As I sit here on this gray and rainy day in Los Angeles, I can’t help but think about how what I wear affects how I feel. With this somber weather, I decided I needed a pick-me-up and so I put extra effort into my outfit today. I really craved wrapping myself in a thick blanket or fluffy socks but I instead chose to glam it up today with some jewel tones and my favorite over the knee boots, and let’s not forget some red lipcolor!  My mood brightened instantly. Below I explain the psychology behind my mood change.
The way you dress is one among many expressions of self, but what an amazing expression it can be! Paying attention to how our appearance can affect our mood and emotions, is a tool for our everyday happiness. For instance, perhaps a new dress made you feel strong and empowered or a pair of new shoes that made you stand tall and proud. Try to remember when you received a compliment on your outfit and bring forth those good feelings when getting dressed each day. The science behind that compliment is straightforward.  The compliment triggers the hypothalamus in our brain, the area which controls a very important neurotransmitter called dopamine (stay with me!). Dopamine is crucial to our productivity, and have that “go-getter” attitude. So my argument is to start each day looking and feeling great then you will BE great!
Apart from fashion, choice of color also affects the brain in various ways. In essence, if you’re feeling down, depressed or not quite yourself?  Wearing yellows or reds, promote excitement and energy. Feel nervous or anxious? Wear hues of blue for a calming effect. Greens will bring a sense of security and prosperity. My favorite color, purple, promotes a sense of luxury and creativity. (Click here to find out which colors look best on you.) The benefits of being fashionable extend beyond the chemical processes of the brain, and into the world at large.
Whether we like it or not, people make decisions about us in less than 1/10th of a second. Being aware of how we are perceived by others through our appearance can allow for spectacular opportunities. After all, you never know when you may find yourself in a conversation with that executive who holds the power to get you that coveted raise or job position.
Also studies show, that well-dressed people appear more “trustworthy and competent” to others. And at the simplest level, you might just put a smile on a stranger’s face. Fashion is a language without words, constantly communicating who we are. What would you like tto tell the world?
My best for your fashionable success,