The surprising link between style and psychology

Right now, many of us are naturally turning to bright colours in a trend known as dopamine dressing. According to Watkins, this is an example of a psychologically-driven trend that has gained popularity because bright colours can make us feel happier.

“Last year, we were all about dopamine dressing – using bright colours to brighten your mood – and this year has been no different. Just look at Barbiecore,” she says.

Numerous studies back up Watkins’ theory, with research showing that what we wear (and what we see others wearing) can have a direct impact on us on a psychological level. One 2012 study from researchers at Northwestern University dubbed this “enclothed cognition”. The study found that dressing in symbolic clothing can affect our mindset: for instance, wearing a lab coat made people more productive and attentive.

Another study showed that people who wear less formal clothes are perceived as less intelligent. A third found that women who wore more ‘masculine’ styles to job interviews were more likely to be hired. One researcher from the University of Hertfordshire found that clothes we associate with power could not only make us feel more confident, but could also help us perform better.

“Studies have shown us that clothes can have a direct effect on our mood, and this extends to the workplace, too,” Watkins says. “If you put on a killer outfit in the morning, you feel more confident and you’re in a better, more positive mood which can lead to better results at work.”

She adds: “I would even suggest planning a great outfit when you’ve got an extra busy or stressful day ahead, as it can ease that stress and give you the confidence that you may need.”

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