North Vancouver's Get Dressed boutique recently treated three deserving women to makeovers.
East Vancouver resident Judy McCaffrey was the winner of the top prize package, a $1,500 makeover, highlights of which included a new outfit by Sandwich clothing, accessories by Karen Telio jewelry, hair and products by Techniks Hair Studio and manicure, pedicure, facial and makeup by Sanctuary Esthetics Studio. Teresa MacGillivary and Brooke Storey were the other winners.
Get Dressed owner Erica Hughes says she and her team of stylists were aiming to create a "fashion meets function" look for McCaffrey. "We chose black leggings for comfort for her, and then we paired it with a Sandwich black tunic. It's cosy but it's also got a chic look to it," Hughes says. "Black is very versatile and she can mix the two pieces. She can actually wear the leggings with other long, chunky sweaters and what not."
The monochromatic colour palette and long tunic both work to elongate the body, Hughes explains.
A long pendant necklace, sparkly earrings and vibrant pink and orange scarf complete the ensemble.
"She can wear the outfit into the evening and she can also wear it in the day."
McCaffrey was more than happy with the final result, but especially enjoyed the pampering aspect of her transformation.
"It's like being a princess for a day, seriously," she says.
McCaffrey was nominated for a Get Dressed makeover by a close friend who thought she could use a pick-me-up during a difficult time. McCaffrey's husband of 25 years passed away in early September, leaving her the primary caregiver of their 16-year-old daughter, who is in a wheelchair.
Get Dressed recently raised $900 through the sale of goody bags at a customer appreciation event and McCaffrey got to choose the beneficiary of that money. She picked Canuck Place Children's Hospice, which has long supported her daughter.
After receiving so many touching entries, Hughes says she plans to make the fall makeover contest an annual event. "I've lived on the North Shore since 1970 and I just think it's great to give back to the community," she says.
As part of her prize package, McCaffrey also received a private yoga session and one-month pass from Maa Yoga Studio and wine and appetizers from Arm's Reach Bistro.
