How Do I Look?
| How Do I Look? | |
|---|---|
| Genre | Reality |
| Presented by | Jeannie Mai |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Original language(s) | English |
| No. of seasons | 12 |
| Production | |
| Executive producer(s) | Riaz Patel |
| Running time | 60 minutes |
| Production company(s) | Left-Right Productions |
| Release | |
| Original network | Style |
| Original release | January 16, 2004 – January 23, 2012 |
How Do I Look? was a makeover show airing on the Style Network. The show was originally hosted by English soap opera veteran Finola Hughes; the latest season was hosted by celebrity stylist Jeannie Mai. The show features "fashion victims," purportedly turned in by their friends, coworkers, and family members. Although there are variations in each episode tailored to the individual contestant, every episode follows the same basic pattern.
Each episode begins with a short montage introducing the subject of the makeover. Contestants typically are victims of a combination of poor fashion sense and lifestyle situations that exacerbate the problem. The makeover often coincides with a turning point in the person's life, such as starting college, changing careers, or losing weight. Two "accomplices" who are close to the contestant express concern over the negative affect of the contestant's appearance on their life. The accomplices express their view that the contestant's physical appearance is socially unacceptable and can only be repaired through the application of new clothes, new hair and new make-up. Accomplices openly express their contempt for the clothing and style choices the contestant has made heretofore. Accomplices may be family members (spouses, parents, children, siblings, etc.), friends, or coworkers.
These two people will be joined by a third accomplice, a professional stylist. Together the three go through the contestant's entire wardrobe, each choosing pieces to throw out. Accomplices will be realistic about the contestant's type of style and they will also criticize it.
The host and the contestant will then confront the accomplices who will then detail their reactions to the contestant's wardrobe. In the first season, accomplices were limited to only one item, but in subsequent seasons, they are shown removing multiple or many items. Contestants are often distressed and hurt as the accomplices throw out favorite items and critique the contestant's style, though some are more open to change than others. The hosts are often seen throwing clothes into a tube. The contestant has an opportunity to respond to the criticism and make requests regarding the makeover.
The contestant then has a one-on-one conversation with the host about the reasons behind their clothing choices, feelings about the critiques, and fears and expectations for the rest of the makeover. The segment ends with the host sending the accomplices to shop for clothing. Occasionally, the shopping period is paired with a special trip for the contestant that somehow reflects their needs. Such trips include spa visits, dancing lessons, and therapy sessions.
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