Are You Someone Who Has Lost Your Competitive Edge in the Way You Dress?
Recently I was having a phone conversation with an attendee from a recent workshop. I asked, "what prompted you to want to chat further?"
He said, "I feel I've lost my competitive edge with the way I dress."
Sometimes you get so comfortable in how you dress, you don't realize anything is wrong.
It could be your current job, the environment you're in, your weight or size that's possibly holding you back.
You stop shopping. Your style becomes stagnant.
The desire to show-up looking sharp doesn't matter anymore. You've told yourself, it's OK nobody really cares, it's my intellect that matters most.
Until, one day you see someone dressing differently. Your eye's perk up and realize WOW that person looks sharp!
So professional and polished.
Subconsciously you're wondering what that person does.
You're thinking I would really love to get to know that person.
Hmmm that person has it going on.
Your brain is going through a process that is called thin slicing according to Malcom Gladwell, author of the book Blink. You've just had a multitude of thoughts go through your mind in about 1/10 of a second.
That person made a great first impression and you're thinking I want what that person has.
You go home that night, look in your closet and realize you have a lot of clothes you're not wearing for one reason or another.
We all hold onto clothing for many different reasons. One being you spent good money on that suit or jacket and are having a hard time letting go of it. Or you're thinking I may have an opportunity to wear that jacket someday (which of coarse you may.)
What you may not realize is you're in a different place mentally. You're not the same person you were 5 or 10 years ago. It may be physically (you've lost or gained weight) but most of all you're in a renewed place mentally.
You are ready to elevate how you show up.
You're ready to take control of your personal style.
You're ready to get back that competitive edge you once had.
Style has come along way over the last 5-10 years especially for men. The selection in styles, colors, prints and silhouette has evolved and expanded.
If you want to stay current and relevant, I suggest shopping a minimum of once a season. (fall and spring)
Now that you've realized you need a change, the next step is eliminating pieces in your closet that are not working for you and add pieces that elevate the new you as well as make you feel like a million bucks! (Don't worry... I'm here to take you through that daunting process.)
Think of it as investing in yourself to become a better you. Let your expertise and talent be revealed through your dress.
Let your presence do the speaking.
It's a new season, a great time to look at your wardrobe with a fresh pair of eyes.
Is it time to gain back your competitive edge with how you dress so others can say, "WOW, that's a sharp person!"
If you said YES, let's chat. Book Your Style Strategy Conversation Here.
We've all heard the phrase Dress for Success. And many of us think of it as old school. As much as we want to say the phrase Dress for Success is not relevant, your clothing is telling a story.
Your clothes don't define your character. Your clothes don't ultimately define YOU.
However...Your clothes narrate a story. A story about who you are. Your clothes almost always define who you are whether that is impressive, indifferent, or lacking.
When I met Hannah a year ago, Hannah knew she needed help with her clothing style as she stepped into her new role as an entrepreneur. Business professionals hire Hannah to coach them on how to stand out amongst others to earn more recognition, opportunities, and financial compensation. www.solutionsforimpact.com
BEFORE
"My challenge is finding attire that is simple, yet has style and reflects who I am – I know the value I offer intellectually and also want to feel like my clothes represent me so I “show up” as the best version of myself in every way." Hannah Pelley
Dressing Intentionally or I like to say, "utilizing your image as a strategic business tool" is an aspect many business owners may not think about.
Hannah Pelley invested in her style message. It is authentic and represents www.solutionsforimpact. Every time I see Hannah she makes me smile with her elevated style confidence.
As you can see in the picture not only did she elevate her personal style but it influenced her non-verbal style - posture and self-confidence.
Is it time for you to Up-Level Your Personal Image?
The Urban Dictionary defines "Up-Level" as:
Having greater capabilities.
Transform and grow in an area previously stagnant.
Inspired strategic action creating greater capabilities.
It's a new season to start fresh or better yet up-level your style.
I want to begin by asking, "do you have a "style rulebook" that says?
There's no point in stepping up my style game until I lose weight or get in better shape?
I struggle finding pieces that flatter my body type and look good on me?
I'm not always sure what styles are appropriate for my age though I still want to look current and stylish?
You may have a style rulebook you never knew existed even though you wrote it.
You wrote your style rulebook and established the guidelines at a very early age and/or someone gave you a style rule and you accepted it as truth.
You may have style rules that are keeping you stuck. It's like being in a fish bowl and not sure how to get out.
It creates a lot of struggle when shopping and getting dressed each morning.
So I ask, how long are you going to live with your current style rulebook?
My upcoming workshop is an opportunity to write a NEW Style Rulebook that allows you to show up as your Best Self NOW.
Up-Leveling your personal style so that you feel MORE:
Confident
Put-together
Polished
Powerful
Comfortable
Fun
Unique
Classy
The list goes on.
I would LOVE for you to join me...
To take the next step in Up-Leveling Your Life With Passion, Purpose and Style...I invite you to my upcoming workshop in Seattle, WA on Saturday, October 14th!
More Information and to Register www.annettebond.com/uplevel
About the Author: Annette Bond is a Certified Personal Image Consultant who works with professional women who desire to Elevate and Express their Personal Style. She helps her clients reveal and embrace the best of who they are NOW, so they can walk into the world with elevated confidence and success. Follow me on FACEBOOK - Definitive Style by Annette Bond.
I hope you enjoyed your summer as much as I have. I've went golfing, kayaking, and biking, and having a blast in summer fun clothing.
The stores are readily changing over into fall clothing so if you're looking for some great summer sales, now is the time.
For those of you who are ready to step into the new season and the lusciousness of fall clothing - have you thought about what you might add? I l believe in being intentional. Having a plan and clarity can take your shopping experience from overwhelm to enjoyable.
When transitioning into a new season, I like to think about what worked well last year or maybe what do you wish you had or felt was missing?
