So, a client recently asked me this question and while I was pretty surprised, I also completely understood. Surprised because we live in LA, the land of eternal youth. If anything, everyone always wants to look younger! I understood because when you’re younger and working towards professional success, you don’t want people to dismiss you or not take you seriously simply because of your age.

Now, on the flip side, I’ve had clients who were relatively young (early 30’s) who really needed to start dressing their age. They were dressing too young to be taken seriously professionally and/or personally.

So, as with everything, it becomes a delicate balancing act.

The question becomes this: How do you blend your personal style with your career image and aspirations?

A key tenant of mine comes into play: know your audience and your purpose, while staying true to your personality and style.

So, in a professional setting that means still being conservative, respectful and well dressed in great fitting clothes, but you have to be sure to inject a bit of personality to your look. That can come from the color of your suit jacket, a bold accessory, your favorite purse, a pretty scarf, gorgeous earrings, etc.

If you are true to your audience as well as yourself with your style, then you will be sure to have the confidence to go forward professionally with great confidence. Confidence is the key factor for winning anyone’s trust and ultimately business success.

The key takeaway? Your image is your brand. YOUR brand.