We all like to look good and feel good and a lot of times our mood can be reflected by the clothes that we choose to wear. The trend of ‘dopamine dresses’ is said to be about wearing clothes to improve your mood. From venturing towards brighter colours brighten up your day, to wearing t-shirts with empowering slogans, dressing to boost your mood is definitely a thing. Is it a thing that really works? Together with QUIZ, retailers of occasion dresses, we find out more.
The influence of colour
The power of colour psychology shouldn’t be underestimated. Studies have shown that different coloured objects and clothing can have different effects on individuals.
In one study, students were presented with a coloured participant number that was either red, green or black. Results showed that students who were given a red number scored a significant 20% lower than those who presented with a green or black number.
And, when it comes to clothing, people can view the wearer in different ways, depending on what colour they’ve got on.
Red
The colour red is a colour that exudes confidence, and as such, the wearer usually does too when dressing in red. It can indicate good health and financial stability, too.
White
White is perceived to be the least arrogant colour and gives the impression that the wearer is optimistic. It is also a colour associated with purity in our western culture as is seen time and time again when it comes to wedding dresses and trends.
Black
Black, the smartest and sleekest colour when it comes to the wardrobe. This colour gives the impression of self-assurance and intelligence.
When it comes to sports performance things are a bit different though. Researchers have discovered that red can lead people to act with greater speed and force. And, studies showed that sports teams dressed in mostly black kits were more likely to receive penalties.
Evidently, colour can affect our psyche and tweak our moods and actions both positively and negatively. So, what about when it comes to dressing for your own happiness?
What makes YOU happy?
I happen to love the colour black and tend to feel chic and smart when wearing it, which in turn makes me very happy. The colour red, for example, is a colour that I find to be aggressive instead of empowering. So it definitely comes down to personal preference and your definition of happy.
Take colour connotations and cultural differences, for example. Like the colour red? In China, this hue is a symbolism of good luck, yet in Africa, it’s associated with death. Interestingly, in the African nation of Nigeria, it has connections with aggression and vitality.
If you associate the colour yellow with being positive and happy, it’s likely that being around this colour will make you feel this way. This idea is supported by one experiment involving a coat. Here, participants were all handed the same white coat — the only difference was that some were told it was a painter’s coat, and others were told it was a doctor’s. When asked to complete tasks, results revealed that those who were told it was a doctor’s coat performed better. It’s likely that the connotations that they associated with a professional uniform were more positive and motivational than those associated with the painter’s coat.
Consider power dressing, too. Some women feel more confident in trouser suits or skirt and jacket combos when surrounded by men who are donning a similar outfit in the form of a three-piece suit.
Take time to determine which clothes are confidence and happiness boosters for you, then it’s likely that dressing in these garments will make you feel that way.
Dress for Your Shape
Complementing your shape when dressing is another way to boost your mood with clothes. Nothing can boost your happiness and confidence as much as feeling and looking good. Wearing clothing that enhances your shape as will not only highlight your best features but also make you feel comfortable. Here are some tips for perfectly dressing your body shape:
Pear-shaped
If you have a pear-shaped frame, you carry weight mostly in the lower areas of your body. You can elongate your legs with straight or bootcut jeans. Avoid high-waisted trousers though, as these can make you look shorter.
Apple-shaped
You are apple-shaped if you carry weight around the middle. Bring focus to your legs with a straight-leg trouser and pair with heels.
Petite
It can be hard to find clothes that don’t overpower you if you’re petite. High-waisted trousers and crop tops are good if you’re this size, as they can create the illusion that you’re taller and show off your small physique!
Tall
Are you want to extenuate your legs even further, you should go for a low-rise trouser with a skinny leg.
As we can see, the things that you wear do influence the way that you feel. Sure, there’s always shape, and colour to consider but it all comes down to what you feel good in and what you feel you look good in! As they say, life’s too short to wear boring clothes, so wear what makes you feel happy today!
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