By Jean Patteson

Jun. 5, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) --

"It doesn't cost money to look good. It's much more important to know your style, your body type and your colors than to spend a lot of money. A cheap blouse in a flattering style and color is better than an expensive blouse in the wrong style and color."

In his book he includes quizzes for identifying your style, or "image profile," and for determining your body type. He offers practical guidelines for selecting flattering, age-appropriate clothing, hairstyles and makeup. And he sprinkles succinct, often sassy, "comeback clues" throughout:

"The tighter your sleeves, the bigger your breasts. Choose according to your desired effect."

"Short hair is not for everyone but can look good on anyone."

"The be-all, end-all slenderizing slacks -- straight-leg, pinstripe, flat-front, natural-waist trousers."

Naturally, The Makeover Guy features makeovers, each illustrated with before-and-after photos and do-and-don't tips.

Best of all, each subject looks like a "real" woman -- a familiar, older work colleague, friend or family member. Hopkins doesn't cheat by showing unsmiling, no-makeup "before" images. And he doesn't use more-flattering lighting and poses for the "after" pictures.

The made-over women still look like themselves, only better -- proof positive that Hopkins really does get it.

FASHION DOS AND DON'TS

Maturity is a badge of honor to be respected with good taste, says makeover expert Christopher Hopkins.

"There simply comes a time when all the extra bling and fabulousness of fashion, hair and makeup is best toned down. With age comes a confidence and sophistication that allows you to achieve more with less," he says.

"Age-appropriate is not expressing who we were, but declaring whom we have become."

He offers these tips:

*Don't draw attention to thinning lips with dark lipstick.

*Don't draw attention to aging eyelids with frosted shadow.

*Don't accent aging hands with bright nail polish or multiple rings.

*Do update your classics regularly with trends in color, line and texture.

*Do draw attention to your face with neckline interest and earrings.

*When in doubt, do leave it off.

'COMEBACK' KEYS

In his book, Staging Your Comeback, makeover expert Christopher Hopkins identifies five fundamentals he thinks every woman should know:

*Line. The eye follows a line. The faster the eye moves across the line, the longer and slimmer the line appears. Anything that breaks or stops the movement of the eye along a line shortens and draws attention to the break. Determine where you want the eye to rest and use line to direct it.

*Proportion. The human eye is attracted to symmetry and proportion. Whether it's your hair in relation to your face, your eyes in relation to your lips or your hips in relation to your shoulders, balance in figure and features is a desired goal.

*Color. Understand what warm and cool colors are, and which is most flattering for your hair, makeup and the clothing near your face. Hue and intensity also create balance. Use light colors on areas you want to look larger or get more attention. Use dark colors on areas you want to look smaller or get less attention.

*Texture. Rough textures make you look heavier. Shiny finishes, in clothing or makeup, accent flaws. Adding texture to a haircut creates the illusion of fullness but diminishes gloss. Strive for a balance between the extremes.

*Accents. These are the ultimate attention-getters and give an outfit a boost. Place accents such as buttons, bows, jewelry or scarves to attract or distract, to add excitement and interest, or to create a mood or attitude.

Jean Patteson can be reached at jpatteson@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5158.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0151-25782465