Wed 19 Mar 2008
Image Consultant Viewpoint: Spitzer, McGreevey Fashion Faux Pas
Posted by Sandy Dumont under Image of Political Figures
[4] Comments
Amazingly, former governors Elliot Spitzer and James McGreevey were dressed nearly identically when they made their public apoligies, as you will see from the New York Times article by Michael Barbaro. Bad choice of ties, however. Wearing a power "boardroom" tie isn't what I would suggest to a client who wanted to appear innocent. The light blue tie that is favored by President Bush would have been my choice. Pastels always convey either innocence, passivity and powerlessness. In fact, Bush needs a little education about ties, because he always gets them backwards. A red tie says, "Out of town by midnight, Osama" not a pale blue one!
What a good point you make, Sandy.
Someone really needs to tell politicians and thier wives how they really look.
Maggie,
Yes, every single item of clothing has its own message. Ties, in particular, talk. They tell of your socio-economic background and more. There is a time to wear a board room tie, and that was not the occasion for either politician.
Left to our own devices, most of us play Russian roulette with our image, and consequently, our lives.
Did not realize that a tie could make or break a person…What about the facial expression of Mr. Spitzer? Not very spritzing I would say!
Dear Chuck,
Good observation, Chuck, about the expression of Mr. Spitzer. I think he’s mad at the world right now, but mostly at himself.