As I wind down with the makeover of the new site I was thinking the site looks great and reflects all the services that we offer but some may still wonder, “why should I work with an Image Consultant?”   While I have several reasons of why anyone would benefit from working with an Image Consultant let’s talk about the top 5.

Top 5 Reasons to Work with an Image Consultant:

So, does image consulting cure all the ails of the world? Of course not. But looking good and feeling great about yourself  can be a cure for what ails you.  Don’t put yourself and your personal needs on hold for one more day. You deserve to get dressed – not just in clothes, but also in style – your style.

Ready to have your own Personal Image Consultant?  Give me a  call.  I would love to help give you that special attention you deserve.

Have you ever stood in front of the mirror and noticed that your outfit lacked something but you didn’t know what?  I’m sure  you tried adding accessories or playing with different combinations and finally you found something that worked. But,  do you know why it worked?  Understanding the “why”  will help lesson the number of times that this happens to you.

Think of the “why” in terms of  the “Rule of Three’s.”  To give an outfit a finished look three elements or items of interest are needed.  The three can come from any of the following:

1. The number of solid colors (shades of the same hue count as one)

2.  The layering of fabric and/or garments

3. The texture of the fabrics

4. Any accessories on the garment

5. Any prints or patterns.

You can complete an outfit by using the rule of 3 and adding a third design element. Try it and see what a difference it makes in putting together your outfits.  Once you find a combination that works, take a picture of it so you’ll remember what to do next time.  Looking for an app that will help you with your wardrobe?  Try “Closet Lite”.   It’ll help you keep your outfits organized.

White shirts have grown in stature.  The collared, button down crisp white shirt has now become over-sized,asymmetrical, short-sleeved or sleeveless, and it’s in some cases can be large enough to be worn as a dress. These are just a few new inventive ways to wear the classic white shirt.

Pants come in nearly as many versions as shoes.  In warm weather you may go for the cropped pant.  Skinny pants are still going strong but remember, they are not for everyone.  Pants in different colors will be hot as well as shorts and short suits.  So, what pants will you try?

Jackets will be in leather and can be paired with distressed jeans. Oversized jackets are coming out this spring in bright colors as well as black and white. If your style is more classic, go for the double breasted jacket.  Or, if you want to be more ladylike, try a short jacket that just barely hits the waist.  If it’s really hot and you’ve been working on toning your arms, this is the season to try a sleeveless jacket.

Belts are skinny this season.  The minimalist belt will show the shape of your body but is more of an accent piece.  If you want to make a bigger statement, layer the skinny one with a wider belt.  Try a belt with details such as multiple buckles, lace or ruffles.

Stripes-there is a version for everyone.  I know you are thinking, “but I heard some stripes make you look wider.”  If that is a concern for you,we can think of other creative ways to help you wear this trend.  Sailor stripes are classic but this year the stripes go up and down, around and even diagonally in dresses, blouses, pants,shoes and purses.  Try vertical stripes with horizontal ones or try wearing small stripes paired with large stripes.

Are you wondering how you will personalize your look this season?  Don’t wonder for longer. Contact me at Your Total Image and I will help you make friends with some new trends.

Want a complete listing of this seasons trends?  Go to www.yourtotalimage.net and sign up to receive our upcoming Spring Trends newsletter.

1.  Keep your wardrobe of separates down to two or three basic colors for maximum versatility and ease.

2. Do not spend alot of money on here today gone tomorrow trend items.

3.  Buy wardrobe foundation garments including coats and shoes in the best quality you can afford.

4.  Keep impulse shopping to a minimum.  I know, easier said than done.

5.  Only shop when you know what you want.

6.  Don’t go into debt over clothes.

7.  Shop designer labels when on sale.

8.  Develop an accessory wardrobe to vary the look of your clothes.

9.  Never shop last minute for an important or expensive garment.

10. Consider the price beyond the price tag.  If you can’t afford to dry clean the garment pass it by.

You are staring at a bunch of clothes with sales tags still attached to them. Gather up the items that you’ve never worn and try them on. Now tell the truth – would you buy them again? If the answer is no and they’re still pretty current, take them to a consignment store and let someone else enjoy them while getting back part of your investment. If you’re still attracted to them, take a few minutes to create some outfits and wear them as soon as possible. You may have just forgotten about the gems you have in there!

