Style Guide: Dopamine Dressing
How's everyone loving the time change? Don't get me wrong, I love gaining an extra hour, but what I don't love is how it gets dark at 4:00 pm. But there's a way to inject some figurative sunshine into our days - by employing the concept of dopamine dressing. It's a rather easy one: wear what makes you happy. The rule of thumb is, if it brings you joy, wear it. The focus is on you and your preferences, rather than the latest trends. It's the perfect prescription for us card carrying members of the chronically ill sisterhood, where our illness can often take the reins when it comes to getting dressed. We've all fallen into the rut of wearing something mainly because it's easy, style be darned. This flips the script. It's a fun way to remind yourself of the beautiful woman that you are, regardless of what it says on your medical chart. But it doesn't mean you have to squeeze into a fancy cocktail dress, either. I'm of the mindset that there's always a happy medium, both in fashion and in life. But in the case of fashion and dopamine dressing - 9 times out of 10, theres a compromise between what you really want to wear and what works for your body at the moment. So don't let the early dusk get you down. Here's how to create your own sunshine this winter.
Joy > Trends
The main key to Dopamine dressing: wear what makes you feel good. Say "That's all" to your inner Miranda. Throw the trends and latest runway styles out the door. If you love it, it makes you feel good, wear it. This can be clothes, acessories, or both. Throw the rulebook out the window and give the inner you carte blanche. If you love it, and it makes you feel good, wear it.
Color and texture and patterns, oh my!
Want to wear bright yellow even though it's November? Go for it! Want to pair your favorite plaid skirt with your beloved animal print coat? Heck yes! A pop of hot pink against a houndstooth pattern is another perfect example. I made a scarf with that combo back in the day (black and white houndstooth with hot pink sequins, to be exact - it's pictured below), and it is an incredibly striking combination. Definitely an instant mood booster. And to keep the comfort factor in mind, I'd also suggest wearing a fun print like a leopard in a comfortable article of clothing like a sweatshirt. The leopard print will add extra flair, yet it's still a sweatshirt. So its a win-win scenario, because you'll be wearing something that honors your body, but the print makes it unique and eye catching - and shows off your personality as well. Pops of color will also brighten your mood and figuratively thaw the incoming chill of winter. Have a pair of whimsically printed leggings or tights? Pair them with a matching oversized sweater or sweater dress for an instant injection of happiness.
Anything goes, any day
Have a fancy cashmere sweater that feels amazing? Wear it today, even if you don't have anything special going on. You're what's special and that's a good enough reason! Have a sequined beanie that you only wear on special occaisions? Throw it on while running errands or heading to a doctor's appointment to give your mood and confidence an extra boost. Grab that beautiful fur coat that's tucked away in your closet and wear it today, even if you're just heading out to the market. Same goes for accessories. Wear that dressy necklace or bracelet today, even if you're just hanging around the house. If it makes you feel happy and beautiful every time you look in the mirror, it's worth putting on!
Personal touches
We all have some pieces that carry happy memories. Maybe it's a concert tee of your favorite band, and wearing it reminds you of how happy their music makes you. Or you might've bought it watching your favorite musician play, and wearing it brings back the memories of the fun times you had at their concert. Perhaps it's a bracelet your husband or boyfriend bought you, and every time you see it, you're reminded of the love you share. It could also be a a scarf or piece of clothing of a loved one that got passed down to you. I have beautiful scarves that my grandma wore, and even now when I wear them, I swear I can still smell her perfume on them, and it always makes me smile. The same goes when I wear one of my dad's t-shirts and sweatshirts. When I wear one, I can feel his presence. You can also bring your childhood nostalgia to your look. For example, I have a stretchy headband that I wore when I was a kid. It's black, and it has colorful plastic shaped jewels (like moon, stars and other shapes) on it. I've recently paired it with a berry pink sweatshirt and leggings, and wore it out without a second thought because I think it's cute and it makes me happy.
That's my take on dopamine dressing. Hope my tips bring a little extra sunshine (and stylish comfort) into your life!
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