Magnetic Confidence for the Single Man
Imagine you’re a single, professional male attempting to date in a socially networked world. You’re in a competitive market, yet you don’t know how to attract women that you feel are of the caliber you want and deserve. You may have money. You may be a rocket scientist. The reality is that none of those things matter at first glance when you’re trying to attract a desirable woman.
The most attractive thing in the world to a man or a woman is confidence. When you feel confident, you become magnetic – instinctively drawing to you the people you desire. I help men feel confident about themselves – we work to quiet the voices in their heads that say ‘you're not good enough’ ‘ she’s out of your league’ ‘ she can get any guy – why would she want you?’
First, we identify your strengths – the things that make you special, unique, attractive – and learn how to capitalize on them, magnify them. Then we look at your blind spots – the areas that are holding you back that you may not even realize you had – and we bring them out into the front to discuss them and mitigate them.
After that, it’s practice and creating a pattern of success. We work together in rehearsed situations and then in ‘live’ situations to practice the art of attracting women and feeling confident. Your ‘confidence coach’ is there play by play to observe, give advice, and celebrate your success.
It’s your secret weapon, your strategic advantage, to get what you really want – a woman who is worthy of you and deserves you. You don’t have to be a ‘bad boy’ or memorize ‘pickup lines’ or be anyone you’re not – the coach simply helps you exude confidence and attract the right girl to you – and gives you the insight and coaching to take your relationship forward.
Clients
· Men age 30 - 55
·
· Professional, educated
· Dissatisfied with their dating life
· Currently not in a relationship
· Social, but possibly with few single male friends
· Desires a quality, committed relationship
· Has tried Internet dating and other alternative dating methods in the past and was dissatisfied with the experience
· Doesn’t feel confident approaching women in public
· Has insecurities or fears that are holding them back, including
o Fear of being rejected
o Physical appearance
o Social skills
o Conversation skills
Defining Success
I use a flexible coaching program that defines areas of focus and helps the client conquer these issues.
After working with me or one of my coaches, the client will:
After working with me or one of my coaches, the client will:
· Feel more confident approaching women
· Feel more confident on dates
· Get more dates
· Find a long-lasting relationship
· Improve their intimacy and sexual relationships
DDepending upon their individual needs, the client will receive in-person coaching to help them with:
DDepending upon their individual needs, the client will receive in-person coaching to help them with:
o Internet dating strategies
o Overall appearance
o Feeling comfortable in social settings
o Body language
o Talking to women
o Dating strategy advice
o Having a ‘wing woman’ image consultant to coach them in a real situation at a real location
Definition: Groom vb : To clean and maintain the appearance of
The first day of summer is June 21st and there’s no time like the present to start looking good. Either by working with an image consultant on a personal makeover or by simply developing a daily grooming regimen, it’s always important to make a good impression. Nowadays more and more men are realizing how important it is for them to take care of their skin, personal grooming and appearance. Men are usually tougher on their skin by the simple fact that they constantly have to shave. There’s more to men’s skin care than just lathering up and taking a razor to your face. With summer just around the corner, it is imperative to take proper care of your skin. Developing a daily regimen will prolong wrinkles, age spots, breakouts, and consolidate preventive damage. The heat causes dehydration of the body which directly affects the tone and texture of your skin. You should take necessary measures to moisturize the skin and replenish the body with plenty of water. Since men perspire more so then women, it is crucial the keep your skin and body clean. Salt from sweat acts as sticky paper for dirt and will clog your pores. The use of tanning oil or sunscreen on the face is a terrible idea! After sitting in the heat all day, oil will clog your pores and create unwanted breakouts and blackheads. The best option is to use a facial cream with a high SPF. Cream based sunscreen allows the skin to breath and moisturizes the body at the same time. The following men’s grooming tips should help you in developing your own personalized grooming regimen.
The Shave: • Prep your skin. First, use a face wash to clean away oil and dirt. Follow up with a facial scrub to dislodge dead skin cells that can get in the way of achieving a close, clean shave. Next, hydrate your skin with warm water for two minutes by resting a warm face cloth over the skin. This will open your pores which help to prevent in grown hair and razor burn. Dry your face immediately by patting it with a clean face towel. • To enjoy a smooth, comfortable shave, first determine what type of skin and beard you have, and then buy the appropriate shaving lubricant and razor. The right kind of shaving cream and razor will make a world of a difference. Dull razors will cause irritation so be sure to use a fresh blade. If you want clean cut shave then avoid electronic razors. Shaving oil works better as a lubricant and causes less irritation. The oil softens the hair and sits on the skin surface. This allows the razor to glide over the face several times without reapplication. Shaving cream disappears from the face once the razor is rubbed over the designated area. If you have gone weeks without shaving, it is important to trim the facial hair beforehand • Run the blade under warm water to kill any bacteria. When shaving use light, gentle strokes as to not irritate the skin. Shave in the direction that the hair grows. Then, if necessary, shave in the opposite direction for a closer shave. Always keep the skin lubricated with oil. Dry shaving will cause razor burn and ingrown hairs. Once you have achieved your overall look it is time to cleanse the face. Use a facial cleanser to remove any excess hair and products. Pat the face dry with warm wash cloth so the pores remain open. Follow through with a daytime facial moisturizer to replenish the moisture on the skin’s surface. Your face will naturally produce oils on its own. If you have relatively oily skin, it is best to wash your face 3xs a day. Too much natural oil on the surface will clog your pores and prevent it from absorbing oxygen. The Facial:
A monthly facial is a great way to cleanse the skin beneath the surface. Your pores absorb many toxins from day to day that get trapped below the skins surface. A professional image consultant usually has an experienced beauty team that will provide facials, as well as various other makeover services. Depending on the condition and texture of your skin, a facial can be altered to include specific products and treatments. If you take good care of your skin, all you need is a monthly men’s facial. If you have been negligent, then you may want to consider a facial that includes additional services like: microdermabrasion, glycogen treatment, or a chemical peel. Either way, it is important to consult with your image consultant in order to figure out what procedure you may or may not need. The Pedicure:
A pedicure is a good idea for a man to do as part of his regular grooming regimen. If not done regularly, this should be done at least once at the beginning of the summer season. This way you’ll have the confidence to wear your flip-flops to the pool, the beach and all those summer barbeques. When wearing sandals or open toe shoes, dirt gets stuck on the foot bed, in between toes and underneath your toenails. A good pedicure will clip your nails, remove calluses, remove dirt below your nail bed, exfoliate or remove dead dry skin, leaving your feet smooth and clean! Cave men are not female approved! A professional image consultant usually has an experienced beauty team that will provide pedicures, as well as various other makeover services. The Manicure:
Men regularly neglect their hands and feet. It is important to maintain well groomed hands and nails. Many men avoid manicures because they consider it to be a feminine procedure. This couldn’t be any further from the truth! It is important to have clean nails and callus free hands. Lifting weights and manual labor takes a beating on your hands. Day to day activities also contribute to a great deal of dirt and germs that hide underneath and behind the nail. Clipping the nail just isn’t enough. Since men do not wear nail polish the natural color of the nail bed is exposed for all to see. Having this area buffed and smoothed out creates a bright white nail bed that tells the world you are cleanly person. If not done regularly, this should be done every 2 months or when needed. Eyebrows:
Your eyebrows are the most important feature on your face because they frame the shape of your eyes. A man’s eyebrows should be groomed on a regular basis. If your eyebrows look like huge caterpillars crawling across your face, consider yourself a good candidate for an eyebrow trim and wax! Eyebrow hair also grows in the center which can sometimes look like “uni-brow.” Most nail or hair salons are equipped to give your eyebrows a quick clean up. If you have extremely dark and thick eyebrows they should be shaped and trimmed down. Your eyes are the first thing people see when they look at your face and if you have “out of control” eyebrows it will be the second thing they notice! Keep it simple, you don’t need to go overboard. Threading is great option because it lasts longer but waxing will work equally as well. Nose Hair:
Do not neglect trimming your nose hair. Although it may sound silly, take a small mirror and hold it just beneath your nose. It is hard to see “fly away” nose hairs by looking head-on into a mirror. This gives you a different perspective and will tell you when it is time for a trim! Nose hair tends to be dark shade of brown or black. When it grows out of control, it is always noticeable especially against light skin tones! The Wax:
Last, but not least the waxing of the body hair. Some men chose to wax their entire body, some wax their entire chest and back only, while others wax portions of their body. This gives a man a polished, clean look. While body hair remains a very subjective topic, My Image Expert offers several options for your personal preference.
