Style Gone Stale? Bring it Back to Life in Six Steps

Are you bored with your appearance? Have you had the same hairstyle since your prom fourteen years ago? Yes, I know all about you and that sweatshirt you're still wearing. You are not alone my friend. Many people find that with jobs and families there just isn't enough time to trying new fashions or risk a strange new haircut that might take forever to grow out. Well, I am here to help! I've compiled a list that proves it can be simple, inexpensive, and even fun to change things up and find a way out of your style rut.

1. Start at the top: Our hair is a major part of our personal style. We often wish we could do something different, but actually trying something new can be overwhelming. You don't have to do something major to your current "do" to break the boredom. Any new cut or accessory will make a fast difference. Has it been a long time since you last wore a pony tail? Try getting a cute hair elastic or ribbon and doing one low on your head. If you are up for a new cut try browsing the pages of a current hairstyle magazine from your local grocery store or bookstore rack. If you find a haircut you like take the picture with you to help your stylist create the look for you. You might also want to consider a temporary or permanent hair color. They come in very subtle shades that can highlight and compliment your own color rather than drastically change it.

2. Add some color to your life: Black may be slimming but it's also the color we associate with funerals! With spring around the corner why not try adding two new lively colors to your regular wardrobe. Some colors that even the most play it safe shopper might find themselves warming up to are dusty rose pinks, pale yellows, deep blues, and bold greens. Try adding hints of color in small ways at first such as on a scarf, belt, or in hair accessories. If you're feeling like a bolder step is in order try a new shirt or jacket in any color but brown, gray, or black. Make sure it's a comfortable fit and that the fabric appeals to you.

3. Explore some new scents and pick out a "signature scent" that defines you. Do you enjoy deep earthy scents? If so you might want to look at a light musk perfume or lotion. If fruit scents make your day try looking for an apricot or citrus based scent. If you prefer the natural end of things you might want to go with peppermint, lilac, or lavender essential oils. Look for hypoallergenic lotions, perfumes, and body mists with natural ingredients. Some of them almost smell yummy enough to eat!

4. Try new styles of clothing: Some items are tried and true classics. Pieces like jeans, T-shirts, and white button up blouses have been around for decades and aren't likely to go out of style any time soon. There are a lot of interesting new styles available now, though, and it's time to give them some attention. If you're always wearing jeans give some cute skirts a chance for a change. Go for long and flowing, short and flirty, or somewhere in between. If you've been living in the same faded cotton t-shirts day in and day out why not try out something dressy but still casual such as a fitted knit top with a vest over it. Pairing an open button down blouse with a close fitting tank top underneath is an easy pulled together look as well.

5. Details, details, details: Sometimes the greatest beauty is in the smallest places so don't miss the opportunity to do big new things with the small items in your life. For example, I happen to love items that have embroidery on them so I keep my eye out for all things stitched at thrift stores. A new handbag in a nice color, a cute necklace or lapel pin, and even something as simple as new shoelaces can add something different to your look.

6. Bargains are your best friend: You don't have to spend a lot to get a lot. Many stores have regular clearance racks that hold plenty of great deals just waiting for you. I have found that Target stores are particularly great for this kind of bargain. I recently picked up a very cute blouse there for under three dollars! Thrift stores are also a really great resource for not only fresh new looks but for vintage and retro looks as well.

So now you are armed with some ideas that can help you add something new into your life and your look. Go out there and find something new, colorful, and totally you! I promise you won't regret it