Subtle beauty tips to create a stunning first impression

When it comes to fashion and beauty, it seems like the avant-garde looks once reserved for the runway are leaping from the catwalk into real life thanks to outrageous celebrities like Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj and Ke$ha. But there is still something to be said for subtle beauty and fashion. In fact, often times it's the small, unsubtle choices you make with your daily beauty and fashion selections that make the biggest impression. Focus on perfecting key elements to create a good first impression.

Opt for a Light Scent

We have all experienced it. The well-meaning older woman or under-educated tween who doused themselves with one (or ten) too many spritzes of their favorite perfume. Fragrances can be overwhelming and even offensive in small, confined spaces, so avoid this social beauty faux pas by selecting a light, airy scent. Amway offers visual and written descriptions to help you identify the undertones and notes that best fit your personality and signature scent. Once you have identified the perfect perfume, apply conservatively to pulse points or, if you have sensitive skin, to a handkerchief to be placed in your purse or pocket. Plan to reapply two to three times a day; one application can not and should not be expected to last all day.

Avoid Common Hair Mistakes

Your hair lays the framework for your face, so treat your locks with love and let them play to your advantage by avoiding some common mistakes:

• Condition all of your hair. Common myth says to condition just the ends to avoid weighing down your hair. Instead, add strength and volume by using a light conditioner, like Pureology Pure Volume Conditioner, from roots to tip to add moisture and avoid early thinning and breakage.
• Brush up when blow drying your hair. Brushing down sucks out all the volume, creating a lack luster and flat look. Instead, brush up form the roots to create a rich, full look.
• Avoid boxed color. Unless you are a professional stylist, you probably aren't versed enough to identify which hues and tinting will best highlight your natural look and features. Consult a local stylist to identify which color will make your eyes pop (a key component to a strong first impression), your wrinkles less defined and your skin tone rich and smooth.

Select the Right Shoe

Your style ornamentations, shoes, makeup, jewelry and watches all play an integral role in making the right first impression. Instead of simply grabbing the pair closest to the door, take time to select the right shoe for your outfit. A perfectly tailored pant can look sloppy when paired with the wrong heel height and a pretty party dress can quickly become a downer if your shoes contradict the overall look.

Choose Your Makeup

Bold and funky makeup can be fun, but a natural and practical look can go a long way when setting the stage. Pick one feature to play up and do it well. Red lips paired with neutral eyes give off the perfect pop, and a bold black liner with perfectly proportioned contoured features gives a dramatic look without going overboard.