What kind of images do the terms “image consultant” or “stylist” conjure up in your mind? Do you think of Rachel Zoe (stylist to the stars), and that madness that is exhibited on the BRAVO channel? Or what about celebrities on the red carpet, with their carefully contrived images, that they have paid thousands of dollars to have someone create?

Please allow me to liberate you from those thoughts! Most of us have “informal” image consultants or stylists in our lives already. How about your BFF that will tell you, without mincing words, when the outfit you are about to wear out is atrocious? Or how about that friend does not hold back on commenting on your new hair style, or make comments about the new dress or suit that you so proudly purchased at the Macy’s sale? Most often they are offering criticism without being very diplomatic, nor do they offer solutions to the problems that they are so quick to bring to your attention. Thus…the difference between your BFF and an image/style consultant.

If you find yourself answering yes to one or more of the questions below, you may benefit greatly from working with an image consultant or stylist:

  • When shopping, do you find it necessary to purchase the entire outfit at the same time (i.e. suit, blouse/shirt, shoes, accessories, etc.)?
  • Do you then ALWAYS wear that outfit the exact same way?
  • Do you have a lot of clothing, but feel that you have nothing to wear on any given day?
  • Are you challenged by “mixing and matching”?
  • Do you look at others and envy their “put together” look?
  • What about networking? Are you terrified at the prospect of attending networking events?
  • Do you need help with building a personal brand?

Depending upon where you are in your life and/or career, you may find it beneficial to seek out the professional services of an image consultant or stylist.

Personal Stylist: One who assists with developing a style or look for the client with the major focus being on outward appearance.

Image Consultant: Taking a more holistic approach, assists with everything from outward appearance to support with personal development such as networking skills, building a personal brand, and other areas of coaching related to internal and external needs.

Image and style coaching can take place in many forums. Some may choose to do group sessions, while others prefer one-to-one coaching and support. In addition, there may certainly be times when you do have a special occasion where you need assistance with pulling together your look and presentation. Image/style consultants may assist with making you “red carpet ready” for that special event.

By now you are probably saying “I can’t afford to pay someone for that kind of support”, and to that I say – in some cases- you can’t afford not to! We must begin to look at this form of improvement as an investment in an asset (YOU), and think of it as a way to maximize your ROI (return on investment). I believe that you will be surprised to learn that the investment will be minimal in comparison to the rewards.

Remember: Image is everything, perception is reality!

Be the best!

Toni Cunningham, Owner & President

Image Anu, LLC