Clothes you won’t wear for another six months are crowding out clothes you should be wearing right now. Remove the out-of-season clothing. You don’t need to visually edit out the Capris and halter tops if you’re in the season of cashmere sweaters and wool trousers.  Focus on the season you’re in and store everything else out of sight.

Your clothes are hanging on wire hangers or mismatched plastic, wood and padded hangers in multiple colors. Your closet deserves as much order as you can give it. While mismatched dinnerware can be very stylish at a dinner party if done right (especially if you’ve got the talents of an interior designer), the same does not hold true for your closet! Everything looks better when hung on hangers that are the same color and style. Please, no wire hangers! Hang all the hangers in the same direction, and that goes for your clothes too.

On laundry day, you hang your clean clothes wherever you can find a gap in your closet. Organize your closet in a way that makes sense to you. You can hang clothes by color from light to dark or hang them by item – pants, blouses, skirts, etc. Then on laundry day, you put your clothes back into the section you’ve created for them. If you open your closet and see order, getting dressed will be a daily pleasure.

Your closet has several-to-many items that are in the “aspiration” category – anything two sizes smaller than your current frame. Focus on the now. Remove all the aspiration clothing and either drop them off at a charity or box them out of sight. It’s easier to relax and be yourself when those aspiration clothes are out of your closet.

You are hanging onto your “fat” clothes long after you’ve reached your goal weight. Accept your new frame by removing all the ill-fitting clothing. You aren’t wearing those items anyway. If you’re hesitant about embracing the reality of your new size, then at least pull out the oversized clothing and store them away.

You’re unhappy when you open up your closet because you know you’re not maximizing what you have. You’re just not sure how to make it all work. Getting help! Making the act of getting dressed one that you can derive pleasure from on a daily basis is worth investing in . . . pronto! This is my area of expertise and it would be my pleasure to show you how to transform your daily experience of getting dressed. It can be the favorite part of your day. Call me and we’ll get started right away.

I am always excited when I am contacted by someone who feels they have reached a point where they want to enhance their image.  Often times people are hesitant about making the decision to work with an Image Consultant and they wonder how it would benefit them.  Let’s clear up some benefits so you can move forward with looking fashionable, feeling stylish and exuding confidence in 2011.

• The confidence of knowing you’re dressed appropriately for your work life pays off in improved work performance and gets you noticed by people who have the power to advance your career.  In today’s economy we want to make sure we do all we can do to increase our opportunities for advancement or even retaining our jobs. Confidence goes a long way.

• Instead of using 10% of your wardrobe, you could be using 100% with the help of an image consultant. You won’t need to find more storage space when you hire a professional who will edit your closet and leave you with items that fit, flatter, and express qualities about yourself that you’re proud to share with the world.

• Worried about money? Think you can’t buy new things? An image consultant can help you refresh your wardrobe using the clothes you already have. And if she discovers that you’re missing a few key items, she can efficiently help you shop for them. You save money shopping when you are focused and shop with purpose.  An Image Consultant can help you determine what you need to buy and where you need to go to get it.

• Are you thinking of entering or re-entering the dating scene? An image consultant can help you take those first baby steps into your new dating life. You’ll look like a woman of power who, by the way, happens to be single and available. And if you’re looking to add romance to the marriage you’re in now, she can help you do that too!

• Do you have family heirlooms that you store away in drawers? If you don’t wear them now, when will you? An image consultant can help you create outfits that showcase Aunt Martha’s brooch, your mother’s handbag, or your grandmother’s scarf collection. Wearing the treasures they left for you is the way to honor their legacy.

Does image consulting cure all the ails of the world? Of course not. But looking good and feeling great about yourself  helps you get through the ups and downs of life. Start off the New Year right and make this the month you take action on your behalf. Don’t put yourself and your personal needs on hold for one more day. You deserve to get dressed – not just in clothes, but also in style – your style. When you greet each day with confidence, just think of the opportunities that could come your way! Give me a call and we’ll set up an appointment.