If you have an alarming amount of dark thick body hair and pale skin the best option to use a razor with #1 trimmer. Never use a straight razor on your body because the hair will grow back thicker and darker. This will also cause razor burn and ingrown hair. A trimmer will cut the body hair down enough so that you don’t look like Sasquatch on the beach. Don’t forget to trim your back hair, underarms, and legs. Man-scaping is crucial beach attire! If you have little body hair it is best to wax! Waxing can be a painful based on the frequency and the amount of hair. If you don’t have an excessive amount of body hair, then it will be a quick painless procedure! Waxing should be done by a professional to avoid any unnecessary skin irritation. A professional image consultant usually has an experienced beauty team that will provide waxing, as well as various other makeover services.
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Business Professional Dress Code | |||||||||
The corporate world requires a well groomed and polished professional image. Whether you are an assistant, executive, managing partner or CEO, your dress code should reflect the job you want, not the job you have! Today’s professional business world is diverse, if are unsure what is appropriate in the office, simply observe the environment and take note of what your boss wears. If you are the boss, think about the message you want to send to your employees and lead by example. Professional business attire is relatively formal which makes it easy to combine simple, classic, or subtle looks. The following tips are a guide to help men dress business professional in a corporate environment. Appropriate professional dress code includes the following: • The Suit: Your suit should be well tailored and conservative. This is the most important and basic piece of your professional wardrobe. Every gentleman should have at least two great suits, one being a 3-piece set. Preferred suit colors include: Black, Navy and a medium shade of Grey. Avoid loud and distracting patterns. Fine pinstripes or window panes are acceptable as long as they are subtle and appear professional. If you have a long torso or bulky upper body, a three-button suit jacket is better for your frame. Heavier set men carry the bulk of their weight in the torso area which includes the chest, waist, and seat area in which case, it is best to find a three-button suit jacket with double vents in the seat. If you have an average or narrow torso then you will need a two-button jacket with a single vent. The office environment is not the place to try out the latest and greatest fashion trends. If your feeling creative and are in the market for a higher end suit, try a bespoke style. Bespoke suits are custom made from scratch to your exact measurements. You can pick out your own fabric, lining, styling and details including buttons and lapel styles. Whether your suit is custom made, made to measure, or off the rack you should make sure to pay attention to the following details: The Lapel – the collar or lapel should never be wider than 3 ½” and never smaller than 2 ½”at the widest point. If you are a heavier set man then the lapel should be on the wider end of this scale. A large lapel on narrow frame will make the suit jacket appear too big. There should not be any button holes sewn into the lapel. Many off the rack suit makers use this as a styling tool when in fact, it cheapens the overall look. The fabric – Suiting fabric should be wool blends that range from 80-180. Merino wool is usually a higher quality which will result in less pilling. Pilling is what happens when a natural fabric begins to wear. The face of the fabric becomes worn down and it starts to look fuzzy. A higher quality fabric usually falls within the 120-180 range. These weights are shinier, lighter and drape very well. These fabric qualities are engineered specifically to acquire shape memory and durability as well preserve it’s inherit softness and absorption. The Sleeves – One quick way to sniff out a well made suit are the buttons and button holes. If the button holes are sewn shut with plastic buttons, it is a factory made assembly line piece. If the button holes are not sewn shut, this usually means it was machine or hand sewn with care and precision. Most off the rack suits fall into the first category. The sleeve length should come ½” below the wrist, no exceptions! The Pants – The main thing to avoid with suit pants is the “saggy bottom syndrome”. This happens when the seat is too big which usually means the pants are too big. This also happens if you have the suit pants taken-in around the waist. They may fit in the waist after alterations, but they will still be too big in the thighs and seat area. Make sure you get the right pant size! For the average guy, a flat front pant with no cuff will work best. If you are on the heavier side, try pleats and a cuff to balance out your lower body. • Dress Shirts: The second most important item is the dress shirt. You should always wear a long sleeved shirt. If you were to walk through a law office you would find most employees wearing light blue or white shirts. Clearly these are the most common business professional shirt colors. Every gentleman needs a crisp white dress shirt, there’s no doubt about that! However, there’s nothing worse than seeing these gentleman head out to lunch together. They all look the same which can get a bit uniformed and boring. You can be conservative and professional without looking like everyone else in the office. For a classic and traditional twist; try a French collar and cuff on a light blue or yellow dress shirt. Small navy pinstripes also look great with a French collar and cuff. This is a great way to upgrade the boring traditional styles that everyone else is wearing. If you choose to have custom made or “bespoke” shirts; you have the ability to mix and match collar styles, cuff styles and fabrics. If you have a unique shape or size, then you should definitely go the extra mile to have custom shirts made for you. Some men struggle to find shirts with the appropriate sleeve length. Others buy off the rack shirts that make them look like a flying squirrel. A nice shirt should NOT look like a parachute when you tuck it into your pants. If you are buying an off the rack dress shirt, try a European brand for a slimmer fit. If your shirts make you like a flying squirrel, then take them to the tailor. A good tailor will add a back pleat and take the shirts in on the sides including the chest, waist and seat area. Floating fabric looks sloppy and frumpy! Your dress shirt sleeve should peek out from your suit jacket by ¼”. If you don’t see the shirt sleeve peeking through under the jacket sleeve, then the shirt sleeve is too short! • The Shoes: Keep your shoes simple and polished. Invest in a nice pair of black shoes that will hold up over time. There’s nothing worse than seeing a great suit with worn out shoes. The winter and fall weather is hard on leather so make sure your shoes are conditioned and polished on a regular basis. This will maintain the longevity of the hide. Shoes should be kept in your closet with shoe trees. One pair of shoes trees can work with any pair of shoes. Make the investment, your shoes will thank you! Avoid shoes that have hardware including buckles and logos. Suits that have a narrow leg look best with lace up shoes. Suits with cuffs can be worn with either a lace up or slip on style. Just make sure the sole of the shoe doesn’t come out too far. A wide sole makes the foot look enormous. • The Tie: The most important accessory complimenting professional business attire is the tie. When wearing a dark suit and a light dress shirt; a darker tie is a suitable (no pun intended) choice. When selecting prints just make sure they're conservative and professional. Avoid loud patterns with bright colors. If choosing a stripe, make sure the stripes are a reasonable size. If the tie is printed, then keep it simple. Skinny ties, clip-ons, and double knot 4 fold ties are unacceptable. A ties width should be an average size, usually the width of your four fingers. Anything bigger or smaller is a fashion statement which is inappropriate for the office. Make sure your tie is right length. The tip should come to the waist of your pants. • The Belt: In a professional business environment, a man’s belt is his second most important accessory. The belt should be the same color as your shoes or the same color as your pants. A black belt will usually do the trick for navy, grey and black suits. Keep the belt simple by avoiding over-sized and shiny buckles. Refrain from big logos or initials on the belt buckle as well. Your belt should comfortably fit into the 2nd or 3rd hole. If you’re fastening the belt past the 3rd hole, then it is too big and you will have a lot of access belt to tuck into your belt loops. Suit fabric is genuinely delicate and can’t hold excessive weight. Keep the belt light and thin so you don’t tear the belt loops. If you have a belt that you like but it is too big, take it to the tailor or shoemaker. They can usually cut it down for you and get rid of the access leather overlap. • The Socks: Sock selection is pretty simple; keep the color the same as or one shade lighter than your shoes. Now that you have the Dress for Success recipe; here are some places to shop: • Thomas Pink $ • Ralph Lauren Black Label $$$ • E.C Stitch Custom Clothing $$$ • Kenneth Cole $$B • Burberry $$$ • Boss $$ • Tommy Hilfiger $ • JoSA.Bank $ • Ermenegildo Zegna $$ • Banana Republic $ • Nautica $ | |||||||||
