Dopamine dressing is to do with wearing certain 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? Together with QUIZ, retailers of evening dresses, we find out more:

What power does colour have?

When it comes to colour psychology, the research shouldn’t be underestimated. Studies have shown that different coloured objects and clothing can have different effects on individuals.

In 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.

What about when it comes to clothing? People can view the wearer in different ways, depending on what colour they’ve got on:

• 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.

And, in sports, researchers 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.

As we can see, colour can affect our psyche and tweak our moods and actions both positively and negatively. So, what about when it comes to dressing for your own happiness?

Find out what makes you happy

It’s possible that it all depends on what you associate with being happy.

Consider colour differences across culture 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.

Or, if you think of happiness when you see yellow, 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.

There is the theory of power dressing 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.

Take time out to find which clothes are confidence and happiness boosters for you, then it’s likely that dressing in these garments will make you feel that way.

Wear clothes to complement your shape

Another way to boost your mood is to complement your shape with the clothes you wear. 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 jeans. 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.

And there we have it, 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!

*Collaborative post.