Life is looking up

By Mary Alice Garrett

This story originally appeared June 27, 2002 in The News Journal of Wilmington, Delaware.

Twenty Hispanic females forgot their cares and went on a shopping spree recently at Goodwill Industries in Gordy Plaza in Milltown.

The highly successful event was planned by professional image consultant Cecilia Stoeckicht of Pike Creek. The females ranged in age from 13 to 82. Except for the teen—agers, all were members of a support group from the Latin American Community Center at 403 N. Van Buren St. in Wilmington.

Many of the members me victims of domestic abuse. They attend weekly sessions to help build self-esteem, find employment and further their education.

Stoeckicht has volunteered to help the women with their image. Trained as an architect in her native Brazil, Stoeckicht has been an image consultant for nine years. She says there’s a correlation between the two professions, especially when working with color.

Stoeckicht suggested case manager Rosa Graciano comb her wavy black hair away from her face and wear black and white to flatter her fuller figure. "We haven't seen her out of white and black since," said Stoeckicht. “I believe she sleeps in black and white."

At Goodwill, Stoeckicht told the women to shop for an outfit "for a specific occasion — something to wear to church or to a barbecue." They had little trouble finding new and used clothing at bargain prices. The teens even found designer clothing with original price tags attached.

Stoeckicht stressed that the women should look for clothing that goes with their hair, eye and skin colors. "Build a column of color," she said. "Get something to make you look slimmer, younger. Get a color that repeats something that you have naturally in your body. If size bothers you later, just cut the tag," she added.

Maribel Negron quickly found several separates to mix and match. The mother of three sons, 9, 8 and 6, is in the process of a divorce.

Of the support group she said, "I feel they support me emotionally." She’s taking classes at Newark High School and has applied to work at a nursing home. "I know it’s a long way to go," she noted, "but I will do it, I know.”

A native of Mexico, Elizabeth Montero was accompanied by her daughter Stephanie, 13. She selected beige slacks and a coordinating plaid blouse. A trained accountant, Montero has been in the support group for two years. "It's a wonderful group. I'm trusting in myself again." Stephanie, who attends Alexis I. du Pont Middle School, found jeans and a white camp shirt. Case manager Olga Rios chose a smart pink-and-black pants outfit.

Stoeckicht discouraged one woman from buying a long blue formal and steered her to more practical clothing. To another, she said, "No, keep the skirt. Change the top." She also pinned up sleeves and hems. Graciano purchased a tailored black knit ensemble trimmed in gold braid. Stoekicht recommended she add shoulder pads to balance her hips "to complete the hourglass."

Eighty-two year-old Maria Antonia selected petite-sized clothing. She left with a two-piece peach outfit. "Very summer look," said Stoeckicht approvingly.

All but three women left with purchases. They were given Goodwill Industries gift certificates by Charles Alfree, community relations manager. Shopping was followed by lunch at a nearby Chinese restaurant.

"The women were all very pleased to have time for themselves," Stoeckicht said.

Next on the agenda is a session on money management, said center therapist Clemence Overall. Stoeckicht also plans hair-styling and makeup sessions later. Since the shopping spree for women was so successful, Stoekicht has been asked to plan a similar day for the men's support group at the center.

PROFILE

June 27, 2002

Family: Husband Riccardo and daughters, Tarsila, 16, and Amanda, 14.

Residence: Heritage Park, Pike Creek.

Education: Bachelor's degree in architecture from Santa Ursula University in Brazil; corporate image consulting certification from the London Image Institute in Atlanta.

Hobbies: In-line skating, reading and window-shopping.

Greatest accomplishment: Being able to help others feel better about themselves.