Have you heard of ‘dopamine dressing’? It’s the trend of wearing clothes to improve your mood. From injecting a splash of colour into your wardrobe to brighten up your day, to buying t-shirts with positive slogans on intended to make you and people around you smile. But, does it really work?
What impact does colour have?
Colour can have a great effect on the mind. Studies have shown that different coloured objects and clothing can have different effects on individuals.
During one research project, 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.
Did you know that people view you in different ways, depending on what colour you’re wearing? For example:
- Red — demonstrates power and a strong social status, as well as gives the wearer more confidence. It can indicate good health and financial stability, too.
- White — perceived to be the least arrogant colour and gives the impression that the wearer is optimistic.
- Black — gives the impression of self-assurance and intelligence.
Colour plays a big part in sports performance too. 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.
It’s clear that colour influences our psyche and can tweak our moods and actions both positively and negatively. So, what about when it comes to dressing for your own happiness?
Digging deep
To find out how to increase your happiness levels, you must first find out what you associate with happiness.
Consider cultural differences and colour associations, 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.
A lot of us think about positivity and happiness when we see the colour yellow. If you are one of these people, 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.
Power dressing can be effective 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.
Spend time exploring which clothes give you a confidence booster. It’s likely that dressing in these garments will make you feel that way.
Complementing your shape
Dressing for your shape is another way to boost your mood with clothes, as what you’re wearing 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 a straight or bootcut jean. Avoid high-waisted trousers though, as these can make you look shorter.
- Apple-shaped — this is where 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 — if you want to extenuate your legs even further, you should go for a low-rise trouser with a skinny leg.
It’s now clear to see that the things that you wear do influence the way that you feel. Putting colours and shapes aside, the most important thing is that you’re comfortable in the clothes that you wear. This will ensure your confidence shines through — a guaranteed mood booster!
This article was brought to you by QUIZ, retailers of prom dresses and men’s long sleeve t-shirts.
Sources
https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2017/feb/03/dopamine-dressing-can-you-dress-yourself-happy
https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2018/apr/04/good-times-how-fashion-got-happy-and-what-it-says-about-the-world
https://graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/news/january-shopping-buy/
https://www.shutterstock.com/blog/color-symbolism-and-meanings-around-the-world
https://www.verywellmind.com/color-psychology-2795824
http://mens-fashion.lovetoknow.com/What_Colors_Do_Women_Prefer_on_Men
http://www.rochester.edu/news/show.php?id=3663
http://www.buytshirtsonline.co.uk/colour-perception/
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/yourtango/go-to-clothing-color_b_8286140.html
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