Little girls love to play dress up. You can find many makeover games online that allow girls to play dress up without covering themselves in makeup and trying to walk in mother’s heels. These online games provide hours of entertainment just like paper dolls did for another generation. And most of these sites are free!

What do these games do? Girls will be given a model and several options. They can decide first on hair color or style. The hair styles vary from short to long and black to blonde. In most games girls can choose the complexion. This gives lighter skinned girls the opportunity to learn more about how to do makeup and accessories for girls who have darker skin tones. Of course, makeup is a key component in these makeover games. Eye shadow, eyelashes (based on mascara), blush and lipstick are also chosen.

Once the face on the virtual doll is completed, most games also allow players to choose a wardrobe. This gives girls a chance to experiment with styles their mother may not let them wear. Skirts, dresses, jeans and classy tops are available with the games. And no outfit is complete without the shoes. Most games have options that range from boots to high-heeled shoes to sneakers. Purses, earrings, scarves, sunglasses and necklaces complete the perfect look. Girls can literally and virtually dress someone from head to toe.

Many online games allow girls to dress up their favorite stars. Teen phenomena Hannah Montana is one of the most popular choices. Other stars available include Charlize Theron and popular singer Rihanna. Girls can create a new look for their idols using their imagination!

These games go beyond clothes and cosmetics for girls. Many girls dream of that perfect bedroom. While they may not have it in real life, they can create it in their virtual world. Many games allow you to create an entire house suited to your tastes. And you don’t have to stop at the inside of your home. Create a perfect garden with your favorite flowers to surround your new home.

What are the benefits of these games? First they are a safe and free alternative to violent video games that even girls are playing. What is more harmless than getting all dressed up and decorating a home? Parents just have to make sure that the girls are not spending all their time playing games when they should be studying! Some popular sites include www.dressingupgames.com and www.girlsgames4u.com .

Second, the games challenge the girls’ imagination. They are allowed to be as creative as they want. For example, with the Hannah Montana game, several hair colors and more than 100 outfit combinations are offered. And with the bedroom makeovers, the girls can choose from any color wall with a combination of art, bedspread and furniture. The girls are only limited by their imagination.

Don’t think that makeover games are just for girls. Women enjoy taking a step back into their childhood and playing the games—with or without their daughters. While makeover games can be found on gaming sites, some mainstream companies have added games to their sites. The television station “Lifetime” (www.lifetime.com)

) has added games that include makeovers. The games are so popular that updates on the games were recently announced during recent commercials.