Metzler

Style does not happen by accident.

It cannot be clipped from the pages of a fashion magazine. It cannot be purchased at a designer boutique. Style does not follow trends. It cannot be copied, and it is never swayed by others.

Style does not worry about status. Style does not diminish with age. Style is not superficial. Style is authentic, unique and expansive.

Style is powerful.

When you define your style, you define your life.

Have you ever left the house feeling confident about your look, only to find yourself standing in front of the mirror the next day confused how to recreate that fabulous vibe?

Do you ever feel burdened by a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear?

Style is not created randomly - it is an acquired skill, cultivated through careful attention to details and nuances. Without an understanding of the psychology of color, line and design and a working knowledge of the part they play in harmonizing apparel with appearance and expression, you may be unable to express why some clothes satisfy and others disappoint.

Your style is a unique collection of distinguishing characteristics, creating awareness around what flatters you directs focus to the best of you you immediately feel better, stand straighter and think clearer. As your focus expands, so do all the positives you choose to focus on. Your unique profile is the how-to of taking your essence to self expression.

Most people look to celebrities, clothing designers and store mannequins for style guidance. While these can certainly offer inspiration, they cannot replace your own internal style expert. True style works from the inside out, but in a clamorous world of contradictory information and countless choices; it is difficult to discern what your individual tastes really are.

In a huge field of choices and information - how do you edit?

What is the right hair cut for my face, how does make-up work for me, is this really my style?

A criterion is an essential guidepost to finding satisfaction in a culture currently pushing trend conformity and celebrity tour de force.

Defining yourself and making selections that ground your image feels appropriate because it reflects you and not the next turn of the rapidly changing trend wheel.

Style is a sensibility waiting to be tapped. It is about the private pleasure you take in knowing who you are. Once you learn the underpinnings of proportion and design, your style naturally evolves.

Dressing well is an acquired skill. Ultimately it is a private process and is at its best when it springs from the human qualities of intelligence, passion and sense of humor. It creates a mindful state where you and others see where you want to go; it attracts what you need to get there.

Style is a skill. It is a conscious process of self-discovery.

Image consultants provide you with the tools to express yourself authentically, distinctively and successfully. They help you to elevate the confusion and bring clarity.

Authenticity is energizing, economical and efficient. When you reflect your essence and intentions to the world, the world responds accordingly. When you reflect them to yourself, you respond accordingly. We claim ourselves and define our style, not only to the world, but also for the simple pleasure of being who we are.

Because Style does not happen by accident.

This article is an extract from the best selling ebook How to Look Stylish. Click on the link to find out more.