primer after your sunscreen ensures a longer-lasting, polished look, Miller suggests. Bonus SPF points if your primer contains sunscreen.
12. Switch it up. As the seasons change, it’s smart to switch moisturizers. What works in the summer may not offer enough moisture in the winter, and your cold-weather moisturizer may be too heavy in the warmer months.
Miller recommends looking for a silicone-based moisturizer for winter, which will help skin retain moisture.
13. Use the right products. If your skin is on the dry side, don’t use harsh peels, masks or alcohol-based toners, which can strip oil, Miller cautions. Instead, reach for mild cleansers, alcohol-free toners and hydrating masks.
14. Consider seasonal facials. Prepare your skin at the beginning of each season with a facial.
“This ensures that you and your skin are prepared for the temperature changes and that you are using the correct skin-care products,” Miller says.
15. Moisture at hand. Keep moisturizer on your nightstand so you have access to it once you’re in bed. This is great for hands, as well as feet –– no more tracking lotion around on your floors.
Christine Hazel, Brunette Salon
Christine Hazel
Owner, Brunette Salon
16. Add bangs. Break up long hair or add interest to short styles with either long, sweeping bangs or heavy, blunt bangs, Hazel says.
17. Need a color boost?
Add highlights or lowlights around the face. “This will create a lot of accent without committing to a major color change,” Hazel says.
Another idea is color extensions.
“They come in so many colors, and they’re so fun and bright. You can go as soft or bold as you like.”
18. Time to shine. If you’ve been toying with the idea of going red, for example, try a color gloss. It lasts roughly a month and is “a fabulous way to spice things up,” Hazel suggests.
19. Make a mess. If you have long, straight hair, tie sections about 2 inches wide in loose knots, sleep in them and then shake them out in the morning.
“It looks so random and sexy,” Hazel says.
20. Braids are back. “Long side braids that are kind of ‘frayed’ and messy are a great way to dress up long hair for an evening,” Hazel proposes.