About the Author:

Valerie Hatcher, President of Your Total Image Consulting, is the “working woman’s image consultant.”   She discovered her passion for fashion and style at an early age while dressing and redressing her dolls.  She now uses that passion to show working women how to look fashionable, feel stylish and exude the confidence needed to project an image that positions them for success.   Visit Valerie at www.yourtotalimage.net.

You know the host/ess well?

• Bring a book that fits with their interests. Is she into gardening? Are they fascinated with Italy? Base this book around a passion or hobby of the host or hostess. Subjects could include pets, places, or poems.

• If you know how much the host loves to cook and bake, bring them the latest kitchen gadget on the market. There are tons of great gifts that you can find at  Williams-Sonoma, or your local favorite kitchen store.  Ask the store manager what the latest must-have item is and ask them to gift wrap it for you.

• Bring something you think your host has never tried before. If they love cheese, bring a cheese you’ve enjoyed.  Not a cheese lover? Tea, coffee blends or hot chocolate kits from specialty shops can be a hit.

They’re a friend of a friend

• An aromatherapy candle beautifully packaged is always a safe bet, but step it up a notch by personalizing it with an attractive box of matches. You’ll find those in any gift or kitchen store.

• Make a homemade dessert, bread, or dip and present it in a fun or beautiful container that they can reuse. Personalize it by writing down the recipe on card stock paper.

• Bring a great new olive oil or balsamic vinegar that you’ve tasted and loved. Or if you don’t have one in mind, go to a specialty store where you can sample some and narrow it down to your favorite. It’s fun to share things with a host that has a personal story behind it.

Can’t go wrong with these

• Wine is always an option. Pick out a bottle you know something about or ask a wine specialist in an upscale grocery store for their favorite. Attach a note card expressing your appreciation.

• Fresh-cut flowers are always a possibility but they can also be a distraction when the host needs to stop what she’s doing and go digging to find a vase to arrange them in. Opt for a potted plant such as a beautiful orchid or a hydrangea.

These should give you a few ideas of a very thoughtful gift to share with your hostess.  Now that the hard part is over, go and enjoy the festivities!

About the Author:

Valerie Hatcher, President of Your Total Image Consulting, is the “working woman’s image consultant.”   She discovered her passion for fashion and style at an early age while dressing and redressing her dolls.  She now uses that passion to show working women how to look fashionable, feel stylish and exude the confidence needed to project an image that positions them for success.   Visit Valerie at www.yourtotalimage.net

“Sensible” has returned to men’s fashion. No longer is the focus on any one “it” piece but rather on choosing items that will hold their value. Here is a list of ten trends that might be just right for you.

Outerwear

1. Military coat – Military details in coats are still popular but taking a more classic turn. Less flash, pure class. Choose a military coat in navy, dark olive or black. These colors will be very versatile and work with many outfits. Double-breasted or single-breasted, down to the knee or just below the hips with brass detailing, this coat is a sure bet.

2. Puffy down jacket – When warmth is necessary, this is a great jacket that has great style as well. Choose details in quilting patterns, a shiny or matte finish, and your favorite color to find a unique look.

3. Collar details – For a more modern and simplified look, try a military jacket with no collar. To emphasize your coat’s grandeur, go for volume in the collar or add fur trim.

The Suit

4.  Double-breasted suit – This classic suit has taken a modern twist. Instead of a boxy waist, the double-breasted suit of 2010 is broad at the shoulders but gets narrow and slim at the waist.

5. Blazer – Go for one that is close fitting to your body without looking too tight. This is a great piece when a suit is not required but you want your outfit to look put together and modern. Plaid and checks are both great patterns to add personality to your blazer.

The Sweater

6. Preppy cardigan – This cardigan resembles what your grandpa might have worn but now it too has a slimmer fit. The preppy buttoned down cardigan is being shown at every price point. Find one in a shade that flatters you.

7. The v-neck sweater – Trying to make a statement? Go for a v-neck sweater in a vibrant color and pair it with a neutral pant and jacket. Go with a cashmere or cotton blend for the most comfort.

