JenniferDyer.net

by Jennifer Dyer

Have you ever had a case of the blahs? As a mom, especially of a special needs child, my appearance is not my first thought … until I glance in the mirror. Some days it’s a bit frightening. Other days I feel bland and drab. I seem to specialize in the jeans and a plain shirt kind of look. This may seem a bit silly, but I have found that when my outside looks downtrodden, my emotional state tends to follow suit.

I wondered how other moms managed to look put together. Perhaps it was a lot of time and money spent on hair, make-up, and designer clothes. But I realized that wasn’t it. Many times it was accessories. One of my friends dressed up jeans and a plain white tee by adding a turquoise necklace her daughter made. Another friend made a black shirt and pants festive by paring it with a big crystal necklace.

So, I went to a few stores that sell accessories for under twenty dollars and bought a few, mostly in neutral colors or black that would match almost everything I owned. The result? You’d be amazed at how many times I get complimented on how nice I look when I add a necklace. And I feel a bit uplifted when I look in the mirror. Somehow a few silly beads makes me feel a bit better.

So, there you have it. My ten second make-over. I’d like to add a word of caution, though. It’s amazing how often those cute $12 necklaces you get in fun accessory stores get sold in fancy little boutiques for over five times the price. So, don’t overspend.

Have a happy, colorful day.

And for dads? Well…I’ve got nothing. Buy your daughter and/or wife some beads and call it a day.