You can do a variety of simple things -- from eating protein at every meal to taking a regular whiff of lavender -- to help slow the aging process and maintain health and vitality as long as possible, says Penny Kendall-Reed, a naturopath and director of natural therapies at the Urban Wellness Clinic in Toronto.
Kendall-Reed believes that being happy and as stress-free as possible are the keys to living a longer, healthier life. And feeling healthy, energetic and stress-free translates into a more youthful appearance.
10 tips to start slowing the hands of time
Kendall-Reed offers the following
helpful hints to slow aging.
1. At every meal, eat foods high in protein, such as fish, turkey, egg whites or tofu. A gram of protein for every kilogram of body weight is a good rule of thumb. (That's 22 grams/0.8 ounce of protein per meal for a woman weighing 65 kilograms/145 pounds. That's equal to about 150 millilitres/two-thirds of a cup of cottage cheese, an average protein shake, three egg whites, a medium chicken or turkey breast or 125 grams/four ounces of low-fat tofu.) Kendall-Reed says you should choose protein-rich foods that are low in fat. Protein slows insulin levels, which you want to keep in balance to avoid weight gain and risk of disease. Eating protein also promotes stable blood sugar levels, which reduces stress, which in turn helps keep that pesky stress hormone, cortisol, in check.
2. Ease stress with extracts from the magnolia flower, green tea or milk peptide, all of which are available at your local health food store. Kendall-Reed says you should talk to a health-care professional before you try any of these. Massage is another way to calm stress.
3. Take 100 to 200 milligrams each of vitamins B6 and B12 daily to reduce cortisol and increase levels of serotonin, a chemical in the body that helps ease depression and anxiety.
4. Lavender, a natural relaxant, helps keep cortisol levels stable and smells terrific. Put this essential oil in the bath or rub it onto your face and body, or tuck a sachet of the dried flower under your pillow.
5. Exercise regularly. When you're physically active, you make more growth hormone, a key factor in remaining youthful. "Growth hormone plays a role in everything, whether it's skin, libido, weight gain, muscle mass or energy level -- almost any sign and symptom you can think of related to aging," says Kendall-Reed.
6. Get nine hours of sleep each night, if possible; eight hours won't do it, says Kendall-Reed. When our bodies are in the repair mode of deep, restful sleep, we produce growth hormone. People who have trouble sleeping often have lower levels of growth hormone. As well, lack of sleep is a stressor.
7. Take a selection of antioxidant vitamins to target all 13 types of free radicals. Kendall-Reed says taking vitamins A, C and E and selenium (often available in one pill) daily helps clean up free radicals. She stresses that you should talk to your health-care practitioner, who can help you choose a supplement and proper dose. Of special note, don't take any of these agents if you are on blood thinners, she says.
8. To deal with wear and tear on the body, consider supplements that enhance the production of elastin and collagen. These include glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, MSM and hyaluronic acid.
9. To increase the strength of the immune system, take supplements such as plant sterinols, olive extract (a natural antiviral), zinc and denatured whey. Again, see a health-care professional first.
10. Relax. Smile. "Be happy and stress-free," says Kendall-Reed. "What comes out in your body when you're unhappy and stressed wreaks so much havoc. Don't sweat the small stuff."
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Friday, June 18, 2010
Adorn Your Feet
The shoe and boot trends for fall/winter 2009 go from bold to bolder to boldest! With so many boot lengths, heel heights, patterns, materials, and colors to choose from, you’ll need a study guide to help you choose your perfect pair/s.
Thigh high/over the knee boots
These are the boldest “it” pieces this fall. Will these monster tall boots be your passion or your poison? For those daring to venture, make them the focal point.
How to wear: The drama of the tall boot is enough so keep the rest of the outfit simple. Try going monochromatic and match your boots to your clothing pieces. Try thigh high boots with a skinny pant and one of your favorite coats or with a short skirt and/or leggings.
At the knee or below the knee boots
Back for another season, the classic equestrian flat riding boots are great for casual and comfort wear. These are more moderate and can be a staple for your fall wardrobe.