Maybe it's a new silhouette, a new neutral or accent color, additional accessories? I know many of my clients are enjoying the addition of navy with so many years of all black.
For Fall, I would like to introduce you to Grenadine, one of Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Fall. Grenadine, an off-shoot of the RED family is definitely trending. You will see many varieties of Grenadine... blue reds, some a little more burgundy and possibly a little amber.
RED positively gets you noticed when you walk into a room. It attracts others to you without saying a word. Want to captivate an audience instantly - wear RED.
Below is my new Eva Varro sweater jacket from DivaLani Style, a new boutique in Bellevue, WA. https://www.facebook.com/divalani.style/
5 TIPS To Elevate & Express RED in Your 2017 Fall Wardrobe!
Tip #1
RED can be a powerful non-verbal color. Have you ever thought of using Color as a tool? You can express yourself just by wearing a particular color. Color carries with it a universal symbol.
RED: Exciting, energizing, sexy, passionate, powerful, courageous, assertive, adventurous, motivating
BRICK RED: Earthy, warm, strong, sturdy, established
DEEP RED: Rich, elegant, refined, expensive, mature, luxurious, robust
Tip #2
A Skirt Or Blouse is a great way to add a pop of RED. The skirt becomes the focal point of your outfit. The blouse becomes the accent to your neutral jacket or pant.
Tip #3
Don't forget that RED pairs beautifully with many neutral shades such as black, charcoal, navy, camel, deep greens or taupe to name a few.
Tip #4
Not a huge fan of Red? Add one RED accessory with your neutral outfit.
Tip #5 Click below to view more options on Expressing your Style with RED (and details of the above pieces).
Click: https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/159H&SJe4h
NEW!!
1. A NEW way to work with Definitive Style by Annette Bond: Virtual "MORE ALIVE WITH COLOR" Master Class. www.annettebond.com
Coming Soon!!
2. Save the Date! Upcoming Workshop on Saturday, October 14th / 10-4pm - Uplevel Your Life With Purpose, Passion and Style! Presented by Annette Bond and Laurie Nichols.
RED is a fun, effortless way to update this season whether you're adding to your core basics or accessories.
Recently I was featured on "STORY U TALK RADIO", Discover Your Voice and Tell Your Story.
We had a conversation on, "what is your story when it comes to your personal image?"
Listen to interview here.
Are you aware that the clothing you choose to wear tells a story about who you are?
As we began our conversation, Debby, the host shared her 3 levels of dress that she has experienced over the last few years. I thought you might relate.
Her level One was "pleasure", comfy and cozy, it's like having your morning coffee. Putting on a pair of yoga pants and t-shirt. You feel good.
Debby's level Two was she needs a coordinated outfit for today's meeting and she has 3 minutes to make it happen. She puts on her pink jacket and black pants and grabs her pearl necklace. It's easy, it works, she's out the door and feels pretty good.
And then there is level Three. Real joy. An outfit that makes you smile. You feel like a million bucks. An outfit that has the comfy and coordinated look but so much more.
Feeling comfortable in your clothing is important whether in your yoga pants or power jacket.
A put-together outfit that has "intention."
How do I want my audience to perceive me today?
What do I want my audience to know about me?
It expresses You. It's in sync with your day of business. It shares your voice and story. The confidence, passion and anticipation you're feeling for the day.
It's a part of who you are. Your branding. The value you bring to the table. Your authenticity. our confidence.
It says you care when you show up.
Level Three requires planning ahead, having a style strategy and possibly organizing your clothes a day or two ahead of time.
Level Three is your "Powerful First Impression" clothing choice that says GREAT not just good.
If you're feeling that you don't have it "all together" and would LOVE to show up at Level Three - let's have a conversation.
I knew something wasn't quite right. I needed a professional opinion.
She looked over my handout, called me and said, "some of it is good but much of this doesn't sound like you". You would never speak to me about my style like that.
My heart sunk, I knew it was true. I was trying to please the event organizer and wasn't being 100% authentic to who Annette Bond was.
Debby told me to "stand confident" in my content.
Because when I do, I will speak from my heart about what I believe and teach.
What I love about Debby, is she knows me. She wants me to reveal the Annette Bond definitive writing & speaking Style.
Debby also shared, that while the event organizer was well-intended with her guidelines and suggestions, I needed to discern if what she suggested was elevating or diminishing my style of speaking.
What I realized, Debby was coaching me on what I literally share with my clients. I thought dahhhh.
We can get consumed of what others think of us that we lose sight of who we really are.
So the moral of the story is...you need to listen to yourself. Know your strengths and stand confidently and strong in who you are. Trust yourself.
Feeling that sense of comfort that you are in your element speaks volumes.
You can only then "Reveal Your Radiance" for others to see the beauty of who you really are.
As I tell my clients, I want you to feel sooo confident in your outfit that you forget about what you're wearing so you can go out and do what you do best.
I'm your Debby when it comes to personal style.
We all need those special people around us that make us better.
Warm summer days can sometimes signify a more casual look at times. We tend to see more skin. Bare legs. Bare arms. Sleeveless dresses. Fewer jackets. Opened toe shoes.
It can be confusing how much skin should you show or how casual can you dress without comprising your professionalism.
The image consultant catalog of rules says that if you break a rule or two you're OK but if you break too many rules you lose your look.
Are you going to show off your neckline, arms or legs. Doing all three - eludes too much skin. Especially if you work in a male dominated environment.
My Business Casual philosophy: A comfortably relaxed version of classic business attire, with no sacrifice of professionalism or personal power.
Feeling comfortable in your own skin is Confidence.
If you have a tinge of hesitancy if you're dressed appropriately, I suggest taking one last look in your FULL length mirror to make sure you're not sacrificing your personal power.
Lets explore some ways to feel lighter in your dress without comprising professionalism.
