WHAT TO ASK ABOUT STYLE
Before you engage the services of an image consultant you might want to ask about a few important things. The first pertains to research, the second to color analysis, and the third to footwear.
THE RESEARCH QUESTION
Probably the biggest mistake people make when using a stylist is thinking that this individual can help them without research. In fact, most people never think about research. The reason for this is simple. Most stylists today don’t do research and don’t rely on research when making recommendations to their clients about wardrobe, footwear, and accessories. Instead stylists simply tell clients what they think looks good, with no idea what the effect will be when the client wears that leopard print dress to work.
It pays to ask about research before you engage the services of someone who is going to help you look good. Research is the most important factor to consider since only testing can determine whether a particular suit will be effective at work or in social situations. Your stylist might conduct research himself or he might rely upon a database of research conducted by others, or some combination of the two. At the very least you want a stylist whose eyes don’t glaze over when you mention research.
THE COLOR ANALYSIS QUESTION
Our second recommended question is about color analysis. Ask your stylist if she subscribes to the four seasons Color Me Beautiful theory. This theory claims that people fall neatly into one of four classifications, called seasons. The practitioner then claims that she can analyze you and tell you what season you are: winter, spring, summer, or fall. Based on this analysis she will tell you what colors to wear and what colors to avoid.
Why do you want to know whether your image consultant subscribes to this theory? Because any consultant who believes this theory is going to lead you astray. The theory is as viable as the theory that the earth is flat. It simply is not backed up by any credible evidence. You are better off with an image consultant who will admit to you that they can help you choose good colors based on what has tested well for your profession or for the social situations you will be invited to.
THE FOOTWEAR QUESTION
Our third tip for picking a good image consultant is to ask him what he thinks is more important in footwear, the look or the comfort level. If your consultant says that the way a shoe looks is more important you might want to think twice about hiring him since you’ll be the one wearing those uncomfortable shoes, not him. While the style and look of footwear is very important, the more important factor is comfort. And a good wardrobe person can easily help you find the right look in a very comfortable shoe.
If you remember to ask about research, color analysis and footwear you will be at the head of the class. And so will your image consultant.
Copyright © 2012 William Cane