How to wear: They can be great for work when you team it with a white-colored blouse, a pant or skirt and a “boyfriend” blazer. Or wear them for daytime with an oversized belted tunic with a skinny pant or leggings.
Scrunch boot/slouch boot
Another great returning boot this season is the scrunch boot or slouchy boot. These are great in suede and can be found in fun colors like rust and eggplant. For a dressier scrunch boot look, go for classic black leather with a heel.
How to wear: Great with skinny jeans for a casual look. For a dressier look, pair with a skirt or dress and black tights.
Booties, booties, booties
There is a bumper crop of booties awaiting you in stores. Picture these possibilities: metallic tones, pink, laced up, cut out, patterned, pleated, buckled, you name it and the stores will have it. This fun shoe can say many things: sexy, quirky, bohemian, luxurious, and even modest. So have fun with these when you get a pair that talks your style language.
How to wear: These can be easily paired with most clothing options: skirts, dresses, leggings, skinny jeans, trousers. Just don’t hide them behind a pant leg if you want to show them off. If they have a lot of personality, keep the outfit simple unless you know how to really mix and match patterns and colors to make a bold statement this season.
Platform pumps/pumps
Platform pumps can be the perfect accent in your outfit. There are many different ways you can go with these. Try them in muted jewel tones or go for a rougher look with black leather, studs, buckles and/or tassels. Try the classic pump shape with a round or pointy toe or go for a Mary Jane or T-strap. If you are going for more of an art piece pump, there are many interesting shapes and details that will make them stand out.
How to wear: These are great worn with black or colored tights, skinny jeans, slim skirts, draped dresses or ruched dresses. These can have as much attitude as the thigh high boot so wear with intention!
Flats
With a rainbow of different choices, there’s a favorite pair of flats out there for you. Flats can be feminine like a simple ballerina flat or can be masculine with a loafer style or oxford lace-up style. Then anything in between, including animal print flats, and added details on the toes like metal tips, roses or emblems.
How to wear: You could find a different flat for each outfit of your fall/winter wardrobe, but maybe you want to decide if your action is going to be on your feet or in your clothes. What is your clothing style? If it’s casual, check styles with whipstitching. If you’re more formal, go for patent leather. If you want feminine fun, wear a shoe with pretty toe detail.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or
call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Thigh high/over the knee boots
These are the boldest “it” pieces this fall. Will these monster tall boots be your passion or your poison? For those daring to venture, make them the focal point.
How to wear: The drama of the tall boot is enough so keep the rest of the outfit simple. Try going monochromatic and match your boots to your clothing pieces. Try thigh high boots with a skinny pant and one of your favorite coats or with a short skirt and/or leggings.
At the knee or below the knee boots
Back for another season, the classic equestrian flat riding boots are great for casual and comfort wear. These are more moderate and can be a staple for your fall wardrobe.
How to wear: They can be great for work when you team it with a white-colored blouse, a pant or skirt and a “boyfriend” blazer. Or wear them for daytime with an oversized belted tunic with a skinny pant or leggings.
Scrunch boot/slouch boot
Another great returning boot this season is the scrunch boot or slouchy boot. These are great in suede and can be found in fun colors like rust and eggplant. For a dressier scrunch boot look, go for classic black leather with a heel.
How to wear: Great with skinny jeans for a casual look. For a dressier look, pair with a skirt or dress and black tights.
Booties, booties, booties
There is a bumper crop of booties awaiting you in stores. Picture these possibilities: metallic tones, pink, laced up, cut out, patterned, pleated, buckled, you name it and the stores will have it. This fun shoe can say many things: sexy, quirky, bohemian, luxurious, and even modest. So have fun with these when you get a pair that talks your style language.
How to wear: These can be easily paired with most clothing options: skirts, dresses, leggings, skinny jeans, trousers. Just don’t hide them behind a pant leg if you want to show them off. If they have a lot of personality, keep the outfit simple unless you know how to really mix and match patterns and colors to make a bold statement this season.
