Deserved treat for brave Denise

Apr 30 2005 By Rachel Challoner, The Evening Chronicle

Richard Dobinson nominated his wife Denise Dobinson from Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle, for this week's makeover.

He met her on a bus coming from a night out in Newcastle in 2002.

Sadly just three weeks into the relationship Denise was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Three weeks after that her father was diagnosed with spine cancer and died six weeks later.

Richard wrote: "Coming to terms with all this has been very difficult for Denise. She has had extensive chemotherapy and has been very brave throughout. She has been in a lot of pain but never complains."

Twenty months ago Denise had a mastectomy and in September 2002 the couple wed and honeymooned in Lanzarote - Denise's first holiday in 20 years.

"Could you please arrange for a makeover for my wife who I love with all my heart. She is a very special lady and deserves to be treated like a princess, because that is what she is."

How could we resist?

We whisked Denise, 46, a care worker in a residential home, to Regis Hair and Beauty salon in Fenwick, Newcastle, where Sonia was on hand. As Denise's hair is quite fine and with a few highlights, it was washed with Designline Volumising Shampoo followed by Designline Conditioner for coloured hair. Sonia trimmed the ends, before chopping into the top and sides to create more volume. Designline Texture Boost Definition Spray was then sprayed into the roots before blow-drying. When drying, Denise's fringe was smoothed over to one side for a soft look.

We then went to the Elizabeth Arden make-up counter in Fenwick . To make sure Denise's skin was clean and clear before a base was applied, Deep Cleansing Lotion was applied, then Refining Toner Lotion was dabbed on. Ceramide Eye Cream was dotted around the eye area to hydrate the skin before Ceramide Plump Perfect Moisture Cream was massaged in. Good Morning Skin Serum was applied on top of this to seal in the moisture and prevent her foundation from sliding off.

Flawless Finish Foundation was then swept on to create a smooth base before Sun Goddess Bronzer was dusted all over. Pink Star Blusher was then brushed on to the cheekbones for sparkle.

Brunette Browshaper was used to define Denise's light eyebrows. This was followed by a build-up of mauve and grey eye shadows to darken and define her eyes. Smoky Eyes Powder Pencil in Smoky Black was then drawn on to the top and bottom lashes, before a coat of Double Density Maximum Volume Mascara was applied. Finally, Raisin Smooth Liner was used to define the lips. These were then filled in with Coy Color Intrigue Lipstick then a slick of Passionflower Lip Gloss for the final touch.

Then it was on to Dorothy Perkins in Eldon Square which boasts a large selection of the latest fashions and more classic looks. Denise is quite small so the petite range is ideal.

First, Denise models a long white gypsy style skirt and a light green cotton gypsy top with lace trim detail. This skirt is the perfect summer item as it is so versatile it can be mixed with many different tops to create a variety of looks. This outfit would be great for a day out shopping as it is smart but fashionable.

Denise also wears a pair of chocolate brown straight leg trousers with a brown, cream and orange floral top with beading detail. An orange bag with brown trim and handles completes the look. The trousers could be worn with a shirt and jacket for a smarter look, or the top could be worn with a pair of casual jeans or cropped pants for a more funky look for a night out.

Finally, Denise models a brown floating skirt with sequins and turquoise trim with an orange wrap-over top with lace trim and tie details. Again, the orange bag completes the look. The fashionable brown and orange complement each other perfectly for a trendy look for day or night.

Clothes - all from Dorothy Perkins

QLong white gypsy style skirt £28

QLight green cotton gypsy top with lace trim detail £18

QChocolate brown straight leg trousers (petite) £25

QBrown, cream and orange floral top with beading detail (petite) £18

QBrown floating skirt with sequins and turquoise trim £30

QOrange wrap-over top with lace trim and tie details £8

QOrange canvas bag with brown trim and handles £15

QShoes - Denise's own

With Thanks To -

QSonia at Regis in Fenwick

QJennifer at Elizabeth Arden, Fenwick

QAll staff at Dorothy Perkins, Eldon Square, Newcastle

QStaff at Bar Pacific, Newcastle - a great place to grab a bite to eat by day or a few drinks at night.

From May 16-21, Elizabeth Arden in Fenwick, Newcastle, is holding its Get Set for Summer facial event. This consists of a full facial involving cleansing, toning and moisturising followed by a make-up look of your choice, for £10. Call at the counter in Fenwick for further details.

Could you please arrange for a makeover for my wife who I love with all my heart. She is a very special lady and deserves to be treated like a princess