Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York

A phrase that was driven into my head as a young girl was, "You can't get by on looks alone." Occasionally I also heard, "You can't get ahead on your looks alone." Similar focus, just semantics really. I'm sure it's the same sentiment echoed in homes across America at one point or another and in a time when we're consistently re-enforcing substance versus image, it's very interesting that two similar books (backed by research) have come out supporting the theory that, yes, you can advance in your career, become more profitable and more successful based on looks alone.

Beauty Pays by Daniel S. Hamermesh and Erotic Capital by Catherine Hakim both explore how our society views beauty and attractiveness from a socio-economic standpoint. Hamermesh, an economics professor at the University of Texas, explores whether a universal standard for beauty exists and how it differentiates based on profession. Hamermesh also examines the commodification of dating and how physical appearance in a potential partner influences more than just the search for an attractive mate, but is based on their ability to generate higher earnings. Catherine Hakim's book, Erotic Capital, exposes that truth that sex appeal is an effective tool when looking to advance everything from your career to advertising (that part, we knew.)

Thought provoking and controversial, this topic is one that we all talk about, but has been taboo to actually admit the obvious--looks matter. Just the other week we blogged about Paul Kramer's new book Maggie Goes on a Diet, which, in a nutshell, says if you are obese you will be bullied and unhappy, but if you are thin you are liked and adored. While it's something I don't think we should be telling 6 year olds (his target demographic), he is only re-iterating what Beauty Pays and Erotic Capital are already stating: attractive is all the rage.

Be ready for your next beauty and fashion PR pitches--Wear this commanding suit if you want that raise! and Use this moisturizer and you'll successfully negotiate your next big corporate deal!

What do you think? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.