Makeup & Hair - What’s “In” for 2011

[Continuing my thoughts on which Harper’s Bazaar 2011 Makeup & Hair Trends are appropriate for us “women of a certain age” …]

Can Live With

• Darker (more natural) hair color – Because our complexions fade with time, older women should take care not to go too dark.

• Center parts – If your hair is thinning, a center part provides maximum volume on both sides.

• Loose woven braids (not tiny tight beach boho braids) – The less tension on the roots, the better. Also, a loose braid gives the appearance of volume.

• Turban headbands – As long as you don’t plan to remove the turban in public and deal with “hat hair” in public, a turban has the same visual impact as a fuller hairdo.

Don’t Like

• Matte skin – Last year the look was dewy, which is much more attractive on dry mature skin. On the other hand, if your skin is so dry it looks matte no matter what, you’ll be right in style!

• Burgundy lip shades – Last year they told us to wear bright red. To quote my makeover guru and author of Staging Your Comeback: A Complete Beauty Revival for Women Over 45, Christopher Hopkins, “If you want to draw attention to your teeth, the lines near your mouth, or your softening jawline, by all means go for bright or dark lipstick.”

• Bold eyes AND lips – Read the previous comment on lip color. If you want to go for bold eyes, remember that stark contrast of very bright colors on eyelids against paler skin can look garish.

• Purple lips – Too “goth” for me. How about you?

What do you think about the new makeup and hairstyle trends? We’d love to hear.

Tags: makeup trends, Christopher Hopkins book, hairstyle trends, DIY makeover, look your best at any age, age warrior makeup tips, ageless beauty makeovers, makeover tips