Photoplay (Jan-Jun 1959)

a Merry Christmas — and your very own gift of beauty American girls are the world's bestdressed, best-looking females, says Jacques Bergerac. He’s a globe-trotter and should know. “But when they arrive at a party,” he complains, “they just stand there, as if they were saying ‘I’m beautiful, fall for me.’ Why don’t they show a warm, genuine interest in somebody else?” Think about that while you’re exercising— 20 times to a side now. To better show your interest, you’ll want expressive eyebrows. In shaping them, pluck hairs between brows and from underneath, following the natural line just as closely as you possibly can. You’re a female, so be feminine. Don’t forget about deodorants, they're doubly important for the exciting days W ahead. Your legs will look sleeker if you use a depilatory or a razor. If you decide on shaving, dampen and soften hair first with lather. Then shave from the ankle up. holding razor firmly and pressing gently against skin. Take your time, especially at curves, ankle and shin bones. If you do nick yourself, a bit of tissue paper will take care of bleeding. Apply hand lotion afterwards to soften skin. Decide when your hair looks and behaves best — two or three days after washing or immediately after. Schedule your pre-party shampoo accordingly. From now on, get in the holiday mood by wearing only the clothes that are flattering and fun. Take a tip from Sandra Dee and the manners she displayed in “The Reluctant Debutante.” In your new, softer voice, practice the pleases, pardons and thank-yous on your family. The little courtesies can make you feel so-o-o feminine. So why not wait for him to open the door or help you out of the car. Act like a lady and he'll rush to treat you like one. So begin today — right now. Have fun with color — but remember that when you’re choosing a hue your skin tones are as important as your hair coloring. A dark skin, whether topped by blond or brunette hair, can turn sallow with yellow or too-dead neutrals. Brighten the grays and beiges with touches of white or pastels, or that always-right strand of pearls. And remember that the colors grandmother would never have mixed are now the height of fashion when they’re put together — brown with black, blue with green, sundry shades of orange, pink and red. Anything Van Gogh did you can do. ' ' Have a dress rehearsal, from head to toe. and then heed these words from Martha Hyer: “A smartly dressed woman stands before the mirror before she goes out — and then takes off something, a pin or necklace or frou-frou too much.” Rescue your possessions from the cleaner’s and shoemaker’s and make sure everything’s in good order — underthings laundered, dress clean and pressed, hemline straight, buttons secure, shoes heeled and polished, gloves spanking fresh, jewelry clasps working. Inspection passed? Then retire to the last chapters of your book and a good night’s rest. Ready or not. here it comes. If your heart is light, your head filled with ideas for talk, you’re ready. Your legs should be sleek, your waist whittled, your elbows smooth. Your hair should shine, your nose should not. Give yourself plenty of time to bathe, make up and dress. Try this model’s tip from Carol Lynley: When you’re ready to slip on your dress, protect makeup and hairdo by tying a scarf sacklike around your face and head. If he brings you flowers — and you deserve them — pin them to your bra strap for security. Or. if the bosom of your dress is too detailed, wear them at waist. And have fun! You look beautiful! ti3