5 Ways to Rock Your Summer Business Casual Look!
#1 TIP Add a lighter color - pastels in blue, white, beige, the new blush pink. Or it may be just one pastel wardrobe piece you add with black or navy.
#2 TIP Add a classy sandal to complete your professional pulled together look.
#3 TIP My favorite pantyhose. If covering your legs is a must for you try the Donna Karen / The Nudes hosiery that are toeless or sheer.
The Nudes give your legs a polished professional look without looking like you're wearing pantyhose.
#4 TIP Focus on your accessories with a great simple sheath dress.
#5 TIP Add a sweater or jacket for those important business meetings. Jackets always add authority.
Have an incredibly stylish summer.
You're Exclusively Invited to My Intimate Fashion Feng Shui Workshop
Saturday, May 20th / 10am-3pm / Sammamish, WA
- I am personally inviting you to my Fashion Feng Shui workshop!
- Have you ever had an important event coming up and wondering what to wear?
- Would you love to have a wardrobe that is aligned with how you want to show up and be seen? A wardrobe that gives you confidence?
- A wardrobe that brings you compliments?
- A wardrobe that is comfortable?
- A wardrobe that is aligned and supports your goals and desires?
IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO ANY OR ALL OF THESE QUESTIONS, THIS WORKSHOP WAS MADE FOR YOU!
[REGISTER HERE]
“To the Woman Who Desires To Be the Leading Lady in Her Own Life”
What is Fashion Feng Shui: Dressing Your Whole Self from the Inside-Out
You are the sum of your parts – spirit, mind, and body. When you address every aspect of yourself – spiritual, mental and physical you are able to create a wardrobe that is fulfilling, flattering and functional.
Fashion Feng Shui is a Transformation Triad
This Workshop Accesses:
Your Essence
By consciously honoring your essence in your clothing choices, you communicate your authentic self to others.
Self-confidence requires authenticity. Your essence aligns with your core values and innate traits.
Who are you – what makes you tick. What is most important to you? Are your values being expressed in your life?
Your Intention
Defines your ideal self – who would you be if there were no limits
When you dress with purpose, your clothes are supporting you and serving you in life.
By dressing with design elements that align with your hopes and dreams you naturally magnetize your appearance and attract these desires into your life.
Your Appearance
Your appearance aligns with your body’s natural coloring and body shape.
When the energy of your clothing is in harmony with your physical self, your attire naturally flatters you and your personal style communicates confidence.
Conscious clothing choices communicates personal harmony and naturally creates an attractive presence.
[REGISTER HERE]
How-to dress with style, confidence and ease without having to worry about age, shape or size!
- By understanding your FFS Triad you will be begin to understand what colors, styles, shapes, and design elements are in perfect harmony with the real you. Why you are attracted to certain pieces more than others. And why you don’t like certain styles and colors.
- You’ll learn how to incorporate your essence into every outfit you wear so others see your authenticness which ultimately communicates confidence.
- Uncover your ideal self and how you want to show up in the world and what does that look like in your clothing choices.
- How to attract your dreams and desires into your life with what you wear.
- A personalized More Alive With Color consultation – discover your Colortime Palette™
- Learn the psychology of color and how to use it as a tool to attract more into your life.
- Understand what styles flatter your body type.
- Learn how to shop with ease and purpose – what to say yes to and what to say no to.
- How to feel comfortable and confident every time you get dressed.
- And finally, leave with a vision to “Reveal Your Radiance” while building your dream wardrobe that exudes confidence.
I can't wait to see you there! ONLY 3 Spots Left!!
[REGISTER HERE]
I just read an article published by payscale.com.
Does Your Appearance Impact Your Career?
The data says yes.
Payscale surveyed 34,000 employees in November 2016-January 2017 and asked “Which of the following best describes your company dress code?”
- Business formal (tie + jacket for men, pant- or skirt-suits for women)
- We have specific work uniforms
- Casual (The Zuckerberg – anything goes within reason)
- Business casual (no jeans, sneakers, flip flops, etc.)
They found that if you want to make the big bucks you're likely dressing up a bit more for work - relating to the financial or insurance industry.
Companies that have a "business formal dress code" have the highest median salary. (the survey included financial and insurance industry)
Business casual dress had the 2nd highest median salary.
When broken down by the income-level of workers, they found that a business casual dress code dominated every level of income and across a multitude of industries.
TIP! Adding the orange and poke-a-dot skirt just gave the look a little more playfulness and less formal.
I remember being taught years ago that even though you work from home, you should still dress up like you're going into the office. Why, it effects your frame of mind.
Possibly more confident while talking on the phone with clients?
I love the subject of confidence.
You may have had an experience when you "nailed" "your style" whether it was for work or maybe a date night.
You know how you felt.
How others reacted to you.
The compliments you received.
And how it made you feel.
Over the top C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T...am I right?
Bottom line: I believe you need to walk out the door each morning feeling CONFIDENT in your dress so you can forget about what you're wearing and do what you do best.
TIP! Are you consciously using your clothing and grooming, especially when dressed down, as valuable business assets and high-powered tools to propel you toward greater success?
Hi I’m Annette!
As a certified Personal Image consultant, color expert and Fashion Feng Shui facilitator I am dedicated to helping you reveal your radiance and dress with style and intentionality for your professional lifestyle.
I am passionate about supporting you so that age, shape, or size are no longer in the way while aligning your style with the real you. So you can walk into the world with more confidence and make a great first impression that is authentically yours!
I was at Tempo and Nordstrom in Bellevue, WA this week picking up spring clothing to showcase at my speaking engagement for the Overlake Hospital Auxiliary group.
I think I am like a kid in a toy store loving all the new colors, styles and accessories that are out for spring.
One of the tips I will be shared with the ladies is, what do you have in your closet from last year (that is last spring) that really worked for you? Vs. feeling like you need an entire new wardrobe.
