I need a makeover. (Long, whiny.)

In My Humble Opinion
1

I need a makeover: a plea for help, advice, anecdotes, or just an ear for me to whine into.

Even though I’ve managed to lose 40 pounds over the last year, I’m still feeling pretty frumpy. I’m down to 140, so while not exactly where I want to be, I’m a long way from how I was. But I feel that I need to make a transition; really, I don’t look too bad if I clean up a bit. Here’s my rundown:

Hair:

I realized it’s been since menarche that I really had a day at the salon. Since that time, I’ve had a bob, to shoulder-length, to a Mohawk, to a pixie cut, then right back to where I’ve been since I was 17 (I’m now 25): long hair, (now elbow-length), parted down the middle. Attempts to force it to part any other way have been met with resistance. It is fine, stick-straight, will not hold a curl for anything, with dry ends and an oily scalp. By about midday my hair is noticeably greasy. Yuck! I should also add that I am useless with anything more than shampoo/conditioner, a comb, and a hairbrush. Attempts to educate me both through myself and my sister the former-stylist has yielded exactly one thing: I can use a blow dryer and one of those metal roll brushes to bend my hair under a little. But, I can’t even manage to braid my own hair without it looking like crap. I know how to braid, I just can’t do my own hair. I’m useless; even ponytails don’t turn out right. But I need to do something. Lately I’ve been tempted to shave it all off and donate it to charity.

Clothes:

My wardrobe consists mostly of jeans (boot-cut or flares) and t-shirts. Shirts are mostly black (>80%) I really like fitted blouses and even have a few, however they seem too much for my 14 hour day. Often fitted blouses will fit around my waist while barely able to contain the girls. I wear between a 6-10, depending on where I’m shopping. I have no idea how to put a decent outfit together without looking like I’m trying too hard. I am not out to make a statement with my dress (I’m a little burned out on that, see “Mohawk” above) but I feel like the only statement I’m making now is “frumpy haus-frau, who let her into university?” I don’t want to look like my 18 y.o., fashion-savvy peers (how could I?) but I feel like I’m sticking out like a sore thumb. I also don’t feel like what I’m projecting outside matches how I feel inside.

Makeup:

During the school day I keep it to a minimum. I’ll use a tinted moisturizer and mascara, usually I wash my face and re-apply throughout the day. If I try to wear foundation I’ll be a grease slick before noon. I don’t feel too much at a loss with makeup, really. I could probably use some edgier colors in my eyeshadow repertoire though. Brown eyes/golden olive skin.

Default shoes are Chuck Taylor hi-tops. I have some sinister black heels (5” pumps) for Friday nights out and Docs for the weekend bike trips. I have 2 other pair of heels also. All my shoes are black, I just can’t bring myself to buy shoes that will only work with one or two outfits.

I own one belt that I bought 5 years ago. I never wear it because it looks funny beneath my shirts, and tucking my shirts in makes me look stubbier than I already am.

Since my weight loss, I’ve realized a few things (since I actually pay attention to my body now):

[ul]
[li]I have a really short waist; so short that even the smallest amount of belly fat is positively heinous. I measure 28.5 around the waist and 39 around the hips, but that little pouch just kills my figure. Yeah, I need to lose another 15 pounds (mostly in my butt), but I don’t want to look pregnant in the meantime![/li]
[li]My hips are effing huge. I can see the ridges of my pelvic bones but I don’t think that I’ll ever measure less than 36 inches around the hips. Unless maybe a plastic surgeon could take a sawzall to them or something.[/li]
[li]My shoulders give me the appearance of a menacing powderpuff linebacker. While they aren’t exactly thick shoulders, they are quite square and broad. I actually find I have a hard time writing at the poor excuses for lecture hall desks at UCLA because my shoulders are so cramped. And I’m only 5’5”. Needless to say, partly because of this I’ve always felt massive and ungainly compared to my peers.[/li][/ul]

I have issues with my legs, too. I haven’t really had bare legs in public since before puberty. I’m cursed with dark, densely distributed, coarse hair and lighter, super-sensitive skin. Even when shaved baby-smooth you can still see black specks beneath my skin. I can shave about once a week, otherwise I get ingrowns (and I have the scars to prove it). Waxing lasts a week. Skirts are OUT for me, as are capris, shorts, whatever. Can’t do ‘em.

