My Mini-Makeover

A couple of months back, I was bummed that I didn't win a makeover contest, for which I was one of 20 finalists. After losing so much weight, I really felt like I needed--or dare I say deserved--a little visual upgrade of my makeup, hair and clothes.

Of course, I didn't have to win a contest to do those things. It just would have made it a lot more fun (and cheaper).

Well, my good friend Kelly--bless her heart--decided I should have at least some kind of makeover, which she suggested as a belated birthday outing for us. Last weekend, we hit the mall in search of a new look for me.

First, we headed to the department store makeup counters in hopes of getting a little free mini-makeover. No luck. They were all too busy or said they required a minimum purchase of $50. What?! Too much of a commitment for me.

We split for Sephora instead, where we walked right into a very hopping store and got seated for a quick (free) makeover. My lady did a number on my eyes, making me look much more dramatic and glamorous than I'm used to--but I liked it! I even bought the products (more than $50 worth, thank you very much, department store snobs!)

Then, it was time for new clothes. In new sizes. I have almost no nice clothes that fit me well. They're all too big and baggy. So Kelly and I hit up Macy's for clearance and sale items that would be work-worthy and show off my slimmer figure.

It was helpful to have her second opinion and open mind, which got me considering clothes I might otherwise have passed up. As I tried a few items on, she made the brilliant suggestion of trying petite when all the size 14 slacks were ridiculously long on me. Petite? Me? Well, I'm 5' 8" so I figured I was too tall. Apparently I have short legs? 14Ps fit like a glove.

Kelly also kindly pointed out that perhaps I needed an upgrade on the frumpy sports bras, my undergarment of choice as a fat, frumpy person. She said when you wear fitted, lovely blouses, you need some uplifting support underneath. Duh, right? So our next stop was Lingerie, where I tried on more bras than I have since I was 13, and found a brand I loved: Walcoal, maker of $50+ bras. Worth every dollar (though I have since learned there are better deals on this brand at Stein-Mart and TJ Maxx).

Walking out of Macy's, I carried four new work outfits that actually flattered my figure, plus a new look to highlight my eyes (when I actually have time to do makeup) and comfortable, supportive undergarments.

More importantly, I felt a renewed sense of commitment to the fit lifestyle we've been living these past 11 months. I absolutely love the feeling of shopping for "regular" size clothes--and liking what I see in the dressing room mirror. No amount of chocolate or pizza or lazy couch time could possibly compare with the joy of being fit!

(Now, I just need to go make a hair appointment. I'm thinking blonder, longer, more fabulous.)

P.S. Many thanks to Kelly for the fun afternoon and being such a supportive makeover companion. It meant more to me than you know!