The Shirt

8. Plaid shirt – This shirt doesn’t have to convey an early ‘90s grunge look. By choosing your best colors and fit, this is a great casual weekend look. Or pair it with your well-fitting blazer for a more dressed up funky look.

The Shoe

9. Working boot – The working lace up boot is making a stomping this fall in camel, brown and black.

10. Oxford shoe – This classic with stitch detailing exudes quality and promises longevity. The oxford shoe is a great investment that will follow you into future seasons.

Now men, there is no reason why you too  should not look  fashionable, stylish and confident.  Go for it!

About the Author

Valerie Hatcher, President of Your Total Image Consulting, is the “working woman’s image consultant.”   She discovered her passion for fashion and style at an early age while dressing and redressing her dolls.  She now uses that passion to show working women how to look fashionable, feel stylish and exude the confidence needed to project an image that positions them for success.   Visit Valerie at www.yourtotalimage.net.

Lets say friends invite you over for a dinner party. They spend a couple days prior to the evening figuring out what to cook, and then go to the grocery store to pick up all the necessities, clean up and beautify the house, polish the wine glasses, and then slave away in the kitchen for three hours before you even walk in the door. Think about all the time and money that’s gone into this evening even before you ring the doorbell. Your hostess gift can’t begin to match the preparation. Make your host happy they’ve invited you when they open the door and see you looking sparkly and vibrant.

Kick it up a notch

We dress up for so many different aspects of life; work, church, dates, holidays, weddings, and so forth. You may think you’re just going over to a friend’s house for dinner. It could be casual, right? I know it’s tempting to slack off, but showing up dressed well is a way to show your host how appreciative you are for the invite. They will be participating in kitchen Olympics prior to you showing up. When you sit down to the well-dressed table be the well-dressed guest.

Special night, special pieces

Time to get in your closet and pull out those nice pieces that you save for special events, because this night is one of them. Leave the work bag at home and pull out one of your smaller evening bags. Do you have a pretty shawl you’re saving for special events? Here is the opportunity. Accessories can be super romantic in layers of pearls or dazzling chandelier earrings. Or go for drama with a large colorful statement necklace and bangles layered on your wrist.

Looking casually chic

If you’re opting to wear jeans, make sure you’re wearing dressy jeans and not your Saturday-running-errands jeans. Glam them up with a printed flowy top or a colorful softly structured jacket over a dressy tee. The more simple the jean outfit, the more accessories you need to get a going-out look. Add long beaded or chain necklaces.

Wardrobe transforming

If you happen to be coming from work, there are ways to switch out a few pieces so as not to look like those proposal revisions are still on your mind. A suit will look too formal and restricted so remove your suit jacket and instead pair your bottom with a soft cashmere sweater in a bright or bold color. Accessorize with a pretty print scarf, and some beautiful earrings. Another way to get festive is to simply switch out your shoes. Nothing looks duller than your comfortable and conservative work shoes. Wear one of your favorite printed flats or a pair of dress up heels that you rarely get to wear.

Are you hosting the event?

As the host of a dinner party, one thing on your “to do” list is to make sure you’re dressed comfortably. Most likely you’ll be running around making sure everyone’s drinks are full, the hors d’oeuvre tray has been replenished and guests are happy. A comfortable shoe is a must, but don’t even think of wearing slippers, crocs or any other type of kick around shoe.

You’re entertaining and part of your guest’s pleasure is getting to see your house and how you live. If you’re unclear about how you would dress for your own party, try taking cues from your decorating style. If your home is formal and elegant, you will look congruent when at least one of your clothing items is elegant looking. If your style is contemporary and modern, dress in simple pieces but add dramatic jewelry.

Getting together with friends or new acquaintances is a celebration in our fast-paced world. Cherish it in a well-thought out outfit that conveys your gratitude.

About Valerie

Valerie Hatcher, President of Your Total Image Consulting, is the “working woman’s image consultant.”   She discovered her passion for fashion and style at an early age while dressing and redressing her dolls.  She now uses that passion to show working women how to look fashionable, feel stylish and exude the confidence needed to project an image that positions them for success.   Visit Valerie at www.yourtotalimage.net.