A sad truth that researchers Dunn & Charette have found is that "Our Image can have a significant impact on our hapiness by affecting the development of friendships and romantic relationships. Children learn that looking 'different' often results in teasing and bullying. Adults experience similiarly painful consequences."
"People are affected by your appearance whether or not they realise it, and whether or not they think appearance is important." (Dunn & Charette, National Research Council of Canada). Dunn and Charette's research goes on to state that a first impression has significant, measurable effects on the observer. "Your appearance strongly influences other people's perception of you."
You probably know from personal experience the difference in respect and attention you receive from sales assistants or store owners when you are dressed 'a certain way'. We all know this clip from Pretty Woman.
Pretty Woman Clip - Snobby Sales Assistants
Experiment: Try the Vivienne Experiment. Visit the same store twice - once dressed in your loungewear and once dressed in your work gear. Compare the reactions and respect of the sales assistants. I love the following clip...the ultimate revenge!
What are your thoughts? Do we live in an Image Obsessed Society? Should we fight it or go with it?
B xx