Makeover shows flood our television screens day in and day out. Indeed the airwaves are chock a block with reality style programmes promising instantly to turn hopeful women from ugly ducklings into swans.
While slightly older programmes tended to focus on dramatic weight-loss, providing candidates with personal trainers and even the option to have plastic surgery, many of the newer, less radical approaches to the reality makeover are based on minor alterations of hair, makeup and outfit.
However, if you have struggled against the bulge and won your battle, you may be struck with a sensation many women feel. While the weight has come off, your confidence hasn't sky-rocketed and this is something of an anticlimax after many hours in the gym. In situations like these, experts advise that you reward yourself: reach for the cosmeticdentistryguide, get a Caribbean tan, or even just hit the shops to makeover your look.
Doing things like having your teeth whitened or getting your haircut will, people in the know tell us, put the finishing touches on your weight-loss achievement. So take your cue from magazine style gurus and do something with your look you've always wanted.
Buy some shorter skirts, get a manicure, and essentially just treat yourself. Remember how far you've come, how much better you feel and eventually you'll get that feeling of confidence you're after.