Getting Ready for Class Reunions Mentally and Physically

Perhaps your high school or college reunion is coming up and you're worried about what the old gang will think of the new you and what you have become. Don't fret. With some planning and preparation, you are sure to make headlines.

Don't be anxious about what everyone else will think of you. They are freaking out too. Once you arrive and start chatting with your old friends and catching up, you'll probably forget about your worries with those extra pounds and fine lines that have appeared since you last ran into these people. And really, is that all your friendships are based on? Looks? Your true friends will accept you just as you are. Your Sunday school lesson is now adjourned.

Admittedly, you will want to look your best but don't obsess over it. Here are some pointers to help you put your best foot forward for the big day. First make your appointments for hair, nails, and makeup well in advance. Get your wardrobe and accessories in order early and if you will be doing your hair yourself, practice it a few times before the night of the reunion.

You can never go wrong with classic, solid colors. Don't try to be flamboyant with your look. Choose subtle looks to keep the focus on you and not your fashion sense. If your reunion is planned for the evening, a black dress works well. You will have to decide if you want to bare your arms and choose a sleeveless variety or not as well as the length of the dress. If evenings get cold, plan on wearing a colorful shawl to spruce up your look. You may also want to wear some cute sandals and some jewelry to accentuate your dress.

Maybe you despise dresses and prefer suits. If so, choose one in black, champagne, or ivory and add in a satin or lace shell of the same color.

Pantsuits in black or white also work well. Throw in a camisole or shell underneath for a classier look.

Does your Alma mater have outdoor, all-weekend events? Some schools host picnics, pool parties, and events the whole family can take part in. If this is the case for you, you are safe dressing in low-key attire such as a sundress or capri pants and a T-shirt. Don't get caught in busy materials and think about comfort.

If you are a jewelry person, break out your pearls. If you are wearing black, any type of gold or silver will spruce up your look. Don't try to keep track of a clutch. Carry a shoulder bag with your essentials.

If you are on a tight budget, give grooming a high priority. You will look and feel better after a facial, manicure, and pedicure, and some glowing highlights. If you are really ambitious, you may experiment with microdermabrasion.

When shopping for your wardrobe, try to keep it with the times. You don't need to try to dress younger than you are but you do need to keep it current. Stay away from miniskirts and skintight dresses, as well as tattoos and piercings. You should show that you haven't been a cave dweller for the last 10 years and have opened an issue of "Glamour" since graduation. You may want to go way out on a limb and try a new hairstyle as well. It's not necessarily a good thing that someone recognizes you because you haven't changed a bit. You don't want to look like your Senior Photo.

Most importantly, use good taste to show you've got class and have a good time!