One question that I am often asked is “How do I know if I need an image consultant?” I would venture to say that most people know, even if they don’t want to admit that they know. If you’re considering it, you probably need one. If you’ve ever seen one of those shows such as “What Not to Wear” or “How Do I Look?” you would probably agree with me that most of those people have to know on some level that their look is not working, be it for their personal life, professional life, or both.

When I work with clients I always ask “what is your current style saying about you?” Then I ask “what do you want your style to say about you?” This is important because often times the two aren’t in alignment. When they aren’t, that is when you should hire an image consultant!

Here are some other questions that you will want to ask yourself when determining whether or not to engage someone to help you up your style (and branding) quotient.

Have you been wearing the same clothes/makeup/hairstyle for 10+ years without regard to any changes in career or lifestyle? As our lives change, so should our style. Not at the core, but certain key elements that will keep you looking fresh and focused.

Has it been a VERY long time since anyone has complimented you? Longer than you’d care to admit? I don’t suggest that you dress to impress others. Dress to impress yourself. When you feel good about your image, it comes across to other people.

Do you look in the mirror and remind yourself of one of your parents because your look is so outdated? Granted, some of us have quite stylish parents, but in general, you and your parents should not be wearing the same types of clothing. Dress age appropriately.

Does your personal style match the life that you want to live and how you wish to be perceived? This goes back to my motto, “YOU are your brand!” If you want to be viewed as the confident professional, the hip, stylish artist, the fun-loving parent, etc., the image that you present to others must match. We tend to be visual beings so the saying, “Image is everything” is well, everything.

If you are an entrepreneur, does your style match that of your business brand? By this I don’t mean that you should always dress in your logo colors. I mean do you present yourself so that people will think of you in the same manner in which you want them to think of your business? Consistency is the key to branding.

If you answered “YES” to any of the questions above, I can help you! Email me at tamara@msrasberryinc.com or call me at 202.681.8598.

YOU are your brand. Represent!