Fashion is regarded to be a form of self-expression, but how so? We can express our moods, our identities, and our overall feelings about ourselves and the environment around us through our clothing without having to even say a word. Clothing also gives us the power to influence how we feel, think, and how we allow others to perceive us. The psychology of fashion allows us to see how the garments of clothing we choose can shape our mood, emotions, and our overall mental well-being.
AN EXTENSION OF IDENTITY
At its core, fashion is an extension of one’s identity. The clothes that we wear reflect on our personality, our values, and our social status, and helps us to feel connected to many other aspects of ourselves that we might not even think about. For example, wearing a suit to a professional meeting allows us to feel confident and professional, whereas workout clothes to the gym lets us feel amped up to exercise. This phenomenon is known as the “enclothed cognition,” which states that the symbolic meaning of clothes influences the way we think. There are many studies that have shown people who choose to dress a specific way for how they want to be perceived by others also experience a boost in self-esteem. A carefully thought-out outfit can not only enhance feelings of authenticity and confidence, it will allow you to perform better on a day-to-day because you feel your best.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COLOR
As many of us have learned in elementary school art class, colors play a key role in our emotions. Each color has its own psychological associations and can impact your mood or energy levels. Below is breakdown for common color moods and the effect it plays on your fashion and its psychological effects:
- Red is a bold hue and is typically associated with passion, energy, and power. Wearing red evokes feelings of confidence and excitement, but could also make the wearer prone to anxiety or even aggression in a high-stress situation.
- Yellow is typically associated with happiness and optimism, as yellow can uplift mood and evoke positivity within you.
- Green is linked with nature, balance, and growth. It typically has a soothing effect, allowing the wearer to feel a sense of harmony.
- Blue is also known for its calming and serene qualities, and is typically associated with stability and tranquility. It can help to reduce stress.
- Black is a color of sophistication and authority, and is typically worn to project formality or confidence (think of a professional business suit).
Choosing colors consciously can have a significant impact on how we feel throughout the day. If you want to feel energized, wear brighter colors. If you want to feel more grounded or calm, colors like yellow, blue, or green will do the trick.
THE POWER OF FIT AND COMFORT
Not only is it important to choose clothing that you enjoy wearing or find visually pleasing, it is key to make sure that they are also comfortable. How many times have you worn an itchy blouse or painful shoes and it completely destroyed your mood? Rather than wearing ill-fitting and uncomfortable clothing that not only triggers discomfort but also irritability and insecurity, opting for something more well-fitted will not only enhance your appearance but make you feel much more confident. Comfortable fabrics like cotton or wool will evoke feelings of warmth, which is why people opt for their fuzzy sweatpants at moments of despair or exhaustion. Comfortable clothing serves as a psychological armor while providing us with relaxation and reassurance when we need it the most.
DRESSING FOR SUCCESS
The phrase “dress for success” is not just a cliche. It is a common phrase because the clothes that we wear will directly influence how competent and capable we think we are in specific situations. When you dress for the role you want, whether that be a good student, a business leader, or an athlete, it allows you to better rise to the occasion. However, there are other factors that you must consider as well. Considering the current social or cultural influences on fashion is also key to fashion psychology. What is considered to be stylish in one culture might cause concern or evoke negative emotions in another. Wearing clothes that reflect your personal values, whether it be for sustainable clothing, cultural clothing, or something that is political, will allow you to evoke feelings of pride and solidarity!
