What is Polyester?
Polyester is a type of synthetic fiber that is commonly used in clothing and textiles. It’s important to learn a bit about polyester, its impact on both the environment and our health; and why you should NOT be a polyester investor.
Polyester is made from petroleum, which is a non-renewable resource. It’s refined through a process called polymerization, where the raw material is heated and mixed with chemicals to form long, strong fibers. These fibers are then spun into thread, which can be woven or knitted into fabric. The primary factors and attribute behind it’s production is that it’s more cost effective for manufacturers and production. It’s great for the oil industry, yet not so much for you.
One of the biggest environmental concerns with polyester production is the use of fossil fuels. The process requires a significant amount of energy, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and other toxicities into the atmosphere. Plus the production of polyester requires large amounts of water, which can strain local resources and cause pollution when wastewater is discharged. Not to mention the tremendous amount of chemicals introduced to turn into durable fabric often include lead, formaldehyde and other cancer causing chemicals.
Besides the environmental impact, polyester also has potential health hazards. Here are three ways polyester can be harmful when you wear it:
- Skin irritation: Polyester fibers can be itchy and cause skin irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.
- Breathability: Unlike natural fibers such as cotton or linen, polyester doesn’t breathe well. This can cause you to feel hot and sweaty, especially in warm weather.
- Microplastics: When you wash polyester clothing, it sheds microfibers that can end up in our waterways and harm marine life. These microfibers are also believed to be harmful to human health, as they can be ingested through drinking water or by consuming contaminated seafood.
Despite its negative impact, polyester remains a popular choice for clothing manufacturers due to its durability, affordability, and is in over 50% of overall off the rack clothing production. There are sustainable alternatives available, such as cactus or mushroom based leather over cheap faux “vegan” vinyls/pleathers. Mi Terro is innovating a fabric that’s derived from milk is the base.
So while polyester may be a convenient and cheap option, it’s important to consider its impact on the environment and our health. Especially if you have passionate concerncs on climate change, your clothing choices are among the most important. By choosing sustainable alternatives and being mindful of how we care for our clothing, we can make a positive impact on our wardrobe and the world around us.
For more, visit us The Clothing Coach Studio in San Francisco’s Union Square!
4 Ways to Enhance Your Wardrobe
Have you ever thought about how you can leverage your wardrobe and clothing choices to develop a strong personal brand image? Ever consider that you clothing costs can be turned into a marketing investment?
Your personal brand is all about how you present yourself to the world, and your clothing plays a crucial role in this. The right choices can help you project the image you want and create a strong personal brand that sets you apart from the crowd.
So…how can you use your wardrobe to develop a strong personal brand image? Here are a 4 tips:
- Know Your Style
The first step in building a strong personal brand image through your wardrobe is to know your style. This means understanding what looks good on you, what you feel comfortable in, and what reflects your personality and values. Your wardrobe should be a reflection of who you are and what you stand for. Ask yourself, what are my goals? How has my style been serving me? Do I really not care, or it’s just that I don’t know?
- Invest in Quality Pieces
Investing in quality pieces is another important aspect of building a strong personal brand image through your wardrobe. Don’t be a polyester investor! Quality pieces not only look better but also last longer, which will save you money in the long run. When shopping for clothing, look for pieces that are well-made, fit you perfectly (after a visit with my tailor), and reflect your personality.
- Pay Attention to Details
Details matter when it comes to creating a strong personal brand image through your wardrobe. This means paying attention to things like fit, color, and accessories. Make sure your clothing fits you properly,( yes, the repetition is intentional) choose colors that complement your skin tone and hair color, and accessories is where you can best reflect your personality. (pocket squares/jewelry/glasses/pins etc.)
- Dress for the Occasion
Dressing for your environment and occasion is also important when it comes to creating a strong personal brand image through your wardrobe. This means dressing appropriately for different situations, whether it’s a business meeting, a networking event, or a social gathering. Dressing appropriately shows that you respect the situation and the people you are with, and is where non verbal comminucation can be most impactful. This is where you make a strong statement, without speaking.