To compound matters worse I’m on a bit of a budget being a student and all. I’ve got enough backup that I could probably spend a few hundred before the end of the year and a few hundred at the beginning of next year. Spending sprees at Nordstorm’s, while tempting, are out of the question.

Dammit I know I’m not naturally ugly, but somehow that’s how I end up. :sighs: I am so useless with putting myself together that I’ve been known to have panic attacks at the department store. I am 800 miles away from females that I know and trust enough to help me dress myself. I need help, and I need it ten years ago.

Dopers, I throw myself upon your mercy.

2

Do you live in Southern California? I’m not much of a girly girl, but I can give you some basic advice. A picture would really help though.

3

I’m the one on the right. Pay no attention to my fashion-challenged nephew. :slight_smile:

A slightly less weird facial expression.

4

:smack: Yes, I live in north LA county, I spend all my time “down below”, though.

5

You’re very hard on yourself! I was expecting a three legged monster by the time I got to the photos, and I really like the top (or dress) in the second pic. I think (moderately applied) eyeliner could really intensify your eyes, and maybe make you look more awake (But im an addict). My personal fav is navy blue, especially with darker eyes. Bronzer and Blush(again in moderation) do wonders for any complexion.

My personal suggestion as far as fashion would be to educate yourself by watching What Not To Wear, until you learn their laws, and can apply them when you shop. People watching is a great way to discover your tastes. Classic and simple are always in, and dont necessarily have to be super expensive. A simple tee, flattering pants and one really cool accessory(necklace, interesting belt, cool earrings) is a way to look great without breaking the bank. Plus you dont have to worry too much about accessories going out of style. Thats all I can think of for now…Good luck!

6

Nothing really helpful to say on topic, but speaking as a Red-Blooded Guy[sup]TM[/sup], you’re being way too hard on yourself; there’s lots of potential there, and you look very good in both pictures, as you are.
I’m sure you’ll get some good advice on how to look even better, just my $0.02 to try and get you out of your initial funk :slight_smile:

7

I say this as someone who also is kind of clueless about makeup/clothes/etc, but you look really pretty in your pictures.

As far as the makeup goes - find a Mac counter (Nordstroms?) and ask for Studiofix in your color. It goes on like powder and covers like foundation. It’s makeup for the lazy and you can reapply whenever. It’s apparently bad for dry skin but if that’s not your problem it’s fine. Throw on some mascara.

I also think you’d look really cute in a kind of red/brown flavored lipstick. Not all the people hired to make over people in department stores are just there to sell you stuff - go in a few times, sit down at a few different counters and get what works.

I also wear mostly tee’s and jeans, and I have hair almost down to my waist that gets greasy easily…if you want to keep your hair long, try this: take a comb, draw it down the approximate middle of your head. In the back try harder, but you may fail. This is okay - even cute! Pull into two ponytails. Instant hairdo.

If you have wide shoulders, don’t tuck your shirts in. Belt your low-slung pants and buy shorter tops - not so short that you feel like you’re in high school, but not so long that they tuck in. If you feel uncomfortable with those tops, buy a light sweater to wear over them.

(Seriously, I sound like I know what I’m talking about, but this is how I dress, and I do ok.)

8

First of all - congrats on the weight loss. It is a big challenge and you’ve done really well.

All right you gorgeous creature - MerryMagdalen is right about the lippy (I can only help with make up really) and go for a lippy with a blue base to make your lips look white (some reds have yellow bases = yellow teeth)

Blue base = put some on your inner wrist and it’ll almost vanish over your veins.

Quick and easy makeup for every day
(i) wash your face and pat dry
(ii) moisturise if needed
(iii) apply concealer if needed - under eye circles/blemishes (don’t worry, you don’t have any)
(iv) apply foundation with fingers, blended under eyes, avoiding eye lids.
(v) use translucent powder (look in your Priceline equivalent - big pot of fine powder). Use a large brush that has quite short bristles for more control. Apply to forehead, nose and chin (I get the greasy thing too) Also do the eyelids lightly.
(vi) If wanted, use warm gold eyeshadows to highlight the gorgeous colour of your skin. For something brighter, find a shade from the MAC counter that suits your eyes - glittery if you like. If you get a little pack of four eyeshadows here’s how to use them; two mid tones on the eye from lashes to just above the crease and blend. Use lighter tone almost up to brow and you can use the dark shade to line eyes softly.
(vii) Mascara!

