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The Feed
Why Michelle Obama Will Always Be One of My Style Icons
If you ask me who my top style inspirations are, without hesitation, Michelle Obama will be at the top of my list. She is the perfect blend of class, sophistication and a down-to-earth, approachable aura that radiates from her everywhere she goes. This blend is felt not only in her image and style but also in who she is as a person, as much as you can know a person from afar. We have seen her in both beautiful runway couture as well as in brands more attainable by everyday wo
Nov 154 min read
“The Power of Image: A Reintroduction to The Visual Effect”
Every so often, I like to pause and reintroduce myself—not just for new readers, but also as a reminder of why I do what I do. I’m Bianca Smith, a visual image consultant, educator, and advocate for the power of presenting yourself with intention. I’m also the founder of The Visual Effect ICA LLC, an image consulting company built on one simple truth:Your image isn’t vanity—it’s communication. It’s the story you tell every day by the way you show up about who you are, what yo
Oct 142 min read
Stepping into Purpose - One Stylish Moment at a Time
It’s easy to think that purpose only lives in the big things — the job titles, the accolades, the measurable results. But lately, I’ve...
Oct 52 min read
Confidence vs. Conformity: Finding Balance in Your Image
In the past week, I’ve had two conversations that highlight the tension between perception and authenticity. A student with facial...
Sep 282 min read


From Closed Doors to Open Closets
I realized recently, I never shared the story of my Professional Dress Pop-Up Shop and how it came to be on the blog before. I haven't...
Sep 143 min read
3 Simple Ways to Make Your Summer Clothes Fall-Ready
I don't know about you, but the summer heat has me daydreaming about the cool, crisp feeling of fall. While we technically have a little...
Aug 243 min read
When Life Be Life-ing: 4 Ways Stress Shows Up in Your Style
You ever had those times in life when life just feels like a lot? You are quoting mantras to yourself to get through the day. ‘This too...
Aug 174 min read
“Stay Cool, Look Sharp: Your Summer Workwear Strategy”
Can You Beat the Heat and Look Professional at Work? Let’s Talk About It. Summer is here—and most of us are fighting for our lives to...
Jul 93 min read


“Image Matters: Teaching the Next Generation to Show Up with Purpose”
This week I had the honor of being asked to present at a Summer Bridge program for early college students—and let me just say, what an...
Jun 162 min read
A Stylish Surprise: Inside a Gifted Personal Shopping Experience
One of the things I love most about my work as a visual image consultant is the way it allows me to be part of meaningful,...
Jun 113 min read
“From College to Career: 5 Style Tips to Step Into Your New Chapter”
Transitioning from college student to career professional can feel a lot like starting college all over again—unsure of what to expect,...
May 263 min read


Sneaker Game Strong, Credentials Stronger
If you have been following me, you might remember my post on The Assistant Principal with the best sneaker game from a couple weeks ago....
May 191 min read
Style Is Legacy: She Get It From Her Momma
This Mother’s Day, we pause not just to celebrate mothers—but to honor the images they gave us. The way they dressed. The way they...
May 113 min read
Wardrobe Wisdom: 42 Lessons on Confidence & Style
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! Today in honor of turning 42, I am reflecting on the clarity and courage I have been intentionally developing over...
May 43 min read
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