What you wear and how you wear it send powerful messages that make a statement about you. The image you present is a reflection of your self-esteem and how you wish to be perceived by others. You can choose to fit in or stand out. But whatever you do, you can make your image work for you.

Consider this:

• It takes less than 10 seconds to make a first impression.
• First impressions can be effective or disastrous.
• The most lasting image others have of you is derived from their first impression.
• You do not get a second chance to make a first impression.

People make assumptions based on the image you present. They form ideas about your economic and educational level, social background, trustworthiness, moral character, chances of success and even your future. Nonverbal communication messages are very powerful.

The following tips will help you learn how to consciously use your image as a powerful communication tool. Discover how to make a positive first impression in every social and business situation.

1. Clothing
You risk looking like a fashion victim if you follow the crowd and wear up-to-the-minute clothes that don’t suit you. Select clothing styles that best complement your body and wear them exclusively. You can still look fashionable and express your individuality by incorporating elements of the current season’s style, colours and accessories into your outfit.

2. Colours
Know your colours and wear them to best effect. Wear the colours that complement your complexion, hair and eye colour because they balance and harmonise with your natural colouring. Your wardrobe will be more streamlined if garments work together and can be mixed and matched to create many outfits. This also gives the illusion of an extensive wardrobe.

3. Accessories
Quality accessories can update your wardrobe and make not-so-current garments look like new. Invest in the best accessories that you can afford. Choose quality handbags, wallets, scarves and belts. These items are a focal point of your overall image.
But don’t over-accessorise – a striking scarf, a glamorous handbag and a knockout belt are wonderful – but not all at the same time. Too many accessories are distracting and can cheapen the look you are trying to create.

4. Jewellery
Like accessories, the jewellery you wear completes your look and makes a statement about your style and personality.
In business, less is more. This doesn’t mean that you can’t wear a striking and unique piece, but wearing too much jewellery is overkill and distasteful. Earrings that jangle, bracelets that jingle and rings on every finger are better left more informal social occasions. As a rule, wear one ring on each hand (a cluster of rings such as those worn on the wedding finger counts as one piece) and avoid jewellery that rattles.
Don’t dismiss costume jewellery. There is a vast array of good quality costume jewellery that is tasteful and can revamp your outfit in an instant.

5. Hosiery
In the business environment, hosiery is a must. Bare legs, no matter how bronzed and smooth, are not a substitute for legs in good quality hosiery.

When buying hosiery, purchase the best quality pantihose, tights and stockings and apply the price-per-wear factor. Although they may be more costly, they are longer-lasting and have a smoother, silkier look and feel than inexpensive brands. Stock up at department store sale time. Carry a spare pair (in the colour you are wearing) in your briefcase or handbag: snags and runs are unavoidable.

6. Personal Grooming
Pay scrupulous attention to your personal grooming. This includes your skin, hair, dental hygiene and nail care. Good grooming sends a clear message about how much you respect yourself.

7. Shoes
Nothing spoils an outfit and your overall appearance as much as shoddy shoes. Remember Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman? She carried a black marker pen to touch-up her heels. I’m not suggesting you do the same but check condition of shoes each day and attend to repairs as quickly as possible.

Wear court shoes with hosiery for business and keep your sandals and peep-toe shoes for non-work events. Pay attention to the condition of your feet with open shoes – professional or home pedicures are a must in warmer seasons.

8. Hairstyle
Your hairstyle, as well as being an essential part of your grooming routine, speaks volumes about your image and fashion awareness. Befriend your hairdresser. He or she can complete your look by ensuring you have the best cut, colour and style to suit your face and body proportions, hair type and manageability.

9. Makeup
A small amount of makeup is required to finish the look. If nothing else, wear a lipstick in a colour that complements your natural colouring because lipstick draws attention to the eyes and frames the face. Natural-looking makeup – a light application of foundation to smooth out the skin, blusher to add colour and mascara – will make you look professional and ready for business.

Putting it all together
Miuccia Prada, designer for the Italian fashion label Prada, once said:
“ Women’s lives have got very complex. Their clothes should reflect the avant-garde to show their vitality in society. Style is really about a consistent identity. Today’s immense freedom of choice puts one at a disadvantage. You have to know yourself, your clothes, what they give to you. I find it amazing how much that affects the rest of your life, because when you are well-dressed you are much more optimistic. And optimism is sometimes all we have. "

So, make sure your image is working for you in any situation. Refine and develop this nonverbal communication skill and reap the benefits.