Laurice Brown, AICI

When I was 12, my mother subscribed me to American Girl magazine. I loved it and graduated my interest in fashion and makeup over the years to Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Elle, Mademoiselle, and Allure.

There, in the pages of Vogue, I was fascinated month after month by how the models changed personalities by changing clothes. (Why did they look good sometimes and not others?) I also loved how makeup was an art form. I emulated, copied, compared and had fun. Was clueless, but still, I had fun.

During this same time period, I found I had an innate interest in people. I would watch them in parks, at the mall, in restaurants and offices. I would eavesdrop on conversations (always in public places; I tried not to be nosy) and was fascinated by what they talked about and how they said things. I was always trying to figure out what makes them tick.

Years later... I’ve taken my interest in fashion and makeup, my curiosity about people, and my understanding of color and art (I paint watercolors), and wrapped it all up with image consulting training. This gives me a unique capacity to understand my clients and help them look their authentic best and acquire a wardrobe that supports their lifestyle. As one of my mentors says, “You are the painting; your clothing is the frame.”

Of course, I couldn’t get just any training. It had to be something that took into consideration people’s individuality. I value uniqueness and authenticity, so I had to have it in my work. I just couldn’t stomach 4 color palettes for everyone who came through my door. I mean, four? For all the variety of people in the world?

So, after some research, I received image consulting training through the Color Collage Institute in Pasadena, CA and through Body Beautiful in Venice, CA.

I’m an active member of the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), was AICI Chapter Member of the Year 2003, and have served as Secretary and Treasurer.

My recent professional coup was passing AICI’s First Level Certification exam in May 2006 (hence the letters after my name). This exam covered topics of the business of image consulting, color theory, color analysis, body analysis, wardrobing for men and women, makeup, hair, grooming, etiquette, body language, communication, and professional ethics. What does this mean for you? Just that you are assured I’ve proven my competencies within high standards of excellence—an important point since anyone can just call themselves an image consultant and start a practice.

And... I’m grateful to have with me by my side my husband and partner in life, Ken, and our two Vizsla pups, Elliott and Szuka.