When I was young, making a face usually got me in trouble. Interestingly I have not lost that same knack now that I am older and somehow cannot keep my thoughts, exhibited through facial expression, to myself.
Today I am thinking of something quite different. You may have heard of “glam” sessions by watching one of the senseless, but so addictive, housewives show. If you have not or have not even heard of “glam” you may be in for a surprise as to the extent, and expense, women go through to look good.
Women sit, what could be depending on the amount of work, a minimum of 2 to 3 hours, getting their makeup done and hair styled including extensions and false eyelashes put carefully in place.
If you have ever tried to put lashes on yourself, you will know that this may be the most valuable service. To enhance my quickly shedding lashes, I have tried glue and even magnets, to hold them in place. I think you can guess how this went. About as well as when I attempted to draw my own eyebrows on.
The sheer effort glam takes is for the record books and in my opinion, can only be done well by professionals.
Just google it. You will see it begins with skin care, foundation prep, foundation, sculpting, colouring, powdering and more. The reference material on this phenomenon is overwhelming to the amateur who just wants their eyes to pop (this is how they talk).
Just walking into your favourite cosmetic shop is a testament to the need to look always done up with brands and products I personally never knew existed and obviously have never purchased. Thus, my lacklustre draw for service as I am perusing the aisles for a brand that I recognize. Alternately, the preteen and teens shopping have staff dripping over them to serve, suggest and hopefully sell the latest. And this usually works as these “children” flash their own credit cards. My mouth is still wide open in amazement.
Not recognizing anything from the past that I can glean on to, I look for the cosmetic section that is dedicated to more mature skin, and find it way in the back, either too high or too low for me to see, and full of dust. This feels like an analogy for aging.
I resorted to my usual crisis store, the web. Just a note of caution, as you delve into the digital world, you will be inundated by pop ups and web site links to the latest and greatest. I admit that this persistence did me in and I ordered what could best be described as a “baby step” into a serious make up regime. After a month, I honestly do not see the difference. Maybe because my regime only takes 5 minutes. Or maybe because I have not got a professional helping me.
Akin to a clothing stylist, “glam” has become an important part of a personal brand. In the past, I have also looked to a stylist to help with my woefully bad clothing choices, and again, looked to the web for help in putting items together for my size, stature and yes, age. So far, my efforts have had minimal impact, and I assume this is because whether glam or style, my brand was already determined a long time ago. I prefer, and look best, in a classic style. Too bad work suits are not the norm for my busy social calendar. That usually means a visit to the grocery store.
Have a wonderful spring everyone.
