Yai Yai, Life N’ Style, 02/12/13

Well, you have a hot date for Valentine’s Day. You may be asking, “How do I WOW them and feel comfortable, be beautiful and myself?”

Simple! First of all you should relax and understand that being “you” is beautiful. Sometimes we experience many social circles being wrapped up in who is wearing what and who has the best hair and blah, blah, blah. Life isn’t about other people, it is about YOU and what makes you feel good.

We all need a little jazzy makeover from time to time, so relax and enjoy these few tips for your jazzy new look.

+ Always look inward instead of outward and enjoy yourself. Beauty comes from within so that is where we have to start. Soul-search, read, meditate and reach to your innermost being. We all need that time to ourselves to sort things out and get to know ourselves. In doing this, you will carry a contagious smile displaying your innermost beauty.

+ Hair — Your hairstyle is very important and can make or break your mood. Analyze your facial structure and see if your hair shape complements your bone structure.

Feel your hair lengths and see if your hair was designed with the round of your head, if it has enough texture, if you have blobs of thick hair or if the lengths are even.

Your design must complement your bone structure and the color must complement your skin tone. Remember that mature skin usually looks better with a little lighter color but not too light as it will wash you out. Keep some richness to complement your skin tone and eyes.

Choose a different style for this date to give your date a double-take moment.

If you always wear your hair back, go forward, change the part, and blow dry upside down for volume. If you go up with the hair, remember to complement it with hair accessories and bling.

+ Skin care — With the drier winter weather, you may be experiencing tight, dry skin. Search for shea butter, which is in many anti-aging skin care lines. Stick to the organic products, as the all-natural is better for your skin and feels great. Give yourself a facial the night before your date so that you skin will be polished and radiant.

+ Attire — Wear a color that makes your skin glow. For a romantic look, choose soft fabrics that flow or a silky sweater that feels cuddly. Dresses are nice if the weather permits. Know if you will be dancing so that you can wear appropriate shoes.

+ Makeup — Of course, mineral makeup is the best for coverage. Change your colors for this date. Apply a little more coverage with brighter, richer tones.

If you normally wear nude lip color, wear a deep mauve or brighter wine color. This will give you a fresh new look. Remember to complement the colors in your garment.

Choose two areas of the face to pop, like eyes and lips with minimal blush, or cheeks and eyes with pale lips.

+ Gift — Since it is Valentine’s Day, bring your date a gift. Choose a unique gift that you know they will enjoy. Make it personal and special.

Enjoy your special date and your jazzy makeover. Life is what we make of it, so have fun and enjoy!

Yai Yai has 20 years of international hairdressing experience and has been a Citrus County business owner since 1996. She can be reached at yaiyai@yaiyai.me, 352-795-7625, www.yaiyai.co or www.yaiyai.me.