Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Certified Senior Advisor and Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q. My daughter keeps telling me I need to update my look. Where do I begin? I am on a limited budget!
A. Sometimes our kids can be tough on us, even when they have our best intentions in mind! I have some ideas for you, though. Updating a look can be exciting but overwhelming at the same time.
My motto as usual is keep it simple! Take small steps so that you are not overwhelmed, and starting from the top and working your way down may sound silly, but it is easy!
What does that mean? Perhaps a new hairstyle would do a simple “wow” change for you. We can get in a rut with hairstyles, clothes, and makeup so start looking for a style that suits you in a magazine or book from the library.
That is a good place to start. Bring your photo with you at your next hair appointment and go for it! Your stylist may have some great ideas for you as well. You will be able to find a stylist that will work with most budgets.
Next is a makeup update. Simple steps, like using a new moisturizer or skin brightener can do wonders for your skin. Try going one shade lighter for foundation and blusher. Sometimes we think brighter colors will make us look younger, but the opposite can be true.
A softer look is great on everyone. This applies to lipstick as well. Soft and subtle is better than bright. Your wardrobe may also need some shaking up and that will take time. Add one contemporary piece that can be used interchangeably with many outfits. Jean vests are becoming very popular right now.
This is one simple piece that can be pared with dress pants or even a longer skirt. Paired this way, your wardrobe will look nicely updated. Add a colorful scarf and your daughter will be pleasantly surprised and may ask you for advice!
Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