Platform pumps/pumps
Platform pumps can be the perfect accent in your outfit. There are many different ways you can go with these. Try them in muted jewel tones or go for a rougher look with black leather, studs, buckles and/or tassels. Try the classic pump shape with a round or pointy toe or go for a Mary Jane or T-strap. If you are going for more of an art piece pump, there are many interesting shapes and details that will make them stand out.
How to wear: These are great worn with black or colored tights, skinny jeans, slim skirts, draped dresses or ruched dresses. These can have as much attitude as the thigh high boot so wear with intention!
Flats
With a rainbow of different choices, there’s a favorite pair of flats out there for you. Flats can be feminine like a simple ballerina flat or can be masculine with a loafer style or oxford lace-up style. Then anything in between, including animal print flats, and added details on the toes like metal tips, roses or emblems.
How to wear: You could find a different flat for each outfit of your fall/winter wardrobe, but maybe you want to decide if your action is going to be on your feet or in your clothes. What is your clothing style? If it’s casual, check styles with whipstitching. If you’re more formal, go for patent leather. If you want feminine fun, wear a shoe with pretty toe detail.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or
call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Fine-Tune Your Dating Etiquette
Does the thought of going on a date make you want to run in the other direction? It doesn’t have to. Make your appearance and manners work for you rather than against you and you’ll feel infinitely more confident. Here are ten tips to help you make that great first impression.
1. Take some time to choose your outfit. If you are dressed poorly, it looks like you have a lack of respect for yourself. Don’t mistake a “casual date” to mean it’s okay to show up in jeans and a worn t-shirt. If your outfit is well thought out you’re expressing thoughtfulness for you and your date.
2. Don’t ogle over your date’s attire. It’s appropriate to pay a friendly compliment, but don’t make them feel uncomfortable by starring inappropriately.
3. Be clear about your plans. Is this a coffee date? Will you be taking a hike in a local park? Are you going to a wine bar for a drink? Find out what you are doing ahead of time so that your outfit won’t turn into a wardrobe malfunction. If the communication is unclear you could be wearing heels that would be great for a wine bar but not great for strolling along grassy city paths.
4. Grooming is a sign of how well you take care of yourself. Make sure you are representing yourself properly by tending to the details that make a big difference, such as trimming eyebrows, moisturizing dry skin, buffing or polishing your nails, and/or getting a haircut.
5. Listen and ask questions. Nobody wants to hear your entire life story on the first date. Also consider avoiding sensitive topics such as religion, politics and past relationships.
6. Eye contact is important. Lack of eye contact can lead to a couple of assumptions: insecurity or lack of interest. Your eye contact with another will assure them that you are present and engaged.
7. Watch your words. Coarse or crass language is an instant turnoff for most people. Save the off-color jokes for the fifth date or never.
8. Keep your cell phone off, out of your hands and definitely off the table. Give your first date your undivided attention.
9. It may be old-fashioned, but all the old courtesy rules apply. Help your date with his or her coat, open car doors, and pull out chairs.
10. Don’t wear out your welcome. Set aside 1 to 2 hours for a first date. If it goes well, both of you will be looking forward to the next one.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or
call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
1. Take some time to choose your outfit. If you are dressed poorly, it looks like you have a lack of respect for yourself. Don’t mistake a “casual date” to mean it’s okay to show up in jeans and a worn t-shirt. If your outfit is well thought out you’re expressing thoughtfulness for you and your date.
2. Don’t ogle over your date’s attire. It’s appropriate to pay a friendly compliment, but don’t make them feel uncomfortable by starring inappropriately.
3. Be clear about your plans. Is this a coffee date? Will you be taking a hike in a local park? Are you going to a wine bar for a drink? Find out what you are doing ahead of time so that your outfit won’t turn into a wardrobe malfunction. If the communication is unclear you could be wearing heels that would be great for a wine bar but not great for strolling along grassy city paths.
4. Grooming is a sign of how well you take care of yourself. Make sure you are representing yourself properly by tending to the details that make a big difference, such as trimming eyebrows, moisturizing dry skin, buffing or polishing your nails, and/or getting a haircut.
