Ralph Lauren once said "I don't design clothes. I design dreams" - not only do I agree with his sentiment, it's a passion of mine as a stylist to transform a client into who they want to become...
Images are the intellectual property of The Brandi Jones Experience.
When it comes to Style Transformations, I believe that there are two types of clients: One who knows exactly what (s)he wants, and one that does not. I'm not referring to wardrobe choices and where to shop but what they want out of life. I'm sure you've heard the common adage from other stylists that we tend to be therapists as well. While many have been so begrudgingly, I find it's an asset to be so for my clients. Although, when performed well they rarely notice it - only the results.
It's no secret that people instantly access your worth within the first few seconds of meeting you. While I don't necessarily agree with this behavior (as many a mistake has been made when doing so) it's important to understand the influence that our image has in the real world, and how best to use it to inspire, impress, and influence others to maximize your impact on people and the opportunities that come with them.
Let's discuss, shall we...
INSPIRE
"What is it that you want from Me?"
"What is it that you want to accomplish here...?"
How I ask these two questions vary depending on the personality of my client. The purpose of these two questions is for me to discover whether you're interested in the longevity of what a style transformation can provide or whether purging your closet, investing in a new wardrobe and being styled by a celebrity stylist is a check off your bucket list. The latter can be fun as it moves as quickly and excitingly as your favorite movie. But once you understand the value of investing in your image this is when the real transformation begins.
To inspire people we must exhibit behavior or talent that's unprecedented. Our Image is no different. Before purging your closet and before you decide to hire a stylist, or personally invest the time it takes to makeover your image, I suggest asking yourself these same questions. Without a clear indication of who you are and what it is you want in life, you will find yourself in the same scenario 6, 12, or 24 months later feeling bored and frustrated with your wardrobe - and your life.
IMPRESS
"What emphasizes confidence and charisma?" Our Look, our mood.
Now that we've examined the most valuable areas of your life it's time to transform your wardrobe. Have you ever walked into a room and every eye fell on you? What about unusual acts of kindness, customer service? Stop traffic? Well, I have and so have my clients.
Creating an image that aligns with your lifestyle and goals is the icing on the cake. We must identify your body type and the silhouettes that break necks. It's extremely important to dress for your body type. "I can't stress this enough people!" (in my Kevin Hart voice.) It's not about budget and Brand but fabric and tailoring. Nor is this about trends. It's about pieces and looks that are right for YOU! The right tailor or seamstress will change your life! To know them is to love them.
Once you've mastered your body type, getting dressed will be exciting! Shopping will become intriguing, fascinating, and addictive to say the least. Your style will become effortless, magnetic, and enticing. A wardrobe that represents your image empowers you to be the best version of yourself. When you look good, you feel good - everyone knows that.
INFLUENCE
"So, what breeds influence?" Our soul, our emotions.
Alber Elbaz, the former creative director of Lanvin said "Style is the only thing you can't buy. It's not in a shopping bag, a label, or a price tag. It's something reflected from our soul to the outside world - an emotion." The ability to influence is an art within itself but your image and style can significantly sway an outcome. Having a curated palette of Looks to excite and attract an "audience" is where I (a stylist) come in.
When executed properly our Image reflects who we are - we won't have to introduce ourselves. Closing the deal, building your network, and maintaining your influence will now depend on what you say and do from here. Getting dressed should be the easy part ;-)
As a society, we have been influenced to desire and be attracted by style and beauty. So much so that the mix of the two causes a chain reaction of acceptance and opportunity. I've seen first hand the power of a client's image and how it influenced a plethora of emotional responses from other people. Good and Bad.
Investing in your Image will influence the power you have over your environment and the people in it. It will enhance your intimate relationship and sex life; the depth of your social circle, your job, your day-to-day interaction with strangers, the list goes on...When we invest in our image with the same focus and tenacity that we put into pursuing our goals, the outcome is the same: success. However, the major difference is that before you accomplish your goals and reap the rewards of such; the Power Your Image incites can take you places that years of hard work never will. To utilize both simultaneously will Transform Your Life.
The Power of Transformation.
*My goal for this client was to empower her and enhance her natural beauty while diversifying her wardrobe. I empowered her style choices to make her an eye-catching style influencer within her social circle. The pic on the left was our very first appointment. All I knew about her at the time was the event she was attending the next evening. But I saw that she had the potential to transform and impress, influence, and inspire others to become the best version of themselves. Once she signed on for The Experience, I discovered the depth of her business network, social circle, philanthropic endeavors, and their level of influence on her lifestyle. Thus, I began to transform her image. While statuesque and athletic in form, her height, and triangle or pear shape needed to be paid special attention to. To this day, she remains open and confident with my style choices for her and open to change. She has become a Muse for The Brandi Jones Experience*
For more information on how to Transform your Image, leave a comment below or contact me here.