How Do I Create a Professional Image?

Creating a professional image takes planning, education, and a keen eye to take the latest fashion and translate it into your personal style. Keeping your look up to date and professional shows that you are capable of staying ahead in today’s fast paced business world.

Your image encompasses not only the clothes you are wearing but also your verbal and non-verbal communications. Projecting professionalism in these areas means taking a hard look at how you speak and write, what your body language says, how well mannered you are and your knowledge of business etiquette, all areas in which an Image Consultant can help.

Working with an image coach specifically trained to help you craft your personal presentation can alleviate anxiety and give you the Professional Image you want to meet your business goals.

Q: I tend to wear baggy styles a lot ( mu’umu’u and oversized shirts).What can I do to look better and still hide the trouble areas? A: One of the most common fashion misunderstandings is assuming thatwearing oversized clothing will cover up problem areas. In fact, theopposite happens - you end up emphasizing your 'bigness' with all thatextra fabric! While there are no 'miracle cures' for figure problems,there are always ways to flatter and accentuate the positive: Pear Shaped - define the waist, minimize bottom, wear jacketsunbuttoned, flat front pants or modified trousers.Hourglass - break up curves, show shoulders, collarbone and legs, wearjackets buttoned, do not create straight lines or dress in oversizedgarments.Boyish - (broad shoulders, flat rear and straight legs – little or no body curves) - create a waist, show off legs, straight skirts above the knee, hip belts, bustier and push-up garments.Short - one color head to toe, lower waistline, avoid horizontals andstiffly tailored garments, scale down accessories and mix textures. So don't just hide the 'bad' - think positively and focus on the good.

Q: We live in such a casual environment in Hawaii. Do people really care about appearance?

A:
It is a casual, laid back environment here and a main reason why we live in Hawaii. However, since most of us are working, careless casual just isn’t going to cut it when it comes to your work place appearance. I meet a lot of employers who wring their hands over the sloppy appearance in their employees. The most talked about problems are:
Lack of care about appearance
Clothing that is too casual for the office
Out of style clothes and accessories
Wearing clothes that are not appropriate for the work environment (too sexy, too trendy etc, etc.)
Employers and customers should and do notice how you dress. You are a direct reflection of your company and how you look says a lot about your attitude. Casual dressing doesn’t have to be sloppy or out of place. To look professional and appropriate, all it takes is a little more effort and attention to your appearance. Once you start looking better, you will start feeling better. Others will notice your higher self-esteem and will treat you better. It’s a win-win situation!

Q: What do I wear for a first date?
A: That which makes you feel good and gives you confidence.

First impressions are so important when you are meeting a date for the first time. 55% of our opinions about another person are formed within 30 seconds of meeting them! If you are single and dating then paying attention to your appearance is crucial. For guys this is especially important. It may seem a little shallow but it is a well known fact that women can sum you up so fast you may wonder what went wrong if she seems a little stand-offish. Your first date is your chance to look the best you can and that involves taking a look at the FIT of your clothes (don’t wear baggy) and go for tailoring that works on your body type. Pick out a crisp cotton shirt with some styling, nice (and clean) pants (not jeans) and good shoes. Don’t wear anything that has stains, puka’s, fits badly or is uncomfortable. Grooming counts for points. If you smell, look and feel good you are going to make that all important favorable first impression!

1. Pointers for a Professional Image?
   
   Gillian Top Ten Image Boosters:
   
   Wear tailored clothing
   Have a great haircut and color appropriate to your facial coloring and shape
   Never overdo your makeup
   Wear your power colors close to your face
   Accessorize with high quality designs only
   Luxe fabrics in clothing add greatly to a stylish appearance
   Always wear stylish and well fitted shoes
   Hold you shoulders back and assume a confident posture
   Be well mannered and poised under pressure
   Present yourself as well spoken and informed.