Advice for the stylistically challenged.

[Gargula]

I really need help style wise.

I have never really thought much about how I look or dress but it's becoming ever more apparent to me that I need to start paying more attention to myself. I don't have one decent, attractive set of underwear, I never get my hair cut, I have nothing in my wardrobe apart from jeans and slouchy tops, and I do not own a pair of heels. I have totally lost any self-esteem with regard to my looks and I need a complete makeover.

I'm working on some things (losing weight), and trying to be a bit more presentable (have a hair cut tomorrow!!)

What I would like to know is:
what are your beauty "routines" - how often do you get your hair cut, are there any other beauty "things" you do regularly?
What basics should I have in my wardrobe? - I'm mid thirties and size 18 (yeah, i know), so obviously not mini-skirts, but what??

HELP!

Are you me?

Same size, same age, same style. Have drawn same conclusions.

Watching with interest!

• i get my hair cut and highlighted every six weeks
• I exercise at least 3 x a week
• I try to eat healthily ( although probably still consume too much sugar. Am working on this)
• As my big indulgence, since I work full-time, I have a Shellac manicure once a fortnight
• I make sure I am wearing make-up when I leave the house

The "princess" thread gives loads of good advice:
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/style_and_beauty/1376328-2012-Princess-Project-its-back-by-popular-demand

If you feel clueless with clothes, try a department store personal shopping session. I am a voracious people watcher when out and about, and I always make mental notes if I see someone stylish. This often gives me shopping inspiration.

Many women on here swear by having their "colours" done. Haven't done it myself yet, but plan to in future.

Kinky maybe! I think there may be a few people in our situation, unfortunately I don't know any of them in RL and I often feel out of place amongst my stylish friends!

Thankyou novel for the advice. I am a SAHM so in theory have plenty of time but practically I never get a lot of time for myself. Will improve in September when eldest goes to school and youngest goes to preshool. Hopefully wlll have more time for exercise and beauty then. Never thought about a personal shopper - may give that a try! And will definiely stalk stylish people to see where they shop!!

Well just had my hair cut (first time in years) and do feel a bit less dragged through hedge backwards! Now its just the rest of my body i need to sort!!

Gargula, how about trying wrap dresses, colourful tights and lots of accessories...?

Also, don't rule skirts out, 'above knee' with thick tights and boots - (although as you say, 'mini' not a good look on mid 30s and over generally IMHO).

If you are average/ tall then long tops (straight as opposed to large tent shapes) with skinny trousers perhaps? ( If you are shorter, there are always the heels...)

• I find exfoliation, face and body, has a fast effect on making my skin look loads better. This then spurs me on to pay more attention to other areas, make-up, self-tan etc.

• I like my nails to look presentable - filed in a short square shape with either clear varnish (always looks good) or a bright / dark (but 'bold') colour.

• Try not to wear black, although easier said than done.

• Make-up wise, apply serum, moisturiser, foundation, grey/beige eyeshadow, dark brown liner, mascara, cream blush (in bronze colour) and pressed powder. Also Vaseline lip gloss (rose). That's a basic routine, takes 10 mins max.

Ooh and scarves - tons of them! Have you heard of the MN ebay scarf?

see here www.mumsnet.com/Talk/style_and_beauty/a1292551-I-want-to-thank-the-mnetter-who-told-me-about-an-ebay-scarf

Thankyou Mrs Sean Bean that is some excellent advise!