5. Listen and ask questions. Nobody wants to hear your entire life story on the first date. Also consider avoiding sensitive topics such as religion, politics and past relationships.
6. Eye contact is important. Lack of eye contact can lead to a couple of assumptions: insecurity or lack of interest. Your eye contact with another will assure them that you are present and engaged.
7. Watch your words. Coarse or crass language is an instant turnoff for most people. Save the off-color jokes for the fifth date or never.
8. Keep your cell phone off, out of your hands and definitely off the table. Give your first date your undivided attention.
9. It may be old-fashioned, but all the old courtesy rules apply. Help your date with his or her coat, open car doors, and pull out chairs.
10. Don’t wear out your welcome. Set aside 1 to 2 hours for a first date. If it goes well, both of you will be looking forward to the next one.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or
call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Exploring the Sea of Color
You’ve seen these fashion headlines: “Find Your Perfect Little Black Dress” or “Basic Black Makes Basic Sense” or “Feeling Chubby? Wear Black!” Do you believe everything you read? It might be wise to take a second look and explore whether the color black really is the answer to everything.
Maybe it’s time to authorize a moratorium on black and give yourself a chance to lighten or brighten up. Are you ready to take the color plunge? Ask yourself the following questions:
§ Are you tired of only bringing black garments into your dressing room?
§ Was black once edgy and exciting to you but now it’s dull and boring?
§ Are you fed up with blending in and now you’re ready to make a statement?
§ Has black been your ‘go to’ color for decades but now it’s appearing to make you look older and more tired?
If you answered yes to any of these questions then it’s time to dip into some new color options. The first step is to find colors that resonate with you. You could start with colors that relate to your skin, hair, or eye tone. Or, let yourself fall in love with a brand new color, one your wardrobe has never seen. There are so many colors to choose from. Where do you even begin?
Color inspiration
I want this to be a fun process. Here are some ideas to get you exploring.
Home decorating magazines are a great way to discover new hues. The exquisitely photographed rooms usually have great color schemes. Sometimes they revolve around one hue but then they’ll add accent colors that make everything look fabulous. Rip out the pages that inspire you.
Paint palettes found at Home Depot, Lowe’s or Benjamin Moore are available for free. These companies create brochures with color collections in mind. You’re sure to walk out with some new ideas that will have you excited about looking for these colors in clothes.
Look around your house. What colors pop out at you? Are they in your favorite porcelain floral teacup, your favorite print rug, or your favorite patterned table linens? Maybe they’re in your favorite painting. Someone was paid a lot of money to design that color combination that really works. Why not capitalize on their terrific efforts and consider wearing some of these colors in a new outfit.
Dipping a toe into color
Are you still clutching to your idea that black is the only color that works for you? Then start small by adding pops of color in accessories. Bracelets, beads, and bags are all a place to begin your new color collection. Scarves anytime of year are a great way to add color. If you don’t want to wear one around your neck, tie the colorful scarf around your handbag and look oh-so-fashion savvy.
Wading in color
Ready to take color a step farther? Find a nice blouse in a new hue that you love and pair it with a blazer and pant. May I suggest something in a French blue, jade green, soft yellow or rosy pink? Or brighten up taupe, khaki, or black basics by adding a jacket in a more vibrant color like violet, coral, sunflower yellow, or sky blue.
Making a big splash with color
Ready to dive into color headfirst? Try pairing interesting color combos together. Try a cropped pewter grey jacket with a lemon-lime blouse or a turquoise blouse paired with white linen pants and a navy blue boyfriend jacket. Heading for a cocktail party? Wear ruby red or sapphire blue instead of your black dress.
Do you need color floaties?
Need some help staying afloat in the sea of color? Let me help. Getting out of a color rut can be very challenging. You don’t have to do it alone. Let’s find the right color mix for your wardrobe. I can’t wait for you to enjoy the benefits that color brings!
Can I help you with your work wardrobe? Let’s determine what appropriate attire is for you and your job, plan your week’s wardrobe, shop for a new wardrobe, or put together interview outfits. Your work wardrobe solutions are just a phone call away.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com.