A piece that you felt confident in.
Maybe you received a lot of compliments.
It fit really well.
It became a great go-to-piece.
Maybe it was a great pair of pants or sweater.
Pull a piece from your closet and ask yourself, how can I refresh this piece with a new color, an accessory, or what do I need to add to give it that Spring 2017 current feel?
Check, Stripes, Floral, Stripe & Floral mixed, Check and Floral mixed - Have FUN with your new spring pieces.
Confidence - begin with a wardrobe piece that you already feel confident in.
ONE piece- take ONE piece and add your uniqueness.
If you've thought about the two of us working together in the past and know it's your time....
I am planning a small intimate Fashion Feng Shui hands on training session at my home in Sammamish, WA for 8 magnificent ladies who truly desire to Reveal Your Radiance. I'm excited to announce that I have set a date for this one-of-a-kind workshop.
If you would like to be considered for one of the 8 spots, let me know below.
The date will be Saturday, May 20th from 10-3pm.
Going into Annette’s Definitive Style program I was completely uneducated in style.
I had left Microsoft where I could dress casually and started my own business, Solutions for Impact LLC where I needed to dress highly professional. After 10 years of being at Microsoft,
I found that I needed an entirely different wardrobe and to be educated in how to put together great outfits that were still “me” and understand which ones were best for specific meetings or events.
Then I met Annette Bond. I signed up for and completed her Signature Program and am amazed that I went from one end of the spectrum to the other extreme end.
My experience and journey with her has been incredibly valuable and educational. Through my 18+ years of working with executives at Fortune 100 companies, I have been blessed with experiences that have given me very strong business acumen.
To prove a point, I humbly tell you that I have won global awards for my best practices and other companies have adopted them since they are so impactful. Given this, as a business professional I feel strong about the value I bring.
Before working with Annette, my external appearance didn’t match or reflect that value or who I truly am at the core.
Through working with her and learning, I now have the tools and knowledge needed to consistently ensure that my external image is aligned with what I have to offer.
It has enabled me to build a stronger brand and feel more confident about how I look and “show up.”
I’m not distracted by items that don’t fit correctly or are what I think I should wear but don’t feel like “me” or wondering if I choose the right outfit for the occasion.
I feel and am more empowered.
For the first time, I humbly tell you that I consistently get positive comments on my outfits.
I say “Thank you. Have you heard of Annette Bond?” since it is all due to her. In fact, I think I have become better at giving an elevator pitch about her offerings than my own. When I truly believe in something, I want everyone to know about it so they too can experience it and gain all the positive benefits.
I am so glad I invested in myself early in starting my own business by signing up for Annette’s Signature Program. I completed it just in time to publicly launch Solutions for Impact LLC. It is an understatement to say it has been well worth all the time and money I spent to improve my image.
I was excited about everything the program promised to deliver. In the end, it actually delivered 2-3 times the value I expected (and I have high standards).
As a side note, Annette runs her business in such an extremely professional way that it is obvious that she pays attention to every detail of what she provides in the client experience.
She made me feel like royalty.
If you are a business owner and pay attention to the way she runs her business, it is like having a mentor teaching you best practices. I was lucky enough to get the benefits from both perspectives.
A public note to Annette specifically – Thank you for a fun, professional and educational experience. You provided more value and impact than I will ever be able to articulate to you.
Thank you for choosing a career where you provide such an incredible service that really does make a difference in people’s lives – how they feel about and represent themselves.
Empowering people is a key component of both of our business and it feels amazing to be on the receiving end of that. The results of our work together on my image has already had an impact on my business since I have been able to use it as a tool when meeting with clients and presenting at seminars.
I will truly miss our time together but always have your voice in my head guiding me as I think “What would Annette do?”
Hi I’m Annette!
As a certified Personal Image consultant, color expert and Fashion Feng Shui facilitator I am dedicated to helping you reveal your radiance and dress with style and intentionality for your professional lifestyle.
I am passionate about supporting you so that age, shape, or size are no longer in the way while aligning your style with the real you. So you can walk into the world with more confidence and make a great first impression that is authentically yours!
Just before Christmas Hannah and I met for our shopping session.
Main areas I help my clients with:
Align your personal image with the "real you" - what are your best colors, styles for your body type, personality, lifestyle and does it fit properly.
BEFORE PICTURE
One of my goals was to work on proportion. Hannah has an "inverted triangle" body shape and is 5'4".
Tip! The circle skirt gave her movement and the fabric was super comfortable - aspects that are important to Hannah.
Tip! The circle skirt is a nice balance to her shoulders and showed off her toned athletic legs.
Tip! The peplum top gave balance to her hips and smoothed over her stomach area nicely.
Tip! The monochromatic of navy and white gave her an elongated look. She will be adding navy tights and black shoes.
CirCLE SKIRT
Hannah:
I am halfway through the Signature Program and have already transformed how I think about "style", as well as how I look and feel.
Now, every day I easily apply what Annette has taught me using style as a tool. To prove a point, I humbly share that I am getting a lot of compliments. The best part? All I am doing is applying what I am learning from Annette with existing clothes, jewelry, and makeup.
I really believe that the style tools I now have can be used strategically to give my business, Solutions for Impact, a competitive advantage.
Second main area I help my clients with:
What do you have in your closet that is already working and what are the missing gaps?
Hannah had two black pants, one navy legging style and one red trouser.
TIP! Add an additional neutral to Hannah's wardrobe. We are adding a camel/latte' color straight leg pants and blue tone in the jacket. The latte' and blue will go beautifully with her existing accent colors of teal, red and coral.
LATTE' PANTS
Hannah:
In advance, Annette asked me for the names of stores where I like to shop. I really appreciated this since it reinforces what she says about honoring her clients, which also means honoring their price points.
