Makeup

8 Zero-Commitment Ways to Change Your Look in 2014

Even if a major makeover isn't in the cards -- or budget -- this year, you can still reinvent yourself this month. Here are eight easy ways to change your look

by Dawn Davis

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Hair: Switch your part A few years ago, I switched my part and instantly became 25 percent better looking. The decision to make such a major (um, not at all) hairstyle change came after meeting with a company that was promoting a facial symmetry computer program.

The representative took a straight-on photo of me with my hair pulled back, and the program measured and analyzed the contours and ratios of my face. It then spit out a score, which determined that one side of my face is prettier (the left). Sounds like a hoax, right? Stay with me.

The representative then suggested that I switch my part to my left side to show off more of that side of my face. It took a few blow-dry sessions to retrain my hair, but it eventually worked. Then the compliments started coming -- everything from "did you lose weight?" to "were you just on vacation?" I haven't parted my hair on the right side since.

My advice: Forget shelling out 200 bucks for the service -- just switch your part and see what happens.

SEE NEXT PAGE: Hair: Play with color

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Older comments

Nice article.

by Mollysunshine Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 01:35AM Report as inappropriate

I'm obsessed with the YSL stain. So pretty, and lasts so long

by DTalksAll Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at 09:23AM Report as inappropriate

Seriously, I have tried about 10 different faux tanners. I bought Paula's Choice product, and it was really amazing. First time I used one up and ordered another, instead of throwing it away. Hope this helps someone.

by kimber314 Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at 11:05AM Report as inappropriate

You offer some excellent tips--parting your hair differently can give you an entirely different look (take your face shape into account here). But I contend that nothing rivals the beauty of virgin hair; once you have used a product with ammonia or peroxide, the cuticle is changed and damaged. Perhaps a henna is a better choice. I also don't care for BB creams. I have tried a plethora and have tried to love them; my skin is in good condition, but too many don't address uneven skin tone is certain areas and leave behind a weighty feel.

by GigiSD Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at 12:35PM Report as inappropriate