Does your wardrobe consist of all dark colours to avoid the stains of little hands? Was the last time you got dressed up so long ago you can’t remember it? Have you forgotten the last time you felt glamorous and sexy?

The trouble is, when most people think of glamour the first thing to spring to their mind is probably their favourite Hollywood star. However, you don’t have to live up to the beauty ideal the media are promoting to be glamourous, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money either. Glamour is unique to each individual. It’s not an age, a colour, a height or a size. Some of the most glamourous women I have met simply do not fit the media’s beauty mould. Anyone can be glamourous, and it really can change your life.

 

I’m not suggesting you should be glamourous for your husband, partner, or anyone else, it’s actually all for you. If you feel you look your best, you are bound to feel confident, and the biggest secret about glamour is that it really is ninety percent confidence!

You may be thinking I have lost my sanity here, especially if you are up to your eyeballs in baby rice and diapers at the moment. How can someone who is constantly rushing around, being everything from diplomat to laundress and chauffeur, possibly be glamorous? Well, with a little bit of ground work and a tiny investment of time and caring, anyone can – and it really will make you feel like a new woman.

Health

It goes without saying that getting enough sleep, eating the right foods and exercising are important. It can be virtually impossible to get enough sleep when you have young children, and everyone has busy lives these days. Consider a nap or try to plan a couple of nights a week when you can get to bed a bit early. The difference will be amazing. Not only will you feel better, but you will look better too. And if all else fails, a good concealer really does help. 

Make sure you eat regularly to keep your energy up, and choose your own meals with as much care as you choose your family’s. Just because you are on your own or busy is no excuse to skip meals or just grab something that is not delicious and nutritious. As for exercise, just running around after your children may be keeping you fit. However as our kids get older our activity levels tend to taper off. Be honest about how much you are exercising and remember how important it is. Even if you can only manage a twenty minute walk every day, you will definitely feel the benefit of it. Exercise also gives you a lovely glow.

Hair

The right colour and cut make all the difference, and they don’t have to cost the earth. Most hairdressers offer free consultations, so take advantage of this service as a way of interviewing stylists. Take the time to find a hairdresser who will really listen to you and with whom you feel comfortable. Together you can choose a style that does not just look good when you leave the salon, but that will make you feel good every day. 

Beauty

Treat yourself to a facial, manicure or pedicure – or all three.  Watch for special offers from salons you trust or have heard good things about. Many salons and spas are doing special offers these days. The difference a professional facial can make is incredible. Another way to instantly refresh your look is to have your eyebrows professionally shaped and maybe even tinted if they are beginning to fade. You will not believe the difference – trust me on this one!! 

 

When you are out shopping, visit lots of different cosmetic counters. Over time you will be able to find a consultant you trust. If they are offering free makeovers, go for it!  If you like the look (and take your time to decide – walk around and see how you feel), try gradually purchasing the products as and when they fit into your budget. If not, have another makeover! Eventually you will find a look you love.

Wear makeup and perfume every day. Even if you are completely rushed off your feet, a quick touch of foundation, mascara, blush and lipstick only takes about five minutes to apply. (I can do a full day makeup, with eyeshadow, in less than ten.) Lightly spritz yourself with your favourite perfume and you are set for a wonderful day. 

Wardrobe

Go through your wardrobe with a friend who you really trust. Get rid of all those things that you have not worn in years. It is unlikely you will wear them again and they are probably just making you feel uncomfortable hanging there, especially if they do not fit. If it doesn’t make you feel good when you put it on, give it away to charity. If you have investment pieces that no longer suit you, try to find a consignment shop nearby so you can generate a bit of income from them. Honestly assess what you have left, and think about what you need.  Then gradually fill in the gaps (budget and time constraints considered). Consider making an appointment with a personal shopper (this service is normally free).  Sometimes a total stranger can really open your eyes to anew and different looks.  You do not have to buy everything they recommend. Take your time and introduce new things as your comfort levels and budget allow.

Act As If

No one really knows exactly how you are feeling unless you tell them, either with your body language or by talking to them. If you’ve tried all these tips and something still seems to be missing, imagine how you would feel if you were glamourous. How would you look? How would you walk? What would you be doing? Now you have a picture in your mind, pretend that is already the way things are. Act as if you believe you would if you were glamourous. Imagine you already look your best, that you walk the way you think you would and that you are doing the things you dream of. You will be amazed at the results.

Implementing even a few of these tips can really help you to feel and look better than you have in years. Glamour really is born out of confidence, and it truly is something anyone can have in their life.