Evening Press reader Julia Plowman won a day

with a personal shopper who gave her a new, glamorous look. MAXINE GORDON reports

"I've just turned 40, feel like I'm 20 and want to look 30 - help!" THAT was the plea from Julia Plowman, a part-time secretary and mum to three boys, who entered an Evening Press competition to win a day of pampering with a personal shopper at Browns department store in York.

"I wear suits to work and jeans and a T-shirt at the weekend," said Julia, who works in the typing pool at Full Sutton prison.

At home, she is the lone female in a house of males - sons Christopher, 17, Jack, ten, Jamie, four and husband Andrew. "Even our dog is male," cried Julia.

So some good old-fashioned girlie pampering was more than welcome.

The day began with a makeover using Elizabeth Arden products in the Browns cosmetics department, where a natural look was created.

Next, Julia's shoulder-length mid-brown hair was transformed by Gemma in the Regis hair salon at Browns.

"I normally wear it down or in a pony tail, so I wanted something totally different," said Julia. Her hair was pinned up and the tresses at the front were curled to create a film star finish.

After lunch in the Rhodes restaurant at Browns, Julia spent the afternoon with personal shopper Elizabeth Wright, who had picked a selection of outfits and accessories for her to try.

From the comfort of the personal shopping suite, which includes a changing room, sofas and that all-essential full-size mirror, Julia tried on a range of clothes.

She finally chose a black halterneck cocktail dress - for a truly different look. As part of the prize, Julia was able to keep her favourite outfit.

Julia said she'd definitely use the personal shopping service again. "It would be great if you were looking for an outfit for a wedding or special occasion, when you really need a second opinion. Liz is very good at telling you what suits you and has a great eye for colour and detail.

"I felt really pampered and now I know how all those women I see in magazines look so good. They have someone to do their hair, their make-up and pick their clothes."

For more details of the free personal shopping service at Browns, contact Elizabeth Wright on 01904 611166.

Updated: 09:39 Tuesday, August 05, 2003