Clothing does send a message. But there’s an enormous side benefit to a well-groomed appearance and general sense of “dressing up” — it gives you a lift. Big time. One of the greatest advocates of this philosophy is my friend Bill Shaddy. As a former International HR Director at Pepsi, Bill knows “the right stuff” when it comes to stocking his closet. These days, however, things are a little more complicated. ill, I should explain, has been living with MS for the last 18 years and snaps are just easier than wrangling with a button and bitty hole. Rain or shine, Bill dresses up. His only concession is a stylish cane by his side.
Posted on October 26th, 2010 by Diane
Filed under: Body Image, Business Etiquette, Diane's Reflections, Dress, Image, Image Consultation, Menswear, Workplace Etiquette | No Comments »
Working with positive people is, indeed,
a blessing; they bring joy and brighten the day. It’s like a gift of sunshine.
Posted on October 24th, 2010 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Diane's Reflections, Food, Image Consultation, Social Etiquette | No Comments »
Liz has some final thoughts:
“I told Diane, at the end of our final session, that I feel like an entirely different person, more confident — and it shows. My look has been transformed dramatically and now I look like a young professional. Throughout the process, I’ve received compliments from my friends and coworkers and both my manager and director commented on my new image. My director feels very strongly about the importance of image and presentation. His positive comments confirm that I’ve achieved my goal to project a capable and confident image. I’m fortunate that I met Diane and had the opportunity to go through her Image Enhancement Programme at this early stage in my career. It will undoubtedly have a profound effect on my career development. I highly recommend this programme. Thank you so much Diane!”
Posted on December 21st, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Body Image, Dress, Fashion, Hair, Image, Image Consultation, Makeup | 2 Comments »
Genny began applying makeup to the right side of Liz’s face — explaining her product choices and techniques. Then, it was Liz’s turn to match the left side. While Genny guided her step-by-step, Liz learned to hold a brush, to gauge the amount pressure to apply and new techniques of stippling, feathering and the art of blending. True to form, Liz was a stellar student and was well on her way to applying makeup like a pro.
Posted on December 18th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Image, Image Consultation, Makeup | 3 Comments »
As an image consultant, my job is to tell the colourist and hairstylist what we want but not how to do it – that’s their job. I rely on their expertise to assure me that the hair is in good condition and that the texture and weight will support the style I’m suggesting. If not then we negotiate and settle on a style and colour that will work for my client.
Posted on December 15th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Hair, Image, Image Consultation | 2 Comments »
“My old glasses will need to be replaced this spring and although Diane approved of the shape, she showed me how to choose a colour more becoming to my eyes and complexion. She also walked me through the initial frame selection process and showed me how to avoid the wrong shapes. Thank you Diane, another mission accomplished!”
Posted on December 9th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Fashion, Image, Image Consultation | No Comments »
Although I’m far more confident about shopping, I’ll take along the Personal Style Guide Diane prepared. In the meantime, I can’t wait to show off the new me.”
Posted on December 4th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Body Image, Dress, Fashion, Image, Image Consultation, Womenswear | 1 Comment »
The real foundation of a wardrobe plan is just that — foundations. Today, most women’s lingerie drawers hold a diverse mix, from luxurious lacey confections to functional, full-support sport bras. There are special undergarments for wearing with knits and tees, bras with artfully engineered straps designed for halters or backless dresses, seamless bras, strapless bras, [...]
Posted on December 1st, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Dress, Fashion, Image, Image Consultation, Womenswear | No Comments »
They wouldn’t build a house without a blueprint, hit the road to a new ski resort without a map, make their first visit to Barcelona without a guidebook or even, in these days of H&G TV, move furniture without a floor plan. And yet, again and again, the number of people, both men and women, [...]
Posted on November 26th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Dress, Fashion, Image, Image Consultation, Womenswear | No Comments »
Before we catch up with Liz, I’m going to review some of the reasons the colour analysis process is so critical. Last week I was asked to explain the difference between a “fashion victim” and a “fashionista.” Bottom line, the former aspires to be the latter — but has taken things too far! The fashionista [...]
Posted on November 24th, 2009 by Diane
Filed under: Accessories, Dress, Fashion, Image, Image Consultation, Womenswear | 1 Comment »
