Matte cosmetics appear flat on the skin. A dark matte product will absorb more light than a dark frosted colour, making the area appear more receded. A matte light colour will appear flat on the skin compared to a shiny, light colour.
Use medium to deep make-up colours with a matte finish on facial areas that you which to look pushed back. This application applied under the cheek bones, in the crease above the eye lid and other areas will add definition to your facial features.
As society becomes more and more global, the role of the handshake also becomes more and more confusing. Even though most cultures would agree that a handshake is the most universal greeting in a business setting, each individual culture has it’s local customs and it’s own interpretation of the ultimate handshake. Because of this it is important to take the time learn about the one thing that is agreed upon internationally, that the handshake is appropriate in any business setting upon and before leaving.
The ORANGE PHASE is a social phase. Bright orange is the colour of enthusiasm and energy. It is emotionally and physically stimulating for the wearer and those who see it.
When wearing orange, it is a time of informality and close times with friends and family. People in an orange phase are open to new ideas and generally are in a happy time.
Because of the activity and forcefulness inherent with the colour, orange phase people can be overwhelming and often appear to take over in group situations.
Orange also represents a most vulnerable time: as the personality of the person is so open at this time, feelings are easily hurt. These people erect no emotional barriers. It is a non-threatening time, and people in this time are best friends with whomever they are with at the time.
If orange isn’t one of your most flattering clothing colour, add a little orange to your wardrobe in the form of an accessory. Bright orange doesn’t come around in fashion very often. So if you love orange, this is the time to wear it in your wardrobe… with confidence.
For more on the advantages of wearing bright colours see “Bright Colours Get Things Done”.
If you are heading for 50 like I am and think you have seen every style in fashion come and go… you probably have. Fashion does move in cycles and over time what may have been considered old and dated… just a few years ago, suddenly becomes new again. Yes, with a little tweeking on the part of the designer, fashion trends do come back again and again.
But before you dive into your closet and dig out all those gems you loved and charished way back when, consider the following:
Fashion styles may move in cycles and come back into vogue again and again. However, as human beings, we evolve and change over time. Before putting on that outfit you wore faithfully in the 1970’s or 1980’s, think about who you are today. Even though the fashion style may be similar or the same as the good old days… it is likely you aren’t.
Wearing colours that suit you will instantly make you look healthier and more attractive. As an image consultant, determining the most flattering colour qualities for my client, is one of the first things I like to focus on when we work together. Why, you ask??
These are all great reasons. But the reasons my clients tell me they are happy they know their best colour qualities are:
I have written about handshakes in past blog posts. However, occasionally clients ask me questions about how to make the most of your handshake. Next time you shake hands consider the following:
Facial contouring is a technique used by make-up artists to optically exaggerate or change the natural features of the face. By mastering contouring techniques you too can achieve expert results.
When applying make-up the term shading refers to the application of a colour that is darker than the surrounding area. This will contour or enhance the natural hills and valleys of the facial structure or can create the illusion of new contours. The darker colour enhances the depth of the area and makes the area next to it appear larger or more pronounced.
As an image and etiquette consultant, I am often asked to do corporate and group workshops, on the topics of dining etiquette and table manners.
A long time ago etiquette and table manners were established as a way of keeping the peace and domesticating our behaviour. Over time, these rituals were handed down from generation to generation eventually becoming tradition.
However, as the guest, the most important way to conduct yourself at the dining table is not always the way it is described in the etiquette books. And in most cases, manners and politeness will always override the rules. When in doubt, ‘show respect to your host’ and ‘follow their lead’. With this in mind, you will be the perfect dinner party guest.
For more on this topic see: What Not to Do at the Dining Table. Or to add a little formality to your dining experience see: eBook Formal Dining for Informal People.
Association of Image Consultants International (AICI)
Institute of Image Training & Testing International (IITTI)
