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Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Book Review: Naughty Makeovers for Nice Girls by Dimitri James

Naughty is the new nice. That’s the mantra and message of the new “tell all” how-to book from beauty maestro Dimitri James with Jean Penn. In Naughty Makeovers for Nice Girls: How to Turn Up the Heat and Add Sex Appeal to Everyday Situations (Skinn Cosmetics, 2012), James creates a new kind of finishing school – one for nice girls who always finish anywhere but first.


Tired of seeing the many “nice girls” in his life constantly overlooked both in the work and romance departments, James, a celebrity makeup artist, style guru, and television personality, decided to pen a book that would help women transition from shadow to spotlight.

Those who join the class will learn how to look classy, not trashy, trading the prim, proper uniform of “safe” clothing, makeup and hair for something sexier and more inviting, but still situation-appropriate. “You would be surprised how many women don’t know how to use clothes and makeup to market themselves in various social or professional settings,” says James. “’Nice’ girls are invisible, and ‘trashy’ ones go over the top. ‘Naughty’ is the happy medium that pushes the envelope without crossing the line.”

Thus, James challenges the traditional connotations of the word “naughty” and redefines it as a spirit that can change both image and self-perception for the better. In chapters that range from “Naughty At Work” to “Naughty First Date” to “Naughty Traveler” and “Yummy Mommy,” the author shows readers how to dress outside the box and re-vamp their beauty regimens to add sizzle to their style for all seasons and occasions. Additional chapters include “Naughty In The Hood,” “Naughty At Home,” “Naughty Cougar,” and even “Naughty at Church.”

Offering a lively and entertaining read, Naughty Makeovers, is chock full of actionable tips and tricks from James using real life examples, all brought to life with the colorful, whimsical illustrations of Meghann Powell. Open the book to almost any page and find a small gem of wisdom, or a stunningly clear depiction of “nice” vs. “naughty” vs. “trashy,” all sprinkled with James’ trademark wit, candor, and spirit of camaraderie.

In “Naughty At Work,” James rejects the traditional advice to “dress for your boss’ job.” Unless, of course, your boss fashionably alters the “uniform,” choosing silhouettes that fit impeccably, showing a hint (and only a hint) of skin. If she isn’t afraid of a dramatic lipstick shade or a towering platform pump, by all means emulate her style, he advises. In “Naughty Online,” James reveals the secrets to a great Facebook or Match photo, one that looks like the real you at your best. In “Naughty Traveler,” he helps readers dress for first-class treatment even if they’re flying cattle car – all without sacrificing comfort.

Throughout the book, striking pink sidebars provide quick tips on a multitude of topics, from “Naughty Girl Date Night Basics” (think a coat if it’s cold but never a blazer, and a top that is lacy or sheer, for starters) to “What Not To Pack On Your European Vacation” (think Bermuda shorts, hippie sandals, and real jewelry) to “Five Minute Minimal Make Up.”

NAUGHTY MAKEOVERS FOR NICE GIRLS is loaded with makeup and fashion advice to empower a Nice Girl to transform herself into a spicy but classy woman in every situation. So, go ahead and channel your inner naughty. Instead of fading into the background, become a star in your own life.

Why I like this book so much:

When I first received the book, I was first impressed with the quality of the book: the pages, the illustrations, and a lot of great beauty tips. It's just what I've been looking for and what every women needs. This is not your ordinary makeover book. Dimitri James shows women how to re-brand themselves for social and professional stardom.






About Dimitri and Skinn Cosmetics

Dimitri James is a professional make up artist whose work has graced the runway and the red carpet as well as national and international television shows and magazines. Dimitri is also the creator of SKINN Cosmetics, a line of premium skin care formulas and color cosmetics.

Dimitri credits his long and successful career in the industry to his innate ability to see and bring out the beauty in everyone. Growing up, his passion for his future profession was sparked by his mother and two grandmothers, all European-trained aestheticians. Dimitri followed their footsteps to become a licensed aesthetician himself, and he went on to serve as a make up artist for some of the world’s most iconic beauty brands, including Estee Lauder, Chanel, Revlon, Lancome and Borghese. In addition, he has trained make up artists and aestheticians for Adrien Arpel Salons and Spas.



Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the PR Company/publisher in exchange for my review. The opinions expressed in my review are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.



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