| The advent of "What Not To Wear", "America's | | | | greater goals, I encourage you to consider |
| Next Top Model" and "Project Runway" has | | | | interviewing a Certified Image Consultant. |
| heightened awareness of personal appearance. That's | | | | Approach your partnership with a Stylist/Image |
| the good news. The not so good news is that | | | | Consultant just as you would any other contractor |
| "everyone" seems to think they are a personal stylist. | | | | and do your research: |
| The challenge for the consumer is to know what to | | | | 1. Interview at least 3 individuals |
| expect from a "personal stylist" or Image Consultant | | | | 2. Are they willing to meet with you prior to working |
| Coach. An important distinction should be made | | | | with you? |
| between the two. | | | | 3. Is there synergy between you and the Stylist |
| A Stylist is often someone who has a "passion" for | | | | Consultant? |
| fashion, a talent or skills in creating a "look". This | | | | 4. Does the Stylist/Consultant truly understand your |
| doesn't necessarily mean that this person has been | | | | needs? |
| formally trained in all aspects of your physical | | | | 5. Do you want a plan of action? |
| appearance. Most stylists will bill you at an hourly rate. | | | | 6. Are you looking for a "personal shopper"? |
| An Image Consultant, more specifically, a Certified | | | | 7. Do you know "why" you would like to engage a |
| Image Consultant is someone who has been through | | | | Stylist/Consultant? |
| an education path that will equip them to create a | | | | 8. What is your time-frame? |
| "look" that you desire in addition to helping you | | | | 9. What are YOUR expectations of the Stylist |
| develop a "personal brand" image. Most Image | | | | Consultant? |
| Consultants, specifically Certified Image Consultants | | | | 10. Finally, do you have a budget? |
| will bill in a number of different ways (hourly, day or | | | | Working with a Stylist/Image Consultant can and |
| package rate). Services may include color analysis, | | | | should be a grand experience. Both Stylists AND |
| closet audits, style analysis, education, shopping, | | | | Certified Image Consultants add value to your life. |
| personal branding, etc. | | | | The experience working with either should begin a |
| If you are in search of a personal shopper, very | | | | partnership that opens your eyes to great potential |
| often a Stylist will accomplish your needs quite well. | | | | and possibilities in you. In hiring any professional, do |
| But, if you are struggling with your wardrobe, "who" | | | | your homework, know what you want to accomplish |
| you really are and want to propel yourself to the | | | | and really connect with your choice. After all, it IS |
| next level in business, a life change, or want to reach | | | | your choice! |