Keys to Success : Big Investments Small Costs

You may be familiar with one of my favorite fashion writers Andre Leon Talley, author of Life With Andre for Vogue magazine. He had written an article years ago and one of his quotes was branded into my brain playing over and over like a skipping record ringing true on every accord. He reflected on the "...four keys to success: immaculate grooming, manners, articulation and confidence".

All too often, we become lax with our self care. It starts with not flossing one night before bed resulting in a cavity, we sneak a scoop of ice cream, pretty soon we are 5lbs heavier. We are too lazy to wash our face before bed and wake up with a zit and we always seem to be suprised. How did that happen?!

Today, I am going to focus on five key players in passing Beauty Basics 101. These are the big ticket items, the investments. The items that can not be compromised as they are the first thing people will notice about you. No, this doesn't mean that you have to spend large amounts of money to master Beauty Basics 101, it means that you need to invest in them. When considering cost, calculate cost per wear. 365 days a year for an unlimited amount of years to come, we are talking fractions of a penny. Make the commitment.

The following are five critical pieces to the perfect outfit, the best look and timeless beauty.

Hair:  Invest in a great haircut! Make sure that you get your hair cut regularly every 4-10 weeks depending on your style. Ask your stylist for his/her recommendation. If you color your hair, maintain it. Roots are not sexy and it gives the impression that you don't really care what you look like. There is nothing sharper than clean cut hair.

Skin: Your skin is with you for the rest of your life. Take care if it. Everyone should have a basic skin care regimen that consists of a cleanser, toner, scrub, moisturizer and of course, SPF. These are the tools that keep your skin clean, healthy, hydrated and young looking. I will discuss this more in detail tomorrow.

Teeth: What is the first thing that you notice about someone when you meet them? Their smile. It is critical to maintain your mouth. See the dentist twice a year. Cleanings are affordable for those without dental insurance so please don't use that as an excuse. Do your research. Your smile is a main confidence builder in many people. If you are not happy with your smile and it causes you to be conscious keeping you from feeling your best, look into having that fixed. It's worth the investment if it means letting your soul shine through your smile.

Nails: Keep them manicured and clean. Maintain a shorter nail length-just a little longer than the end of your finger. No cat woman nails and no chipped polish! It's just not becoming. If you have polish on your nails, make sure that you maintain it. If it chips, remove it or have them repainted. No biting either. Not only is it a great way to get sick from all of the germs that you are voluntarily transferring to your mouth, it's just gross. Kick the habit or get to the real root of the problem and work it out but NO BITING!

Eyebrows: Now this section is my favorite. I love my eyebrows and I want you to love your eyebrows too. I want you to do a study. I want you to take a really good look at people's eyebrows. Then I want you to flip through any fashion magazine and take a close look at the model's eyebrows. We have a serious crisis on our hands right now...or should I say our face. Over plucking is a serious offense. Consult an expert. Have them help you shape your brows properly. Your brows are the frame of your face. Now, please be particular about who you choose. Just because someone CAN do brows doesn't always mean that they should. Seek an expert with great eyebrows and you will be in good hands.