Fashionable Fall/Winter Coat Guide for Men | |||||||||
Stay warm this winter without compromising your style. Men are naturally more concerned with function rather than fashion. However, try not to look like a lumber jack or a fashion victim this winter season by following a few simple guidelines. Our image consultants and fashion consultants want you to know that it is possible to be both warm and stylish. When Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, he may just ask you where you got coat. Men need to step outside their comfort box and play around with different coat styles. If you are wearing your old winter coat from two years ago, chances are you need to update your style. An image consultant can help you update your fashion sense and style. Every season our image consultants shop in New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and DC to help men find a fashionable winter coat. My image expert gathered date from all their image consultants, fashion consultants and personal shoppers in order to bring you a fashionable style guide for men's coats. Don’t be afraid to cough up the cash to make a worthwhile investment. A winter coat takes a lot of abuse throughout the season so you want something that will hold up and weather a storm. A coat is also an important item because it covers everything else making a debut appearance in and out of the day! Nobody ever knows what you have on underneath! Finding the right coat can be a tough choice; you want something that provides ample warmth with a stylish appeal. The following fall/winter coat guide, established by My Image Expert's image consultants and fashion consultants, will help you determine what style and fabric is suitable for your body structure. The Pea Coat is an all-time classic style generally made out of navy or black colored heavy wool. This style was originally worn by European navy sailors in the 19th century and modern renditions have been translated into both men’s and women’s fashion. The pea coat is generally very thick and heavy with a broad lapel and double breasted front. The buttons are very large and the length usually comes just below the seat area for men. Certain garments never go out of style and the pea coat is just one of many. This style is best suited for men with a leaner and longer frame. The wool weight is heavy and thick so naturally a double vested coat will add a lot of extra weight to the upper body. Men that are leaner can afford to have the extra fabric around the chest, midsection and seat area. If you have a large upper body including arms and chest but have skinny legs then should avoid this style at all costs! This thick style will make you look top-heavy and emphasize your smaller waist and legs ultimately making you look like an upside down pear! The pea coat generally looks good on people who are around 5’9” - 6’1” tall with a proportioned upper and lower body. If you are taller than 6’1” then you should try a Bridge Coat style. A bridge coat is a pea coat that just happens to be a bit longer. The length comes past the seat area and extends to the thighs. This is a better style for guys with the same body type but a little extra height. If you are taller and you jacket ends in your seat area, you legs will seem like they run on forever. The pea coat is a classic style that will work with business casual and weekend casual clothing. For great pea coats see: • Paul Smith Melton Pea Coat • PS Paul Smith Black Wool Peacoat • Marc New York Mark Wool Pea Coat • Shades of Greige Moleskin Pea Coat • Calvin Klein Overcoat, Carter Peacoat t • Theory Apollo Frank Coat The Overcoat is best suited for a man who enjoys a distinguished look. This particular style is intended to be worn as the outermost garment and usually extends to, or below the knee. Made from wool, cashmere or a blend of both, the overcoat will makes a lasting impression when paired with a neatly wrapped scarf. The single breasted overcoat is most popular and recommended style. The Lapel can be worn open to expose your shirt and tie or worn closed for added warmth. Navy or black is the color of choice and avoid anything camel or khaki unless you are a New England Aristocrat or fox hunting with a sleuth of hound dogs! If you want to step outside the box of boring dark colors then opt for a pinstriped or subtle check pattern. You can also play around with different scarf patterns for a bit a flavor. Some over coats come with a waist belt option. Most men let these fabric belts hang in back of the coat which may result in disaster. Avoid belted overcoats and try to find something fitted. You can always have the coat altered for a much needed tailored look. Most department stores offer tailoring services. If purchase an overcoat in a department store and decide to have it tailored, make sure the sleeve length is not overlooked. The coat should fit like a sleeping bag or paper bag. Make sure the tailor knows what he is doing because most of them are oblivious. Of course my opinion is bias, but be sure to tell the tailor to fit the jacket in the chest, waist, arms, and seat! Overcoats an also be custom made or bespoke. This takes the guess work out of tailoring and ensures a perfect fit! The over coat style is a great style for most men of average weight and size. If you are below 5’8” then you don’t want to wear a style that comes to your knees. It will swallow your size and look silly so try a shorter style like the bridge coat or car coat. If you are really tall and lean then you should go for a double breasted overcoat. Investing in an overcoat is a long-term investment, especially if it is 100% cashmere! The over coat is a stylish item that will work with business professional, business casual and weekend casual clothing. For great over coats see: • Calvin Klein Overcoat, Stewart Royal BOSS Black "Coxx" Bib Front Wool Jacket • Underground Rock n' Roll Cashmere Pea Coat ( trendy fashion-forward style) • Etro navy plaid wool 3-button overcoat • Signature Cashmere Topcoat (JosA.Bank) • Vivienne Westwood Navy Melton Overcoat • D.A. DANIELE ALESSANDRINI Coat The car coat is a comfortable and stylish solution for the 9-5 commuter. The car coat got its name from the A-line style silhouette, flat front closure and mid thigh length that make it a modern and functional garment. The style features allow for comfortable movement and warmth while driving a car, hence the name. With a flat front center closure, this prevents the garment from bunching like a double breasted coat would and enables driving comfort and movement. The knee length keeps the drivers legs from getting entangled in fabric. Car coats come in a variety of fabrics including wool, tweeds, leather and cotton. They are usually lined with a luxurious silk or polyester blend. A flap or placket usually conceals the button or zippers adding a wind proof barrier. Avoid cotton car coats for the fall or winter because they will not be warm enough. Cotton is not considered a winter coat fabric like wool and cashmere. Leather is a great option as long as there’s a shearling or wool insulate just avoid suede. A car coat is a great style for a heavier set man due to the A-line styling detail. It is the perfect length and weight for someone with a heavier upper torso, midsection or seat area. It has a clean center closure and doesn’t add extra fabric like a double breasted style would. For a cleaner look, try a closed front placket where the buttons or zipper is covered. For a sportier look try a bib front or French placket which allows the closures to be exposed. The cat coat is a modern and pratical item that will work with business professional, business casual and weekend casual clothing. For great car coats see: • BOSS Black "Coxx" Bib Front Wool Jacket • HUGO "Marenius" Black Seamed Coat • BOSS Black "Coxx" Twill Bib Front Jacket • Acne Navy Tweed Symbol Coat • Calvin Klein Wool Fly Front Car Coat • Burberry Wool Blend Car Coat • Burberry 2 in1 Car Coat The signature coat is usually recommended for men with great style and the confidence to dress fashionable. A signature coat is usually a fashion statement or a trendy coat that a guy can wear out on the week nights or weekends that is both warm and stylish. New York fashion week exposed a variety of “one of a kind” coats that are sure to leave lasting impression. Whether you seek a rebel, military, urban or rock and roll look, stylish outerwear options include a more exotic or defined look. Shearlings, velvet, pinstripes, fur, mixed textiles, combined materials, and signature styling are all components that contribute to a unique coat. Try these styles or discover your own: • Armani Jeans "Eco" Shearling Coat • Shearling Trench Coat • Wool Double Cloth Toggle Coat • Oliver Spencer Khaki Plaid Washed Wool Hooded Coat • G-Star Decoy Wool Garber Trench Coat in Black • BOSS Black "Colbert" Military Jacket • HIGH Blazer (Yoox) • Michael Kors Leather Utility Jacket • Moschino Coat With Waxed Taping • BALENCIAGA Coat (Yoox) • DSQUARED2 Coat (Yoox) It is recommended that try these styles on. Many European labels use different sizing specs and coats will vary based on the grading size. My image expert is devoted to providing you the best style solutions; if you need further assistance with outerwear selection, please contact a My Image Expert Image Consultant | |||||||||
