How your style impacts your personal brand.
A personal brand is a reflection of who you are and how you present yourself to the world. It’s how the world perceives you emotionally. How do people think of you when they see you?
Your personal brand is a reflection of who you are and how you present yourself to the world. It’s not just a label; it’s the emotions and perceptions people associate with you. When someone hears your name, what thoughts or feelings arise? What impression do you leave behind? Personal branding shapes how others perceive your talents, potential, and authenticity.
Personal style, on the other hand, is the external representation of your personal brand. It’s an extension, a visible accessory that defines and enhances your identity. While some argue that appearance is overrated, the reality is that society often judges on first impressions. The way you present yourself matters—it’s not about pretending to be someone you’re not, but about amplifying who you truly are.
Think of it this way: you’re at a networking event and meet a woman who claims to be a hairstylist and fashion guru. However, her attire is mismatched, her hair looks unkempt, and her overall presentation lacks polish. Would you trust her expertise? Now imagine meeting someone else at the same event, also claiming to be a hairstylist and fashion expert. This person is well-dressed, with impeccable hair and thoughtfully chosen accessories. Would you be more inclined to seek her advice? Chances are, the latter person leaves a stronger, more professional impression.
The Intersection of Style and Personal Branding
Your personal brand is not about trying to fit into someone else’s mold—it’s about showing up as your authentic self. Your style becomes a tool to communicate that authenticity and create a lasting impression. Whether you’re a hairstylist, fashion designer, artist, or entrepreneur, how you present yourself should align with the qualities and values you want others to see in you.
Defining your personal brand is an introspective and creative process. Start by asking yourself:
What qualities do I have that make my business or service stand out?
What makes people enjoy being around me?
What do I want to be known for?
What emotions do I want to evoke in others?
Tips to Get Started
Identify Your Brand with Three Words
Think of three adjectives that best describe you and the image you want to project. These words will influence everything—from how you dress to the energy you bring into a room.Create a Mood Board
Use tools like Pinterest to gather inspiration. Choose colors, styles, and elements that align with your three descriptive words. Let these become your style compass.Perform a Style Audit
Take a look at your wardrobe. Does it reflect the personal brand you want to portray? If not, it’s time to revamp. Curate pieces that align with your goals and replace items that don’t resonate with your brand identity. A style audit ensures consistency in how you present yourself.Add Personality to Your Wardrobe
Experiment with brighter colors and unique accessories. Statement necklaces, shoes, or bags can spark conversations and set you apart in a crowd.Seek Professional Guidance
If budget allows, consult a personal stylist. They can help bridge the gap between your desired brand and your current look, ensuring your appearance aligns with your vision.Energy is Key
Remember, your vibe is 75% of the impression you leave. A positive and confident demeanor can amplify the impact of your personal style.
The Bigger Picture
Your personal brand extends beyond your wardrobe. Those three words will guide everything you do—your business cards, website, blog, and social media presence. Consistency across these platforms helps others clearly understand what you’re about and builds trust in your expertise.
Above all, authenticity is crucial. Trying to emulate someone else’s style or brand won’t resonate in the long run. Take time to discover and embrace your unique qualities. The right people will naturally be drawn to you.
So own your style, own your brand, and have fun with the journey—it’s all part of showcasing the best version of yourself to the world!
If you’d like personalized help with defining or refining your personal brand, book a free call here.
How to get your branding right: A Quick Case Study - Smith and Cult Brand
Smith and Cult is a beauty brand that really nailed its branding to create a place in the beauty market. A place that's always difficult to break into...
Breaking into the beauty market is no small feat. It’s fiercely competitive, with established giants and indie innovators constantly vying for attention. Yet, Smith & Cult, a beauty brand, managed to carve out a distinctive place. How did they do it? The answer is branding done right. Let’s dive into what makes Smith & Cult a case study in exceptional branding.
Naming
Smith & Cult’s name is a reflection of duality—the light and dark sides of beauty. “Smith” represents light, simplicity, and tradition, while “Cult” embodies the edgy, darker, and unconventional aspects of the brand. Even the logo—handwritten—creates a personal touch that resonates with their brand voice. Imagine a beauty junkie scribbling her thoughts in a diary. That’s the vibe Smith & Cult is going for, and it works brilliantly.
The Voice
Speaking of the vibe, Smith & Cult’s brand voice nails it. Their tone mirrors that of a beauty junkie sharing secrets in her diary. It’s conversational, relatable, and perfectly aligned with their target audience: beauty enthusiasts looking for insider tips and trends. S&C is not just a brand; it’s the best friend who tells you all the beauty hacks you need to know.
Packaging
One glance at Smith & Cult’s packaging, and it’s clear: this isn’t your average nail polish. Their bottles are a blend of sleek design and imperfections—dented caps juxtaposed with smooth, polished glass. This contrast symbolizes the complexities of beauty and life—lessons learned, experiences gained. It’s a perfect metaphor: beauty isn’t about perfection but the journey.
The aesthetic isn’t just striking; it’s meaningful. Smith & Cult’s products deserve a spot in every beauty lover’s collection, both for their looks and the stories they tell.
The Website
Smith & Cult’s website is a digital experience that feels like an exclusive beauty lounge. Modern, colorful, and interactive, the site draws users in immediately. It’s hip yet approachable, with just the right amount of intrigue to keep visitors exploring. The site’s design is more than a storefront—it’s an extension of the brand’s personality, turning casual browsers into loyal customers.
Lacquer Names
If you think product naming doesn’t matter, think again. Smith & Cult’s lacquer names are an art form. Each name—like “Stockholm Syndrome,” “Dirty Baby,” or “Lover’s Creep”—is a nod to the founder’s life experiences. They’re quirky, memorable, and unlike anything else in the market. These names create an emotional connection and make the products feel like stories you can wear.
Lacquer Colors
Beyond the names, the colors themselves are vibrant, bold, and high-quality. The shades—from cardinal reds to dreamy pinks—speak to a variety of moods and personalities. Pair that with their stellar formula, and the $18 price tag suddenly feels justified. It’s not just nail polish; it’s an investment in self-expression.
The Result
Every aspect of Smith & Cult’s branding—from the name and packaging to the website and product details—is in sync. This creates a seamless and unforgettable experience for the customer, turning them into loyal fans. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about crafting stories, emotions, and memories.
So, what are you doing in your business to enchant your clients? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your strategies!
If you’d like us to take a look at your brand book and help you refine it, let us know. Together, we can make your brand as memorable as Smith & Cult. Book a free call here
Take your idea from conception to completion
Hello,
I compiled a small list of steps you should take to get your crazy sexy ideas from conception to completion....
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I compiled a small list of steps you should take to get your crazy sexy ideas from conception to completion; it can be hard sometimes but it can be done. An idea is just an idea; it's only by taking strategic actions that your idea will materialize.
Listen to the podcast and let me know below what other steps you took to make your idea happen. Until next time,
Xo, Cindy
