In the fast-paced world of fashion and design, the impact of our clothing choices transcends mere aesthetics. Beyond being a means of self-expression, our attire significantly influences our overall state of mind. This article delves into the profound relationship between fashion, colour, and style, offering valuable tips on how to harness the power of clothing to enhance your sense of positivity.
Colours possess a remarkable ability to evoke emotions and influence our psychological well-being. By embracing the vibrant energy of warm hues like reds and yellows to stimulate feelings of confidence and optimism and cool tones, such as blues and greens, to instil a sense of calm and tranquillity, it is important to experiment with your wardrobe to find palettes that resonates with your mood and boosts your spirits. The significance of colour is pivotal in contemporary society, where all consumers utilise it to enhance their visual and aesthetic appeal. When examining fashion and in particular, colour, there seems to be an escalation in the importance of colour from the Renaissance era onwards, with certain hues such as red and purple reserved for the upper classes and royalty. Medieval Europeans had established sumptuary laws dictating who could wear specific colours, the permitted amount, and even when they could be worn, developing further during the Renaissance. These colours acquired deep symbolic meanings, reflecting an individual’s cultural background, social standing, and economic status. A prominent example of this is the prevalence of the colour orange, present throughout much of Dutch culture, which is referential to the Dutch royal family, made up of members of the House of Orange, which dates back to 1544.
The use of colour plays a significant role in enhancing aesthetic character, and style and texture of clothing express social identities, emotions, political leanings, and personal tastes, allowing clothing to serve as a means of conveying values, attitudes, personalities, and inclinations towards conformity or individuality. As a form of self-expression, clothing allows the individual to align their attire with their authentic self, which can have a profound impact on their emotional state. An individual’s body image significantly influences clothing preferences and attitudes, with clothing serving as an extension of one’s bodily self. Quite often we find ourselves influenced by self-concept elements such as identity, values, attitudes, and mood, and this can mean that the relationship between body image and clothing is reciprocal, as how we perceive our bodies can affect how we use clothing. Selecting styles that make you feel comfortable and confident, allows your personality to shine through. Whether it’s a classic, tailored look or a bohemian, loose-fitting ensemble, embracing your true style fosters a positive self-image.
When looking for inspiration, don’t underestimate the transformative power of accessories. A well-chosen accessory can add a pop of colour, elevate your mood, and tie your entire look together. Consider incorporating vibrant scarves, bold statement jewellery, or colourful shoes into your outfit to inject a dose of positivity into your day. Experiment with prints and patterns, and play with florals, stripes, or geometric designs to create visual interest and elevate your mood. Expressing your creativity through patterns can add an exciting and dynamic dimension to your overall look.
It is important to remember that positivity begins with comfort. Opt for fabrics that feel good against your skin and allow for ease of movement. When you feel physically comfortable in your clothing, it positively influences your mental and emotional well-being. If you approach your wardrobe with mindfulness, taking time each day to select clothing that aligns with your mood and intentions will allow you to dress with purpose, setting a positive tone for your day. Fashion is a powerful tool that goes beyond trends and aesthetics. By understanding the impact of colour and style on our mental and emotional states, we can curate a wardrobe that not only reflects our authentic selves but also uplifts our spirits. Embrace the transformative power of fashion and embark on a journey to dress for positivity and self-expression.
Works referenced:
Kodžoman, Duje. 2019. “The Psychology of Clothing: Meaning of Colors, Body Image and Gender Expression in Fashion.” Text Leath Rev 2 (2): 90-103.
Lakens, Daniël. 2011. “Orange as a perceptual representation of the Dutch nation: Effects on perceived national identification and color evaluation.” European Journal of Social Psychology 41: 924–929.