Men’s Fashion: What Not to Wear | |||||||||
As a child, teenager, student or world traveler, there were many things you could get away with; now that you’re an adult the same rules simply do not apply! It’s time to take a closer look at your image and fashion sense; you may be offending the people around you and damaging your social life or career. Looking good this fall or winter involves knowing what to wear but is also a lesson in “what not to wear!" The Backpack: This should never be an item of choice unless you are carrying a heavy load of books to the classroom. This is an acceptable bag for hiking or camping only. If you are climbing the corporate ladder, leave the backpack at home. There are other ways to carry stuff hands-free without being viewed as a walking fashion disaster. The key is to find a stylish alternative bag that is not limited to walking and will match most of your garments. Leather duffle bags are good option as long they have a secure closer. If all your stuff falls out when you bend over, it could be a disaster! If most of your garments are on the darker shade for fall, then try a chocolate brown or black leather messenger or duffle bag. The messenger bag is a good option for those who carry a heavier load and walk a lot. It helps to keep papers, documents or folders from bending and crinkling. The shoulder strap is a great way to balance the weight of your load on your back. A duffle back is good for a short commute because you can toss it into the car. This is a great option if you are going to the gym before or after work. The duffle bag is also great for carrying miscellaneous stuff. Either way avoid anything that is canvas or woven cotton, it looks cheap. If you are a young professional, stay away from bags with flashy hardware or outlandish graphics and keep it simple. If you happen to work in a casual creative industry then you have a little more room to express yourself. There are several brands that makes bags from recycled materials like airbags, seatbelts, tires, etc… these also make for great gym bags! Obnoxious Shirts: Wearing over designed shirts is unacceptable for any man. Brands like Ed Hardy with gaudy graphics, rhinestones, and tattoo style art is enough to make anyone vomit. Usually these tee shirts can be seen on men traveling in packs. One shirt is enough to give someone a seizure, let alone 5. Robert Graham is another brand notorious for over designed shirts. The button down shirts include everything from contrasting prints, colors, stitching, graphics and grommets. These shirts are usually accompanied by bedazzled jeans and in some cases, an equally disturbing hat. When men wear over designed garments they are committing fashion suicide. In suburbia, men are limited by their shopping resources and settle by compromising style. If you go to South Beach, you will see 8 in 10 men wearing these obnoxious shirts. Need I say more? The trendsetters who started this look in 2006 have already moved on and so should so you. More suitable casual clothing includes marled v-neck tee-shirts or 2 tone designs that offer a creative edge to an otherwise boring item. Keep it simple with a tonal design and avoid anything that looks like a tattoo shop or graphic artist threw up on it. It’s ok to have button down shirts with contrasting plackets, sleeves or collar bands; just make sure that they are not over designed! The Skinny Jean: When men wear skinny jeans, it is an embarrassment to all men worldwide; there is simply no exception or reason for any man to wear mantyhose. Skinnier or manorexic men can sometimes be found wearing skinny jeans which exposes their pin-like legs and well… the junk in the trunk. This style also being referred to as the “Men in Tights” syndrome and was part of a trend made popular by rock stars. So unless you are plan on being the 4th Jonas brother, just say no to the skinny jean!
Mom Jeans:Yes, men are guilty of wearing this outdated denim style. Obama’s “mom jeans” incident at the MBA All-Star game had fashion bloggers working overtime. The incident has received more press then the actual first pitch itself. Mom jeans are frumpy, high waisted and acid washed jeans that resemble something Jordache made in the 80’s. The style is boxy and simply just outdated! You don’t have to spend a fortune on jeans but you do have to update your style every now and then. It is important for men to wear jeans that are fitted in the seat but looser in the leg area. Dark denim is a better choice of color. It works better to accommodate things in your wardrobe like tee-shirts, button downs, polos and sports jackets. Denim is a casual fabric but dark denim can be dressed up or down based on what you pair it with. Light denim does not have the same appeal and cuts the body in half when worn with darker shirts. Your garments should work together by complimenting one another. If you are holding onto jeans from 5 years ago, chances are they are outdated and worn out. Time also contributes to pilling on the bottom of the jeans as well as wallet marks in the back pocket. For men, jeans are an important tool for a functioning casual or weekend wardrobe. Make sure you spend the time to try on several different pairs. Rock and Republic is a great brand for men’s jeans. A cheaper option is Levis or Banana Republic; just make sure they are DARK denim. Avoid Black jeans and chino colors. Baseball Cap & Trucker Hat: Ball caps were made specifically for those who play the game of baseball. Some armed forces also use baseball caps as part of their uniforms, especially the US Navy. If you decide you are having a swimmingly bad hair day there a variety of hat styles to choose from; a baseball cap is not one of them! The only time one should wear this sporty head gear is to the gym or the beach. Please don’t put it on when you are leaving work in your suit. A Trucker Hat is another form of a baseball hat. It’s also referred to as a “Feed Cap” because feed and farming supply companies used them for promotional giveaways. These were once a popular trend made famous by celebrities like Ashton Kutcher. This trend is long gone so sew your oats and move on. Before you decide to put on a baseball cap or trucker hat opt for more stylish and acceptable head gear like a fedora, fiddler hat (newspaper cap), poor boy cap, or a simple skull cap will suffice!
Multiple Accessories: A man’s most important accessory is his watch. There are a variety of different watches on the market that vary in style and price. Watches with a leather band are considered dress watches to wear with suits. Watches that have a metal band are athletic and sporty to be worn with casual clothing. If you decide you want to layer on necklaces, bracelets or rings; think again! It’s ok to wear a necklace or ring, just keep it simple. Avoid anything loud and obnoxious and if makes noise when you walk, avoid it entirely. If you are wearing big bulky chains or links downsize to something more subtle. White Tube Socks: For the most part, your socks should match your shoe color, pretty simple right? There is no reason why you should waist money on white tube socks. The only time you should even wear white socks in generally is when you are wearing white sneakers. No exceptions! If you do wear white socks with white sneakers then they should be ankle socks not tube socks. When choosing a sock color navy, black, tan and brown are the best options. These will match most of your fall dress shoes. Wool socks or hunting socks should only be worn on snow days or the ski slopes, not with your dress slacks.
