Keeping groomed this Movember

The month of Movember has become synonymous with the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces around the world. Image consultant and stylist Petra Laranjo gives some tips on how to keep our men groomed through this (very long) month of Movember.

Facial hair is a contentious issue. On ladies, it’s a non-negotiable. Pluck, wax, laser...it’s NOT an option. Eyebrows should be like sisters – not twins and not distant cousins. Ladies, under arm farm must go. Blaming it on culture is not going to make it any more pleasing on the eye. Question: How does one decide what remains ‘tradition’ and what evolves? What confuses me is that we justify, pardon and blame certain ‘delicate or political issues’ on culture and tradition…when it suits us. If we’re forward thinking enough to use cellular mobiles, internet, DSTV and drive powerful electronic cars with state of the art functions, then we’re forward enough to progress with the times, no?  Oh well, maybe that’s just me.

Moving on….With Movember (men only!) about to happen brace yourselves for both disturbing and entertaining images. But just because it’s for a good cause does not excuse an unkept, disheveled appearance.

So if you are going to grow the ‘tash, gents, please keep it clean. Support the cause with style and respect it deserves. Think of Josh Strauss (Rugby Lions captain). Beard on. Beard off. Whatever his reasons were to cultivate such an immensely dense hedge of a beard, a bit of a trim would most certainly have rendered his appearance more…appealing. Or maybe that was the issue? Seriously though, in general, if you’re in business and wanting to make a positive, reliable, credible and responsible, minimal (read: no) facial hair is advised. Hey, I don’t make the rules.

Just like it’s a parent’s responsibility to guide the child in what’s acceptable and not, so is it the company’s duty to guide its employees in the accepted dress-code. How are your employees to know any better if the ground rules aren’t set or reinforced? Set time and  budget aside now for 2012’s graduate training and image based workshops and presentations.

Information without action is pointless: So ladies, let us support Movember wholeheartedly. Gents, don your ‘tashes (spell-check) proudly. And let’s make Movember one to remember.

  

Here’s to living a life of confidence.

Petra

Email Petra at petra@5quad.co.za  or call 082 497 3347 for information on how to elevate your personal/organization’s image and brand. Corporate packages available on request.

PS> If there’s you’d like to receive Petra’s “Monday Style Tip”, e-mail her with a request.

"Revive. Refresh. Re-invent your life."