Is it a baseless movie cliché that every breakup ends with a girl wearing an old college hoodie, munching on a bucket of ice-cream, and watching Dirty Dancing? Perhaps to an extent, but there’s something oddly comforting in the idea of putting on your softest, most memory-laden sweatshirt when you’re vulnerable. Just like there’s something empowering about putting on a pair of sophisticated heels when you’re about to go out with your best friends for an evening of cocktails.
There’s no denying that our wardrobes do have an impact on our mood, how we perceive ourselves, and our confidence levels. You can use your little black dress as the finest form of a pick-me-up when you desperately need to improve your posture and feel more vibrant in your own skin. You can use a comfy, maxi dress to mask those love handles when you’re in the process of shedding a few pounds. Either way, fashion works in your favor when you know how to put your style to work. Here are a few ways your dress code affects your emotions and how you can make the most of your wearables to boost your mood.
Sharp and powerful for office-worthy focus
The phenomenon known as “enclothed cognition” is not a new one, although few people outside of the scientific community have any knowledge of it. It’s the notion that by putting on a specific attire, you assume a specific mindset, as well, as if the clothes have given you some sort of an advantage. Studies confirm that this is, in fact true to a large extent.
For example, if you put on formal clothes for your office, they will likely help you stay focused on your work. On the other hand, if there’s someone you admire, you can mimic their professional look and you’ll likely achieve the same effect by enhancing your confidence, and creating your professional image in one go.
Enhance your will to exercise
In a similar manner, your workout clothes are so much more than just a fashion statement about your dedication to health and fitness. It’s like putting on your superhero costume and unleashing your power at the gym, simply because you’ve chosen to wear a pair of form-fitting leggings and a crop top with a motivational quote.
Your body and your mind prepare for a workout thanks to what you wear. They put you in the right mood to push yourself harder than you would if you just wear a pair of sweatpants and a tee. Ultimately, they can improve your performance because of the way they affect your mindset.
Feel amazing in your own skin
As redundant as it may seem to say that nobody is perfect, the adage is often very difficult to embrace when you’re surrounded by photoshopped models and cover-worthy celebrities. However, look at the way modern designers have started embracing the idea of the human body with all of its beautiful imperfections, and you’ll understand the arising trends that celebrate all body shapes and sizes.
So, if you have a little extra on your hips or around your waist, no need to conform to the form-fitting trends when you can wear those comfortable maxi items that help you love your body. You can easily find stunning maxi dresses online and enrich your wardrobe with garments that give you confidence. When you find what makes you feel great, you can slowly adapt your wardrobe and watch your mood change in response to what you wear.
Alter your self-perception
Most of us have certain flaws or characteristics we’d like to change, physical as well as psychological. You’d be surprised how powerful your favorite power suit or your finely-tailored jeans and shirt can be when you face a challenge. Seeing yourself in the mirror wearing something that exudes power will transfer some of that feeling onto you, as well.
You will start to embrace your qualities and celebrate them through what you wear. Put on a brightly-colored floral dress, and you’ll instantly lift your spirits. Flaunt your unique pair of shoes, and you’ll appreciate yourself more for your authenticity.
Although what you wear is only a part of your self-expression, it can be a powerful tool in boosting your self-love and self-care. Use your style to grow more confident every day and to succeed at everything you set your heart and mind to.