From working in my closet and asking detailed questions, Annette knows exactly what I like and dislike about clothes including look, fit, material, pattern, etc.
She wowed me again by going shopping in advance and putting clothes for me to consider/try on hold. This made it so efficient and easy.
I loved the clothes she picked - they were absolutely "me." There was no pressure to buy at any point (she doesn't get a commission or kickback from any stores).
As I tried various items, she quickly learned then taught me which aspects work or don't work for me.
She explained how to buy items keeping in mind the existing clothes I have and my personal signature colors. This way, I continue to expand the number of outfits I can make without needing a large amount of clothes.
Now when I go shopping on my own, I can easily look at an item and know if it will be flattering or not, as well as how many more outfits I can make with it.
Like every session, I left energized and excited for the next one.
TIP! We found a pant at Talbots, a slimmer leg that fits her body type. She purchased latte' and navy - great basics that will work well with her earth red jacket and latte' sweater. *If you have slimmer legs - stay away from curvy style
Part three of the process. Is your story congruent with how you're currently dressing?
What story do you want to tell with an important business interaction ...creative, growth, supportive, organized?
Do you have outfits that support your desire to "feel and look like a million bucks"?
Do you need to get rid of clothing in your closet because you're not who you were 5, 10 years ago?
Do you need to add additional pieces to up-level your image?
I truly believe that Annette already "gets" me and am really looking forward to our next session together.~ Hannah
Hello, I’m Annette Bond a Certified Personal Image Consultant! I am all about helping you “reveal your radiance”, dressing authentically and intentionally for your everyday business interactions. I am passionate about you becoming more style-confident without age, shape or size getting in the way.
When I’m not off working with my one-on-one clients to re-fresh their closets or personal shopping, I’m hanging out on online revealing my voice for “Reveal Your Radiance blog”, so you can walk into the world with more confidence and success.
I am passionate about teaching howto build a successful wardrobe that works for your business lifestyle.
Connect with me on Facebook and LinkedIn
You may be wondering, what does an online course look like?
I will be giving you a glimpse inside the course over the next few weeks and what you will experience in the Reveal Your Radiance…30 Days to Dressing for Success.
But first we’re going to talk about WHY you would want to take the course. I will be sharing how I work with clients and you can decide if this is a good fit for you.
I mentioned last week that I would be sharing a "case study" on a new client that I am working with. I am thrilled to share this process and more excited that Hannah has agreed to take this journey with me and share her story with you.
Meet Hannah P., the owner of Solutions for Impact, LLC.
Hannah has worked in corporate America for the past 18 years and most recently Microsoft. Employees at Microsoft may dress as casually as they like, so needless to say she got into a habit of wearing easy, comfortable clothing without needing to worry or think about a traditional professional image. Fast forward to the present where she is a business owner working with clients and other businesses, and therefore needs to completely overhaul how she dresses to portray the right professional image.
For context, here is a little about Hannah’s business.
Solutions for Impact is passionate about empowering business professionals at all levels and owners to grow their businesses and improve performance through consulting, coaching, and training.
Solutions for Impact differentiates itself by providing solutions that are realistic, actionable, easy to manage, sustainable and impact the bottom line.
They also educate clients throughout the engagement, empowering them to build and execute their own solutions in the future.
Their solutions enable business professionals and organizations locally and globally to increase revenue (secure more clients, increase loyalty, expand markets and innovate), decrease costs (improve productivity and effectiveness, get results faster and do more with less), improve brand image and gain a competitive advantage.
Upon meeting Hannah, she shared her struggles and objectives of us working together:
· Finding comfortable professional attire is must!
· I don’t want to be distracted or fussing with my clothing or accessories.
· How do I mix and match correctly?
· How do I know if it actually goes together?
· Help me to understand how to dress at the right level without feeling like I have to be overly conservative.
· I want simple, yet stylish pieces that reflect who I am.
· I know the value I offer intellectually and also want to feel like my clothes represent me.
· How do I align my image with my “brand”?
· I want to “show up” as the best version of myself in every way.
· I want a makeup routine that isn’t a complicated or time-consuming process but looks professional.
CAN YOU RELATE TO ANY OF THE ABOVE STATEMENTS?
Many people ask me, "What does an image consultant do?"
Are you going to come in my closet and throw everything out?
Are you like the… fashion police?
Let’s take a peek into Hannah’s journey where you will learn more about how I coach and teach my clients to be the BEST version of themselves.
Hannah: Before our first session, I had a phone meeting with Annette so she could understand more about who I am, including specific words that describe me at the core.
Using this information and her expertise, Annette guided me in finding the color palette and key signature colors that compliment my eyes, hair and skin, as well as match the person I am at the core.
I assumed my color consult would be as simple as picking a few colors I love and that are flattering with my skin. Very quickly, I realized that what Annette offers is really an art that goes in far more depth than I would have imagined.
Annette educated me along the way and showed me the true power of color. I now see it through an entirely new lens.
In just one session, I have a very different understanding of “style.” Annette customizes every aspect for each individual person so they feel the most true to themselves and that they have brought out their best aspects (internally and externally).
I truly believe that Annette already “gets” me and am really looking forward to our next sessions together.
BEFORE PICTURE
Annette had me bring my existing makeup to the session. I really appreciate this approach since we weren’t starting from scratch requiring an entire new makeup collection.
She showed me how to apply it to be the most flattering for my features.
Hannah loves RED – that tells me a lot about someone. Hannah is draped with the Earth Red swatch.
We tempered the redness in her skin and warmed it up with her new color palette – Sunset. We also added a new lipstick color that went beautifully with her color palette and skin tone.