Cross Trainers & Sneakers: The only time to wear gym sneakers is in the gym or running outside. Big chunky sneakers look terrible with jeans. If you want to wear comfortable casual shoes try a driver or flat European leather sneaker with a dark sole. Turtlenecks: In the winter time men are guilty of wearing turtle necks and some may even tuck them into their jeans. An equally warm alternative is a V-neck sweater. | |||||||||
In the World of Dating, Appearance is Everything | |||||||||
Online dating, dating coaches and matchmaking companies provide you instant relief when searching for a date or new relationship. What they don’t provide are image and wardrobe services that are the most important tool for successful relationships. In the world of dating, image is everything. Your appearance is very important and plays a key role when it comes to new relationships and first dates. To ensure a successful and lasting first impression, one should consider seeking the help of an Image Consultant. Dating sites provide an unlimited amount of photographs in which members are free to browse. Women will look at your online photos and decide instantly whether they are interested in getting to know more about you. Although shallow, photographs speak a thousand words; none of which you have actually had the chance to say. What do your photos and image say about you to a potential seeker? Matchmaking services rely on the same medium however, they ask their members to provide a steeper fee and promise better results. They essentially set you up on a blind date based on chemistry, photos and attraction. It is important to present an extraordinary self image without making it look obvious. The photos used to represent your on-line self-image should be a clear interpretation of your personality and lifestyle. The goal is to captivate a potential mate and line up a first date. To do so, you will need to focus on one aspect of your image to establish a successful photo. If you have a charming smile, good bone structure, sexy eyes or great hair; a head shot would be ideal to portray your best features. If you are a serial dater and solely rely on matchmaking services or on-line dating to land a relationship; it is best to have some professional photos taken. When prepping for a photo, much like the first date, put some extra TLC into your grooming regimen. Before the photo is taken, make sure you are groomed appropriately. If you have decided to allow a friend take the photos for you (to save costs), you should still adhere to proper grooming techniques. Run down the following checklist prior to the day of your photo-shoot. • Hair: Your hair should be worn in a normal everyday style. If you are planning on getting a haircut or color, then do so prior to your photo shoot. You want your photograph to be a current representation of your appearance. Do not apply an alarming amount of hair gel or products. If you normally wear an excessive amount of products, then it may be time for a new hairstyle! • Skin: Your head-shot is close-up introduction to your face, therefore; your skin should be flawless or at least appear clear and clean. If you have blemishes or breakouts they should be addressed several days prior to your photo-shoot. Last minute solutions will not allow the skin to heal or clear itself in time. Typically, a blemish needs 2-3 days to disappear if taken care of properly. For breakouts or pimples, apply a small amount of raw lemon juice onto the area. You don’t need a lot, just a few drops with your finger. Repeat the process morning and night before your go to bed or until the blemish is gone. • Eyebrows: Uni-brows are unacceptable. Have your eyebrows trimmed and waxed to ensure they are two separate units instead of one. Nail salons usually provide eyebrow waxing services for men. • Shirt: A close-up photograph will usually include a hint of the shirt you wear. Do not wear anything distracting or overtly bright. Wear a T-shirt or button shirt that will add a subtle frame to your face. • Facial hair: If you normally have a clean shaven face, keep it that way for your photo. A 5’o-clock shadow is charming on some men as well. Present your facial hair in a clean and polished way. • Lips: keep your lips soft with chap-stick! Nobody wants to see a close-up of cracked, dry lips. If your facial features are not ready for their close-up then perhaps you should use a full body photograph to represent your image. In addition to the above grooming tips, you will also have to focus on your clothing attire. My Image Expert offers Male Makeovers that will help you with grooming tips and wardrobe selection for your dating life and photo-shoot. Their image consultants recommend wearing something that best portrays your physical attributes, personality and lifestyle. For example, if you are a physical trainer do not wear a 3-piece for your photo-shoot. Wear something that best describes YOU. If you wear a suit to work every day and your wardrobe consists of mostly career and professional clothes, then it is best to utilize these garments to characterize your self-image. Ultimately, you’re dating profile or image should imitate your charm while accenting your personality. In order to orchestrate a successful full body shot you should adhere to the following guideline: • Face the camera: make sure you present a full frontal image. You should not be sitting down, bending over or skydiving. The picture should only include one person; you! • Make eye contact: Your eyes are the window to your soul. Be sure to look at the camera when taking a proper photo. If you are shy then look just above the camera or slightly to the left or right. When women look at your photo, they want to feel a connection. • Perfect posture: It is important to look relaxed while maintaining good posture otherwise you could come across as being awkward. Find a comfortable, practical pose and own it! • Your self-image will also be judged by your clothing selections. Wear clothes that are ideal for your image. Clothing makes the man so your selection should be subtle, clean, stylish and savvy. This will be discussed again below. • Current: your photo should represent your image in a current way. Backdrops and silly props are perceived as, “trying too hard” and outdated. You do not want women to think you’re behind the times or stuck in a time capsule. Once you have put together a successful image for your dating profile photo, you will then need to focus on the actual date itself. In the world of dating and relationships, image is everything. The first date can make or break you in a matter of seconds. Just like men, women know right away whether they are attracted or interested in you. You will be scored instantly based on your image and body language so it is crucial to ensure a lasting first impression. You appearance will be the first thing your date notices; make sure you are groomed and dressed accordingly. The same grooming tips above still apply in a real life situation but since you are presenting yourself in-person you will need to take a few extra steps. Women spend a lot of time preparing for a first date and will appreciate the extra effort so be sure to: • Make sure you smell nice. A subtle hint of cologne should do the trick. Try to wear a warm scent and avoid anything sweet or cheap. If your aftershave is scented, that will provide enough musk. Don’t overkill your masculine scent by wearing too much cologne or mixing smells together. When you lean in to give your date a kiss on the cheek or a hug, you don’t want her gasping for air. • Have clean skin. If you face is dry or chapped, then moisturize it throughout the day prior to your date. Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells, so you may want to take the extra step if needed. Your date will be steadily focused on your face so make sure your skin is in good condition. • Offer soft hands. Then nothing worse than hands that feel like sand paper. • Make sure you don’t have bad breathe. This should speak for itself. When arriving on a first date, your image will speak for itself. You should always dress appropriately for the occasion. Whether formal or casual, a man should always dress for success! Your clothing selection should be neat and well put together. Don’t be adventurous by trying a new style or trend; be yourself. If you are wearing a button down shirt make sure it is clean, crisp and has a firm collar. Wear jeans that are dark denim and fitted properly. For some extra flair, try a cardigan or v-neck sweater. Make sure you have a nice coat to wear with your outfit. Even though you will be taking it off, it will be the first thing your date sees. Make sure your shoes are clean and presentable! If it’s a casual date, be sure to go the extra mile and wear something other than a slogan t-shirt. Do not wear anything branded or overdesigned. Stay away from Ed hardy type shirts and save the hidden messages for another time! Keep in mind whatever image you project on the first date will have to be maintained throughout the dating process. If you show up on the first date in a well kept suit and then arrive at your second date in a rugged shirt and khakis you have falsely mislead your counterpart. Search your wardrobe or have an image consultant help arrange “date” outfits that you can wear periodically. Image consultants can help you navigate your current wardrobe to maximize different outfits you already have. They have the ability to create outfits that you might otherwise overlook to ensure many different outfit combinations and looks. For more information about a men’s makeover please call one of our consultants who will be glad to assist you with a successful dating image and profile!
