Mindy Stricke

What I offer my clients that’s different…

I bring a unique depth of experience and perspective that lets them change their lives in more ways than simply style. To me, fashion is a part of larger picture. Even when I help people simply shop in their own closets, I take what they own and transform it into an outfit that not only suits them individually, but also takes them to the next level. I use their own goals to create a strategically smart wardrobe. My aim is to help people advance their own agenda, whether they want to reinvent themselves for professional or social reasons.

Why it’s vital to have a style coach…

Life is infinitely easier if you have a mentor. Mentors can help you see the possibilities—and help smooth the way to attaining them. Coaches are the new mentors of today. As an experienced style and protocol coach, I know how to help my clients create an image as well as master the protocol that will help them advance in their chosen careers. I can see their potential, help them take advantage of their assets and save them valuable time.

Why I believe professional charisma can be learned…

It wasn’t until I worked in other countries that I became acutely aware of the role of manners in professional charisma. In our global economy, it’s particularly important that people put more emphasis on presentation and protocol skills as they move up the corporate ladder.

Why one person’s presence is more impactful than someone else’s…

Some people who have a high sense of self know how to convey it. Others have to learn it. This is why I offer a free course on the Internet, called Be Your Own Business Card (at beyourownbusinesscard.com) to teach anyone the precise steps (to self-branding) for the competitive edge they need in the workplace and in their personal life.

Why I don’t think that a fashion and beauty makeover alone can change your life…

As an editor, I did hundreds of makeovers. I discovered that they are only successful if the person is willing to adopt the new habits involved because it takes practice and time. Undoing bad habits and incorporating new ones doesn’t happen without commitment. Actually, about 98% of the people I redid weren’t able to maintain their new look—even though they loved it. Reinvention takes time, effort and persistence until it becomes automatic.

Why I teach clients to master the difference between fashion and appropriate dress.

Fashion and appropriate dress are sometimes the same. Usually they are not, though. In order for fashion to become appropriate in the workplace, it has to take its cues from your industry, job position, geographical location and specific occasion. For example, a litigator wearing a sundress from the cover of Vogue might capture the jury’s interest, but she will probably lose its respect. Steven Spielberg can wear sneakers with a suit, a bank manager cannot.

How can you make your image and dress…zing? Call 212-877-4963.