Focus On

AUCHTERARDER TIMES

This edition we focus on.......

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Imagine you find yourself lost in a strange city and don’t know how to get back to your hotel. There are 2 people nearby – a well dressed businessman with a briefcase or a young lad, tattooed and pierced with ripped jeans and bleached blond spiky hair – who would you ask for directions?

No matter how non-judgemental or liberal we like to think we are, there is a wealth of research that shows that we make judgements of people based almost solely on visual imagery within seconds of meeting them. 93% of our first impression is based on looks alone and hence only 7% on verbal exchanges. That leads to the question – are you making the right visual impact, because you never get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression. Your personal image is how you present yourself to the world — it’s like the wrapping paper around a present.

So, how can you present your best image to the world?

When we wear the colours that suit us, that is those that work in harmony with our own natural hair, skin and eye colour, it enhances all our features – our eyes shine, our skin glows, we look slimmer, brighter and altogether healthier. The wrong colour pattern has the opposite effect.

Your own personal body shape, scale and proportions should also influence your choice of cut and style. At Integro, we are masters of optical illusion. With clever use of vertical and horizontal lines, shades of colour and accessories, you can trick the human eye to see what you want it to see – promote your positives and minimise your least favourite bits. Take a good look in a full length mirror (an invaluable investment if you don’t already have one!) from all angles and be honest with yourself about your good as well as your bad points.

Unlike some television style gurus, who impose their own style on the nation, at Integro we realise we all have a unique sense of style, known in the trade as Wardrobe Personality. Understanding your relationship with clothes and embracing your own style will enable you to always look your best, because you will feel comfortable and hence, confident, in your clothes. As a starting point, look in your wardrobe, what is the underlying theme of your clothes? It is likely that your favourite things will fall into one of these categories:

(a) Mostly co-ordinating, timeless separates or suits

(b) An eclectic mix of bold statement pieces

(d) Detailed, tactile, fabrics with lots of accessories

Everyone, everyday has to decide on what to wear. When time and money are precious we can teach you techniques to shop wisely, complementing your existing wardrobe, enabling you to dress without the stress. Knowing how to project an appropriate image can make all the difference to your personal and career success. Whether you want to fit in, stand out, boost your confidence or maximise your career prospects, our professional, objective advice is invaluable.

So, as the festive season approaches, take a few moments to assess your image – are you the beautifully wrapped, attractive present that people will be drawn to, or the slightly dishevelled parcel left until last at the bottom of the tree?

Lumia is certainly Bridge of Allan's best kept secret!

Situated in Henderson Street, Lumia (formerly the Old Manor) now houses the most glamorous beauty salon and hairdressers in the area. Downstairs hosts a stunning hairdressers and a beautifully appointed relaxation lounge where you can curl up on those cold winter days in front of a welcoming open fire with a cup of coffee or even a glass of bubbly. Upstairs you'll find cosy treatment rooms, a funky nail bar and of course a spray tanning booth.

Lumia has brought together a team of experienced therapists and hairstylists who are not only warm and friendly but are also among the best in the industry. All this along with ample parking makes Lumia the ideal choice for any of your beauty needs from waxing to facials as well as an ideal alternative to travelling afar for a complete pamper day out!

To celebrate it's first Christmas Lumia is hosting an 'open day' on Thursday 27th November 2008 between 2pm and 9pm. Head along for a mince pie and check out the treatments available to keep you looking glamorous throughout the party season! The staff will be delighted to tell you about their wonderful party packages which include gel nails, spray tan, eye lash extensions, special occasion make-up and GHD curls.

If you're looking for inspiration then Lumia can also help solve some of your gift dilemmas. Fantastic Christmas gift sets are available from Comfort Zone, GHD straighteners, Bare Escentauls make up, Fake Bake and the Natural Magic range of luxury organic candles. Or why not book a fabulous treatment for that special lady or man in your life?

If you're unsure of what to get then Gift certificates are always appreciated, and with vouchers starting from as little as £10 they could prove to be the perfect stocking filler!

See you at Lumia!