Suzanne's Tips and Tales

Style Tip : Posture Perfect

Often, I’m asked what is the one thing that separates the stylish from the not so stylish.  A debate usually continues about whether it’s something one is born with – personal style that is, or if it can be learned.

Well, if there’s one sure thing that will isolate you as lacking in the style stakes then it will be poor posture.  Rounded shoulders, miserable face and neck sticking out like a turtle.  All your vital energy turned inwards. 

Why do you think the best boutiques make an effort to find the loveliest coat hangers for their prized garments – because the clothes drape and hang better.  The same is true of poor posture.  Do you want to be the wire coat hanger that has seen better days or the padded velvet one adorning the wardrobe?  Mmmn now let me think!

Just walk down the High Street this lunchtime or watch people pass when you have a coffee in a café and you will easily spot those with that je ne sais quoi – as they say in France – and the Continentals are pretty hot in the style department.

Confident people can be stylish and not so stylish, just look at Richard Branson – a bit of a scruffy wotsit at times but hey, it’s his confidence that got him to where he is now!

One vital common factor is that they carry themselves in a positive stance.  They look like go-getters.  People will gravitate towards them – they’re the cheeky chappies and the flirty girls.  There are some people who are so unaware of their amazing style yet they have a self-assured demeanour.

Okay, so you may have lots of problems at the moment – don’t we all.  It’s impossible to become intrinsically confident overnight.  But how about faking it until you make it.  Go on, be a devil, just raise your head a little, pull back your shoulders, suck your tummy in – continue to breathe please and SMILE.

Anyone who needs more help, then try finding a local Alexander Technique practitioner or your nearest Pilates class – all of these help believe me. 

If it’s self belief that lets you down then try someone who practices hypnotherapy or Personal Coaching.  My favourite people for this are Nadia Ansari at Mars Venus Coaching and Sonia Parsons, Clinical Hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner on 01443 400701. 

When I work with my clients I approach things with an holistic two-pronged solution for them.  I use all my experience, skills and qualifications in Complementary and Alternative therapy practice with the Personal Style & Image coaching to deal with the aesthetic and the inner stuff.

One without the other is still great but to find to take positive steps to deal with both will give you a truly fabulous life – trust me and walk tall x

Posted by Suzanne on 4th Jul 2010