Linda Thomas AICI CIP designs and delivers “Image Awareness” programs throughout corporate America.

Linda earned the credentials of Certified Image Professional through the Association of Image Consultants International, is an award winning member of the National Speakers Association of North Texas and a published author.

[ more about Linda ]

Fashion Sense

The phrase, “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life,” seems to be as true today as it was when Oscar Wilde coined it more than one hundred years ago. Whenever a well known book, play, or film debuts, the ever-alert fashion industry is quick to respond with styles reflective of those portrayed by the author, playwright, or screenwriter. Perhaps not surprisingly then, due to the popularity of the recently released 20th Century Fox motion picture “The Devil Wears Prada” (based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Lauren Weisberger), the colors and color combinations among clothing appearing in stores now were directly influenced by those highlighted in the successful Summer 2006 film. The fashion world markets its wares to those individuals who wish to be seen as up-to-date and in-the-know. And, customers respond by purchasing items that they believe will help them appear sophisticated and knowledgeable.

The Physiological Effects of Seasonal Colors

Various colors convey various messages to our brains and bodies. Each of us experiences physiological responses to the variety of hues that we see throughout the year, both indoors and outdoors. The sun follows a lower arc in the sky during the fall and winter. Our bodies respond naturally to this phenomenon, which is why we prefer wardrobes of muted and darker colors during this season. The changes occurring in nature lead us to respond by wearing similar colors on our bodies.

Putting It Together

We can learn to use colors (and combinations of colors) to enhance our personal appearance and improve our professional image. For instance, among the colors currently in style are brown, black, black and white (in combination), cerulean (sky) blue and touches of various shades of burgundy. When you wear brown, you are seen as a dependable person. Black says, “Take me seriously!” The combination of black and white indicates a contrast, which is a way of gaining and holding the attention of your audience. You will not be ignored. Cerulean blue ~ also present in the shops this fall, although to a lesser extent than the darker colors ~ is one of America’s favorite colors. Wearing this shade tells the world that you are trustworthy. Burgundy represents maturity and refinement.

In addition to the above messages, colors also can affect our appearance in other ways. For example, medium blues and browns can make us appear physically smaller and therefore less intimidating. Black makes us seem more formal, elegant, and sophisticated. And, burgundy ~ as well as this season’s darker colors ~ sends the message of being stable and confident in our expertise.

Tell me more!

For more information on these concepts, you may wish to purchase the CD and accompanying handout “The Power of Color in Business” by Linda Thomas (available for $18.95 plus shipping and handling).