Beauty Tips - Oh, Make Mom Over

Tips for Shedding the Mom Image and Getting Beautiful Again

Advice Seeker: Dear April,

I had a baby last year, and I have totally let myself go. I used to be cute and trendy, but I'm still losing baby weight and my old clothes don't fit. Plus, how am I supposed to chase my child around in high heels? I want to get back to looking like a normal human being, and not just a frazzled mother, but I don't know how. Do you have any beauty tips that are easy for moms?

Sincerely,

Makeover Mama

April Masini's advice:

Dear Makeover Mama,

Moms of children ages birth through pre-school are undergoing BIG physical and hormonal changes of their own -- along with the most amazing growth spurts that their children may ever have. Most moms focus on parenting, and if there's any time left over, they focus on their appearance. There is nothing wrong with this, but there is a way that they can focus even more on their parenting -- by giving themselves little makeovers that will put more bounce and energy in their step -- and more bounce and energy in their parenting!

Tips to Break Free of the Mom Stereotype:

* Hair. The mom stereotype is easy hair -- not chic hair. By making a regular haircut or hair color appointment, and not trying to squeeze it in IF there's time, mom will have sleek, well cut hair that is usually the domain of single women, working women, or women with lots of help.

* Shoes. Give yourself an hour or three a day to wear a simple heel. Get out of the clogs and sneakers for just a short time each day, and watch the way people look at you -- and the way you feel, as a result -- or even before they look at you.

* Makeup. Wear makeup! You don't have to go full-on-evening makeup, but do update your lip gloss, your foundation, your eye makeup, your mascara, and any facial products.

* Instead of LOTS of loose clothing, wear one loose item of clothing a day instead of two or three. It's easy to feel self conscious from baby-weight that may or may not be a permanent part of your mom life. But don't forget you're still a very sexy woman. Wear a tunic with some flattering and sexy trousers or jeans and a heel. Or wear loose pants with a sexy camisole.

* Lingerie. Graduate your lingerie from nursing bras to sexy bras -- over time. Once a month buy something new and "grown up" to wear under your clothes that is not baby-focused.