5 Subtle Ways to Make a New Impression This Spring

Spring’s arrival always stirs that natural rhythm in people to shake things up and enter something new. And while spring cleaning or tropical vacations can often satisfy that urge, it’s not uncommon to want to make personal upgrades that deliver a sense of rebirth. Fortunately, giving your presence a sense of newness doesn’t mean having to invest in a full-blown makeover. Instead, if you’re looking for refreshment that doesn’t go off-the-rails, you can consider these subtle solutions for self-sprucing.

Brave a New Shave  

Consider chopping down that lumberjack beard to give your face a different kind of landscape. Whether you opt for a clean-shave or a stylized mustache, the new dimensions can offer a fresh peek at some previously-hidden features—such as your lips, cheekbones, or chin. If you go the bare skin route, exfoliate with a moisturizing scrub to shed away the top layer and help your face glow.

If you’d rather grow out a lush beard for a different look, keep in mind that you don’t have to endure the patchy phase of hair growth. Instead, you can gently apply matching mascara or eyeliner in the bare areas to fill it in and simulate fuller facial hair. For longer-term situations, minoxidil topical solution has been purported as a solution to thicken facial hair.  

Spritz a Fresh Scent

Sick of your signature scent or want to establish one? There’s an assortment of men’s fragrances that can add depth to your presence and elevate your sense of luxury. A small dab on your neck and wrists can go a long way in boosting confidence and making a positive impression on others. Some fragrances—such as the lemon zest notes found in Versace Eros Cologne for Men—may even help improve focus throughout the day to help you stay motivated. 

Look Through a Different Frame

When you wear glasses every day, it’s easy to forget that they’re even there. But mixing up this accessory is one of the most impactful ways of establishing a new sense of self. The easiest way to explore your choices is to try on different frames at a local optometrist or with a virtual app—such as those offered by Warby Parker or Zenni Optical.

Depending on your face shape, you might switch to a rectangular or square pair to exude more confidence in the workplace. Or, you might take a chance on circular lenses for a more academic or mature look. Retrofitting a vintage pair of designer frames with fresh lenses can also be a great way to stand out from the crowd.

Give Your Utilities Some Style

Items you carry and use every day can impact your overall aesthetic. For example, if a drab laptop bag makes it easier for you to blend into the background, consider upgrading to a sleek leather bag that commands professionalism. Or, if you’re sick of jotting your to-dos on a standard legal pad, investing in a Swiss-bound hardcover journal can help you turn a fresh page on the way you take notes.   

Bulk Up the Spice Shelf

Trying out new things in the kitchen can be a great way to introduce yourself to fun (and healthy) dishes, as well as impress the taste buds of others. But you don’t have to enroll in culinary college to introduce vibrant flavors into your life.

Rather than using the same old salt and pepper for your dishes, try stocking up your cupboards with an assortment of international spices and seeing how they can punch up your favorite meals. For example, harissa is a smoked chili spice that can transform steaks, eggs, grilled zucchini, and everything in between. Chinese five-spice is also a great option to add depth to stir fry, soups, and chicken.

If you’re not sure where you fall on the seasoning spectrum, there are many subscription services—such as Piquant Post or The Spicery—that will send you assorted spices from around the world. Many will also include appetizing recipes so you can truly wow the mouths of your dinner guests.

Whatever small tweaks you make to welcome the new season, the key is to be authentically you and introduce changes that enhance who you already are. If something you try doesn’t fit, trust your instinct and get excited about all the other options that are out there.