Your wardrobe plays a crucial role in developing a powerful personal brand image. This will literally boost your confidence, improve your posture and raise your profile. By knowing your style and investing in quality pieces, you can create a wardrobe that reflects your personal brand and sets you apart from the crowd.
For more you can always book a call, or plan a visit to The Clothing Coach Studio in San Francisco’s Union Square!
5 Ways to Develop Your Personal Brand Now
If you want to stay competitive in today’s business world, creating a strong personal brand and professional image can be the key to unlocking new opportunities in your career and towards your goals. Your personal brand and professional image are the combination of your reputation, your expertise, your network and your personality. These elements can work together to help you stand out in a crowded marketplace and open doors to new opportunities.
Here are some ways you can leverage your personal brand image to create new opportunities in business and the workplace:
- Develop a clear personal brand statement: A personal brand statement is a brief statement that summarizes who you are, what you do and what makes you unique. It should be memorable and easy to understand. For example, “I’m a digital marketing expert who specializes in social media strategy for small businesses.” A clear personal brand statement can help you differentiate yourself from others in your field and create a strong first impression. Deliver that with a polished presentation, your already increasing your chance to close by 5,000% (at least)
Case Study: Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of VaynerMedia, has built a personal brand as a social media guru and entrepreneur. His personal brand statement is “Empowering Entrepreneurs to Chase Their Dreams.” (Not “fashionable” but clearly has a personal brand style complimentary to his professional goals)
- Build a strong online presence: In today’s digital age, your online presence can be just as important as your in-person presence. Create a professional website or online portfolio that showcases your work, experience and accomplishments. Make sure your social media profiles are up-to-date and reflect your personal brand and why pay for a professional headshot if your not looking your professional best? Pictures speak, as do you when you are not talking.
Case Study: Rand Fishkin, founder of Moz and SparkToro built a strong online presence through his blog and social media presence. His personal brand is focused on marketing and SEO expertise. (has a clear brand image presentation, great headshot for linked in, complimentary to his professional goals)
- Network strategically: Networking is crucial for building new business relationships and uncovering new opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in your field on LinkedIn. This is imperative when starting out, but should never be forgotten. Be strategic about who you network with and focus on building quality relationships. Utilize a powerful look that is inviting and encourages others to start conversations with you. (Great coat, it’s so soft! It’s cashmere, oh wow! Wait, what do you do?? -You take it form here.)
Case Study: Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post, is known for her extensive network of business leaders and influencers. She has leveraged her personal brand and network to create new opportunities and partnerships, and clearly has always maintained a strong personal brand image over the years that’s complimentary towards her professional goals.
- Speak at conferences and events: Speaking at conferences and events can help you establish yourself as an expert in your field and reach a wider audience. Look for speaking opportunities at industry events or start by speaking at local business or networking events. Any excellent speaker, will tell you the power of looking good and feeling good. Look so confident that your posture improves, and you walk it like you talk it.
Case Study: Simon Sinek, author and motivational speaker, has built a personal brand around his message of “Start With Why.” He speaks at conferences and events around the world and has built a following of millions through his TED Talks and online videos. Again not your definition of fashionable, but has a thought out personal brand image, that’s yes, you guessed it; complimentary towards his goals.
- Write thought leadership content: Writing thought leadership content such as blog posts, whitepapers, or e-books can help you establish yourself as an expert in your field and attract new business opportunities. Share your content on your website, social media, and industry publications to reach a wider audience. And if your going to be in the public eye, respect the publics eyes. It’s a service to make yourself more approachable, relatable and someone to inspire and aspire to be.
Case Study: Neil Patel, digital marketing expert and founder of Neil Patel Digital, has built a personal brand around his expertise in SEO and content marketing. He has written numerous blog posts and articles on these topics and has been featured in top industry publications. He has a signature smile and look. Find me a pic of his without that wonderful positive smile. This is an easy one that is complimentary towards anyone’s professional goals.
