Yes Shopping Can Buy Happiness, How Clothing Can Release Dopamine
In this world, there is certainly a need for finding extra happiness wherever we can. Everyone has their own set of people, places, and things that make them cheerful. Maybe it’s your kids, friends, or grandparents, your pets greeting you at the end of the day, putting your toes in the smooth sand, or curling up in your favorite hoodie. Color psychology is also fascinating to read into and how it could affect you.
As it turns out, some clothing items we adore can also set off a release of dopamine. It’s the combination of everything that may have an effect. Essentially, it’s the idea of wearing attire that enhances your mood and makes you feel fantastic. We can credit Dr. Dawnn Karen, an esteemed fashion psychologist, professor, and author, for coining the term ‘dopamine dressing.’
Now that we know more about what dopamine dressing is, let’s talk about how what you buy and wear–or what you already have in your wardrobe–can give you a rush of happiness. The even better news is that you can incorporate dopamine dressing into your daily routine.
Focus on wearing what makes you feel good.
Dopamine dressing is usually all about wearing bright, vibrant clothing. Think neon sneakers, funky striped bags, and pink from head to toe. However, it’s more about what makes you happy on a daily basis. If it’s sporting white or black pieces, like the Bella + Canvas unisex raw seam crew pullover, then those are the colors and items you should focus on wearing.
Pay careful attention to the clothes that bring a smile to your face, make you feel more confident and happy, and make you check yourself out in the mirror. Give priority to the clothes that bring a smile to your face, make you feel more confident and happy, and make you check yourself out in the mirror.
Consider finding a job that aligns with your dress preferences.
It’s obviously not always an option to have a job that allows you to wear clothes that make you happy. Maybe you have to wear a uniform you don’t like, or you’d rather wear vibrant print ensembles that don’t conform to your office’s dress code.
Consider looking for a job that allows you to sport clothes that you’re thrilled to wear. Don’t get us wrong; we get it’s not as simple as it sounds or that it’s even possible for everyone, especially depending on your industry. However, what we’re saying is to search around and see if it’s an option to have a job you want and need that also makes you happy and allows you to wear the clothes you love. With the rise of remote positions, it could be a good starting point to explore job opportunities that align with your clothing preferences.
Shop for statement pieces
You don’t necessarily need to purchase an entirely new wardrobe just because you want more colorful clothing. Consider picking up new pieces that can be majorly beneficial for completing outfits you already have. For example, maybe you want bright blue heels or an all-over multi-color print blazer.
Think about items you would consistently wear with many pieces you already own. The previously mentioned blazer could perfectly complement and brighten an all-black outfit, while the blue heels can be an amazing accompaniment to your favorite jeans and blue sequined top. If you’d rather not pay full price, check out second-hand stores for great deals.
Separate your closet and drawers
Many of us can’t only have a closet full of clothes we adore. Often, we need pieces that are appropriate for certain occasions and situations, such as work or funerals. We like the items enough to have them without them necessarily bringing us much excitement.
Think about separating your closet and drawers into two sections: a happiness-boosting half and one for other pieces you need to keep for other reasons. Whenever you wear an outfit and pay attention to how you feel in it, place it in one of those two sections when you’re putting your clothes away.
This can help you see what types of clothes and colors you gravitate toward and bring you the most happiness. It can also allow you to reach for these items more often instead of them getting lost in the mix of all the other pieces.
Determine what you would wear without fear of judgment
One thing that holds many back from wearing what makes them happy is the fear of judgment. Ask yourself what you would wear if you weren’t worried about other people judging you. Those are the clothes you should consider wearing more often.
It could be scary to step out of your comfort zone, but you’re the one who’s going to be sporting the clothing all day. You should be able to feel comfortable, confident, and happy with what you’re wearing. Forget what other people say or what you believe they’ll say or think and make more of an effort to focus on what’s more important: what you feel and want to do.
Pay attention to the textures and materials that you naturally gravitate towards.
Did you ever walk past a certain sweater in a store, and your hand automatically goes to touch it? Or do you adore your favorite blanket at home because of how soft it is? These are the types of materials you might want to consider trying to incorporate more of into your wardrobe. From jackets to pants to sweaters, you can likely find clothes you love in those materials and/or textures.
When you’re not in the greatest mood, it’s typically easier to reach for an outfit that’s presentable enough for where you’re going rather than focusing on picking one that brings you joy. However, it’s during this time that you should make more of a conscious effort to wear an outfit that typically boosts your spirits. It could end up making you feel happier than you did before you put it on.