I taught Hannah how to utilize the color wheel when using her eye, hair and clothing colors to be more Impactful. (part of her business name)
AFTER PICTURE
Join me next week with Hannah as we:
· Select updated Glasses
· Have our closet visit – where we will talk more about color combinations, create outfits that are in harmony with her body type and coloring, find her missing gaps that are hindering her from optimizing her wardrobe and document the “go to outfits” for specific business interactions.
The time has come.
I am approaching my 6 year anniversary with Definitive Style by Annette Bond. Since conception in January 2011, my vision has been to add an invaluable online service to my offerings but I didn't know exactly what it would look like.
I have been waiting patiently and the time is now.
With today's technology the time is now to step into the world of online and utilize this opportunity to touch more lives and give you the convenience to learn from the comfort of your home. I am so excited to bring this invaluable new tool to you.
An Online Personal Style Course is coming January 9, 2017. More info to come.
Reveal Your Radiance...30 Days to Dressing for Success
I pulled out some old journals to reminisce what I was thinking prior to debuting Definitive Style. I learned that not a lot has changed to where I am currently today.
I have always had a passion for sharing my gift of helping others to dress they're best, that is be the very best version of you.
Educating on how to wear color so that it compliments your natural coloring and the psychology associated with each color.
Keeping my followers current and educated with the new styles each season through my monthly newsletter.
And sharing my expertise in make-up application from my Mary Kay days. I wanted to bring all my gifts to one place by helping the entire woman - in 2011 Definitive Style by Annette Bond was conceptualized.
I discovered early in life that God wired me to help others look and feel more beautiful.
He also wired me to work with women, of which I have been doing for the past 30 years. (I do work with men on a referral basis)
This past year I have begun using a new tagline, Reveal Your Radiance. What I realized is that yes, I help others style amazing outfits but what brings me to "my happy place" is seeing others begin to see themselves as more beautiful and confident than ever before.
We uncover the "real you" and allow you to shine in your own way.
What I have learned is that we all ultimately thrive when we can feel comfortable in our own skin, forget about what we're wearing and do what we do best. That is my objective with every client.
When I began the vision for Definitive Style I told myself that I was only going to operate from my strengths. I continue to make that a priority today. Since 2011, I can proudly say that I have definitely grown as an image expert and entrepreneurial business woman.
Since 2011 I have invested in myself to be the very best image expert, so I can serve you with excellence.
- Certified Color Image Consultant with More Alive With Color since 1985
- I studied with Brenda Kinsel, a 30 year veteran in the image business, 2011-2014
- Certified as a Corporate Image Consultant in 2015
- Certified in Menswear Apparel in 2015.
- Certified with the Association of International Image
- Consultants, AICI CIC - 2016
- Most recently, Certified as a Fashion Feng Shui Facilitator - 2016.
As you can see you're in good hands with training and qualifications. I may be an image expert, but my true passion is to lead and guide you to understand "who you are" and empower you to be you.
I help you to Reveal Your Radiance. We go on a journey together and I walk you through a process that allows you to uncover all that's been waiting to shine.
Mirroring back the naturalness that is already there such as your beautiful golden hair or sparkly blue eyes.
It's my job to help you discover all the treasures you have hidden and let you shine brighter.
I also believe in respecting and loving yourself first. If you can't accept your body then you will never accept how beautiful you are. I have found myself working with so many body types especially those who hated shopping because they thought they could never find anything that fit.
I believe in looking at the entire picture of who you are. Your image tells a story about who you are and I'm there to make sure were telling the right story.
And last being purposeful and intentional on how you show up every day.
Did you know that your image is a tool that you have complete control over?
You can use your image to influence business interactions just like you do a good communication.
I invite you on my journey over this next month to learn a little more of what I do and how I work with my clients. I am excited to share a case study with you beginning next week, so stayed tuned.
In the meantime, I wanted to share my before/after picture, all I can say is, "I LOVE the woman I'm becoming.
I love the learning, the growing and best of all I get to share it ALL with YOU!
2011 - My first head shot. My most recent in 2016
J`'envie Clothing - available at www.tempoclothing.com
J'envie clothing - available at www.tempoclothing.com
Dressing Your Essence, Reveal Your Radiance
Recently I was browsing the internet looking to see what others were saying about style for the Over 50 Woman. I came across several YouTube videos by How To.com and About.com that I thought no wonder women are so confused. There were tips such as only wear solids, do not wear a shawl collar because that signifies you are old. Make sure you wear only very classic looks.
What I found is nothing about the “real you”, only age.
I don't know what age I was when I discovered very early on what I liked and didn't like in my style. I could look in the mirror and say yes or no quickly. There was a look I was going for. I became very intentional and purposeful on the pieces I chose.
Most of what we learn is to "dress with the fashion" or "dress for success". It's not wrong, just confusing as we sift through all the information.
We as women are multi-faceted and I believe that is what our clothes should reveal. Our clothing tells a story about who we. My passion is to help you tell that story, and reveal your radiance.
To begin Revealing Your Radiance, start with the essence of who you are. What pieces of clothing do you love in your wardrobe? What pieces do you forget about as you're wearing them because they're just part of who you are? What pieces give you complete confidence? Make you walk taller? Speak a little more boldly? And maybe draw the eye of everyone in the room?
Clothes that make you feel "in your element."
It might be the style, the color, the silhouette?
1. Are those pieces dark colors, fluid fabrics, artistic or asymmetric shapes?
2. Are those pieces casual styling, sporty, natural fabrics, green or blue?
3. Are those pieces bright colors, dramatic, red or purple?
4. Are those pieces earth tones, textured fabrics, classic styling
5. Are those pieces elegant, polished fabrics, curved shapes, pale or metallic colors?
Identify if you are a dominant 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5.
The next time you're choosing an outfit make sure one of those specific elements are part of your outfit.