Creating a strong personal brand and professional image can open doors to new opportunities in business and the workplace. I know you know this, now stop fighting it, there is a solution. Start by following The Clothing Coach for more info and content, and book a call or visit our San Francisco Studio to learn more. By following the examples of successful professionals like the ones referenced (and many more) you can create a personal brand that sets you apart and helps you achieve your career goals. Good luck and always remember, It’s not the fashion, it’s the passion!
Is Your Style Hurting Your Income?
Having a strong personal brand and dressing well can go a long way in boosting your income potential. Research has shown that individuals who invest in their personal brand image are more likely to earn higher salaries and even be perceived as more competent and trustworthy by their colleagues and clients. This idea, that dressing better and developing your personal brand image can help you make more money is among the main ways we can demonstrate how working with a clothing coach can change your life.
Firstly, let’s look at the role that dressing well plays in income potential. A study conducted by the Social Psychological and Personality Science Journal found that dressing formally leads to higher levels of abstract thinking, which is associated with better job performance. You look good….you feel good…they PAY good. (Classic Deion Sanders quote has actual science behind it) The study also found that employees who dress well are more likely to be perceived as competent, confident and trustworthy, which led to increased opportunities for promotions and salary raises.
Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Hertfordshire found that people who dress well earn an average of 20% more than their dressed down counterparts. The study also found that dressing well can increase your chances of getting hired and can also positively impact performance evaluations.
Now when it comes to personal branding, A study by CareerBuilder found that over 70% of employers use social media to screen potential candidates during the hiring process. This means that your online presence and personal brand image can have a significant impact on your career success. A strong personal brand that showcases your skills, expertise, and unique qualities can help you stand out; but without knowing you, your look and how you present yourself can directly increase your chances of getting hired for higher-paying positions.
Now having a strong personal brand can also lead to more business opportunities and increased income potential for entrepreneurs and freelancers. A survey conducted by LinkedIn found that freelancers with a strong personal brand earned an average of 60% more than those without a personal brand. You will be approached more, invited more and engaging more effortlessly. They come to you. (a salespersons dream)
So investing in your personal brand image and dressing well can have a significant impact on your income potential and bottom line. By dressing formally and creating a strong personal brand that’s complementary to your personality and goals is the best way to showcase your skills, expertise and you can increase your chances of getting hired for higher-paying positions. Whether you’re an employee, owner, manager, freelancer, or entrepreneur, taking the time to invest in your personal brand image can pay off in the long run (and often sooner than you expect).
This is our specialty at The Clothing Coach Studio in San Francisco’s Union Square. Book a call today and find out how we can enhance your personal brand image.
4 TV Anchors to Watch
In today’s world, personal branding and professional style have become crucial elements in building a successful career. Whether you’re a high-powered executive, a real estate professional or someone looking to raise your profile and career, your personal brand and wardrobe speak volumes about your professionalism, competence, and confidence. One way to learn from experts in this area is to look to TV anchors who are well known for their style and personal brand. Let’s take a closer look at how you can learn from some TV personalities we have identified as personal brand leaders. Watch these 4 style pros and apply their tips and tricks to develop your own personal brand, wardrobe, and professional style.
Nora O’Donnell – Best for the High-Powered Female Executive
Nora O’Donnell who most notably anchors the CBS evening news is always sharp with a strong sophisticated –yet simple professional style. She is an excellent example of a high-powered female executive who has developed a strong personal brand through her wardrobe and style choices. One of the key takeaways from O’Donnell’s style is the importance of simplicity and elegance. She often opts for tailored suits, classic dresses, and minimalist accessories. This approach emphasizes her professionalism and authority while still remaining stylish and feminine. ***Alexander McQueen is a common theme in her wardrobe and you’ll notice it’s styled completely differently than what’s typically displayed on their website or how their clothing is promoted.
