Claire Bannister
(Upminster and Brentwood)
As a financial services Procurement Executive, Claire Bannister (49) from Upminster, had first-hand experience at being misunderstood because of her fashion choices, but after making a life-changing career move, Claire quickly became the most successful House of Colour consultant in the UK. Claire now has definite plans to grow her business further in 2019 and wants to help inspire, dress, empower and give confidence to hundreds more clients across the region.
Whilst working in the financial sector for Reuters and Barclays, Claire was shocked when she was told she was thought to be stern, unapproachable and formidable, which she later learned was largely down to her appearance and what she wore to work. Having her own colours and style analysed made her realise just how important clothes are. “Every item you wear sends out a certain message. I realised I had been wearing completely the wrong style for my personality. I had always known in the back of my head that I like to dress up, but I always felt overdressed when I tried to emulate that kind of look. I fell into the trap of dressing overly formally and it clearly didn’t do me any favours! When I found out I truly suited sparkles and heels, I literally cried!’
Claire then found herself singing the virtues of having her colours and style analysed. “I needed everyone to know about this life-changing experience. I was just so passionate about it! One day, a few of the mums at school told me I should become a stylist myself, so I did, and I’ve never looked back. I love everything about it: running my own business, being my own boss and most importantly, watching my clients transform through the magic of colour and style. It’s the best job in the world.”