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What Not to Wear to Work | |||||||||
My Image Expert’s image consultants help many individuals develop practical and stylish clothing solutions that are suitable for the office or a job interview. A professional image should consist of clean, polished, stylish and comfortable clothing that will successfully express your professionalism and career goals. Your image should represent the job you want not the job you have and successfully integrate the identity of the company in the process. When selecting career clothing it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the office dress code. Many people assume what is acceptable to wear to work and overlook the basic rules of a professional wardrobe. Every office has at least one person who breaks the rules with little regards to the corporate dress code established for employees. Our image consultants have the inside tips on “What not to Wear to Work” to minimize wardrobe malfunctions in the office. Whether you are interviewing for a new job, applying for a promotion or have just been promoted; follow these simple rules to ensure your professional image is helping - not hurting your career goals. Head Gear and Commuter Accessories: Before you step into the office be sure to remove all of your headgear including hats and sunglasses. Wearing a hat indoors is considered impolite and instantly draws negative attention. Removing your head accessories inside an office or home is considered to be sign of respect and good manners. To be politically correct, one should also remove hats anytime you're in a place of worship, restaurant, cafe or elevator. In a professional environment one should avoid wearing a baseball cap on their way to work because once it is removed, you will have hat head. Your hair should be cleaned and properly groomed when you step into the office. It is important to allow your co-workers and employer an unobstructed view of your face to ensure effective communication and eye contact. Hats make it impossible to see your face and turning the brim sideways is unacceptable, not mention; no one will take you seriously! Other things to avoid are commuter accessories like sunglasses, head phones and blue tooth devices. Take your sunglasses off your face and head when you walk in to the lobby. Place them into a protective case and tuck them away in your briefcase or lab-top bag. Be sure to remove your headphones from your ears and around your neck before you step into the office. Some companies will allow their employers to wear headphones while working. If you work in a creative industry like graphic design or CAD design, the majority of work is computer related with minimal person to person contact and you may have headphones on all day while listening to music. While this may help time pass; it is considered disrespectful and may annoy other employees. If your goals are to grow within a company then avoid headphones at all costs! Back Packs or Fanny packs: Leave the backpacks at home or trade it in for a professional briefcase or lab-top bag. The only time you should wear a back pack is if you’re a college student, camping or hiking up the mountains. There’s nothing worse than seeing a middle aged man or young professional wearing a suit and backpack. Not only does it look ridiculous but rest assured that you will not be taken seriously by your co-workers. If you find it necessary to take a bag to work with you for a lab-top or after work gym session, than invest in a professional carrying bag. Try to find a dark brown or black leather bag that is simple and basic. Avoid cheap materials, logos, graphics and duffle bags. Our image consultants recommend a leather bag from Mat & Nat or any of the following: • Zegari Barcelona Bag • Acme Slim Cargo Bag • Tumi Alpha Limited Edition T-Pass Bag A stylish lab-top or leather carrying bag is hard to come by for men. If you need help finding a great bag for work than you may want to contact one of our personal shoppers or image consultants who have unlimited brand recommendations to give you. Whatever you do, avoid the backpack and fanny pack entirely. Annoying Ties: Avoid wearing ties that are distracting colors and patterns. Never use your ties to spread holiday cheer through the office or to amuse a co-worker with silly graphics and prints. Your ties should match your suit and shirt and compliment the color contrasts between the two. Wearing fabrics other then silk is never a good idea and will make your suit look cheap. Try to find silk ties that have a dark base color like Navy, Burgundy or Black with subtle printed or pattern designs. Keep your mistletoe ties for holiday parties amongst friends (if you dare) and maintain a specific level of professional and good taste when selecting hidden conversation ties. Jewelry: Men should avoid wearing jewelry other than a watch and wedding band. This includes silver/gold hardware or brand name hardware that can be found on certain designer shoes. D&G is notorious for branding their mens dress shoes with silver hardware or buckles. Keep it simple and clean without dangling distractions. Leather Bomber Jackets: If your job requires business professional or business casual attire then avoid wearing leather jackets, specifically bomber jackets. When wearing dress slacks, suits and blazers, one should invest a dress coat that is long in length like trench coat. A nice cashmere or wool coat usually will do the trick. Leather coats are considered a casual and relaxed style and should not be mixed with career type clothing. Keep your leather coats for social events or gatherings where jeans and sweaters are acceptable. Worn-out Shoes: Believe it or not, you can tell a lot about a man by his shoes. When your shoes are clean and polished it illustrates your attention to fine details. Scuffed up shoes paired with a crisp suit looks sloppy and dirty. When taking the extra step to present a clean and polished image in the work place, many forget to include footwear. Try to find a black leather lace-up shoe for suits; lace-ups tend to hold up longer then slip on styles. They also look professional and have a pointed toe that makes the foot appear longer and leaner instead of wide and heavy. Be sure to include these “What not to Wear” tips into your office wardrobe to ensure a professional image. Keep your headphones and hats for the commute home and remember to maintain a professional image at all times. Plan out your work wardrobe in advance to ensure your garments are clean and pressed. For more information or help regarding a professional image please contact one of our image consultants who can assist your further. You can also read our men's makeover article for more "what not to Wear" tips! | |||||||||
Tips for a More Stylish Life | |||||||||
We receive an overwhelming amount of emails from men seeking style advice, grooming tips and fashion counsel. Our featured article section addresses many of these style questions by providing answers and advice. However, because we receive a number of emails directed to our “Ask Erika” column from men seeking style advice, we decided to feature a Q&A article that allows us to answer these style questions with short and precise answers. This is a great if you are a “just give me the bottom line” kind of man. Some of the men’s style questions we receive cannot be answered in a full article so My Image Expert will start a forum where you can post your men’s style or fashion questions. We will answer these questions by providing helpful and practical solutions. Please send your style or image questions to the “Ask Erika” column on the top right hand side of our websites home page. The following questions have been submitted by men all over the world whom are seeking expert advice for style and grooming related issues: Teeth Whitening for men
Q: I am reluctant to get my teeth whitened. Is this something I should have done professionally?
A: Unfortunately, most people don’t pay enough attention their teeth until they reach 30. When you’re a teenager, the idea of following a proper routine for great teeth involves a dental visit with an occasional teeth cleaning. However, when you get older you realize you're stuck with the same neglected teeth unless undergoing replacement surgery. It is a must to follow a daily routine to ensure great teeth and an unforgettable smile. Men should floss daily and brush two times a day or after each meal. Keep water picks nearby in your car or office. If you can’t afford to spend a small fortune on a new Hollywood smile, then you must take good care of your teeth. There’s nothing worse than greeting someone who bears a yellow smile or stained teeth. If your teeth have encountered too many cups of coffee, acidic foods, or cigarettes; than it is a great idea to revitalize those pearly whites. See your dentist about whitening procedures or ask about having molds made for your teeth. Molds are like a mouth guard that is custom fitted to your teeth and mouth. You use them once a month with a whitening formula that has a lower level of bleaching concentrate to protect tooth enamel. You can re-use these molds whenever necessary. If you are a “do it yourself” kind of man; try crest whitening strips. These also work very well and the results last up to 6-8 months.
Chest Hair Trimming
Q: My chest hair is thick and long which sticks out through the top of my shirt. I want to groom this area but I am not sure if it is better to use a razor, scissors, or wax? What do you recommend is the best way to handle this unruly area?
A: For men, waxing can be rather painful and can leave you feeling strip of your manhood. It is best to use an electric razor that has an attachment. If the hair is very long it should be trimmed first and then apply the razor with an attachment that will automatically shave the hair down to ¼ ". Balding Head
Q: I am losing the hair on the top of my head. It is thicker on the sides above my ears but scarce everywhere else. Should I shave my head, do you think I can pull it off?
A: Sometimes you just need to let go. Holding onto those few hairs that seemingly grow on the side of your head can look ridiculous. It may boost your self esteem to embrace a fully bald head as opposed to a half bald head. When people ask why you shave your head you can just say, “It’s a fashion statement!” This is ultimately a cleaner and more sophisticated look for any balding man. If you are going to shave your head, please don’t accent it with unruly facial hair. Keep your head and face clean. Many men will contemplate shaving before they actually make the decision to do so. It’s a style change that will give you a new look for the better. The horseshoe or comb-over style is never a good idea and looks silly. Just let go and embrace change!
MANicure
Q: My friend is getting married and I am the best man. Should I step it up and get a manicure? Do men get manicures, is this socially acceptable?
