What's in an Image?

Your image should provide a glimpse into who you really are. If you don't believe it, walk into a room, step on a train or plane and then write down three things about three people whom you've never met. I guarantee you that you've formed opinions (and possibly facts) about who that person is, their socio-economic status, their personality and their profession. Studies have shown that people form an opinion about an individual in the first eight seconds they see them.

A couple of the basics services that an image consultant performs is color analysis and body type determination. Have you ever heard someone say, "I want to get my "colors done""? What they're referring to is color analysis. It's a scientific approach that takes ones skin, hair & eye color to determine what colors and shades of colors look best on them. That's one of the reasons why image consulting is about individuals or businesses or organizations helping individuals look their personal best. The goal is to bring out your own uniqueness.

Another great pearl of wisdom to have when achieving your personal best, is to know your body type, shape, or silhouette. Knowing your body shape will allow you to wear the right garments that create balance and allow you to give the illusion of a perfect body. Your body shape is determined by taking certain body measurements. And then purchasing garments that flatter your figure.

Your wardrobe should have such a range of clothing, so that whether you're invited to a barbecue or the inaugural ball, you should have something in your closet to wear. From a sporty outfit to a formal gown. To that end, let's talk about some closet basics or "must haves". Everyone should have at least one classic suit in one of the basic colors, black, blue, brown or gray. A white button-down shirt. A pair of dress slacks and three tops that can go with it. A skirt with at least three tops that can go with it, a black dress (for that impromptu cocktail invitation) and a pair of jeans. Obviously, this is not written in stone, you can always make additions and/or removals. Don't rely on a lot of trendy additions, for every trendy piece, you should add three classics. Don't forget to review, recyle & reward. Review what's in your closet, recyle (to charity) what you no longer wear or can no longer fit--(get a tax receipt for when you itemize. :) And then Reward yourself with a new piece. You can build your wardrobe over time, not overnight!

Stylish regards!

In upcoming posts: Accessories anyone?

Makeover

Welcome back to my weekly blog!

What do you think of when you think of having a makeover?

Make-up, hair cut/color, fashion, trends. Well, it could be all of the above and more. Instead of thinking of it as a makeover, think of it as an Image Update or a Lifestyle change. And remember, as time goes on, you can continue to reinvent yourself.

Attitude, Color, Wardrobe are not the only pieces but significant pieces in a makeover or what I prefer to call an Image Update.

What do you think people think of you when you walk into a room? Self confident, Fashion-conscientious, Intimidating. Believe it or not, a lot of this is determined through what we wear, the colors we wear and how we dress. What is your image saying about you?

Our motto is "A makeover without surgery". When is the last time you had a makeover? What questions do you have?

Tune in next time for subjects like body type (or shape) colors (what hue?) and wardrobe basics, closet must-haves!