When it comes to developing your personal brand, take a page from O’Donnell’s book and focus on creating a wardrobe that exudes elegance and sophistication. Invest in well-tailored pieces that will last you for years to come, and don’t be afraid to incorporate bold statement pieces to add personality and flair.
Kenny “The Jet” Smith – Best for Male Executives and Real Estate Professionals
Kenny “the jet” Smith is a retired NBA player television analyst on Inside the NBA and more. He’s known for his impeccable style, and is an excellent example of how male executives and real estate professionals can create a powerful personal brand through their wardrobe choices. Smith often opts for classic, tailored pieces, and notable color choices for suits, blazers, and dress pants. He also knows the importance of adding personality to his wardrobe through his accessory choices, with bold ties, wide peak lapels or unique pocket squares.
Check out Kenny Smith on TNT and focus on investing in classic, timeless pieces that will last you for years to come. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color and accessories to add personality and be mindful of your goals and non verbal cues.
Al Roker – Best for the Tasteful Gentleman Embracing a Mature Look
Al Roker is a journalist, weather forecaster, and television personality who is well known for his tasteful, mature style. He is an excellent example of a gentleman who has embraced a more mature look while still remaining stylish and sophisticated. Roker often opts for classic, tailored pieces, such as suits and blazers, and he knows the importance of investing in quality materials that will last.
When it comes to developing your personal brand, take a page from Roker’s book and focus on investing in high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and materials, such as wool or cashmere, to add depth and richness to your wardrobe.
Jenna Bush – Learn how to Raise Your Profile & Career Through Updating Wardrobe and Make-up
Jenna Bush Hager is a journalist, author and television personality who is well known for her now bright and polished style on her show with Hoda Kotb. She is an excellent example of someone who has raised her profile and career through updating and enhancing her wardrobe and makeup choices. Bush often opts for bright, bold colors and statement pieces with patterned blouses or statement necklaces. She clearly knows the importance of a polished makeup look with a focus on bold lip colors, defined brows and a complimentary hair length and style. Kudos to the stylists and artists who helped her develop this look, maximizing her features as the focal point.
Your personal style is a brand that can enhance, -or hurt your professional goals. Check out The Clothing Coach Blog and San Francisco studio, or schedule a free call to better learn how to develop your wardrobe and personal brand.
Good Friday: Clothing & Communication
Good Friday is an important day in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of mourning and reflection with many Christians around the world attending services, fasting, and refraining from certain activities as a sign of respect. While the focus of Good Friday is on the religious significance of the day, it’s interesting to consider the role that clothing has played in the establishment of this important observance.
Clothing has always been an important part of religious rituals and traditions and Good Friday is no exception. The clothing worn by Christians on Good Friday reflects the solemnity and reverence of the occasion. Many people choose to wear black or other dark colors as a sign of mourning and may also choose to wear more modest and conservative clothing. This is a clear indication that clothing and presentation have always played role in communication.
In some Christian denominations, the clergy wear special vestments on Good Friday. These vestments are often black or purple and are adorned with symbols of the crucifixion like the crown of thorns or a cross. The vestments worn by the clergy on Good Friday are a powerful symbol of the importance of the day and serve to reinforce the solemnity of the occasion.
In addition to the clothing worn by individuals and clergy, the way that clothing is used in Good Friday rituals and traditions is also significant. For example some churches have a large wooden cross that may be draped with a black cloth on Good Friday, as a symbol of mourning. This black cloth serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice that Jesus made and the importance of reflecting on the significance of his death.
Another important use of clothing on Good Friday is the use of the shroud. The shroud is a piece of cloth that is traditionally used to cover the crucifix or other religious artifacts on Good Friday. This shroud is often made of black or purple fabric, and serves as a powerful symbol of mourning and reflection. Interestingly you will notice that cheap synthetic fabric used for fast fashion are never used adding to the importance and respect of the purpose of this cloth. Usually fine silks, cotton or linen fabrics will be used for these purposes. No polyester investors here!
