Another Flip For The Weekend – Walking A Mile In Their Shoes

By Brian Maynor

 

 

Sexual violence has been in the news a lot this year, specifically in the arena of professional sports, and since April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month it’s in the spotlight again.

Earlier this week Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands (STSM) held their annual Walk A Mile In Their Shoes event that encourages men, but women and children are welcome as well, to take a stand against sexual abuse and violence by wearing a pair of heels for a one-mile walk in front of the State House.

I have a particular connection to this issue after working with victims of domestic violence while at legal aid in the Pee Dee region. Helping someone reclaim their dignity, self-esteem and confidence was a profound moment for me not only because it led to my career as an image consultant, but it also showed me that small things could have a big impact. Here are a few ‘small things’ we all can do when we need a boost of self-confidence:

 

1. Get a haircut. Whether it’s a trim or a major style change when you walk out of the salon you will feel like a new person. And that is due in part to the fact the session is all about you. Whether you want to talk the entire time or sit in comfortable silence you have someone’s undivided attention working with you to help you look and feel your best. Plus you get to enjoy a head and neck massage with your shampoo and who doesn’t love that?
2. Enjoy a manicure. Whether you have one done by a professional or DYI the end result is the same. Not only do you have pretty, clean and buffed nails that instantly upgrade your image, you’ve also spent some time on yourself. It’s easy to ignore or discount time for you as indulgent or unnecessary, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. What we spend time on is an indication of what we value, and we all should be near the top of our own lists.
3. Enjoy a make-up counter makeover.   It’s good to try new things, especially when they are complementary, and when you buy makeup you know there is always something new to try. Working with a professional makeup artist is an amazing experience and they can show you a completely new face in the mirror, whether you buy the products or not.
4. Have coffee with a friend. We’ve all felt sad, down or just blah and those feelings are exacerbated when we’re alone. Asking a friend to coffee is the perfect way to get out of the house, not to mention out of your head, and have some fun. Coffee shops are always bustling but it’s the kind of energy you tap into by being a part of it. Whether you spend twenty minutes or two hours there you leave feeling better and more energized, and that’s not just because of the coffee.

 

It’s not the outcome that makes the change in your life. It’s the time invested that makes the change. And that’s true for all of us, not just victims of domestic or sexual assault.

More information on STSM or Sexual Assault Awareness Month can be found here.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected]. Also find each of thesestoryboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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