What exactly does an image consultant do? Well, I help my clients achieve success more quickly and easily in every area of their life by ensuring that their image is consistent with their identity and their goals. Identity is who we are on the inside, and our image is how that is conveyed physically through our clothing, body language, and grooming. When our image is out of whack, difficulties arise. For example, let's say you are a newly hired lawyer in a large firm and are eager to be promoted. At work, however, you wear high, strappy sandals, showing off your new pedicure with daisies painted on your toes. Your skirts are so short that co-workers start singing "I see London, I see France...." every time you walk into the room. Your cleavage makes Britney Spears look modest and dour. No matter how stellar your work and conduct, you will never be taken seriously if your appearance is more conducive to swinging on the pole at Brad's Gold Club rather than presenting facts in the courtroom. You can flush your chances of promotion right down the toilet.

Even less obvious faux pas such as clothing that doesn't fit well, choosing colors that make you appear to have a raging case of the bubonic plague, or not wearing a suit at the right times will stop progress in its tracks. Color is so vital to a powerful image because the right hues can make us look healthy and vibrant, rather than sickly and jaundiced (like I appear if I try to wear purple). We are naturally drawn to others who exude energy and vitality, and wearing our best colors can provide the illusion of this even if we are feeling poorly.

What is the process of image consulting? I always begin with a new client by sending a questionnaire prior to our first meeting so that I know their goals for our time together, their style issues, shopping habits, and so forth. Some of the services I offer are closet consultations in which the closet is pruned, new outfits are combined from the remaining pieces, and a list is made for restocking the closet. Of course, meeting clients at the mall and shopping with them is another option. I also do image parties in which I speak on whatever topic the participants would like, and I can also bring clothing for purchase from chic consignment store Out of the Closet. Jewelry is also available from Butterfly World, and hopefully soon from Sue Wagman. Sue carries outlandishly gorgeous pieces from Bali and Tahiti at super prices. In addition, I can present at businesses, or work one-on-one with an employee whose appearance is throwing a monkey wrench into the work environment.

Best of all, everything I do is dosed with liberal humor. I love to laugh and be silly while working, which removes the anxiety that can accompany this type of work. Closets can house many skeletons for women especially, and as a former counselor, I am equipped with the knowledge and skill to assist in the emotional unpacking that may need to happen in order for a client to progress in his or her closet and life. I never sashay into a client's closet, cackle like a witch, and immediately chastise them for still having overalls or large shoulder pads. The makeover TV shows can sometimes wind up treating people like idiots. My number one goal is always to empower my client and help them feel great about themselves, not demean them. They could probably get that kind of treatment for free from their mother or some other well-meaning, but clueless, relative.

I hope this clarifies what I do as an image consultant. If there is something else you would like to know, just ask! I am also open to any burning fashion or image questions that may be bouncing around in your head.