Tag Archives: Kimberly Law

Uncategorized, Wardrobe, Women

Holiday Dressing on a Budget!

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For those of us on a budget, holiday dressing can add to the stress of the season. However, there is no need to spend a fortune on holiday clothing. Here are three ways to stick to your budget and still look great!

Choose Versatile Clothing – When you are buying a new holiday outfit, avoid making it too holiday specific. A dress or tie with an embroidered Santa can only be worn during Christmas, and chances are you won’t want to wear it to every party, so it would get very little use.

Look at What You Already Own – Use items that are already in your closet and add inexpensive, current accessories to make them look new. If you have a nice red or green blouse or shirt, for example, you might add some sparkle with a pair of earrings or festive necklace from the current season. For men, it can be as simple as wearing a new tie or a shirt with cuff-links. Pair this with a nice black skirt or pair of slacks to complete the look.

Christmas, Hanukah, New Years… Holidays in general are A Great Time for the Classics – Do not be tempted by trendy holiday outfits, as they can cost a fortune and you will not be able to wear them next season. Save money and get more wear out of your clothing by dressing classically for the holidays. It is the perfect time for the classic little black dress. Use trendy accessories to add interest or glamour.

Follow these strategies look great and to make your holiday dressing just a little easier.

Happy Holidays…

Uncategorized, Wardrobe, Women

Festive Frocks ~ Select Your Most Flattering Party Dress

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Holiday party time is coming fast. As it approaches women everywhere are panicking and asking the same question “How do I choose my most flattering dress this holiday season?” The answer, “choose dress styles with embellishments or volume on the areas you wish to draw attention to or make larger. The rest of the dress should skim the body without adding additional bulk or additional details. Here are four ways to use this information to flatter your figure!

Look slimmer around the middle with a simple, smooth and elongated silhouette that does not emphasize the waistline. Draw attention to other areas of the body or face with details such as beading, ruffles, shirring or seams well above or well below your midsection. V-necks, wrap and off shoulder necklines draw the eye outward at the shoulder making you look slimmer in the middle.

Feel too thin? Add curves to your figure by adding volume to areas you want to look curvier. On the top this can be done with details like puff sleeves, shirring, or ruffles. Avoid necklines that draw attention to your thinnest areas. Dresses with a full gathered skirt will show off a slim waistline and add volume to the hips making them look fuller.

Balance the bottom by adding width to the top. Wide v-necks, plunging necklines, bateau necklines, off shoulder designs and puff sleeves all draw the eye outward at the shoulder. Add volume on top with shirring, gathers and ruffles. Skirts look best when they skim over the hips, not cling.

If shoulders are wide or bust is full keep it simple at the top. Sleeveless styles with narrow V-necks, scoop necks, wrap and asymmetrical necklines work well. Keep this area smooth by avoiding embellishments. Add curve to the bottom half with flared and A-line styles. If the waist is slim, a full gathered skirt will balance the body and accentuate an hourglass shape.

Luckily this season, there is an option for everyone. By analysing your shape and focusing on your assets you can find the perfect dress and flatter your figure this party season.

Look Younger, Uncategorized, Wardrobe, Women

Start with a Strong Foundation when Getting Dressed

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With the holiday party season arriving, we are likely to be dressed up more often. But, no matter what outfit you are wearing, be sure to start with figure-enhancing underwear. If forms the foundation for the garments worn on top, so it is really important to choose the right size and the right style. Instead of bumps and bulges, go for smooth lines. They will automatically make you look slimmer and your torso will look taller.  Smooth lines make your clothing hang better and look more expensive. It also helps to keep the eyes away from your liabilities, so they can focus on your assets. There are so many options available these days and the right bra, slip, pantyhose or even a comfortable shaper can make a huge difference.

Business Dress, Men, Uncategorized, Wardrobe, Women

SUCCESS? Not with this Dress

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One of the things that I have learned as certified professional image consultant is that looking successful is not just about the garments that you wear. It is also about how they are coordinated, the garment details and your body language. At first glance these men and women look quite professional (okay, except for the elf shoes). They are all wearing what would be considered business attire. But look again, how many mistakes can you see??

