Mystery solved: tips for a better image from an image-consulting sleuth
One of the advantages of writing about an image consultant-turned-sleuth has been the research. Sure, I get to delve into interesting things like murder weapons, legal ethics, corporate misdeeds and police procedure, but I also need to dive into real-world image consulting. Anyone who has read KILLER IMAGE will tell you that Allison is into much more than fashion, but the crux of her professional life is helping others succeed. And part of that success is cultivating a great image. I think Allison would tell you that a great image starts with a great self-image. And the basis for a healthy self-image is learning to recognize the beauty and worth that lies within.
Here are a few Allison-approved tips for feeling and looking good based on my research for KILLER IMAGE and my own background in counseling:
Cultivate gratitude. A good image starts with positive feelings about yourself. Too often, we judge ourselves by what we are not rather than what we are. Learn to love and appreciate the inherent beauty of your own body. When we stop to appreciate all the things our bodies can do, we cultivate positive feelings of gratitude. So next time you feel like criticizing yourself for some perceived physical flaw, concentrate on the positive and think about the things you and your body can accomplish.
Nurture your body. Take care of your body and that care will show. Treat yourself with healthy food, plenty of water and regular exercise. While it’s tough to avoid stress, learn techniques for handling stress in healthier ways–go for a walk, write in a journal, talk to a friend or counselor, meditate, take a relaxing bath, get a massage. The key is finding what works for you.
Watch your posture. Good posture can help you feel better and project confidence. Confidence is incredibly alluring!
Learn to accept compliments. I will admit, I am terrible at this. When someone says something nice, I immediately feel awkward and want to respond with something self-deprecating to cover it up. Don’t! Learn to make eye contact, say “thank you” and leave it at that.
Wear clothes that make you feel good. Comfort is important–avoid anything too restrictive or tight that could make you feel self-conscious. Think about the style you want to project, and then choose clothes that fit you well and make you feel good while projecting the look you want. Below are a few things I learned about balancing fashion and comfort:
· Invest in a few good pieces. Pay attention to the details and focus on quality over quantity. Good pieces–including good shoes–can go a long way toward creating a fashionable image while maintaining comfort. A few basic, well-constructed pieces that fit your body appropriately can be the basis for a great wardrobe. Don’t feel like you need to be a slave to whatever is the latest trend. It’s more important that you choose clothes and shoes that give you confidence. Again, confidence is sexy.
· Consider before you buy. Take a hard look at your closet. What do you wear regularly? What have you bought with the idea that it would look great, but in actuality you hardly ever wear it–either because it doesn’t fit right, is uncomfortable or because, while appealing, it doesn’t reflect the way you want to appear? Be thoughtful about your purchases and learn from your own buying history.
· Add a splash of color. Even if you have a job that requires very conservative apparel, you can add flash with color. For example, a black or charcoal suit can be livened up with a colorful blouse, a fun scarf or a pair of shoes in an unexpected hue.
· Accessorize. Comfortable basics can be paired with jewelry, scarves, bags and watches. This is another way to add color to a neutral wardrobe or to add flash in a way that doesn’t compromise how you feel in your clothes. Plus, for those of us on a budget, accessories that cost less can help to stretch out a limited wardrobe. I struggle with accessorizing (silver hoops are my go-to), but when I dress for my day job, I try to channel Allison. Accessorizing is a simple way to perk up an image.
Do things you love. When your mind and body are engaged in activities you feel passionate about, the enthusiasm shows in the way you express and carry yourself. So, most importantly, remember to keep the joy in your life and have fun!
Killer Image Blog Tour
Information:
About the Author:
Wendy Tyson's background in law and psychology has
provided inspiration for her mysteries and thrillers. Killer Image,
published by Henery Press in October 2013, is the first novel in the Allison
Campbell mystery series. She has also
authored The Seduction of Miriam Cross,
published by E-Lit Books, the first in the Delilah Percy Powers mystery
series. Find Wendy at www.WATyson.com.
Connect & Socialize with Wendy!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
About
the Book:
As Philadelphia
When
Allison’s latest Main Line client, the
fifteen-year-old Goth daughter of a White House hopeful, is accused of the
ritualistic murder of a local divorce attorney, Allison fights to prove her
client’s innocence when no one else will. But unraveling the truth brings
specters from her own past. And in a place where image is everything, the
ability to distinguish what’s real from the facade may be the only thing that
keeps Allison alive.
No comments:
Post a Comment