Ask a cosmetic counter to show you how to apply rouge best for your face - if you think you need it. As an olive-skinned person, you may find that you’re better off glowing gold rather than rose.

Perfume is a great way to lift yourself. Go to a store with a huge selection and take your time. They will go out of their way to help you - keep the coffee beans handy to clear your nose.

These are my personal guidelines for hiding a tummy

  • empire waists do not hide lumps and bumps. the magazines lie. LIE.

That’s about all.

When it comes to clothes and getting new ones - go through mags etc. to find the styles that you like the look of and see how you can adapt them. It’ll take a while but it will happen.

Some places sell blouses in cup size, but I can’t think of who! Do some research! Also, fine patterns on blouses will give you more to work with.

Hair - it’s a lovely colour and suits your colouring beautifully. Get out the mags and try and find a length/cut that you like. Consider: (1) maintenance; how often does it have to be trimmed? (2) everyday styling; does it require three types of product and half an hour every morning? (3) will your hair hold it? (4) will you be able to put it up in a pony if needed?

You’re making this too easy for me to be honest, you’re a gorgeous girl!!

9

First, you’re very pretty. You really don’t need to do much. Less “makeover” and more “wanting a change.”

Coupla things: Shoulder length hair will be easier for you to manage and less weight will make it easier to change the part, if you so desire. Maybe a little bit of layering to give it volume.

I believe Maybelline or one of the big cosmetic companies has eyeshadows specifically designed to bring out your eye color. A touch of Green/Olive along the lash line and a medium brown on the lid would look great.

Keep lipstick to the neutral end of the scale. Just a touch of color is all you need.

Stick with bootcut pants if you have butt issues (you exaggerated that in your description…your butt doesn’t look gigantic at all).

Short jackets that come to above the widest part of your butt would look great.

Bright jewel tones would look great with your hair and skin tones!

I like the v-neck on you.

Try something in a 2-3" heel. If you can wear 5" for a night on the town, 2 1/2" for daily wear should be do-able.

Cut yourself some slack. You are probably just bored with your current look; you aren’t making any glaring “mistakes” that I can detect. Have fun shopping!!

10

Sausage Creature, have you tried looking at navy and tan shoes? I hate shoes that can only be worn with a few things, but those colors are almost as neuter as black.

I like necklaces but can’t stand them; many years working in labs mean that I’ll tuck any rings and wristbands into my pockets absent-mindedly so not much of a point in those either. But I have quite a few pairs of earrings: you’ve got a round face (nice cheekbones btw), so angular ones will probably work best for you. Thin, long ones or small ones when you’re pulling your hair back; bigger ones when your hair is going to be loose. On days when I’m wearing a bright shirt or blouse I choose earrings that are neuter in color (I like silver) or that match; on days when I’m wearing “duller” colors, I choose brighter earrings. It’s a good way to introduce color without it being a huge splash.

If black, navy and shades of red are ever made illegal, I’ll have to come to work naked :stuck_out_tongue:

11

I’m not good at this myself, because I’m only alright at making myself up. But I’m going to second what everyone else said - go to one of the stores that does free makeovers - if you ask them to, they’ll explain what they’re doing and you’ll get professional advice on how to apply your makeup. Or get a Mary Kay consultant - they sometimes do “faces,” and they don’t apply the makeup, they explain to you how to do your own makeup, and how to find a shade that fits you.

Next time you go to a salon, flip through those style magazines they have, and see what you like. I, personally, think you’d look cute with a Final Fantasy X-2 Yuna-style flare cut (maybe a little bit longer), but that’s just me. I have the same problem with my hair refusing to style, and you know what worked perfectly? Water wax. It’s thick but not slimy and gross like gels, and it washes right off your hands (and right out of your hair). Have you ever done any dying or highlighting? Cuz I think that’d look really cute too - although your hair is all pretty much the same shade, which is also really nice (mine’s shit brown with blond and red strands mixed in).

