Sometimes I think we put the cart before the horse when it comes to style because it is much more than the clothes we choose to wear every day. We all need to revisit the basics of style and image from time to time. That can mean many things, but to me, we need the basics to really understand that we are in control of the image we present to the public. As an experienced Carmel Personal Stylist, I’ve compiled some basics to always keep in mind.
Important Style Basics from Your Carmel Personal Stylist
We’ve all heard the saying that we are a walking billboard. That means the way we dress and groom ourselves speaks volumes. Of course, basics really do mean just that. An example starts the minute we step out of bed. Did we shower? Did we use deodorant? Did we wash our face? Apply sunscreen?
Next – as we pick out our clothes, are they clean? Are they dirty or stained? Then we don’t want to wear them unless we are working in the yard! Do they need to be ironed or even replaced? Don’t forget to take a look in the mirror – front and back! What do you see? It’s easy to do your own closet cleanse at this basic level. I can help you with the next level of closet cleanse that I base on your best colors, style, life, and shape. I have started doing an ongoing report with clients to give them feedback and pointers about their closet and how to make it work for them.
Back to our image and style — remember to take it easy on fragrance – men and women! Try to avoid too much cologne or fragrance! It is a total turnoff! Doing this tends to make your image look much less serious.
It’s really true that your work image – what you wear to the office – is not the same as how you dress for the weekend. Guys, is your beard trimmed and neat? Have you had a haircut recently? Women, do you need to trim facial hair? I do this too! It’s better to always be somewhat in the middle with work style – or just for those times when you do go to the office. It never hates to be seen. Make those office visits count! Never underestimate the power of showing up and being seen.
One of my clients told me she always makes a point to go to the office at least once a week. She is a virtual employee, and when she goes in, she always looks put together. Now this doesn’t mean the office attire of yesterday — it means being current. I always like a tailored blazer, T, and dark-rinse slim pants for women. Add some interesting accessories such as a purse, shoes, and jewelry.
Showing too much at work is an issue people don’t really think about because they have so much more freedom to wear what they want. But avoid showing chest hair and hairy arms (men). No one wants to see it. Keep in mind a crisp cotton shirt with long sleeves is the easiest professional uniform for summer — not a colorful polo. A simple belt with a shirt tucked in is a great look for guys as well.
Photo by Kayla S
Ladies, the same applies to you. Don’t show too much in hot weather. I would never wear a cute sundress to work. But I would wear a crisp button-down cotton shirt dress in the summer. It’s perfect. I used to buy mine at Brooks Brothers.
Contact Beth Divine Style for Professional Guidance
Need some help with your style? Reach out for some professional Carmel Personal Stylist help. Email me at beth@bethdivinestyle.com.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Personal Image Consultant
