New direction

DIVE INTO YOUR NEW LOOK

New year, new you — are you ready? If you have been toying with the idea of an updated look, there is no better time to start. “As time goes on we evolve as people and our style should also evolve with us,” personal stylist Fae Albulario says. Whether it’s a new way of dressing, a diff erent hairstyle or bolder make-up, it can be intimidating to make a change. Here is how to feel confi dent in your new look.

Take small steps if needed

It is OK to start small if you are feeling a bit nervous. “Perhaps get a fringe instead of cutting it all off, have layers cut in, or add in some highlights or lowlights without changing your hair drastically,” hairstylist and make-up artist Cassandra Furfari suggests.

Fae Albulario recommends pairing new items of clothing with what you are already comfortable in. “That way you won’t get cold feet, and eventually you can swap out the other pieces of that outfit,” Fae says.

Precious metals

From make-up to hair, metallics are making their mark again. Feeling a bit shy to rock the full look? Dip your toe into the trend with a lustrous nail polish.

WE LIKE Rimmel 60 Seconds Nail Polish Super Shine Pedal to the Metal, $5.99

Trust your instincts

Have you been admiring certain clothes or hairstyles on other people and wishing you could pull off the look? Rather than hoping for a change, give it a go. While you may regret an impromptu head shave, chances are you are well prepared to try something different. “If you’ve been thinking about changing your style for a few hair appointments, you’re ready,” Cassandra says.

Shimmer and shine

Not one for the wallflower, the glitter trend is here to stay. Fun for all ages, experiment with a sprinkle of sparkle on lips or eyelids.

WE LIKE Revlon ColorStay Gleaming Eyes Liquid Eye Shadow Rose Gold, $16.49

3trends TO TRY FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

AYA AND AMI SUZUKI

TAYLOR HILL

ERIN O’CONNOR

BRIGHT HAIR 2020’s runways saw models with vibrant hair colours designed to draw attention to their locks. From neon pinks to bright reds, this is a sure-fire way to stand out from the crowd. WE LIKE Schwarzkopf Live Colour Ultra Brights Magnetic Purple, $4.99

PLAITS While more commonly seen on young girls, expect to see women of all ages embracing plaits. From neat, thin braids to messy, chunky styles, plaits will add that something extra to your hairstyle. WE LIKE Schwarzkopf Silhouette Lacquer Super Hold 500g, $9.99

NATURAL GREYS On the opposite end of the spectrum, women are increasingly embracing their natural greys. A good silver shampoo will keep greys from looking brassy while also strengthening hair. WE LIKE L’Oreal Serie Expert Silver Shampoo 250ml, $20.49

Think outside the box

Wonder why you have 15 identical black dresses? You can blame that partly on the brain’s reticular activating system.

“This is wired to keep what we’re familiar with and filter out what we’re not,” Fae says. “If you spend a lot of time wearing a certain style, your brain goes into autopilot and you’ll grab the same thing over and over again.”

Be conscious of trying something different. “Work with and adjust to your new style, and try not to go back to the same habits that pushed you to get your new look,” Cassandra says.

Have fun and experiment

A new look should be fun, so do not stress if it is not quite what you were after. Try different styles and reach out for advice from a stylist if you want a helping hand.

“Experiment with a new make-up look and different clothes to complement your new style,” Cassandra says. “Enjoy it, show it off and have fun with it.”