What not to wear for Success
What not to wear for Success

The man on the left:

  1. Notice the ripples on the jacket. Either he is pulling down too hard on the pockets with his hands or the jacket is too big around.
  2. His tie is also crooked. (Okay, these things happen)
  3. Shirt sleeve should extend about ¼ to ½ inch below his jacket sleeve for a classic business look.

The woman to his right:

  1. The skirt is too short. For business it should never be shorter than 3 inches above the knee.
  2. A little too much cleavage for work.
  3. The shoes would do better at a night club than at the office.
  4. The hemline of her top worn below the jacket might be alright in a casual work environment, but in a formal office it comes across too casual.

The man with the elf shoes:

  1. Assuming he is wearing a shirt, his shirt cuffs also should be ¼ to ½ inch longer than the jacket sleeves.
  2. With those shoes, his pants are too long. There should be a slight break at the bottom of the leg, not the rumpled look we see.

The woman on the right

  1. The sleeves appear too long, although it is hard to know for sure, since they are buried in her pockets.

Advice for all…

  • Putting hands in your pockets ruins the line of the garment
  • Don’t draw attention to your legs when you want attention on your face
  • Shirt cuffs add sophistication to tailored classic attire
  • Crossed arms send a negative message – she looks angry
  • Make sure the width of your pant legs coordinate with the style of your shoes.
  • Elf shoes have no place in the workplace
Etiquette

Cell Phone Etiquette – By Kimberly Law AICI CIP

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Cell phones are everywhere and used all the time. Over the past few years, cell phone use and misuse have gotten out of control. They can cause everything from general disturbances to road-rage. When it comes to mobile phones, be courteous to others and use a little common sense. Consider the following cell phone etiquette tips:

  • Keep cell phone calls quick and to the point.
  • Chat or text on cell phones when you are alone, not in public.
  • Quirky ring tones can be very annoying. When in a public place or business setting, set phones on silence, vibrate or use a traditional ring tone.
  • In a business setting, personal cell phones should be turned off.
  • Keep personal matters personal by having these discussions in private.
  • Don’t disturb people around you while talking on your mobile phone.  Keep your distance from other people while talking.
  • Don’t yell. Monitor the loudness of your voice and keep it at a low to moderate level.
  • Use hands free devices while driving, for your safety and to alleviate the aggravation of those driving next to you.

Cell phones should be turned off in the following circumstances:

  • During a meeting, public event, lecture or in a classroom.
  • Restaurants.
  • Places of worship, weddings & funerals.
  • While watching a movie, play, or musical event.
  • In someone else’s home or office.
  • Public transportation.
  • Hospitals.
  • Elevators.
  • Any time you may be disturbing others.
Etiquette, Uncategorized

TECHNOLOGY VS CIVILITY – BY KIMBERLY LAW AICI CIP

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In the Toronto Sun today there is an article called Rules of dumb, has our high-tech evolution resulted in a lower standard of etiquette? It mentions a situation where a teacher took a cell phone away from a student and then read all of her saved text messages in front of the class. Obviously he did this out of frustration over the perceived lack of respect. However, were his actions more respectful? He obviously embarrassed the student.
Catherine Bell of Prime Impressions shares some great comments in this article on cell phones and technology from an etiquette perspective. When asked if the rules have changed, she says that the rules haven’t changed, but that people’s perceptions of them have changed and that is just as important. “The whole idea of civility and respect is wanting in all environments,” she says. “They’re throwing out the window the consideration for the people around them.”
So I guess the question is, whether consideration for the people around us is still important. Or has society evolved to a place where taking other people into consideration by using manners and etiquette is no longer important? And if so will this lead to a continuation of civilization as we know it or will it lead to chaos?

From my perspective as a certified image consultant and etiquette expert, it would seem that a society lacking in civility would be taking a step backward. Civility evolved over time to create order and respect in the lives of others and ours. However, lately I have seen examples of incivility everywhere. It is my personal belief that we need to get back to basics and consider before hand how our actions might affect others. Then act appropriately.

