What is Dopamine Dressing?
Can what you wear change your mood?
The term Dopamine Dressing gained popularity in 2022 and essentially means wearing clothes that make you feel good. We all know Dopamine is a chemical made in the brain that triggers a feeling of pleasure and is released when we experience things we enjoy. Enjoyment is something we did not get much of during the pandemic, so it’s no surprise we’re looking for ways to find it again. Wearing certain items of clothing or outfits because it elicits a feeling of joy and releases dopamine, is the idea behind Dopamine Dressing. That can mean bright colors, patterns and textures that put a smile on your face.
Diane Von Furstenberg is the queen of dressing for pleasure. Known for the iconic wrap dress, her designs make you feel good because they are incredibly flattering and comfortable, and her patterns and colors elicit emotions ranging from power to sophistication to whimsy.
I love her new Rinna jump suit. The contrast of a floral print with bold stripes is unique and unexpected.
But can this trend really boost your mood?
While very little empirical data about fashion psychology exists, psychologist introduced the term “enclothed cognition” to describe the systematic influence that clothes have on the wearer’s psychological processes. Studies have shown that when people wear clothes that they value, it increases their confidence.
The question is, what do you value? It’s entirely different for everyone. As a stylist I will say that I’ve seen people’s facial expressions and body language change when they are wearing clothes that match their personal style, fit well, and feel good against their skin. It may seem obvious but if you stop and really take that in, it’s a big deal. We’re constantly seeking ways to feel better and enhance our mood whether it’s eating well, exercising, engaging in hobbies, drinking, taking medications – you name it. But if the simple act of wearing certain clothes can make us feel better, why aren’t we doing that more? We wear clothes every single day. They are our outer shell. They matter!
I am convinced this concept of Dopamine Dressing should be seen as less of a trend and more as an approach to everyday happiness. While most articles written about this concept are about taking this trend to extremes with wild patterns and super bright colors – you can also consider creating your version of Dopamine Dressing, or simply your version to dressing to feel good.
Start with color.
I believe that color is a big factor when it comes to our mood. Whether it’s around us in our homes or on our bodies. One way to get started with ‘dressing to feel good’ is to learn a bit more about how color effects your emotional state and take it into consideration when you build your wardrobe.
Color Psychology is the study of how different colors effect human moods and behaviors. Colors have qualities that can evoke emotions in people.
The color psychology of blue: this color can instill feelings of trust, depth and stability.
These bright blue Sandro Wide leg pants are a bold color so you’ll likely feel the confidence that the color blue is also associated with.
Green will make you feel safe, balanced, calm and conjure up feelings of growth.
The Matey sweater by Kule is super sporty and the green color might make you feel tranquil. Green also enhances cognition so you’ll look cute AND might notice your memory has improved just by wearing green! Once study showed that people were more likely to remember positive words that were written in a green color.
Matey Sweater by Kule
The calming green color of this Sandro two-tone cardigan balances the classic, tailored structure. You’ll feel put-together and relaxed.
Yellow is the color if you want to feel joy, optimism and freshness. It’s the color associated with intellect and logic and has the ability to improve analytical thinking.
These J. Crew Yellow Sidney wide leg pants in Marigold are a bold and joyful way to get a boost of optimism. These would look great with a Navy or ivory sweater, or a crisp white button down and trench coat.
Customers rave about this bold Boden Embroidered Floral Cardigan and it’s selling very quickly. Perhaps it’s because this bright yellow color may foster positive thinking, confidence and fun - something we could all use a bit more of these days.
Purple will bring you feelings of power, wisdom and royalty. This Ralph Lauren Kory Ikat Silk Blazer is such a beautiful pattern I feel a dopamine rush already. And the prominence of the color purple will make you feel dignified and creative according to color psychology.
Orange is the most controversial color because people either love it or hate it. It promote positivism and optimism and can foster motivation and drive during hard times.
Wearing this Margaretta Dress by Joie may lower your inhibitions in a good way. It may help you take control of your live, become more confident and take action that leads to a better outcome.
Pink triggers feelings of sensitivity, caring and love.
This J. Crew Factory linen blend Holland Blazer is a stronger shade of pink and color psychologist say it’s associated with confidence, energy and femininity.
Red will change your mood towards feelings of passion, energy, power and determination
This Alice + Olivia dress is not only going to conjure up these feelings because of the red, but the stunning rose pattern is sure to release a little dopamine as well.
Consider joyful patterns and whimsical details.
The pandemic forced most people to turn to utilitarian dressing. Function took precedence over style. We didn’t leave the house, didn’t have events to dress for and many people were feeling sad, lonely, scared, and depressed and their clothes reflected this. Too much of the same thing often leads to a desire for the opposite, and what’s the opposite of black leggings and a gray fleece jacket? Bright colors, patterns, structure, and interesting details.
Boden is always a great source for whimsical, unique designs. They sell out on sizes quickly so you have to purchase fast. Returns are super easy so it’s always worth ordering if you love something, knowing you can return it if it’s doesn’t work out.
Collectively our society is feeling glimmers of hope again hope again and we’re continuing to see this reflected on the runways with bright colors and bold patterns. These aren’t for everyone but it’s a big trend this spring and summer. Consider adding one “pop” to your wardrobe, especially if you have an event or travel.
A wild patterned, colorful bathing suit is a great place to lean into this bold trend. Check out this Trina Turk long sleeve suit available from Marshalls!
This L’Agence Lexi Camisole the perfect top to pack for a mood boost while on vacation.
Ramy Brook is embracing this trend with some mood-boosting patterns and colors. The drape of the soft silk also elicits feelings of calm, and sensuality.
Be authentic.
As we are returning to the life we once knew and with Spring around the corner, the concept of Dopamine Dressing is alive and well in 2023 and can be a great spark of inspiration when you’re thinking of outfit ideas this Spring 2023. As a stylist I encourage you to consider adopting this concept daily. Dopamine Dressing doesn’t necessarily wearing bright colors, patterns. It really is whatever makes YOU feel good. What colors, silhouettes, patterns and details make you feel good?
The biggest take-away from the concept of Dopamine Dressing is to dress for YOU, not for others. You might actually find that you do want to wear more patterns and colors but you’re worried about standing out. If that’s the case I say give it a try and embrace it. Standing out may be just the mood boost you need. And of course, if you need help figuring out your personal style - working with a personal stylist is a great place to start.