Clothes are transformative and I think you know by now that I am a firm believer in dopamine dressing – the idea that wearing specific clothing and colour can lift your mood and set free those happy hormones.
Fashion has always been a way to express who you are and it’s now scientifically proven that the clothes we choose to wear have the power to impact how we think, feel, behave and interact with others. Without getting too technical, it’s called ‘enclothed cognition’ and once and for all, finally attaches psychological meaning and impact to how we dress. Never underestimate the power of a fabulous outfit!
After months and months of comforting ‘greige’, I am delighted that bold, bright colours and are back for 2022. Colour is closely associated with emotions and I’ve come to learn that wearing colour has a remarkable effect on my own mood and energy. Too much time spent in neutral-tones does nothing for me. I need colour to put a spring in my step and a smile on my face.
It seems I’m not alone. Sales of brightly coloured clothing are massively on the up; signifying a positive outlook and adventurous mood as covid starts to loosen its grip on our daily routines. As we emerge from year 2 of the pandemic, the mood is euphoric and maximalist; reflected by the seratonin-boosting colours of the season.
Get ready for hot pink, emerald green, canary yellow and warming orange which are rooted in optimism, growth and excitement. And the Pantone colour of the year – Very Peri – a periwinkle blue with an undertone of red violet, offers a joyous attitude and encourages imagination and creativity.
Your happy hue of choice is entirely personal. Whilst there are universal associations between colour and mood, colour psychology is much about personal association and what feels good to me, won’t necessarily make you zing. So consider what colours bring you joy, and why… then wear often!
The ‘anything-goes’ current fashion mood offers the perfect playground to experiment with colour, texture and print like never before. So dare to be bold. Have fun colour blocking and print clashing. Embrace the rainbow!
Wear Your Greens
Admittedly I wear more greens than I eat these days!! Green represents health, well-being and nature. It is a balanced colour; on the one-hand restful and calming and on the other, motivating and adventurous. It also offers a sense of hope and renewal.
Blouse: & Other Stories / Knit: Zara / Trousers: M&S / Pumps: Boden / Coat: Zara
Into The Pink
Pink is associated with compassion and nurturing. Brighter pinks are more dynamic and will encourage you to get on with things. Softer pinks are soothing and healing. I love combining different shades of pink for a tonal look.
Coat: M&S / Knit: River Island / Trousers: River Island / Trainers: New Balance / Dress: New Look
Retro Citrus Shades
Yellow and orange are energising colours that promote positivity and optimism. Representing sunshine and sunsets these citrus colours offer warmth and happiness. I love the 70s vibes of these shades and a rustic palette works so well together.
Cardigan: Mango / Coat: H&M / Jumpsuit: Zara / Boots: Clarks / Trousers: Selected Femme
Pink & Green Deserve To Be Seen
When combining colours together, look no further than nature for inspiration. Pair vibrant colours that work well in the floral world and prepare to receive lots of compliments!
Knit: Zara / Dress: Boden / Boots: Zara / Trainers: Veja / Trousers: H&M
Beat The Blues
The number 1 colour favourite, blue has been proven to reduce stress by slowing the breath and heart rate and releasing Oxytocin (the feel-good hormone). Colour block with orange of or with green. Yes, blue and green should ALWAYS been seen!
Dress: River Island / Blazer: Zara / Jumper: H&M / Scarf: Oliver Bonas / Converse: Office
Leopard Is A Neutral
Use leopard print as a base and wear with any bright colour. Leopard is now a wardrobe staple, so use it as a comforting starting point for your new colour combinations. My personal favourite is a leopard and green combination.
Dress: New Look / Boots: Boden / Scarf: Phase Eight / Cardigan: La Redoute / Blazer: River Island
I hope this post has inspired you to be bolder with colour this season. If you are truly fearful of stepping out in bright colours, then just add a pop of colour by way of a handbag or scarf and take baby steps from there… the future is bold, the future is bright!!!
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