Embrace Change in Personal Branding: Lessons from Vera Wang and More

This morning, while listening to the Julia Louis-Dreyfus podcast "Wiser Than Me," I was struck by a conversation with Vera Wang about her signature hair. Vera Wang's long, glossy, jet-black hair with a middle part is a defining element of her look. This got me thinking about personal branding and the physical elements that make us recognizable.

In our personal branding consulting work, we often analyze celebrities and public figures to extract valuable lessons. It's fascinating how these lessons can be categorized into two main camps: those who maintain a consistent look and those who embrace constant change.

Consistency in Personal Branding

Vera Wang’s hair is a perfect example of the first camp: maintaining a consistent, recognizable look. This approach to personal branding focuses on creating a signature element that people can easily associate with you. Mel Robbins’ signature glasses and Lady Gaga’s platinum blonde hair are other notable examples.

Benefits of Consistency

Having a consistent look helps in building a strong, recognizable brand. When people see that specific element, they instantly think of you. It’s a visual shorthand that reinforces your identity and makes you memorable.

Drawbacks of Consistency

However, sticking to the same look can sometimes feel restrictive. It may create pressure to maintain that image, even if you feel like changing. It can also make it harder to evolve your brand if you want to explore new directions.

Embracing Change

On the other end of the spectrum, some people thrive on change. Personally, I love changing my hair color and have sported at least eight different shades in the past year. People who meet me often comment on my latest look, which has become part of my personal brand.

Benefits of Embracing Change

Change can be a powerful branding tool. It keeps your image fresh and dynamic, reflecting an adaptable and creative personality. People who embrace change can still be recognizable through their consistent qualities, such as their messaging, personality, or unique way of presenting themselves.

Drawbacks of Embracing Change

Frequent changes can sometimes confuse your audience if not managed well. It’s important to balance novelty with consistency to ensure that people can still connect the dots and recognize you despite the changes.

Balancing Consistency and Change

While these two approaches may seem contradictory, they can coexist harmoniously in personal branding. Here are some tips to strike the right balance:

Know Your Core Identity

Understand the core aspects of your personal brand that define you. Whether it’s your values, personality, or unique skills, ensure these elements remain consistent even as your appearance evolves.

Communicate Clearly

Keep your audience informed about changes. Use your platforms to explain why you’re changing your look and how it aligns with your personal growth or brand evolution. Transparency helps maintain trust.

Highlight Signature Traits

Identify a few signature traits that can stay consistent regardless of changes. This could be a particular style of communication, a recurring theme in your content, or a unique accessory that you always wear.

kEY tAKEAWAYS

Vera Wang’s consistent look and my own love for change both offer valuable lessons in personal branding. The key takeaway is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Embrace what feels authentic to you, whether that means sticking to a signature look or constantly reinventing yourself. Your audience will adapt and appreciate the genuine reflection of who you are.