Have you noticed you love uniqueness in the detail of a jacket? Maybe the cut is just a little different and that is what attracted you. If you know you like a pinch of drama it could be your red lipstick or fuchsia pumps. Your sportiness could be a pair of pants vs. a skirt. Your metallic could be in the shoes or a jewel neckline vs. a V-neck. Have you noticed you love texture? It will also help you identify why you DON'T like about a certain piece. Maybe "in your element" characteristics are missing that are special to you.
As I mentioned above, we are multi-faceted and you may have several of the above elements in your outfit. Maybe all five. But you have a dominant that allows you to Reveal Your Radiance and capture your essence.
COLOR can be magical!
How many times have you been ambiguous about what to wear and you look in your closet and find that delicious sunny coral t-shirt that makes you smile and feel good all over? Or you’re out shopping and a rack of beautiful reds and burgundies catch your eye. For an instant you think, “Wow, I love that”, while thinking oh I could never wear that and you’ve quickly move to the rack of all black.
I want you to STOP right there and start rethinking the way you look at COLOR. Why did you say, “I can’t wear that”? Who told you that? There are comments made in our past by people who most likely we really never took advice from but in one moment a spontaneous statement was made and we have kept it in our mind for years….and have never let go of it.
It’s funny how we do that, isn’t it. Or maybe you had a color analysis done in 1982 and the lady told you these are your “six colors” and red and burgundy are not one of them. You took her at face value and never again tried red or burgundy.
Today, I want you to open your mind to COLOR. COLOR can be magical.
Color can make you feel good
Color can be emotional
Color can bring out your personality
Color can attract others to you
Color can be creative
Color is inspirational
Color can show our feminine side
Color can show our masculine side
Color can evoke and inspiration
Color can stand out in a crowd
Color can add a spark to your life
Color can bring confidence
If you are one of those people who wear’s alotttttt of black, I invite you to start experimenting. Or maybe you’re just afraid of the reaction you will get by wearing more color. Whatever the reason is you need to start by taking a step into the world of color. I want you to take your favorite black pant with you shopping. Let’s start with 2 colors. We’re going to begin by choosing colors that compliment your eyes. If your eyes are a blend of blue/green then those are the two colors to begin with. If your eyes are brown then I want you to try blue and purple as they are complimentary colors of brown. If your eyes have a goldy green then you will choose a gold tone yellow and green. If your eyes are gray, choose a blue and maybe pink. This is your first assignment in putting to the test the world of COLOR.
As you are choosing your color pieces, you have variety of options. You could choose a beautifulblouse that may be a solid or print. A beautiful sweater. Or it could even be larger style statement necklace or scarf.
Remember this is all about experimenting; you don’t have to buy it. But just try it; you might like it as Dr. Seuss did with green eggs and ham.
I am going to go back to the red and burgundy example at the start of my story, as they are Pantone’s Fall 2014, Aurora Red and Sangria. Aurora Red and Sangria are what I would call crossover colors and that means everyone looks good in them. They are colors we see in nature. Would you ever say your beautiful red geraniums look terrible with the brown dirt – NO. Would you ever say the burgundy looks very out of place in the evening sunset, heavens no. There are a set of colors that are eyes are accustomed to seeing in nature and against many backgrounds, these are called crossover colors.
So go out there today and have fun with color. Embrace color. Give it meaning. Pair it with other color combinations and be courageous. Let your personality shine. Show a little of your feminine side. And most of all don’t be afraid to stand out in a crowd because of COLOR.
Color is an interesting subject because it can conjure up so many different meanings and feelings for individuals.
The colors you chose to wear may reflect your personality as an introvert, an extrovert...or maybe you’re trying not to be seen?
Did you grow up with a mother who loved experimenting with color whether it was with clothing or paint?
Or maybe you wore a uniform to school and you now shut down those colors?
We all have a story to tell about color.
I had a personal experience with purple. I realized nothing in my closet was purple nor was I attracted to it. As I thought more about the “why” behind the reason for not being attracted to purple, I realized that was my sister’s color growing up, my color was pink. If there is a color you’re struggling with, I encourage you to dig deeper into why you have that thought and then “attempt” to let go. Move forward with an open mind that allows you to play more and not be so bridled with color apprehension.
I find many people hesitate experimenting with color outside their box for fear of, “what if it doesn’t look good.” They decide on two or three colors that they like and don’t venture far into the creativity realm.
Through my one-on-one Color Image Consultation I am able to give you increased confidence on where to start and objective insight into why a color makes you shine.
Last week I spoke to a group of ladies about creating More Color Confidence.
Here are 3 distinct avenues to explore & attain greater color inspiration:
1. Look at your own natural coloring, your hair, eyes and skin tone.
Start by having a friend describe your eye color. I guarantee that many of you will be surprised how complex your eye color can be. Take those specific colors and start experimenting with clothing colors that compliment your eye color.
For example:
Amber golden brown eyes: try a honey gold or tangerine coral color.
Hazel eyes: try a deep teal blue or emerald green.
Light green/blue eyes: try a slate blue, softened green tone or warm pink.
2. Look for inspiration in different mediums, like paintings, beautiful scarves or an outfit in a magazine.
If the color combination catches your eye, try it, experiment, you have nothing to lose.
I recently received a beautiful scarf as a thank you gift for speaking at the Illuminating Women’s group – I fell in love with the color combination. I began playing in my closet and found I can wear it with my blue sheath dress, my favorite new emerald jacket and use as a pop of color with my white jeans. I’m excited – thank you Cecilia for handpicking this beauty in Italy. What a treat!
3 Use color as a tool to convey the message about how you want to show up in the world.
More professional, add navy, blue tones or gray. More creative, add purples and unexpected combinations such as icy blue to eggplant. Gray and chartreuse. More elegant, add burgundy or teal.