Also, consider getting some of that For Brunettes Only shampoo and conditioner - Suave makes a very, very good generic brand that you can get for about $2 a bottle, and it’s actually really nice, I use it myself. The shampoo is so good that it’s almost a conditioner all on it’s own. It’s also tamed my hair down to where I can actually do stuff like curl it, if I want to. Talk to your hairstylist next time you go in, and if you’re willing to pay a bit more, they might be willing to experiment.

~Tasha

12

Hair: You say your roots are greasy and your ends are dry? This is going to sound totally bass-ackwards, but try shampooing less. When you shampoo you remove all the sebum that your hair needs to look and be healthy, and then your scalp goes crazy trying to replace it, and boom, greasy roots in 12 hours. Meanwhile your poor ends just keep getting stripped of all their oil, and they end up dry and crispy.

It is possible to get your hair clean using conditioner only. It’s called CO, and basically you use an el cheapo conditioner (I like VO5), glop it on wet hair, comb it through with a wide-tooth comb, let it sit, add a handful of water, lather up (yes, it will lather, a little bit) and then rinse, rinse, rinse. At first this is going to make your hair even more greasy, because your scalp is going to remain in panic mode until it figures out you’re not stripping it dry anymore, but eventually things will settle down and you may find you can even stretch your hair washes out to every 2 or 3 days.

If you feel you absolutely must use shampoo, then try putting conditioner on the length first, then shampooing the roots only. The conditioner will protect your ends from the harsh shampoo running down them. Re-condition the length only once you’ve rinsed everything out.

And might I say, you look lovely as is; don’t be so hard on yourself! When it comes to hair and clothes and makeup, what’s important is that you like it and you’re comfortable. Oh, and if you’re looking for new hairstyles, here’s more than you can shake a stick at.

13

Just a few quick tips based on what you said:

I also have naturally fine straight hair that won’t hold a curl. Long middle parts just kind of accentuate that. I would try getting long layers put in – they add definition and volume just by being there. All I do to fix mine is the basic blowdryer w/ a round brush to do roll them some (just do it in chunks — I break the drying up in 3 steps - pinning up my hair for the topmost layers that I’m not drying, letting half of the rest down, then the final layer). A stylist can be a lot of help here - it’s really much less complicated than it sounds…

One easy way to dress up your t’s are layering them — layer a shorter tee over a longer tee with each one being a different color. You might could even throw a big funky looking belt over them around your mid-section (which you greatly overestimate by the way!!!) to add a little more interest.

And finally — be happy with yourself! Be proud of what you’ve accomplished! That will show more than anything!!! :slight_smile:

14

First of all, I don’t think you look bad at all! In fact, you’re quite pretty. Give yourself some credit. Confidence goes a long way towards sexiness. If you feel confident, it will show. That first picture looks like a nice, comfy casual look to me.

I would go with a sheer colored gloss on the lips. It would be sheerer than hlipstick, thus giving you only that touch of color. I used to like the Bonnie Bell stuff, despite the fact that it’s geared towards teenagers, just for this fact. However, I can’t seem to find it anywhere anymore (hijack: anyone know where it’s gone and why it’s disappeared?)

As for the shaving thing, I have some problems with ingrowns and I get a loofah sponge (the poofy thing) and some body wash and use it to exfoliate. By scrubbing every night, that removes some of the dead skin cells so I don’t get ingrown hairs as much. Then you can wear some skirts!

Shoes can be expensive. However, Target has some cute ones. Even Payless does. If you have a Value City near you, they do as well. That way, if you’re not quite sure what you want, you can get some cheaper pairs and experiment.

I think you could stand a bit of color in your face- one of the cosmetics people can show you how to apply blush.

Also, a teeny-tiny bit of eye shadow would help bring attention to your eyes, as would some mascara. A nice navy eyeliner, when done right (ie, a very thing line right by the lash line) can draw attention to the eyes without over doing it. I like NYC’s eyeliner shade “In the navy”- it goes on the way I want it to and is also really really cheap. Remember, the more makeup you put on your eyes, though, the color less you should put on your lips- you don’t want to be over made up.

Hair styling: I don’t know what to tell you about the oily roots, but as for the dry ends, try a leave in conditioner, and just put in on the ends. You can also pull part of the hair back an fasten it with a pretty clip, which should look quite nice.