Business Dress, Men, Wardrobe, Women

Packing Light for the Stylish Traveller

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For business or pleasure travelling can be exciting and adventurous. However, packing to suit all possible situations can be tricky; especially now with weight and carry on restrictions. This can make packing and travel frustrating, even for the experienced traveller. As an Image Consultant,  I have found that these packing tips help my clients lighten their load and maintain their style.

Choose a Color Palette
Pick two main wardrobe colors.  At least one of your two main colors should be a neutral: black, brown, taupe, tan, or navy. While white is a great neutral, especially for summer, it may not be the best choice for travel because it gets dirty so quickly. All of your basic clothing pieces should be one of the two main colors. Next choose one accent colour that can be worn with either of the two main wardrobe colours. This way all of the clothing in your suitcase can be mixed and matched to look great together.

Stick to Three Pairs of Shoes
A casual pair of shoes, such as sneakers that are comfortable for walking is a good idea if you plan to go sightseeing. Dress shoes in a basic style are ideal for business or a dinner out with friends or family. If you are near the beach or plan to enjoy some warm weather, sandals can look nice and still let your feet breathe. There really should be no need for more pairs of shoes. If you go with neutral colors that coordinate with your basic wardrobe colours, the three pairs that you bring will match anything in your travel wardrobe.

Pack Lots of Accessories
Ties, scarves, earrings, necklaces and belts take up very little room in your suitcase, yet can change your look in seconds. For women, a pair of dangly earrings will dress up a basic shirt or blouse for daytime. A set of pearl earrings and choker turn that same blouse into the perfect evening wear. Bring a couple of different belts and scarves as well, since these can dramatically change how an outfit looks on you. Men can instantly change the look of an outfit by adding, removing or changing a tie. Sunglasses are also an important accessory to pack, particularly if your eyes tend to look a little dark after a long trip.

Go Reversible
Reversible clothing is a great option for traveling. It gives you twice the look without taking up extra space. Jackets, skirts and shorts are ideal for this type of treatment. Using a reversible bag lets you have two looks in one, as well. When purchasing reversible clothes make sure both colors and, of course, the overall style is flattering to your colouring and body shape.

Bring Sample Sizes
Instead of bringing full sized toiletries and cosmetic items, transfer small amounts into travel containers. Travelling is also a great opportunity to use those ‘Gift with Purchases’ and cosmetic samples that may be accumulating in your bathroom vanity. This will save space in your luggage, and lighten your load while travelling.

Follow these tips before your next trip and you will be sure to look stylish wherever you travel.

Uncategorized

Hi There!

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Image really is everything… and companies are no exception!

I am really excited to announce that Personal Impact now has more Personal Impact with the launch our new Website and Blog.

Since starting Personal Impact in 1999, one of my goals has always been to make personal image knowledge easily obtainable for everyone. Because of this, one of the most important things for our new site was to have the ability to make even more personal image information easily available.

Our new resources page is loaded with image tips, articles and links in all media formats including audio, video and print.

Or try one of our Free Self-Assessments tools. This tool contains seven self-assessments on the following image topics: Personal Care, Makeup, Wardrobe, Business Dress, Manners & Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and Communication. Try one or all of them to find out if you have Personal Impact or which areas of your personal image need tweaking. Once you have determined which areas need some tweaking you can use the Free Self-Assessments as an action plan. Work on them yourself using the resources page, Image Matters articles or the future resources on our Blog described below. Visit the shop to find our how our Personal Impact Series of 8 special reports can help or contact us for a complimentary initial consultation to find out how we can help.

Along with our new website, I am especially excited about our new Blog. I have been looking forward to setting one up for quite a while and here it is… finally! I will be using this as a medium for sharing tips and information on image, fashion and etiquette.

I hope you will visit my website www.personalimpact.ca and comment frequently or you can sign-up for an RSS feed at Personal Impact Blog so you can be notified about our Blog posts right away.

If you find the information interesting please share it with your friends, family and social media sites.

I look forward to hearing from you. Please contact me if you have any questions, comments or if there are any topics you would like to hear more about.

Enjoy!

Kimberly