Mood-enhancing clothes
Have you ever heard that your clothes can enhance or ruin your mood? Apparently, it’s true. 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?
Check out what the research says about ‘dopamine dressing’ and see how it might affect you…
Colour’s power as a mood booster
Colour psychology is a deeply researched and debated topic. 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.
We also may actually judge people differently based purely on the colour of their outfit:
- 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.
How about how good or bad we perform in a match or game? 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.
If the above is to be believed, our emotions are susceptible to change depending on colour. This may be worth considering when you’re shopping for a serious or formal event and when you’re looking for party dresses for fun occasions!
Happiness and various hues
Although happiness levels are very personal, colour may also play a part in how we feel. Like the colour red? In China, this shade is a symbolism of good luck, yet in Africa, it’s associated with death. Interestingly, in Nigeria, it has connections with aggression and vitality.
But is colour perception purely personal or based on the society we were brought up in? For example, seeing yellow should make us feel happy, as we typically associate the shade with positivity, brightness and a ‘sunny’ attitude. The idea of past perceptions playing a role in colour perception is supported by research. In one experiment, participants were each 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.
Dressing to make an impact is another avenue of dopamine dressing. To elaborate, 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.
How does a trouser suit make you feel? Do you feel more confident in other attire? Whatever the answer, go with what makes you ready and prepared for the day.
Different body shapes and how clothes make us feel
Typically, we aren’t going to feel great if we’re wearing clothes that either don’t fit or don’t accentuate our best features. What you’re wearing will make you feel comfortable. Here are some tips for perfectly dressing your body shape:
- Apple-shaped — weight around the middle. Bring focus to your legs with a straight-leg trouser and pair with heels.
- Pear-shaped — 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.
- Petite — small all over. 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!
If you’re tall and want to extenuate your legs further, you should go for a low-rise trouser with a skinny leg.
Clearly, it seems, what we wear can have an effect on our moods and emotions. 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!
