Ambush Makeover

Premise and format

Each episode follows a regular outline. A style agent, well dressed and hip to local fashion scenes, introduces the show and presents ideas for a makeover. The agents are Anthony Perinelli (season 2), Mary Alice Haney, Gigi Berry, Nancy Brensson, Nicole Williams, William Whatley (all from seasons 1-2), and Rob Talty (season 1). The host searches the streets of a large city for a target sporting a bad hairdo or outdated fashion, telling the target how bad they look; some targets reject the opportunity. The target is then walked to a salon and meets the team, each member telling the camera what they plan to do. Most episodes include a coloring segment where the target receives new hair color. The host takes the target to a boutique to try on outfits suitable for an event that evening, involving negotiation between target and agent. The target receives finishing touches including a haircut and, for female targets, makeup. The target is shown the results, and most are comfortable with their new look, thanking the salon crew and agent. Finally, the target is taken to an event held for them; guests close their eyes before seeing the surprise makeover, and a close relative speaks to the camera about the makeover.