Call Regina at (780)901-7065 or email at regina@reginagershman-imageconsulting.com
Maybe it’s time to authorize a moratorium on black and give yourself a chance to lighten or brighten up. Are you ready to take the color plunge? Ask yourself the following questions:
§ Are you tired of only bringing black garments into your dressing room?
§ Was black once edgy and exciting to you but now it’s dull and boring?
§ Are you fed up with blending in and now you’re ready to make a statement?
§ Has black been your ‘go to’ color for decades but now it’s appearing to make you look older and more tired?
If you answered yes to any of these questions then it’s time to dip into some new color options. The first step is to find colors that resonate with you. You could start with colors that relate to your skin, hair, or eye tone. Or, let yourself fall in love with a brand new color, one your wardrobe has never seen. There are so many colors to choose from. Where do you even begin?
Color inspiration
I want this to be a fun process. Here are some ideas to get you exploring.
Home decorating magazines are a great way to discover new hues. The exquisitely photographed rooms usually have great color schemes. Sometimes they revolve around one hue but then they’ll add accent colors that make everything look fabulous. Rip out the pages that inspire you.
Paint palettes found at Home Depot, Lowe’s or Benjamin Moore are available for free. These companies create brochures with color collections in mind. You’re sure to walk out with some new ideas that will have you excited about looking for these colors in clothes.
Look around your house. What colors pop out at you? Are they in your favorite porcelain floral teacup, your favorite print rug, or your favorite patterned table linens? Maybe they’re in your favorite painting. Someone was paid a lot of money to design that color combination that really works. Why not capitalize on their terrific efforts and consider wearing some of these colors in a new outfit.
Dipping a toe into color
Are you still clutching to your idea that black is the only color that works for you? Then start small by adding pops of color in accessories. Bracelets, beads, and bags are all a place to begin your new color collection. Scarves anytime of year are a great way to add color. If you don’t want to wear one around your neck, tie the colorful scarf around your handbag and look oh-so-fashion savvy.
Wading in color
Ready to take color a step farther? Find a nice blouse in a new hue that you love and pair it with a blazer and pant. May I suggest something in a French blue, jade green, soft yellow or rosy pink? Or brighten up taupe, khaki, or black basics by adding a jacket in a more vibrant color like violet, coral, sunflower yellow, or sky blue.
Making a big splash with color
Ready to dive into color headfirst? Try pairing interesting color combos together. Try a cropped pewter grey jacket with a lemon-lime blouse or a turquoise blouse paired with white linen pants and a navy blue boyfriend jacket. Heading for a cocktail party? Wear ruby red or sapphire blue instead of your black dress.
Do you need color floaties?
Need some help staying afloat in the sea of color? Let me help. Getting out of a color rut can be very challenging. You don’t have to do it alone. Let’s find the right color mix for your wardrobe. I can’t wait for you to enjoy the benefits that color brings!
Can I help you with your work wardrobe? Let’s determine what appropriate attire is for you and your job, plan your week’s wardrobe, shop for a new wardrobe, or put together interview outfits. Your work wardrobe solutions are just a phone call away.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com.
Call Regina at (780)901-7065 or email at regina@reginagershman-imageconsulting.com
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
What Makes a Great Relationship
I believe the greatest romantic relationship happen when two friends become passionate friends. A successful relationship is about trust and respect and valuing your partner’s contributions. There are about growing together and sharing new experiences, which creates a formidable bond. Overtime, those shared memories become irreplaceable. But we all know that all relationships have their ups and downs.
What happens when one partner is going through tough times? What if money troubles or other conflicts develop? Some suggestions are that should help in the tough times, but don’t take over. You partner needs to solve his/her own issues. As far as money goes, you have to avoid financial traps, like taking out too big of a mortgage. That is a stress that relationship doesn’t need. When there is a difference of preferences and a win-win isn’t possible, I try to think about compromise in the sense of who cares about this the most? It is not necessary to win all the battles – only the ones you care about. If two people take that approach, its amazing how many things really don’t matter a lot in the scheme of things. However, it takes two to do this tango.
