What is it that distinguishes Hollywood celebrities such as Jessica Alba, Robert Pattinson or Megan Fox from the crowd? Well, besides fame, good looks and enviable bank accounts there’s one thing that sets them apart – style! And the good news is that you don’t need to be a movie star to be perceived as glamorous and stylish like a Hollywood icon. Here’s how.
1. Be positive in conversation. In TV interviews and chat shows the stars are generally cheerful, optimistic and modest. They do not dwell on the bad times, misfortunes and obstacles of life but rather emphasise those things that have helped them develop personally and professionally. Actors tend to be open minded, liberal and thoughtful. They are rarely outspoken, they do not make flippant remarks they might later regret and they do not put other people down.
2. Believe in yourself. As well as the praise, Hollywood celebrities are inevitably exposed to a lot of negative criticism. Don’t allow someone else’s criticism or disrespect to get you down. They may have had a bad day or be one of life’s losers. Whatever that person’s motives are, what they say reflects a lot more about who they are than about you. Have faith in your own unique talents, personality and charm.
3. Be relaxed. At home in the spotlight, actors and actresses exude calm and relaxation. A daily chill-out can help you stay cool too. Numerous stars, including Jennifer Anniston and Gwyneth Paltrow, practice yoga. Others, such as Mel Gibson, relax with Tai Chi. Heather Graham and Halle Berry have set a trend for unwinding through meditation. You’ll feel the benefits yourself with as little as 10 minutes practice a day.
4. Be a good listener. On the screen, being good at listening to what someone else is saying is an essential acting skill. It requires concentration and reaction to what the other person is saying, without interruption, distracting gestures or disinterest. Good listening is also a great social skill that will make others see you as a great conversationalist!
5. Be well groomed. It shouldn’t need saying that hair, nails and teeth should be immaculate. For the ladies, the correct make-up can give a glamorous glow, so get advice from a professional beautician on what works best for you. When you buy scent don’t skimp, expensive perfume and after-shave simply has more class.
6. Dress to impress. Whether it’s relaxed and casual or smart and elegant, dress appropriately for the occasion. It’s better to have a few well fitting expensive items than an extensive but commonplace wardrobe. And don’t forget that well matching shoes and accessories are essential.
7. Work out like the stars. Toned muscles keep you looking and feeling young and attractive. If you don’t have the time or money for working out in a gym, work out at home with an exercise mat and small weights, or follow an exercise DVD. However, a gym instructor will get you started right, so you perform exercises correctly and don’t hurt yourself. Even exercising 10 minutes a day, or 3 times a week for 20 minutes, can make a big difference.
8. Watch your figure. Many celebs, such as Brad Pitt and Jessica Alba, favour a well balanced diet rich in vitamins and protein and low in carbs. Stick to a diet that you enjoy and works for you, but don’t over do it. Skinny doesn’t look attractive on the screen or in real life either. Anti-oxidant vitamin supplements and drinking plenty of water can help keep your body healthy too.
9. Learn a foreign language. Many big movie stars are fluent in a romantic foreign language, such as French (Uma Thurman and Johnny Depp), Spanish (Gwyneth Paltrow and Matt Damon), Italian (Clint Eastwood) or Portuguese (Salma Hayek). Learning a foreign language is fun and adds an extra dimension of glamour to your persona!
10. Live uptown. OK, maybe you can’t afford to live in Beverly Hills or Malibu like movie royalty. But not every star lives in mansion either, what is important is the right address. Living in smaller accommodation in the right part of town may bring a better quality of life. And being perceived as successful can also bring even more success in your career and private life.
11. Be charitable. Many stars use their celebrity status to promote charitable organizations. Angelina Jolie and George Clooney are two of the best known examples of the numerous actors and actresses who selflessly give their own time, money and endorsement to worthwhile causes. Find a charity you believe in and support it how you can, even if it’s only buying their Christmas cards. Realising how well off you are compared to many people will help keep you level headed and appreciative of the good things in your life.
12. Keep up with the latest movie news, Hollywood fashion and Tinseltown gossip with online glossies such as HollywoodLife and TheHollywoodGossip. They provide an inspiring glimpse into another world, as well being a source of entertaining conversation material.