I’ve had the same hair for as long as I can remember, give or take a few inches. It’s never been shorter than my shoulderblades. I really really need to find a new style (in fact, once I get some good pictures of it, I may start my own thread!) So you’re not the only one.

15

I live in Souther California too, Irvine to be exact. If you want to come over and play with my makeup, let me know.

First, I’d suggest getting bangs or parting your hair to the side. I have bangs of various lengths that I either pull back or leaving hanging. If you want to make your hair more managable then get it layered. I am still working on the grease issue myself. I am trying a no shampoo method of cleaning my hair which some of my friends have had great results with. So far my mane looks wonderful. The scalp is a lot better but not quite where I’d like it to be. They’ve said to sprinkle cornstarch on your hair to fight the grease but I’ve been afraid to try it. To fight the split ends, use a leave in conditioner or a handmade treatment. One that a lot of girls have suggested, but I haven’t tried, is a combination of aloe, honey and conditioner. What do you do with your hair at night? You can practice braiding it at night until you perfect the art of braiding. I had to teach myself how to braid and I’ve become an expert at it.

Then, makeup. I prefer a natural look, so I use powdered makeup that’s very light. I can sleep in it or wear it for 24 hours without breaking out. My roommate has a lot of good products from MAC that I often steal when I do bother to get really dressed up but overall, I find their products a bit too heavy (at least it was when I went the last time) for every day wear. My roommate however, loves it and says you should go ask them to give you a makeover. I do love their eyeliner. Pricy but worth it, IMHO. A big thing that helped was learning to put more color on my face, especially on my cheeks and across the bridge of my nose. I am pale white but I sweep across my face with a bronzer. It can be scary when you see how dark it is, but I always get a ton of compliments after doing it.

Go get your nails on your hands and toes done. I don’t do it often, but when I do, it makes me look a lot more feminine. If you don’t want to spend the money, you can buy press on nails at Savons for about $5 that last a week.

For clothing, I go to the cheap places and buy a wide variety but my roommate prefers to go to expensives places and buy a few that she can mix and match. Part of style is finding your own. If you see girls wearing outfits that you like, compliment them on it and ask them where they bought it. You can also use magazines to guide you. I love magazines because you can buy the whole outfits. I love Victoria’s Secret stuff for when I want to dress sexy and femme but it can be pricy so I get it on sale. If you are buying from magazines make sure they have a good return policy. Go to one of the many malls around here and look at what the sales clerks and mannequines are wearing. Find styles you like and ask the sales clerks for help.

My roommate has very wide shoulders and I’ve got thick hips and thighs so I’m sure we could help you look good.

16

Just for the record, The Sausage Creature is drop-dead gorgeous. (OK, I’m her mom, but I’m not exaggerating). :smiley:

17

Nothing to add except that you’re pretty damned cute as you are.

18

Goodness girl you are a doll! you are so young, fresh and just beautiful! My 2 y/o is running wild right now but I’ll get on here later when she’s napping and add my two cents. I think we have similar figures and I’ll tell ya what works for me!
take care!

19

Look - you’re a total hottie. You just need a little push.

Go to a salon and get a really good haircut. I second some bangs - I think I would go longer, sweapt accross your forehead, bangs just to give you a bit of sassyness. Also, you’ll have something to flip around.

I second the MAC studiofix - it’s really great stuff and really hard to mess up on. Frankly, given your fresh look, you could stick with that, some marscara and lipgloss for day and look totally put together. For evening you can glam it up if you want, but you don’t have to.

Get yourself some funky boots with a heel. Wear them with your jeans and you’ll instantly increase your sophistication factor by 10. Get a cute little fitted jacket type thing and you’re good to go.

And finally, and this is most important, you’re hot girl. Learn it. Know it. Love it. Live it. When you start believing it, the rest of the world will too, even if you’re in sweats, converse and a backwards baseball cap. Walk into every room like you own it. It makes a HUGE difference.

20

You are very pretty. I would suggest that one easy way to “soften” you look would be to have your eyebrows reshaped - don’t pluck for a week or two, then have them waxed by a professional.

I have cut back on the grease in my hair by using a vinegar rinse instead of conditioner after shampooing. I was doing a baking soda rub instead of shampoo for a while, and that really hepled the grease, but it gets in my ears and gives me swimmer’s ear, so I stopped.