The acid test of a great relationship is two independent individuals who are even stronger as a team. Long-term relationships are about teamwork. If they weren’t why bother getting into one? Just stay single. That way you won’t have to compromise, and you won’t have to work at things. You won’t get the job and deep satisfaction that comes from sharing and growing together – but life is about choices. I’ve made my choice and I’m very happy about it. I never forget that my key to a great relationship is to keep things fresh – and have fun together!
Healthier Relationship with Yourself
I think support networks are an essential part of life. Have you ever noticed how some people are hard to “read” even after two or three meetings? I like to believe I’m pretty honest and open with others. I think that most other people are that way with most of the people they meet – to a certain degree, of course. Perhaps people are closed and unreceptive and “opaque” due to shyness or have been badly burned by a former relationship (social or business). They are just naturally shy or reticent with strangers. It could be their values don’t include openness, honesty and trust. If their values don’t include these things, then clearly those values will not be shown to others. But even more important, it will be hard for them to have a god, open and honest relationship with themselves.
It could be they are not that they are not comfortable in their own skin. A lot of people have trouble being alone. But self-respect is only half of the equation. Most important is respect and trust. Empathy adds to those critical elements. It really helps if someone can put themselves in your shoes. Empathy allows for better understanding better dialogue and that ultimately leads to a better relationship. Empathetic, active listeners will hear and understand our issues better, but that doesn’t require buy-in or to our point of view. In fact, my empathetic mentors often have very different perspective than mine – that is one of things I value about them. They listen carefully and respectfully, think broadly, offer insights and then often have a complexly different but valuable take on a subject.
People who know themselves know their values. They have usually done a fair amount of soul-searching or self-analysis. They quietly project their values for others to see, and insist that others respect them for having those standards.
Looking for Mentors
Look at the circle of people around – don’t go looking at a celebrity, or the unattainable for inspiration. Find out what you are passionate about and then find someone who already shares that passion. I like to think that I am a mentor for my younger brother. When it comes to relationships, what goes around comes around.
Self-belief seems like such an obvious value to possess to everyone who opens his or her eyes to it.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
What happens when one partner is going through tough times? What if money troubles or other conflicts develop? Some suggestions are that should help in the tough times, but don’t take over. You partner needs to solve his/her own issues. As far as money goes, you have to avoid financial traps, like taking out too big of a mortgage. That is a stress that relationship doesn’t need. When there is a difference of preferences and a win-win isn’t possible, I try to think about compromise in the sense of who cares about this the most? It is not necessary to win all the battles – only the ones you care about. If two people take that approach, its amazing how many things really don’t matter a lot in the scheme of things. However, it takes two to do this tango.
The acid test of a great relationship is two independent individuals who are even stronger as a team. Long-term relationships are about teamwork. If they weren’t why bother getting into one? Just stay single. That way you won’t have to compromise, and you won’t have to work at things. You won’t get the job and deep satisfaction that comes from sharing and growing together – but life is about choices. I’ve made my choice and I’m very happy about it. I never forget that my key to a great relationship is to keep things fresh – and have fun together!
Healthier Relationship with Yourself
I think support networks are an essential part of life. Have you ever noticed how some people are hard to “read” even after two or three meetings? I like to believe I’m pretty honest and open with others. I think that most other people are that way with most of the people they meet – to a certain degree, of course. Perhaps people are closed and unreceptive and “opaque” due to shyness or have been badly burned by a former relationship (social or business). They are just naturally shy or reticent with strangers. It could be their values don’t include openness, honesty and trust. If their values don’t include these things, then clearly those values will not be shown to others. But even more important, it will be hard for them to have a god, open and honest relationship with themselves.
It could be they are not that they are not comfortable in their own skin. A lot of people have trouble being alone. But self-respect is only half of the equation. Most important is respect and trust. Empathy adds to those critical elements. It really helps if someone can put themselves in your shoes. Empathy allows for better understanding better dialogue and that ultimately leads to a better relationship. Empathetic, active listeners will hear and understand our issues better, but that doesn’t require buy-in or to our point of view. In fact, my empathetic mentors often have very different perspective than mine – that is one of things I value about them. They listen carefully and respectfully, think broadly, offer insights and then often have a complexly different but valuable take on a subject.
