How different can you make yourself look with just makeup, clothes and accessories?

I guess I am asking how skilled you are at going after very different looks with just makeup, clothing choices and accessories. Nothing permanent with cut or dye but just with what you have or could cheaply buy. Could you pull off the typical librarian, cheerleader or business woman? How about just flirty, serious or pious? Can you look older or younger at a whim? More tomboyish or more girlie?