by Kimberly H. Smith

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: November 20, 2011

Simple and effective changes can reinvent a woman's look easily and inexpensively. You can incorporate newness in your hairstyle, makeup, clothing, accessories, nail polish, and shoes. Many women opt to reinvent their looks after a pregnancy, breakup or milestone birthday. But a transformation can take place on a Tuesday in the middle of February when the clock strikes five. You have the power to make it happen. Start with these six tips.

1. Hair is a woman's crown. Whether it's a simple short cut or a long, straight ponytail, it's our "mane" thing. Try highlights. You can do them yourself by visiting your local Sally's Beauty Supply. The clerks are informative and can walk you through the process of choosing the right color and the equipment needed. The "pull-through skull cap" or brush on method can be done in an hour or two. A shampoo and moisturizer for post-color is always recommended.

2. If makeup isn't a part of your daily regimen, try a little mascara to make your eyes pop. Mascara should be applied to just your top lashes. This prevents the raccoon look when your bottom lashes press against your face. Clear or nude lip gloss is also a subtle change. And if you cannot retrieve your newspaper from your front porch without full coverage foundation, apply mineral powder instead. A different shape for your eyebrows, eye shadow contouring rather than one shade, or addition of lip liner are some other ideas.

3. Who wouldn't want to be dressed by top designers? Unfortunately, in these challenging economic times, want comes second to need. However, we do not have to sacrifice style to change our look. When you make a clothing purchase, be sure it is something you really would like to wear - not because it's on sale. Color is always a great choice when buying clothes. Change your look with a yellow blouse, a pair of red slacks, or a purple blazer. Unbuttoning one or two top buttons on a blouse shows another side of your personality.

4. Your humdrum dress from seven years ago can be revamped with the right accessories. A string of black pearls, a rhinestone brooch, or a colorful scarf can transform any plain outfit into a fabulous ensemble. The right handbag will make you over as well. Large ones with handles are all the rage these days. A solid black or brown one will do.

5. Manicures and pedicures are nice if you can afford them, but you can do those yourself too. Like clothing and accessories, nail polish is all about the color. If you typically go for the traditional red, paint silver or gold on your fingers and toes. If you like clear polish, go for the opposite end of the spectrum-hot pink or black. A French manicure and pedicure is also appealing.

6. Shoes complete your outfit. Never a truer statement made. What's on your feet can make or break everything above them. Do you always wear flats or mules? Try high heels or stilettos. You consistently wear panty hose? Opt for none with open toed pumps.

When we look good, we feel good. Reinvent yourself today.

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