What constitutes being well-groomed?

[LaLaLaLayla]

Hi, I just wondered what components make a well-groomed person. What does everybody think? I have become a bit of a bag lady over the past year or so and now I have just got a very corporate job and need to transform myself.

Any ideas? Thanks.

[PattySimcox]

Agree with mirai but would add a not too made up face

[LaLaLaLayla]

Thanks. I have bought some clothes from LK Bennett. And some high shoes. I am having my hair done on Saturday. I just need to think about extras. I am thinking:

Make-up
Hair done nicely
Nice watch (this will have to wait)
Nails (are acrylics a bit naff or still considered OK?)
Good quality handbag. Or a fake!
Nice earrings (again, this will have to wait, but something to aim for)
Some subtle fake tan so I look a bit younger and healthier.

Thanks for your help, girls - it is much appreciated

[whoneedssleepanyway]

hair, nails (no chips), make-up, good quality accessories (bags, shoes, jewellery) and clean nicely ironed clothes (not going through the laundry basket to find the cleanest looking thing as you are in a panic and are behind on the washing )

[whoneedssleepanyway]

I would go for gel nails over acrylics any day

[MissBeehiving]

I think well conditioned hair is pretty key too.

[chandellina]

neatly shaped and brushed eyebrows

[TrillianAstra]

There's no empirical measurement of well-groomed, it is an impression and a feeling and an opinion.

[LaLaLaLayla]

Good tips on the eyebrows and hair. Have beauty and hair appointments this week. So, gel nails are still OK, then?

Oh, another thing... good sunglasses? Might try and get some Victoria Beckham ones when I get paid.

[Tutti]

lala

Are you still in dubai? if so check out Sacoor brothers for shirts -very nice!

Have seen a few 'corporatey' types in them -some even in smart tailored shorts and a 'sacoor' shirt and looks very smart!

[wicketkeeper]

Stand up straight. Do it now. Stand in front of a mirror and practice. Even sweat pants look better if you stand up straight. (But nothing can help you if you wear 3/4 length trousers and crocs...)

[LaLaLaLayla]

Thanks Tutti. Will try to find Sacoor Brothers.

[KaraToytown]

I saw an immaculately groomed woman yesterday - shame she stank to high heaven. Washing obviously wasn't part of her routine.

[LaLaLaLayla]

Really Kara? How odd

[Ifancyashandy]

Natural nails (sorry - any fake nails look horrible). Shorter if painted dark.
Good haircut / well conditioned / brushed
NOT a fake handbag! Rather a good quality cheaper leather bag than a fake.
Threaded eyebrows
Natural make up during day / unchapped lips / non smudged eyeliner or mascara
Shoes that have been heeled / polished
Not too much jewellery

A big smile!

[LaLaLaLayla]

Could you recommend a handbag Ifancyashandy? I want something smart. And dark brown. Not Mulberry.

Thanks

[Ifancyashandy]

What's your price bracket?

[LaLaLaLayla]

Probably GBP 500 max.

[Ifancyashandy]

jaeger do lovely ones

[Ifancyashandy]

And look at Marc by Marc Jacobs. And Anyang Hydmarch. And Michael Korrs.

[higgle]

CAn a vegetarian who doesn't buy leather not look well groomed? Why should a dead animal draped over your arm look so wonderful?