SS-04: Fashion Mastery: Seven principles for crafting your professional style brand
Crafting your professional style brand involves more than dressing well, t's the artful fusion of your career goals, professional values, personal story, and a visual style guide.
To assist you in navigating through this process, here are seven guiding principles:
I. Describe your Style Brand in 3 Words or Less.
If you can’t communicate who you are as a brand to a person, it can make connecting more challenging. Articulate your brand by distilling it into three descriptive words such as timeless, refined, and loyal. This concise expression is crucial for effective communication and connection.
II. Be a Brand.
Think of yourself as a fashion house. Celine, for example, is a brand with proven longevity whose core values are simplicity, functionality, and timeless elegance. Although the collections are distinctive from season to season, it still maintain an outstanding balance of sticking to its staples. Beyond that, its branding has evolved to feel natural and reflect its values.
III. Tell your Story.
Your professional style brand should communicate your values and perspectives and contribute to the larger narrative of who you are and your career ambitions.
Ask yourself:
- What are your brand's core values?
- How does your brand want to be visually perceived?
- What reputation do you want your brand to convey?
IV. Know your Competition.
Understand your industry's culture and identify your peers. Recognize what sets you apart and emphasize your unique qualities.
V. Avoid being Everything to Everyone.
Trying to cater to everyone's preferences is a recipe for disaster. Focus on elements that align with your identity and industry, allowing authenticity to shine through.
VI. Prioritize Consistent.
Once you establish your brand, you don’t want to return to your old self.
Success relies on being authentic and agile enough to respond to ever-changing times.
VII. Consider hiring an Expert.
If navigating the complexities of professional style branding feels daunting, enlist the expertise of a professional brand consultant to guide you through the design and creation of your professional style brand.