The positive feedback from the Today Show's "Plaza Ambush Makeover" series has been staggering. It is an exciting and emotional time for the makeover and all of us on the makeover team. It happens so quickly that the dramatic results of the completed makeovers are shocking to all of us. We are holding back tears as we see the true potential of the women in the reveal.

People are now coming to me on the street and asking for advice about their hair styles and what formula would look best on their hair. I always do my best to at least give them a style and color direction. The real question they all want to know is "What should I do" or ?"How do I get started" I think the biggest reason women get trapped in the same style and color for years is they don't have a clue about what would suit them best. That's why my first piece of advice is to seek the help of a professional. They will look at you with a fresh eye. If this isn't an option, there are other ways to find the best solution for your hair style, color, and make up.

Look at celebrities with similar face shapes, facial features, and hair textures. You don't have to be a size zero or an exact clone to borrow a few tips from these women. These women are privy to the best hair, make-up, and fashion stylist in the world. You would have to be more than a little silly not to steal a few tips from the women who look good for a living.

Now that we decided that we are going to borrow a few ideas here and there, it's time to reevaluate your self. Don't panic! Calmly sit in front of a mirror and ask your self the following questions:

• What is your natural hair color? Tell the truth now! What color is it right now, not when you where 12 or 16 years old. This will help determine what color choices are available to you.


• What is your skin tone? Is the undertone yellow or red? How dark is your complexion? Your skin shade will help determine your new hair color. The rule of thumb to determine your new hair color is easy. Your hair color should always provide contrast with your skin tone.
  

• What texture is your hair? I mean right out of the shower and left to dry on its own. Accepting and working with your hair texture will help avoid many future hours of agitation.
  

• What is your face shape and body type? Are you a square, heart, or round shape? What body type do you have now? The hair cut and style need to provide the proper proportions to hold your look together.

Square faces usually need to be softened. Long layers that start at the jaw line and work to bottom of hair cut work best. Overall minimal highlights will soften the strong lines of a square face.

Women with heart shape faces need to accent their eyes and cheek bones. This will make a small or pointed chin less noticeable. Bangs work well with this face shape. Layers should accent cheek bones. Highlights should be concentrated on top layers of the hair.

Women with round faces should always wear a side swept bang. This will immediately make the face look less round. Cuts should fall below chin length. Taking the bulk off ends of your hair will take away the roundness of your face. Highlights should be placed on the ends of hair only to create a wispy look.

These are some simple tips to help you get your makeover started. Don't waste another moment being a "before!" I know there's an "after" that's ready to come out and live life to its fullest. Until then keep learning more beauty tips watching the "Plaza Ambush Makeover" every Friday on the Today Show.

Watch the segment from TODAY
What do you think of the ladies' new looks? Leave a comment or question below!

And if you missed any of the other Plaza Ambush Makeovers you can click here to catch up.

---

More from Louis Licari

• Try on hairstyles by Louis Licari on Makeover-O-Matic!