The use of clothing in Good Friday rituals and traditions is an important part of the observance of this solemn day and an important reminder that clothing and presentation have always and will continue to represent much more than just fashion. It is important to consider and to learn from the use of clothing as a form of communication and symbolism, just as cloths are used as a reminder of the solemnity of the day.
To learn more, visit us at 500 Sutter St. in San Francisco’s Union Square and check out our fine fabrics, men’s suits and more!
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Polyester Investor, Good or Bad Investment?
Do you ever wonder what happens to those cheap synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic as they get older? Well wonder no more! We do so much shopping in our coaching program and have purchased every fabric in dozens of brands. We also follow up with every client that has visited The Clothing Coach Studio in San Francisco to better understand price per wear and longevity of clothing purchases. In this blog post, I’ll explain what happens to these fabrics as they wear over time.
Let’s start with polyester. Polyester is a popular fabric because it’s cheap to purchase and produce and is treated with chemicals making it easy to care for. While how it’s treated impacts it’s durability, it’s not the most durable fabric out there. As you wear polyester clothing the fabric starts to break down. Often this can cause the fabric to lose its shape after 1 wear or wash and become less comfortable to wear quickly (the stretch can mask this for a bit). You might notice that your polyester clothing starts to pill, which is when small balls of fabric start to form on the surface. This happens because the fibers in polyester are not very strong, so they start to break apart and form those annoying little balls.
Acrylic is another form of synthetic fabric that’s commonly used in clothing among many other products. Acrylic is cheap and easy to care for but it’s not very durable, at least as far as clothing is concerned. As acrylic clothing starts to wear out, you might notice that the fabric becomes less soft and starts to feel rougher to the touch. This happens because the fibers in acrylic are not as flexible as natural fibers like cotton or wool. As the fabric wears, the fibers start to break and become more rigid which can make the fabric feel rough. You should also keep in mind that the best paint is often acrylic based just to give you an idea how these molecules are tweaked and chemically treated to create (or mimic) any texture.
Both polyester and acrylic are also prone to static electricity, which can be a real pain in the winter months. This happens because the fabrics are not very conductive, so they build up a static charge when rubbed against other surfaces. Static shock much? This can cause your clothes to cling to your body or even give you a shock when you touch something metal. Easiest way to spot a polyester investor for an untrained eye.
Cheap synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and so many others are “convenient” and affordable, but they don’t hold up well over time. As you wear these fabrics, they start to break down, emit toxicities into the air (and micro-plastics into the water supply when washed) and lose their shape and softness. So while these fabrics might feel like a good choice for a one-time use or a quick fashion fix, they’re not the best option for long-term wear making them generally a low value; with huge hidden costs.
Especially when shopping for suits, sportcoats and other formal attire yet also undergarments and gym wear, stick to natural fibers and fabrics. While we generally don’t recommend any synthetic fabrics, outerwear (like rain jackets) can be some of the safest bets, as are fabric blends of mostly natural fibers and 40% (or preferably less) synthetic component.
8 Questions To Ask Yourself To Develop Your Style
Developing a personal brand image and style that aligns with your personality and goals can be a challenging but rewarding process. Luckily for you, we’ve got it down to a science here at The Clothing Coach Studio in San Francisco’s Union Square. Here are some questions that you can ask yourself to help get you started and guide you in the process:
- Who am I? What are my core values, beliefs, and personality traits?(i.e. I’m passionate about the environment so I don’t believe in polyester or cheap fast fashion)
- What are my goals? What am I trying to achieve, and how can my style help me get there? (Remember, no style….IS a style)
- What are my interests and passions? How can I incorporate them into my style?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses? How can I play to my strengths and work on improving my weaknesses through my style? (Fit is more important than measurements)
- Who do I admire for their style, and why? How can I incorporate elements of their style into my own while still staying true to myself?
- What image do I want to project to the world? How can my style help me communicate that image effectively? (It’s not the fashion…it’s the passion!)
