by Helen Gent
The problem? He looks like Jeremy Clarkson, you'd like him to look like George Clooney. The solution? Sneaky moves that will smarten him up... without scaring him witless.
Use your kids
You like Homer Simpson as much as the next person, but on your partner's Y-fronts, no! Getting him out of his novelty underwear used to be nigh on impossible, but now you've got kids your job just got a whole lot easier. Ask yourself: should your bloke and your five-year-old daughter both be dressing like a theme park? Now ask him the same question. He'll be off to buy Calvin Klein pants before you can say Doh!
Be small-minded
If you don't want him to get wind of your wardrobe makeover, start small to avoid scaring him. Replace that flea-bitten belt that looks like a dog lead (wait a minute, it is the dog lead!), swap the tie that came with matching flares and bin any sartorially-challenged socks (that'll be the whole drawer then!). Once you've updated his accessories, you'll be one step closer to your Clooney-clone dream!
Freak him out
Make him watch Ten Years Younger. When the woman reveals her fabulous new look, chip in with 'She left her husband, you know. Apparently she wanted him to make more of an effort with his appearance, but he couldn't be bothered. He did look like a bit of a slob, though. Anyway, cup of tea...? '
Become a Bond girl
As this is an undercover operation, you need to enlist the help of a 007 hunk! Yep, Daniel Craig is your secret weapon in your secret makeover. When Bond's on telly, comment on how sexy he looks in his chinos/dinner jacket/swimming trunks then just ever-so-casually mention how well you think that look would suit your bloke. This is a killer combo of flattery and subliminal messaging. Use it daily and when he finds himself in a shop buying trendy new jeans, he'll have no idea how he got there.
Be honest
The next time he grunts 'Will this do?', instead of rolling your eyes and tutting, be honest with him. But remember, he probably doesn't realise he's a walking style disaster, so break it to him gently. Be constructive, not cruel. Tell him you think he'd suit more colour, suggest smart shoes instead of trainers, hint at the possibility of a haircut. If you nag, he'll never listen, so talk to him nicely and he might actually hear what you're saying!
