53,long white hair,heavy figured & collecting UI Not much to work with...unique, non-traditional resume, a BFA in Painting, somewhat introverted, and with little money to work with...my daughters suggest cutting and dying the hair. I am more than willing to cut it but do I really need to dye it? FWIW, I AM trying to lose some of the excess weight.

What you need is a grill!

I say get a haircut! The 60's are long over and no one wants to hire a hippie....except for another hippie :)

OKAY start doing more of this and the weight will be gone.........

It wouldn't hurt to get a makeover a fresh look to go job hunting with. It helps for confidence and image. Unfortunately, a lot of employers know that they can hire kids fresh out of university, pay them a lot less and utilize them more. I know it's the principle of the situation that you should be looked at equally, but it wouldn't hurt to look a little younger and spritelier .... :D

where do you get a makeover... where someone isn't merely trying to sell their products?

They have these things

I've had mixed experiences with salons no need to be insulting...

Good point, but what you buy is up to you ... You could get a new make up palette, in which case, go see Estee Lauder. You could get a haircut and colour, which as you said, your kids think might be good for you - so go to a hairstylist and let them know you would like a style cut and colour. You could buy a couple of new pieces for your wardrobe, including a new pair of shoes. Any of these things shouldn't amount to over $200 each if you're frugal and choose well...

Long white hair like Cousin Itt From the Addams Family? I'd cut the hair.

ha ha! not quite that long [or full]

Depends where you want to work But look at your competition and if you think you are losing based on your appearance, change it. I don't think there are many office jobs out there for Mrs. Santa Claus. But many social service agencies seem to like that look.

You and I sound a lot alike 49, overweight, though my hair is fine, somewhat introverted, bumpy work history, collecting UI what do you WANT to do? what floats your boat? like the saying goes, if you love what you do you never have to work another day in your life (though I have had jobs I've loved but now and then it's felt like work) good luck p.s. if you don't have bills to pay, and can just up and move, there are some retreat centers where you can volunteer for room and board, and those are pretty enjoyable places to spend some time