We are smack in the middle of all the vibrancy of spring and summer clothing. Indulge in a new color or new color combination. By adding one new color to your wardrobe this spring, you will have an instant update. That color could be in the form of a necklace, handbag, blouse, or jacket. I stand strong on my philosophy– make sure you can wear that new piece with at least 2-3 pieces in your current wardrobe. You will love the versatility and optimization.
My inspiration for the season is emerald, I’m loving it and can’t wait to acquire more pieces. I’m combining it with soft pink, white, black, navy, denim, icy blue and possibly some fuchsia. Wow, who knew? I also recently came home with a great big tote from target – emerald green, of course.
What is your NEW COLOR for Spring 2016? I’d love to hear how you’re playing with color and new color combinations!
Annette Bond is a Personal Image Consultant who works with the professional over 50 who feel ordinary, old or overweight. She helps them to reveal their radiance so they can become more of who they are and walk into the world with more confidence and success.
Do you need to feel more put-together, current and polished? Does your professional dress need to be taken up a notch?
Email Annette @ annette@annettebond.com to learn about her Reveal Your Radiance Signature Program.
Or visit http://annettebond.com/image-services/
Body language affects how others see us, but it may also change how we see ourselves. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy shows how "power posing" -- standing in a posture of confidence, even when we don't feel confident -- can affect testosterone and cortisol levels in the brain, and might even have an impact on our chances for success.
Amy Cuddy, TED speaker, shares how to use our physiology to gain more self-confidence when we're not feeling it.
She asks the question, "Can you fake it till you make it"?
She says, yes. As your body is feeling confident and powerful, your mind will follow. She suggests you think of the "wonder woman pose" as a start.
Enjoy the video above to learn more.
3 Tips to Help You Own Your Confident Power Pose:
1. Open Up and Occupy Space
This gives you a secret inner confidence you may be lacking
2. Watch the Body Language of Those You Admire
Powerful people tend to be more assertive, confident, and more optimistic. They also think abstract and take more risks.
3. Be Aware of Your Body
Your physiology can change your mind and how you're feeling at the moment.
Understanding what body language does to yourself and not necessarily how it effects others is a very powerful tool to use. I learned from Tony Robbins years ago that what we are feeling or thinking starts with our physiology. That is, what are we doing with our bodies.
Your Personal Image + Likeability = The Whole Story
We know you are looking and feeling amazing on the outside but we also know there is more to a person than simply their clothing. I am fascinated by the Likeability Factor. I believe the L-Factor can give you that extra edge when making a great first impression and building authentic relationships.
Being a big fan of the TV show, The Voice, I have observed over and over how individuals are voted on by the American public. They may have the best voice ever but if the viewers do not find them likeable…it shows in the voting. On the other hand, we’ve all met those people that we really like, and you may have never given it a second thought to why you like them so much, that is the Likeability Factor at work.
This is an area that I suggest you become more aware of when you are presenting yourself whether for business or pleasure. I believe it make a big difference in how you are perceived.
4 Elements that Create Your Likeability Factor:
1. Friendliness
Expressing a general positive feeling. If someone perceives that you like them, they will most likely like you back. Without reciprocation, likeability is not likely to happen.
Friendliness is about developing a friendly mind-set. Get rid of unfriendly.
How to show friendly signs:
- Let them see you SMILE before you say a word
- When you greet others, lead with your smile
- Make eye contact
- Use your eye brows
- Use your eyes to show emotion
- Hold your head up when you talk
- Maintain good posture
- Use friendly words such as wonderful, excellent, awesome, beautiful, perfect, appreciate, inspiring, etc.
- Use friendly phrases such as nice to see you, glad you are here, welcome, how can I help, absolutely, and sure.
BE YOURSELF ALWAYS. THIS IS ABOUT BEING A BETTER YOU.
2. Relevance
Relevance is the extent to which the other person connects to your life’s interests, wants and needs. The variable is the strength of the connection. When people connect with one of your high-level interests or needs their relevance to you soars.
3 LEVELS OF RELEVANCE: BASIC CONTACT, MUTUAL INTERESTS, VALUE
How to show relevance:
- Basic contact: Part of the same group. Live by each other
- When others are in frequent contact with you, they have a bias to like you
- Improve the quality of your contacts by staying connected
- Mutual interests: discover what your contacts interests are. You’re developing commonality. Connect with others wants and needs. The variable is the strength of the connection.
- Value: if you possess a skill that will help someone complete a task, you are more relevant to that person.
- Likeability and interests are related, because when two people have a passion in common, they are connected at the sweet spot, which is at the heart of being relevant.
3. Empathy
Can you see things from their point of view? Can you feel what they feel? Can you walk in that persons shoes?
Empathy delivers the psychological benefits, personal worth, how you feel, validated, appreciated, and special.
How to show empathy:
- If you’re not aware of others’ feelings, you can be perceived as insensitive
- Don’t interrupt
- Wear your listening cap. Commit to being a better listener to understand how others feel
- Ask, don’t tell. Ask for details
- Remember conversations
4. Realness
We ask the question is this person real? Genuine, trustworthy, authentic. When we search for realness in another person, we recognize it by its absence.
How to show realness:
- Be true to yourself. You must know the real you.
- Let your values be your compass as you navigate life.
- Practice humility. Watch out for exaggeration.
- Share your realness. Learn to say, “I don’t know.”
- Be present. Whenever you are with others, be with them 100%.
How to Find Your Likeable Self:
1. Try to recall the last time someone paid you a compliment
2. What compliments did you most enjoy receiving?
3. Think about your biggest fan, this person talks about you in glowing terms.
4. What converted her from an acquaintance to a supporter?
5. What would be 2 likeable features she would say?
6. Role model – someone you admire & want to emulate – top 2 features
7. Identify the features that contribute to a high L-factor in yourself and others.
What Others Say About YOU… Be More of That!
To Learn more about Image Services
*Information obtained from the book, The Likeability Factor by Tim Sanders.