By Judith Rasband, AICI CIM
Remember those people you always watched in high school? You know, the girls and guys who looked just right, as well as the few who looked like a fright. Let’s face it, people are continually noticing one another, forming impressions and making judgments based on appearance. So why not do it with a purpose once in a while?
Purposeful ‘people watching’ can help you become more aware of specific dress and grooming practices. And as you become more aware of your own appearance and can then make a change for the better if it’s called for.
“People watching” may help you avoid altogether some of the most common mistakes. Anyplace where large numbers of people gather is a good place to ‘people watch.’ The people in the library, grocery store, cafeteria or movie theater are often more interesting than what is in the books, on the shelves, the menu or the movie screen.
A large metropolitan airport is an ideal spot for people watching. You’ll see people with total variety in lifestyle, cultural and geographical backgrounds, values, attitudes and interests, as well as the random assortment of sizes and shapes. Pick your place, clear your mind and just watch. Take a few moments out of your own shopping time and plant yourself on a bench where you have full view of the comings and goings. (And don’t panic if they notice you’re watching—just smile and turn your attention elsewhere.)
Watch what people are wearing and how they’re wearing it. Is the clothing appropriate for the occasion, the weather and the person’s age, personality, figure and personal coloring?
Try to become aware of your own reactions to those you see. Catch your first impressions. If you don’t like the way someone looks, try to figure out why. Maybe her skirt pulls tight over her fanny and the hem hikes three inches shorter in back than front. Or maybe his plaid pants fight with his striped shirt and polka dot tie.
If your first thoughts were “sharp,” “looks terrific,” or “I’d like to look like that,” try to figure out how the various parts fo the outfit have been put together and how the grooming details contribute to the harmony of the total look. You’re sure to pick up some pointers.
“People watching” can be a fun, fascinating and informative pastime. It’s a never-ending adventure in expanding your awareness, sensitivity and objectivity. Use it to your advantage.
Copyright Judith Rasband and Conselle L.C. 2009
Judith Rasband is the Image Expert and would love to work with you! Visit www.conselle.com or call 801-224-1207 to learn more.
