When building your Public Image: Step 1: Your Swagger
In this discussion, you will learn and have an idea of how to develop your personal image. Image is everything and its really shows how we carry ourselves. In the industry, this can be very important. Presentation is the key as well as within ourselves. So, its important when you step out your house, you look presentable. If you don’t care, why should anyone else.
So, let’s first begin with your swag. The way you walk says a lot. If you strut like a model with pride and confidence, you will grab attention. A model’s walk is demanding and if done right, it brings out that sexiness in you. So, if you slouch when you walk, lets tighten up that spine, pull them shoulders back, hold up that chin, bring them legs together, and strut. =]
Good Posture. You don’t want to be a conference or out on a date slouching all over the table. So, if you are like me, you probably sit in a office chair all day. Probably one that adjusts. If so, even better. Use the chairs features to align your body. When sitting, just imagine a imaginary vertical line. You want your back straight and everything from your head to your hips to align to the back of your ears. When your not forcing it, less strain provides good breathing. Your feet should be evenly balanced on the floor. If not, use a foot stool. Also, your thighs should not be pressed against the edge of the chair that stops circulation.
Note: Some think its cute but avoid crossing legs (crossed down low by the ankles is fine). Avoid slouching over and tilting too. Anything that’s not evenly balanced avoid.
Now, after doing some research for a demanding walk, I found some helpful tips from Kimora’s book, “Fabulosity”. So, keep these in mind the next time your out and about:
“1) Rather than planting each foot in line with its hip two parallel lines, bring both feet closer to one single center line when you step. It gives a sexy swing and an impression of length to your legs. Stretch your steps out a little, too, because longer strides give a beautiful flow to your movement.”
2) Keep your chin up and your neck long; if you’re out there totally on your own, the gaze should be level and softly focused at a spot straight as you move. This suggests assurance and pride--you know where you’re going, and you know how to get there.
3) Don’t over-swing your arms! It destroys the illusion of softness and makes you look like you’re a military cadet. Notice if one are swings higher than the other: That’s a common model problem.
4) Keep your fingers relaxed. It’s the smallest detail in modeling work--both in studio photos and on the runway--and people often overlook it because they’re busy concentrating on other stuff. But tight, clenched fists or ramrod straight fingers both signify one thing: fear! Let your fingers gently curl and brush your legs as they move.
5) Project your personality. Once in a crowd, try to engage at least a few onlookers with your eyes and a smile (though don’t nod to everybody). It triggers an energy around you and makes sure you come across as a hot momma that everyone wants to meet, not chilly ice princess.
6) When stepping out for the night or day, flair depends on how you feel. Its got to start from the inside out, and more than anything, you’ve got to feel good about what you’re wearing. Give yourself some good time to prepare, so you don’t feel rushed and stressed. Last-minute wardrobe crises will completely blow your cool. And practice walking in those four-inch heels before your big night out--give them a test drive on carpet, wood, and asphalt!
Let’s practice these habits to stop our bad ones.
*Remember your appearance is a form of self-promotion.
