The Roles of Style
Philadelphia Image Consultant Gregory Jerome Discusses the Importance of Style, what drew him into fashion and style, and more
All Images Courtesy of Gregory Jerome
Fashion, often underestimated and reduced to minimal significance among those who do not find it of interest, goes far beyond apparel, accessories, or even trends. It is experiential, and at times emotional. Its external appearance often represents something obscured from its surface. Gregory Jerome, an image consultant based in Philadelphia, is one such individual that understands and actively explores fashion’s broader implications, both in his work and within his own styling choices. Jerome explains that after taking an interest in fashion” he started seeing “how it impacted” how he would “communicate(d) with clothes,” his “own personal self-confidence, and” his ability “to socialize and meet new people, all because of clothes.” Through his work at Gregory Jerome Image Consulting, he aims to help others discover how fashion and style can enrich their lives.
Businesses, which were closed up until recently, have cautiously reopened their doors. Some have returned to working on-site, attending in-person events, and taking part in activities outside of their homes, which has made now the perfect time to explore the role of dress and style in our lives. Jerome and other professionals in Philadelphia’s fashion industry offer products, services, and advice for those who want to try something new or refine their style. While pajamas and sweatpants have gotten us through the last year or so, getting back into the art of “dress” and style has many benefits for its participants.
"(On the professional and personal benefits of embracing fashion and style) It builds confidence that in turn impacts their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional factors. Enhancing communication skills, productivity, and social skills." -Gregory Jerome
Back in March, when he was participating in the interview for a previous story entitled “Reimagining Philadelphia,” Jerome was outfitted in an ensemble consisting of a tan cotton safari jacket by Ralph Lauren and a rust-colored sweater. His look stuck the perfect balance of personality and professionalism. As an image consultant, he addressed some observations he has made regarding the current state and role of style in Philadelphia’s community among those who are not active fashion followers. Jerome states that “A lot of people fail to value their appearance, their brand, their personal brand, and even sometimes their company brand. So it is a challenge to persuade people to understand their brand, and their image is highly important to personal and professional success.” However, he goes on to add that the hesitance to participate in active fashion and style decisions may occur in part because of “economic status” which may not allow some “communities... to be able to afford the services that” he “provides.” He explains that this feeling of inaccessibility may discourage people from participating in such endeavors, and ultimately rule them as being unimportant.
However, Jerome—who according to his LinkedIn profile studied Psychology, Behavioral Sciences, and Ethics at Mid-America Christian University—feels that many would benefit from embracing fashion and style in their lives, particularly on emotional and psychological levels. Jerome explains that “A lot of people have low self-esteem because they don’t understand, or their knowledge is not expanded far enough to understand ‘hey, I should get some clothes, and get some clothes to fit, and with the right colors I will feel better.’ It changes the outlook, the internal and external.” As we spoke earlier this month, he elaborated on the professional and personal benefits by stating, “It builds confidence that in turn impacts their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional factors. Enhancing communication skills, productivity, and social skills.”
For those interested in having professional guidance in regards to fashion and styling, his company Gregory Jerome Image Consulting offers a variety of services to help others incorporate new fashions into their wardrobe and establish their style. Jerome details that his company’s offerings include “daily wear,...personal shopping, style analysis, wardrobe set-up, closet edits, special occasions, and...training for workshops for corporations and universities.” He also notes that these options are available for one person, a company, or a couple. He explains, “We love to educate our clients on the internal and external bits of image…” and also “...help them to identify their personality through image by incorporating the benefits in terms of color as well.” He also offers “complimentary consultations.”
Regarding his approach to styling, he begins by noting that, “As a creative artist” he views “the human body as a canvas and billboard” which “provides us the opportunity for self-expression and branding.” In his work, he explains that he likes to utilize the tools associated with fashion and style to “uplift and empower clients.” The brainstorming end of his endeavors consists of what he refers to as, “active listening and...understanding” their “objectives.” The next few steps consist of determining the client’s body type, and the silhouettes that “complement(s)” it, and using “inspirations” within these and other considerations as well. Jerome explains that his services educate clients on “proper fit, colors, fabrics,” and more, as well as “combinations” of garments that work together.
However, if one cannot afford image consulting services, Jerome advises those interested in updating their look and style to start by “do(ing) a self-assessment” in order “To understand their internal perception at the present moment…” and “...who they would like to become.” He then adds, “With that, how do they prefer the world to see them?” In terms of finding stylistic inspiration, he recommends consulting a variety of sources, including those from popular culture, including films, “home decor” and “travel magazines,” natural environments, artworks, and stylish or fashion-savvy peers. Jerome also shares many useful articles and information about styling through his LinkedIn profile.
Jerome, from his own experience, and based on interactions with clients, has seen the many roles that fashion can play in one’s life. No matter one’s reasons for becoming more informed about style and fashion, as Jerome points out, the benefits are multi-dimensional, regardless. As was the case with his journey, Jerome emphasizes that the key to exploring fashion and style is “...education…”. Whether through independent study and exploration or with the help of an image consultant, you too can discover the positive implications of fashion and style.
If you want to learn more about Jerome’s personal style check out his Instagram here.
Works Cited and Consulted:
Gregory Jerome. (n.d). Profile [LinkedIn Page]. LinkedIn. Accessed 19 July 2021 from https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryjerome180/.