The New Year is the perfect time to update or even completely change your look. If you’ve been thinking of updating things (or even radically changing them) here are some tips for how to do that.
1. Figure out a budget. 
You’ve undoubtedly got some money saved up either from allowance or from a job (or maybe both). You probably got at least a few checks, a little bit of cash and at least a couple of gift cards as holiday presents this year. Add it all up to figure out your starting point so that you can then stretch that budget as far as possible.
2. Scour the Internet for ideas and deals.
Browsing shopping sites like GoJane.com is a great way to get an idea of what’s out there, what things cost and whether or not you actually want to replicate the looks that you are seeing. Pay attention to your reaction to things before you actually add anything to your cart.
3. Buy Stuff That Looks Good on You
Don’t buy something simply because somebody famous is wearing it in an ad or show or movie. If you actually like the way that piece of clothing looks on the person and you can find it for a good cost then, by all means, buy it. If you don’t actually like it, though, don’t buy it. You aren’t ever going to actually want to wear it—at least not after the first time you wear it to prove to your friends that you own it.
4. Work Your Way Up
It’s natural to want to change everything right away but in terms of your wardrobe, it’s better to smart small. Small touches that update your look that you can build upon as you earn more money for more new stuff is the better way to go. Begin with some basic and foundation things that you will still be able to wear later, even if you decide that you hate your new look in six months (which is fine—we all do that sometimes). Once you’ve got those, focus on accessories and specialty items.
5. Get Informed About Beauty
You can save a lot of money on your new haircut (and color) by going to a beauty school. Most cities or towns have schools in which students learn how to cut, color and style hair. These schools are always looking for “live subjects” on which they can train their students. They offer different services at a superbly discounted rate. Don’t freak out though! The student working on you will be working under the watchful eye of a teacher so you don’t have to worry that you won’t get what you want.
Most of all—remember that it is going to take time to get used to your new look. The first few times you see yourself in the mirror you’ll probably feel giddy. After the initial shock wears off, though, you might worry about whether or not you’ve done the right thing and you might want to switch back. Give yourself a few months to really get used to the new look, wardrobe, etc.