A: Keeping good hygiene is universal and definitely socially acceptable. Your fingernails should be clipped, clean and filed down so that the length is appropriate. This should be a grooming habit that is done regularly not just in the event of a special occasion. Some men may struggle with the idea of walking into a nail salon to get a manicure. If you feel uneasy about this part of the process then simply do it on your own in the privacy of your own home. Make sure that once you clipped the nails, you file the ends down so that they are round and not rigged.
Pant Cuffs on My Suit
Q: I need to get a new suit for work. I have seen some guys wearing cuffed suit pants and would like to know if I too should get cuffed pants?
A: As a designer and wardrobe consultant, I recommend looking at the style of the suit first. For example; if the pants are pleated, then they should have cuffed (or turn-up) bottoms. This helps to balance out the weight and bulk of the fabric in the panel and seat area. Pleated suit pants are the best style for heavier set men. If you fall into the leaner category, then you should definitely opt for flat pants with no cuff. Flat front pants should never have a cuff and pleated pants should! Pleats do not go in and out fashion; they are a design element engineered to ensure all body types a proper fit.
Pant Bulge
Q: There seems to be a lot of men wearing tight, skinny jeans that exposes the bulge in their crotch region. Is this a new trend?
A: Bad style and fashion choices are never a trend! Celebrities and A-listers alike are notorious for this unflattering look. Tight pants were not made for men and are never a flattering look. Whether it’s an 80’s hair band or a rapper named Kanye West; nobody wants to see the details of your package. However, your pants should fit you properly without excess fabric looming in the thighs or seat. Try a fitted boot cut style instead of a skinny pant to protect your man hood and alleviate crotch bulge. Make sure the inseam is a suitable length thatis fitted but allows enough room for your package to be delivered. What Color Socks
Q: I have heard many different things when it comes to selecting the right sock color. Can you clarify the rules, if any?
A: It’s a simple rule and yes, I will clarify it for you and all the other readers. When wearing a suit, your socks should match your pant color. It can also be a shade lighter or darker, but keep it close in color. If you are wearing blue jeans, chances are your shoes will either be brown or black. In this case you can wear black, navy or brown socks. The rules change for blue jeans because denim is a heavy fabric whereas wool suiting fabric is not. It shifts around more frequently and creeps up when you’re sitting which exposes your socks and shoes.
Cuff Links with Casual Attire
Q: Some of my button down shirts have French cuffs which I wear to work with my suits. I keep a pair of jeans in my office to change into if I am meeting friends after work for a casual get together. Is it ok to wear a button down dress shirt with jeans if it has French cuffs?
A: French cuffs are definitely better suited for professional business attire as opposed to casual clothing. If the shirt is white or blue then avoid pairing it with jeans or any other garments that are not business professional. White and blue dress shirts tend to be the most traditional colors for button down work shirts. Adding a French cuff to these colors makes it a formal traditional classic style. You should keep some alternative shirts in the office for emergency situations or last minute casual plans. If you have a French cuffed shirt that is dark in color then you can pair it with dark denim jeans and a sport jacket or blazer with a dress shoes. This is a dressier form of casual style that may be accpetbale depending on what city you live in.
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Look Cool While Staying Warm | |||||||||
Our image consultants are at it again! Shuchi Sharma, My Image Expert's New York image consultant shares some tips for men on “How to Look Cool while Staying Warm". When Jack Frost is nipping at your nose and the ground is covered in snow it is important to dress weather appropriate. Our New York image consultants all agree that men don’t have to compromise style for comfort. When winter has you down, take the high road and find the silver lining by following our image consultants style guide below. Clothing
There are plenty of shirt options available for men when it comes to staying fashionably warm throughout winter. One of the best ways to upgrade your style is simple: layer your look with the right under garments and accessories. Our New York image consultants recommend using basic garments such as thermal undershirts, henley t-shirts, wife beaters, v-neck and cotton tees as your first layer. Next, try adding a button-down shirt or V-neck sweater. V-neck sweaters are great because you can combine a v-neck and crew neck t-shirt underneath to create diverse colored layers. Another current fashionable option is to invest in a plaid flannel shirt. Our image consultants have seen this look all over the designer runways. Wear a neutral colored crew t-shirt underneath and finish the look with a pull-over sweater or sport jacket. This is a suitable casual look that will keep you warm and stylish. When layering a look, try to incorporate 3-4 different layers. If you are adding in a fourth layer, like a sports jacket; make sure the layers underneath are thin and fitted. No bulky or chunky sweaters. Start out with this simple layering recipe until you get the hang of it: • Layer 1: White sleeveless crew neck undershirt (wife beater) • Layer 2: Light grey V-neck Tee shirt • Layer 3: Brown or Navy pull over v-neck sweater, Make sure the opening in the neck is long enough to pass the collar bone • Layer 4: Black or Navy solid blazer • Layer 5: Pattern or solid colored scarf Wearing sweaters to stay cozy during the fall and winter seasons is a no-brainer. However, there are endless styles available to ensure a more sophisticated and thought out look. A thick cable-knit, cowl neck sweater will help add a modern twist to any casual look. Similar to thick scarves, cowl necks that are bulky and reach to the jaw line will give you a sophisticated look. You can wear it under a blazer with tailored trousers for a business casual look or you can pair it with jeans and a khaki trench coat for a subtle and casual appeal. Our New York image consultant Shuchi also recommends trying a cardigan sweater for an equally appealing look. In addition to large cowl-neck sweaters, cardigan sweaters have been seen all over falls runways and at many retail stores.
Blazers
As mentioned above, layer 4 is the icing on the cake. A fitted sport jacket or blazer will effectively complete any layered look. Blazers and sport jackets made of thicker and more durable materials are a better choice for the cold weather season. A wool or cashmere sports jacket in a dark-colored plaid or stripe pattern can help you recreate looks from Paul Smith’s fall collection. Try wearing a thin hooded sweater under your blazer or sport jacket to create a relaxed and stylish casual look. Cashmere spors jackets tend to have a heavier price tag. If it’s not in your budget, our image consultants recommend a wool blend or tweed sport jacket. Either way, keep the color or pattern neutral with dark shades of brown or navy. Here’s the recipe to try at home: • Layer 1: White or neutral crew neck t-shirt • Layer 2: Solid pull-over hooded sweater (Tan, Grey, or Light Blue) • Layer 3: Wool or Cashmere patterned sport jacket • Layer 4: Wool or cashmere solid scarf Coat
Any image consultant or wardrobe expert would agree that a fitted topcoat is a must-have item for fall. This garment is the one thing that you will wear repeatedly throughout the colder season. When selecting a topcoat make sure to pay attention to important details such as fit, style and versatility. This coat should be an investment piece and should withstand several winters to come. Consider purchasing a classic style that has current style details and embellishments. A well-fitted pea coat, trench style top coat or a fitted driving coat are all stylish options that will help you look cool and stay warm. Our image consultants recommend classic materials like cashmere and wool. John Varvatos collection had many great examples of fashionable garments made of classic fall and winter materials.
Bottoms
There are many casual bottoms available to keep you warm and fashionable during the cold season. Flannel plaid bottoms, waxed cotton denim, corduroy trousers and heavy cargo pants are all stylish options. Traditional protective materials are commonly used by many designers to make updated and weather resistant garments. For example, storm-breaker rain pants and snow pant bottoms have revolutionized over the years and look great when worn with the right winter boots. By finding sleek cut bottoms made out of these materials, you are sure to look cool whether you are skiing or not!
Accessories
With the evolution of fashion, men are no longer limited to beanies and simple winter hats to keep warm. There are many stylish hat options to choose from, for example: A plaid trapper hat, an over-sized beanie or a fur Russian hat are all up-to-date styles. Fur and leather hats compliment dressy attire and are versatile because they can also flatter your casual look. As for colors, your safest option is to choose a black or grey hat color that will match most jackets, gloves and scarves. If your coat is brown or neutral, consider mix-and-matching earth tone-colored hats and accessories to complement your look. Stores like Banana Republic, Armani Exchange, the Gap and Club Monaco carry well-priced hats. Our image consultants recommend matching your accessories with your coat for a complete and stylish look.
