Dressing to smile

Can you dress yourself towards a smile? That's what 'dopamine dressing' claims you can do, the hot new trend that sees inspiring slogans and splashes of colour hitting your wardrobe with the aim of lifting your spirits. Together with QUIZ, and their range of smile-boosting going out dresses, we investigate the phenomenon further.

The colour of happiness

Using colour to change mood and perception has been done for a long time. Studies have shown that different coloured objects and clothing can have different effects on individuals.

One investigation saw students being offered numbers in either black, red, or green. 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.

People also have preconceptions of a person based on what colour they wear:

• 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.

Is sports performance impacted by the colour of a shirt as well? Researchers have discovered that red can indeed 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.

Emotions are evidently linked to colour choices. So, what about when it comes to dressing for your own happiness?

What’s your happy colour?

Your own experiences and understanding inevitably shapes your feelings towards colours. 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 have a happy memory involving something with the colour yellow, seeing yellow elsewhere will likely trigger a smile. 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 also have an effect on your mood.. 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.

Everyone is different; wear what makes you feel happy and confident.

Smiles in every size

Flattering, comfortable clothes can also improve your mood. 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.

Clothes can make or break your smile. 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!

                 

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