With the Rockefeller Christmas tree standing tall and the plaza flags glimmering with silver and gold, it's certainly starting to feel like the holidays. Though lots of people are focused on Thanksgiving and family gatherings this time of year, November is also a time to celebrate generosity and caregiving.
In the spirit of giving back, TODAY worked with the Alzheimer's Association to honor two selfless ladies with Ambush Makeovers. Each woman dedicated her life to caring for loved ones and now Jill Martin and Louis Licari want to care for them.
Read on to see how Martin and Licari styled these deserving women and see how you can re-create the looks for the holiday season.
Susan
Susan's story began six years ago when her husband contracted a fatal infection that led to his death four years later. They were married for 25 years and his death turned her life upside down.
Shortly after, her father suffered a stroke and she has cared for him since. Though the job is tough, she's extremely grateful that her 90-year-old father is able to stay in his home and by her side.
Susan's day-to-day requires a lot of patience, strength and compassion — qualities she never thought she had — but she soon discovered that she was able to fill the role seamlessly.
Long-Sleeve Floral Dress
Tahari Velvet Burnout Shift Dress
Slip into this adorable dress all season long. If it's a bit chilly out, the dress will look good with a pair of sheer tights.
Floral Print Fit Flare Midi Dress
You can get this dress for under $20 and it's ideal for everything from a Friendsgiving dinner to a long day in the office.
Snakeskin Booties
You're sure to turn heads with this beautiful ankle bootie from Banana Republic. It might look like it's made for the catwalk, but we love it for a casual day of shopping.
These affordable booties are currently 29% off and will have you feeling like the star of the show. The natural snakeskin look is one that will last year round.
Darlene
Darlene's husband Patrick started to have cognitive issues a few years back, and since the issues started to arise, Darlene's life and the life of her daughter Megan have been forever changed.
With further testing, it was apparent that her husband had a diagnosis called frontotemporal lobe dementia meaning that his personality, behavior and language skills were compromised. The news was devastating and she spent a long period of time hiding and trying to cope with what would become her "new life."
Even though she deals with the struggle of day-to-day life, she finds that she's learning to face her challenges bravely. Patrick joined her in the studio and felt that his incredible wife truly deserved the gift of a makeover.
Moto Jacket
A good moto jacket is a closet essential and Martin thought this one from White House Black Market would look great on Darlene. Made with a knit material, it has a slight stretch and will allow optimal movement for dancing at holiday parties.
Finding a jacket for under $50 can be tough but we found this stylish one that we couldn't ignore. If black isn't your thing, it comes in 16 total colors ranging from burnt orange to a camel tone.
Animal Print Top
This long sleeve top has a high neckline and hits around the hip area. The silhouette makes it perfect for layering under a faux-fur vest or a light jacket.
Animal print is here to stay so grab your winter essentials before they fly off the shelves! This top will also help during the colder months thanks to the turtleneck style.
Black Ankle Pant
Spanx Perfect Black Ankle Pant
These stretchy pants secured a spot on Oprah's Favorite Things list for 2019 and we know why. They are ultra soft and comfortable — plus they look cute too!
You can find these skinny pants for under $27 on Amazon. They have over 2,000 ratings and buyers love how the waist doesn't dig into your skin throughout the day.
Snakeskin Booties
Available in a snakeskin pattern, a burgundy suede or a white leather upper, these skinny-heel boots are basically begging for attention. Wear them in the office or to a holiday get together with friends.
This pair of booties from Macy's is currently 40% off — but act quick because this limited time sale won't last long. They come in black, leopard and snakeskin.
Looking for Susan's other dress option? Find it below.
Leopard Dress
Loving the leopard trend? Then you'll love this stunning midi dress. It has a button front, puffed sleeves and a belted waist for a form-fitting look.
Look stylish while staying comfortable in this maxi dress from Macy's. We think it pairs well with a solid bootie or a low heel that won't distract from the intricate pattern.
For more articles like this, check out:
- Oprah's favorite things 2019: Oprah's picks announced
- 9 stylish black dresses that will turn heads this holiday season
- 8 innovative beauty gadgets that will upgrade your morning routine
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