Take a quiet evening at home and analyze yourself. Have a notepad and pencil with you. Stand in your underwear – or nothing – in front of a full length mirror. What are your best features? What needs camouflaging? What can you change, and what can you not change? Start with your hair. Is it time for a new style? A new colour? Make a note to get an appointment with your stylist early in the day of the event. In the meantime, watch fashion and hair styling magazines to get inspired with a new look.
Next, look carefully at your body. Yes, your tummy has developed a little bulge, you had better not buy a new outfit for the special evening that is too form-fitting. Make another note to return to the gym after the event, but in the meantime you will purchase a gorgeous dress with a sparkling jacket or shawl to hide the offensive tummy. But you have nice legs, don’t you? So the new garment can be knee-length. Oh maybe just above the knee – why not go all out?
Next, look carefully at your existing wardrobe. Do you have a good pair of shoes that looks like new and would be suitable for a special night out? If so, make a note to purchase your new outfit in a compatible colour. If not, you’ll need to buy new shoes too. Check your jewellery case. Is there a pretty earring and necklace set that goes with everything, or do you need to add accessories to your shopping list? You may want to use some faux tanning products, as almost every outfit is enhanced when it’s viewed next to tanned and healthy-looking skin. And don’t forget your teeth whitener!
When it comes time to shop, go when you are fresh and energetic. If you have to take a day off work so you can head to the mall in the morning, do so. Take along the shoes you will be wearing, or at least a pair that are similar in height, to wear when you are trying on dresses. Shop as much ahead of the event as possible: you may not find what you are looking for on the first trip. Try on dresses at several shops before you make up your mind. Don’t forget that some colours look better on you than others. Try to stay within your budget, but if you find just the right dress that’s a little more than you planned to spend, go for it. You can brown bag your lunch for the next month to make up the extra expense! If you are not too tired, shop for shoes and jewellery the same day, while you have the dress with you. Be sure and read the tips at www.evening-wear-guide.com.
The day of the event, get yourself to your hair stylist and choose an exciting new coiffure. Stop for a manicure on your way home so your nails look great. Take your time getting ready, savouring every moment, and remember you are experiencing a memory that you’ll treasure all your life. Then enjoy, knowing you look as good as you ever could and feel good about your appearance!