- How do I want to feel when I’m wearing my clothes? How can I create a wardrobe that makes me feel confident, comfortable, and authentic?
- What are my budget and lifestyle constraints? How can I create a style that is practical and sustainable for my current situation? (It’s possible at ANY budget)
By asking yourself these 8 questions, you can start to develop a clear understanding of who you are and what you want to communicate through your personal style and professional image. This can help guide your decisions about clothing, accessories, grooming, and more….and help you create a style that truly reflects your unique personality and goals non verbally.
5 Changes to Enhance Your Professional Brand Today
In today’s world, personal branding has become more important than ever. With the rise of social media and the increasing competition in the job market, it’s crucial to present yourself in the best possible light. A professional brand image can make all the difference in landing a job or attracting clients. Here are five changes you can make today to enhance your personal presentation and create a more professional brand image:
- Dress for Success
The way you dress is one of the most important factors in creating a professional brand image. Whether you’re heading to a job interview, a business meeting, or a networking event, dressing appropriately is key. The rule of thumb is to always dress to your personality and goals while always giving the due respect for every occasion. While underdressing is more dangerous than overdressing learning the art of balance here is key. This shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are willing to put in the effort to present yourself well, (and/or the brand or establishment you’ll be representing).
- Practice Good Posture
Your posture says a lot about you, so make sure you’re standing tall and confident. Good posture not only makes you look more professional but also helps you feel more confident. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference in how others perceive you. (dressing well increases your confidence and makes this easier)
- Improve Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is critical for success in both personal and professional settings. Whether you’re giving a presentation or having a conversation with someone, it’s important to speak clearly, confidently, and with conviction. Improving your communication skills can help you build relationships, convey your message more effectively, and enhance your overall professional brand image.
- Pay Attention to Your Social Media Presence
In today’s digital age, your social media presence is just as important as your in-person presence. Make sure your social media accounts reflect the professional image you want to portray. Clean up any inappropriate content, post relevant and engaging content, and engage with your audience to build relationships.
- Show up on Time
Punctuality is a key component of a professional brand image. Always show up on time for meetings, interviews, and appointments. This shows that you respect other people’s time and are reliable. If you’re running late, be sure to communicate with the other party to let them know.
Enhancing your personal presentation can make a significant impact on your professional brand image. This sort of guidance is a specialty for us at The Clothing Coach studio in downtown San Francisco, you can book a call to learn more about our coaching program. This is really the low hanging fruit, so start with these five changes today. You can start to project a more professional, confident, and trustworthy image to those around you and remember, it’s not the fashion, it’s the passion.
Lapel Differences Explained. What to choose for your suit?
Clients often ask us to explain the difference between Notch lapels and peak lapels; the two most common styles of lapels found on suit jackets. Let’s cover some basics and get to what you should choose for you. Lapels are the folded flaps of cloth on the front of the jacket that extend from the collar and provide a polished and sophisticated look. Here are the technical and stylistic differences between a notch lapel and peak lapel suit jacket:
Technical Differences:
Notch lapels are characterized by a V-shaped notch where the lapel meets the collar. The notch opens towards the shoulder and can be subtle or more pronounced depending on the design of the suit.
Peak lapels on the other hand, have pointed ends that extend upwards towards the shoulders, creating a peak or triangle shape. The peak can be sharp or slightly rounded depending on the style of the suit.
Stylistic Differences:
Notch lapel suits are considered to be more classic and versatile, making them a popular choice for business and professional occasions. They are a safe choice and can be worn in a variety of settings.
Peak lapel suits are more formal and dramatic. They are often seen on tuxedos and double-breasted suits, and are considered to be more fashion-forward. Peak lapel suits are a great choice if you want to make a statement or stand out from the crowd. This style is especially great for grooms and special events.
This is an important decision with every custom Clothing Coach suit we craft from San Francisco. So remember the technical difference between a notch lapel and a peak lapel suit is the shape of the lapel, and the stylistic difference should be chosen based on your personality, planned events and goals.