Give her a makeover without upsetting her

HANDS up those who have never been embarrassed by their mother's style of dress. I thought as much.

Yes, we love our moms, but they can commit embarrassing fashion faux pas.

Remember that maroon beret she wears to church every Sunday? And that pleated skirt that she likes to wear to the stokvel?

If you have tried and failed to convince your mom to dump those unflattering clothes just chill.

Psychologist Asiphe Ndlela says most people over the age of 50 are satisfied with their lives and buying the latest clothes does not feature in their list of things that have to be done.

Malika Zangwe, a fashion stylist in Joburg, says most people who need a makeover don't believe they do. Some, when told to have a makeover, feel unloved.

"Be very careful when approaching your mother. Tell her how much you love her and how she deserves to be seen as the beautiful woman you know she is - but that her current look isn't doing her justice," Zangwe says.

He says after that the first stop should be the hair salon.

"Hair is a very important aspect of any makeover. Ask the stylist about a style that will flatter a woman of her age. Choose one that will last and not make her feel uncomfortable. Begin with an age-appropriate wig she can take off when she wants to."

Zangwe says that he has learnt over the years that most black elderly women do not like make-up for religious and cultural reasons.

"Some women believe that make-up is for loose women," he says. "Others say their husbands don't like it. Some say it is too expensive to maintain.

"The majority have never tried it and do not believe it can enhance their beauty.

"Some fear it will burn their faces while some say their church rules don't allow them to wear make-up."

He says when buying clothes pick those that match items in your mom's closet.

"Buy comfortable high heels, a few white shirts and casual wear. Get clothes she feels comfortable in," he says.

Zangwe says your mom is a mature woman so choose age-appropriate stores such as Miladys and Donna Claire.

"Make sure she's comfortable with a shop. Edgars and Woolies are okay, but Truworths and Foschini might not work," he says.

Zangwe says it is also important to know her body shape.

"Different styles have different cuts and certain styles will suit certain people.

"If her best assets are her legs, shoulders and waist, let her show them off.

"Emphasise the good and minimise the not-so-great," he advises.

He says never buy anything without trying it on.

"Sizes can vary from store to store and even in the same store. An item might be cut awkwardly and not every outfit will look as good on your mother as on a mannequin. Let her try on everything."

He says she must love what she buys.

"If she doesn't feel great with what she sees in the mirror, put it back because she won't wear it and there's no sense in wasting money," he says.