People who know themselves know their values. They have usually done a fair amount of soul-searching or self-analysis. They quietly project their values for others to see, and insist that others respect them for having those standards.
Looking for Mentors
Look at the circle of people around – don’t go looking at a celebrity, or the unattainable for inspiration. Find out what you are passionate about and then find someone who already shares that passion. I like to think that I am a mentor for my younger brother. When it comes to relationships, what goes around comes around.
Self-belief seems like such an obvious value to possess to everyone who opens his or her eyes to it.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Fine-Tune Your Dating Etiquette
By Regina Gershman
Does the thought of going on a date make you want to run in the other direction? It doesn’t have to. Make your appearance and manners work for you rather than against you and you’ll feel infinitely more confident. Here are ten tips to help you make that great first impression.
1. Take some time to choose your outfit. If you are dressed poorly, it looks like you have a lack of respect for yourself. Don’t mistake a “casual date” to mean it’s okay to show up in jeans and a worn t-shirt. If your outfit is well thought out you’re expressing thoughtfulness for you and your date.
2. Don’t ogle over your date’s attire. It’s appropriate to pay a friendly compliment, but don’t make them feel uncomfortable by starring inappropriately.
3. Be clear about your plans. Is this a coffee date? Will you be taking a hike in a local park? Are you going to a wine bar for a drink? Find out what you are doing ahead of time so that your outfit won’t turn into a wardrobe malfunction. If the communication is unclear you could be wearing heels that would be great for a wine bar but not great for strolling along grassy city paths.
4. Grooming is a sign of how well you take care of yourself. Make sure you are representing yourself properly by tending to the details that make a big difference, such as trimming eyebrows, moisturizing dry skin, buffing or polishing your nails, and/or getting a haircut.
5. Listen and ask questions. Nobody wants to hear your entire life story on the first date. Also consider avoiding sensitive topics such as religion, politics and past relationships.
6. Eye contact is important. Lack of eye contact can lead to a couple of assumptions: insecurity or lack of interest. Your eye contact with another will assure them that you are present and engaged.
7. Watch your words. Coarse or crass language is an instant turnoff for most people. Save the off-color jokes for the fifth date or never.
8. Keep your cell phone off, out of your hands and definitely off the table. Give your first date your undivided attention.
9. It may be old-fashioned, but all the old courtesy rules apply. Help your date with his or her coat, open car doors, and pull out chairs.
10. Don’t wear out your welcome. Set aside 1 to 2 hours for a first date. If it goes well, both of you will be looking forward to the next one.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Does the thought of going on a date make you want to run in the other direction? It doesn’t have to. Make your appearance and manners work for you rather than against you and you’ll feel infinitely more confident. Here are ten tips to help you make that great first impression.
1. Take some time to choose your outfit. If you are dressed poorly, it looks like you have a lack of respect for yourself. Don’t mistake a “casual date” to mean it’s okay to show up in jeans and a worn t-shirt. If your outfit is well thought out you’re expressing thoughtfulness for you and your date.
2. Don’t ogle over your date’s attire. It’s appropriate to pay a friendly compliment, but don’t make them feel uncomfortable by starring inappropriately.
3. Be clear about your plans. Is this a coffee date? Will you be taking a hike in a local park? Are you going to a wine bar for a drink? Find out what you are doing ahead of time so that your outfit won’t turn into a wardrobe malfunction. If the communication is unclear you could be wearing heels that would be great for a wine bar but not great for strolling along grassy city paths.
4. Grooming is a sign of how well you take care of yourself. Make sure you are representing yourself properly by tending to the details that make a big difference, such as trimming eyebrows, moisturizing dry skin, buffing or polishing your nails, and/or getting a haircut.
5. Listen and ask questions. Nobody wants to hear your entire life story on the first date. Also consider avoiding sensitive topics such as religion, politics and past relationships.