Scarves are a great accessory that you can and should incorporate into your wardrobe. Our New York image consultants agree that most men don’t wear scarves because they don’t know how to wrap them around their neck. Don’t be afraid to ask your image consultant to show you how to wrap a scarf properly. If you are shopping on your own, then ask the sales associate to show you. Once you learn the right way to wear a scarf, you will be grateful. This accessory not only keeps you warm and protected, but it can be found in various colors and patterns which will be sure to help complement any outfit. When purchasing a scarf, consider its length and thickness. To create a clever look, consider a scarf that is long enough to wrap around the neck two or three times and still have its ends reach mid-torso. Thicker and bulkier scarves are usually knit and keep you the warmest. They look great when worn with a wool coat or even a leather jacket, making them a versatile accessory. Sleeker scarves made of fabrics such as cashmere or wool is much thinner than knitted scarves, but still keeps you warm. Keep in mind that these scarves also complement a suited look very nicely. When you purchase winter gloves, make sure to consider styles that are warm, water-resistant, durable and breathable. Leather gloves are a great option as they protect you from winter weather and will add some flair to your look. For example, some leather gloves are available with fur lining or insulate to add a subtle element of sophistication. For a more rugged look, consider a motorcycle or driving glove with modern embellishments. Leather gloves are available in many colors, lengths and styles that can be paired with a trench or leather jacket. Mittens are more casual than leather gloves, as they are often knitted or felted. They differ from gloves because they house all fingers in one opening. In addition to keeping your hands warm, they have been used to accessorize the runways collections of designers like Marc Jacobs. Mittens can be paired up with other knitted hats and scarves and go well with many types of outerwear.
Footwear
Finding footwear that not only keeps you dry and warm but that is also considered fashionable is not nearly as difficult as it once was. For men, there is a diverse and endless selection of shoes available to compliment different occasion. To combat the winter cold our image consultants recommend that you look for footwear that is constructed of materials that repel water. Our New York image consultant suggests a trendy version of the classic lace- up boot or work boot. This will go great with jeans and layered tops. A lace up boot will give you a polished, rugged and masculine appeal. Brands to consider are: Timberland, Kenneth Cole and Diesel. For a more fashionable appeal, our image consultants agree you should consider styles that have waxed laces and fur lining. The winter riding boot is also a great option for the fashion forward man. Its water resistant exterior and longer length not only meets functionality needs, but also adds to the style factor. This shoe option can be paired up with many bottoms ranging from tweed trousers to skinny jeans
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The Power of Personal Image | |||||||||
Whether personal or professional, your image is an important aspect to individual success. It is often overlooked, but in no way should your image or personal appearance be ignored. A study conducted by the National Science and Education Institute says that approximately 75%-80% of learning is acquired through sight. That’s an astounding fact and just based on this fact alone, it’s obvious that our personal appearance, image and presentation should be at the top of our list. Most of what we think or feel towards someone is being recorded at a subconscious level. So that being said, it is important to consider your personal appearance and how it affects you and others.
With a positive personal image you effectively boost self-confidence and overcome any anxiety that will effect your emotions regarding ability or acceptance. When you appear well-dressed and groomed for the occasion, you feel more comfortable, confident and productive. Your image is the one personal characteristic that is blatantly obvious and revealed to other people instantly. You can’t hide it. Your personal/professional image makes a strong statement about your personality, values, interests and goals. When you appear well-dressed and properly groomed, you create a positive impression that others are sure to notice. If you want to change your life, boost your self confidence, improve your personal relationships or get a promotion at work; start by doing an honest assessment of yourself. An image consultant can help you with the purpose at hand by providing image management services. In order to maintain a flawless image, here are a few simple basic guidelines to follow prior to contacting an image consultant: • Always wear fresh smelling clothing. – do not wear work clothing in the evening and then wear the same clothes into the office the next or following day. Fibers retain and absorb odors, the worst thing you can do is show up to the office smelling like booze or stale cigarette smoke. Febreze and/or cologne is no exception to this rule! Cologne does not cover up a stale smell, it makes it worse. For a fresh and clean image, keep your work wardrobe separate for the occasion at hand. • Never wear anything twice in 48 hours unless it has been washed – I don’t think I need to elaborate on this one • Shoes polished and in great condition. Torn, worn out shoes with broken or faded heels are unacceptable. Grungy shoes can easily destroy a great outfit. when you take the time to put together a great outfit you can easily disrupt a successful image by wearing the wrong shoes. Think your outfits through, all the way down to the shoes on your feet. • No open toe shoes – many companies have a dress policy that employees sometimes fail to read or recognize. I can assure it says, "no open toe shoes, sandals, or flip flops." This is considered unprofessional and nobody wants to see or smell your feet. For women, our image consultants recommended a light weight pump or small peep toe shoe for the summer and warm months. • Pants always clean and pressed. A reoccurring stain will be noticed and will earn you a label of sloth. Your pants may become creased when you sit down for your morning commute into the office, but make sure they are pressed so that there are no wrinkles. Wrinkled clothes and creased clothes are not the same thing. • Socks dark blue or black and no holes on the heels or toes – for men: socks should be the same color as your suit pants or dress slacks. Our image consultants agree you should wear navy socks or colors that match your shoes when wearing jeans. • Stay in tune with the times: buy and wear what is in style. – Wearing clothes that are out-dated send the message that you are behind the times. You want to present yourself in a current and up-to- date fashion. Your personal image should be age appropriate and translate into words that are relevant. • Browse fashion magazines -No shame for a guy to browse GQ in the bookstore. This will give you an idea of different ways to create outfits and step up your style sense. For women, this is a great way to find suggestions on how to style your garments. • Shirts - remember, “ring around the collar” is unacceptable. If the dry cleaner can’t remove it, time for a new shirt. This will also earn you a label of sloth. White shirts easily retain sweat stains so try buying darker colors. • No faded fabrics or discolored garments – get rid of garments that are faded and worn out. They look tired and old. You clothes should always appear fresh and crisp. • If you smoke make sure you don’t smell like stale tobacco. It’s disgusting and people will judge you based on that fact alone. • Smokers and heavy red wine, coffee and tea drinkers use a teeth whitener. You want to ensure your smile makes a good lasting impression. Your smile is the first thing people notice on your face keep it clean and maintain fresh breath. • Don’t wear an overwhelming amount of cologne or perfume. You don’t want people gasping for air when you pass by or share an elevator with them • Men when shaving be clean and trim your sideburns and the hair on the back of your neck! • Body weight; stay trim first for your own health. It is a judgmental world and as good as you may be at your job it’s the man or woman that is perceived to care enough about their total appearance that gets the job or date for that matter. Stay in touch with your body and health. This will in turn be self rewarding. • Wear garments that fit your body. Get clothes that compliment you and do not tear down the image you want to portray. Make sure you clothing fits you properly from the shirt to the shoes! • Avoid loud and distracting clothing. It disrupts the work environment and some people may find it offensive Once you have read over the image management guidelines provided by our image consultants, the next step is to create your individual style in a way that communicates a powerful personal appearance. If you are serious about your appearance, you should seek the help of an image consultant. With image management services, an image consultant allows you to become more aware of how your clothing and grooming affect the way you think, feel, and act along with how others will react to you. Your appearance is one situation factor you can generally control. While there is no one-and-only right way to look , the selection and coordination of clothing, with attention to proper fit and care is essential. An image consultant understands this best and helps individuals create an appropriate, current, relative, attractive and affordable appearance. Make the power of personal image work for you! Own Your Image.
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