As I examine my brand and try to dig deep into what propels me forward in this business, I have come squarely to a struggle I've been having with myself. How can I call myself a Style Strategist if I am not always perfectly just-so?
In the soul-searching that is branding, my coach, Michelle, advised me to embrace my fears and fold them into the brand. What? Really?
Of course!
Because there is so much negativity that surrounds fashion, it has become a closed universe -- invites only. I have always enjoyed sailing past a velvet rope by sheer chutzpah -- and great style. But great style has never had anything to do with labels or looks. So why the focus on perfection?
In fashion, there always has been this aspect of us vs. them, of those "in the know" and those who are not. I'm sick of it. I'm sick of anyone who makes others feel less than wonderful.
It's just rude.
Introducing Transparency
Today, I debut my new mission slideshow, "Allow Your Befores AND Your Afters."
The idea for it came about after my last head shot, in which I look
more like Christie Brinkley than I look like myself. It's beautiful, I styled it and certainly love the way I look, but it didn't feel true to who I am or my business. Instead, I wanted to create a head shot that showed how I really look every day.
Allow Your Befores
With this show, I wanted to underline my message that you can feel beautiful and confident every day -- no matter what the occasion. We did the first few shots with my own hair and make-up. And I specifically asked Krisztina to only re-touch all these shots for the image -- not for my wrinkles.
Creating the Head Shot
Xena created a version of this Fall's braided up-do look that I could actually re-create -- and taught me how. Apryl showed me how to wear this Fall's burgundy lip for day. The styling of my Fall Look weaves in this Fall's snake-print and nude lace tight into a first impression that reads classic and creative yet approachable.
Allow Your Afters
It is appropriate and can be super-fun to glam it up by getting your hair and make-up done for a gala event. Looking that perfect every day? Not necessary. You can create a beautiful and confident look that allows for both the "before" and the "after" -- so that you can say an emphatic yes to having a wedding, to a TV interview, to playing on the floor with a toddler and to taking out the trash.
I love the result and hope you do, too!
Hair by Xena. Make-Up by Apryl. Both at Xena's Beauty Company.
Photography by Krisztina Crane.
Feel beautiful and confident every day.
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