Secrets to Styling for the Spotlight
Today’s blog I’m going to discuss how to show up on Brand in high visibility opportunities where you ae getting seen.
When showing up on stage, camera or “In the Spotlight” being the expert in your field is essential, and your Brand has to communicate that expertise. Your Brand Style is a critical part of the equation.
Here are five key elements to ensuring you are a ‘show -stopper’ when you are In the Spotlight!
1. Where are you showing up?
On Camera? Zoom? Stage?
Camera- When on camera you want to dress for your neckline. The length of your neck and face determines the neckline of your shirt and jacket. Whether you should wear a collar, turtle neck or mock neck style shirt. It also determines the type of jewelry; necklaces and earring you wear. For example; If you have a short neck you want your necklace to be simple and come to a ‘V’ or teardrop right below the collar bone this elongates your face. Earrings should be smaller in size and careful not to dust your shoulders, which on camera shortens your face. A longer neck can wear chunkier jewelry with higher necklines and bigger earrings.
Stage- Know the background of the stage. If it is a black back stage you will not want to wear black as you will blend right in and disappear. You will want to know how big the stage is, where you will stand and walk. Also, is the floor hard wood or carpeted? Knowing these factors helps you to determine your outfit and shoes.
2. Shoes
When on stage attention to detail is key. Shoes must be in good condition and clean. And they need to be tested. Never break in a new pair of shoes when you are presenting. Your focus is on your talk and audience and you cannot afford to experience discomfort. Speaking of comfort, wear shoes that not only fit your brand but fit your feet. I have styled a speaker who loves to wear simple suits. She cannot wear heels so we styled her with stylish brogues in fun colors, . She is on brand and is comfortable on stage which gives her confidence. Like clothing, same goes for shoes- Fit is King!
3. Know your Audience
Dressing true to your Brand is the first rule of thumb. However, you want to know who your audience is and what the dress code for the event is. Say you are speaking at a high stakes fundraiser that includes a five course dinner. Dress is black tie. You will want to take your style top-level. If your look is Charismatic, Edgy and Urban, a satin suit with a lovely rhinestone camisole and paten-leather heels or booties would meet the occasion. The opposite may occur where you are speaking at a luncheon to a casually dressed audience. You may still wear the rhinestone camisole only now you are pairing it with a black leather moto jacket, dark denim jeans and black chelsea boots. Both situations you are true to your Brand, matching your audience and the occasion, while commanding your presence with confidence.
4. Know your Personal Brand Style
Understanding who you are, what your style is on the inside is how you communicate who you are to the world. I like to say it’s and inside-out job. The best way how is to define your style using three words or adjectives that describe who you are and how you want the world to see you. You chose those words and stay true to them in how you dress. If your style is Charismatic, Edgy & Urban, you are not going to wear a Boho-style tiered dipsy floral dress with clogs. You will chose styles that are more city chic and avantgarde. In addition, dressing for your body shape and knowing the best colors that compliment your hair and skin tone allows you to feel comfortable in your own skin and be confident.
5. Create a Repertoire of Branded “Go To” Outfits
For the various platforms you will be speaking on. This is where your internal confidence expands to external attraction. Your style reflects your highest vision of yourself and you attract those clients and people you want to serve and have in your life. Creating an array of branded looks allows you the freedom from worry of “What to Wear.” Remember to update your looks regularly, you might want to hire a stylist to keep your looks current. Many of these forums are recorded and filmed so staying fresh and fashionable is a must. Up-leveling your Style raises your authority. To Style for the Spotlight in high visibility opportunities you want to show up your best.
My wish for everyone is to be Comfortable, Confident, & Styled.
Have a Styling Day!
XOXO
