We want to look special for our friends, co-workers, whomever we're celebrating with. We want to be proud of the way we look! But it can be such a hassle! Imagine it- hours in the mall, outlet stores, poring over catalogs ... a maxxed out credit card... remember last time you did this?

I am proposing a solution for all that - what I call the Office to Evening 5 Minute Ladies' Room Makeover strategy! It's a time-tested strategy, it works, but we tend to forget about it! Here are some simple ideas to try. With this season's incredible selection of gorgeous accessories in everything from lace to sequins and rhinestones, you will find NO problem putting together something incredible... easy... and inexpensive!

For the sake of argument, let's say you are wearing that regular black (or red, or whatever) blazer and skirt or pants, with a plain silk tank top underneath, nylons, and plain black pumps to the office that day. That's pretty simple! All you will need is 5 minutes in the ladies' room and you will be ready to glam the party!

In your little kit bag you will need:

Makeup
- Lipstick and blush in a slightly more dramatic evening shade if you wish.
- Glittery dust to touch on temples, pulse points and collarbones- if you want to sparkle.
- Any other makeup you need to feel pretty.

Hair
- Hairspray and styling tools, if needed.
- A rhinestone or pretty fabric hair accessory to substitute for your plain ponytail holder.
- Accessories for wearing your hair up if you wish.

Jewelry
- More dramatic earrings, whatever you love! Chandeliers look gorgeous and are so popular but you can get evening impact with plain gold or silver earrings - just in a bit larger size than for daytime.
- EITHER an ornate necklace of some type OR a gorgeous brooch to pin on your jacket lapel. Not both.

Other Accessories
- Try a fabulous scarf done in stretch lace or velvet with sequins, simply tucked under your jacket collar and allowed to flow, perhaps pinned on one side with that gorgeous brooch. Or you can make a "faux blouse" with it - remove the silk blouse, place the scarf under your jacket around your neck, bring the two ends down, overlap them and pin to secure with the brooch. Tuck the ends into the front waistband of your skirt or pants. Then button your jacket. Just don't forget and unbutton your jacket later!

- Shoe Clips - You can buy them at nearly any shoe or accessory store. They work like clip-on earrings for the top of your shoes and totally transform dull into wow!

- A teeny evening bag is always a nice touch.

- I would do the same hosiery you wore to work unless you just really want to change to something dressier.

The beautiful thing (besides you!) is that you will be comfortable, you won't feel silly or overdone, and your checkbook won't be adversely impacted!

Written by: Sheila Talley © 2005, www.butyoudontlooksick.com