6. Eye contact is important. Lack of eye contact can lead to a couple of assumptions: insecurity or lack of interest. Your eye contact with another will assure them that you are present and engaged.
7. Watch your words. Coarse or crass language is an instant turnoff for most people. Save the off-color jokes for the fifth date or never.
8. Keep your cell phone off, out of your hands and definitely off the table. Give your first date your undivided attention.
9. It may be old-fashioned, but all the old courtesy rules apply. Help your date with his or her coat, open car doors, and pull out chairs.
10. Don’t wear out your welcome. Set aside 1 to 2 hours for a first date. If it goes well, both of you will be looking forward to the next one.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call Regina at (780) 901-7065.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
7 Tips for Being Appropriate in the Workplace
Are you underdressed for work? Getting dressed for work is about much more than just being clothed. You want your work attire to be respectful, to garner respect and to stand for your values and the values of your company. Here are some general rules to follow when it comes to workplace attire.
1. Being underdressed is a signal that you’re not taking your job seriously. Make sure you are representing yourself as a standout employee by wearing a suitable wardrobe. Explore creating an outfit out of three pieces: pants, vest, blouse or shirt; skirt, sweater, long chunky necklace; slacks, collared shirt, sweater.
2. Many businesses have a documented dress code. Don’t take anything for granted. Find out what the guidelines are, and if you have questions, ask. Your questions show your commitment to your job.
3. If your job has you in front of clients, be sure you’re dressed in a way that lives up to your job title. If you saw a pilot wearing crocs and jeans to fly the plane you’re on, you’d be uneasy. The same goes for your clients or customers. They want you to look like the authority you are.
4. For women, tops that bring attention to your cleavage may be taking attention away from your productivity. Stay clear from plunging necklines, halter tops, tops that are too short or too tight. For men, watch out for shirt fabrics that are too sheer, too tight, too busy or have logos on them that aren’t the same as your company.
5. If your company moves you to another city, realize that you may be facing a new dress code with the change in postal code. What might be appropriate office attire in New York City could be very out of place in Boise, Idaho.
6. If you travel to meet with new clients or associates, when in doubt, dress on the more conservative side.
7. Remember, when your outfit looks appropriate and put together, people will assume you are capable and competent. Let the right clothes help you do your job.
Can I help you with your work wardrobe? Let’s determine what appropriate attire is for you and your job, plan your week’s wardrobe, shop for a new wardrobe, or put together interview outfits. Your work wardrobe solutions are just a phone call away.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call us at (780) 901-7065.
1. Being underdressed is a signal that you’re not taking your job seriously. Make sure you are representing yourself as a standout employee by wearing a suitable wardrobe. Explore creating an outfit out of three pieces: pants, vest, blouse or shirt; skirt, sweater, long chunky necklace; slacks, collared shirt, sweater.
2. Many businesses have a documented dress code. Don’t take anything for granted. Find out what the guidelines are, and if you have questions, ask. Your questions show your commitment to your job.
3. If your job has you in front of clients, be sure you’re dressed in a way that lives up to your job title. If you saw a pilot wearing crocs and jeans to fly the plane you’re on, you’d be uneasy. The same goes for your clients or customers. They want you to look like the authority you are.
4. For women, tops that bring attention to your cleavage may be taking attention away from your productivity. Stay clear from plunging necklines, halter tops, tops that are too short or too tight. For men, watch out for shirt fabrics that are too sheer, too tight, too busy or have logos on them that aren’t the same as your company.
5. If your company moves you to another city, realize that you may be facing a new dress code with the change in postal code. What might be appropriate office attire in New York City could be very out of place in Boise, Idaho.
6. If you travel to meet with new clients or associates, when in doubt, dress on the more conservative side.
7. Remember, when your outfit looks appropriate and put together, people will assume you are capable and competent. Let the right clothes help you do your job.
Can I help you with your work wardrobe? Let’s determine what appropriate attire is for you and your job, plan your week’s wardrobe, shop for a new wardrobe, or put together interview outfits. Your work wardrobe solutions are just a phone call away.
For more information visit us at www.reginagershman-imageconsulting.com or call us at (780) 901-7065.
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