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On the JJ Barnes Blog, with #dopaminedressing trending on TikTok, I discover how to dress for confidence so I can go into the warmer weather looking, and feeling, my best.
#DopamineDressing
Have you been swept up in the whirlwind of the #dopaminedressing trend on TikTok? With over 200 million views and counting, it seems everyone’s talking about the power of clothing to boost mood and project confidence. Let’s face it, after months of cozy loungewear (because, hello, winter!), the urge to revamp our wardrobes and embrace the sunshine with a little more pizazz is undeniable.
But for some of us, the thought of revamping our wardrobes can feel daunting. Maybe you’re unsure what styles flatter your figure, or perhaps you struggle to translate that inner confidence into your outward appearance, or, like me, maybe you live in black leggings and baggy jumpers and can’t imagine stepping away from these comfort clothes.
In this post, I’ll explore key tips and tricks to help you curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique personality and empowers you to project strength, self-assurance, and a whole lot of fabulousness. So, ditch those bulky winter layers, embrace the brighter days ahead, and get ready to unlock your most confident self, one outfit at a time!
To help me out, fashion experts at AN-Y1 sent over a list of fashion tips to dress for confidence, to give you that luxurious, self-assured flair to your outfit, and I’ve explored what we can wear to meet those tips.
Top Tips To Dress For Confidence
1. Dress for the impression you want to convey
Our outfit choices are usually based upon our agenda for the day. Whether your plans entail a casual trip out with friends, a special occasion, or something more formal such as an interview, create your outfit based on the impression that you want to portray.
Make a Bold Statement:
Confident & Creative: A statement jumpsuit in a vibrant color or a power suit with a patterned blouse exudes confidence and individuality.
Modern & Edgy: Play with textures like leather jackets or patent vinyl skirts paired with sleek basics.
Luxurious & Sophisticated: Opt for classic cuts in rich fabrics like silk or cashmere. Think tailored trousers, a crisp white button-down shirt, or a timeless trench coat.
Project Professionalism & Trustworthiness:
Sharp & Polished: A well-tailored blazer, a crisp dress shirt or blouse, and dress pants or a skirt in neutral tones convey authority and competence.
Approachable & Professional: Blazers or cardigans paired with knee-length skirts or dress pants in muted colors create a friendly yet professional air.
Show Your Creativity & Personal Style:
Unique & Playful: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, textures, and colors! Experiment with vintage finds, statement accessories, or bold prints.
Effortlessly Chic: Elevate casual pieces like jeans with a silk blouse or a blazer. Layer a statement necklace over a simple t-shirt and add a pop of color with a bright scarf.
2. Select colours that boost your mood and evoke happiness
The concept of colour psychology commonly associates colours with moods, so when dressing for confidence it is key to pay attention to how colours make you feel and dress in the colours that make you feel comfortable and confident.
Sunshine Brights: Yellow is like sunshine for your clothes! It radiates warmth, optimism, and happiness. Think sunshine yellow dresses, flowy blouses, or cute accessories.
Soothing Serenity: Light blues and lavenders have a calming effect, promoting feelings of peace and tranquility. Opt for breezy blue dresses, chambray shirts, or lavender cardigans.
Energetic Reds: A pop of red can add a burst of energy and confidence to your outfit. Try a fitted red dress, a statement scarf, or a pair of bold red heels.
Earthy Greens: Green connects us to nature and evokes feelings of balance and harmony. Embrace forest green pants, a flowy emerald blouse, or a printed dress with leafy greens.
Happy Citrus: Citrus colors like orange and lime green are energizing and playful. Add a pop of orange with a statement necklace, a skirt, or a brightly coloured bag.
Classic Whites: White conveys purity, cleanliness, and a fresh start. A crisp white shirt, a flowy white dress, or white jeans can instantly brighten your look.
If your wardrobe is quite limited in colour, or the prospect of matching every outfit is stress-inducing, try accessorising with some small, mood-boosting colour additions instead.
For example, pairing a black or white outfit with an orange or green jacket or bag can work to add that pop of colour for connotations of confidence, peace, and added flair.
3. Create a clothing capsule of confidence
Many people own a few trusty items of clothing that they will look to time and time again, as staple items that work for a variety of occasions. Don’t be afraid to stick with what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Whether it’s a statement little black dress, a versatile jumpsuit, or a favourite jacket, these items can be dressed up or down, and accessorised accordingly for any occasion. Wearing clothes we love and feel comfortable in is the key in fashion confidence.
1. Timeless Staples:
Neutral Bottoms: Start with high-quality, well-fitting basics in neutral colors like black, navy, khaki, and beige. Think straight-leg black jeans, a black skirt, tailored trousers, and perhaps a pair of chinos.
Classic Tops: Invest in versatile tops in neutral colors and flattering silhouettes. A crisp white button-down shirt, a comfortable t-shirt, a plain crewneck sweater, and a silk or cashmere blouse are great starting points.
Essential Dresses (Optional): A little black dress (LBD) is a timeless classic, but you can also choose a shift dress, a wrap dress, or a knit sweater dress in a neutral color that suits your style.
2. Layering Pieces:
Blazers & Cardigans: A well-tailored blazer adds instant polish and can be dressed up or down. Cardigans offer a more relaxed vibe and come in various weights for different seasons.
Jackets & Coats: A denim jacket, a leather jacket, or a trench coat are versatile outerwear options that can elevate your outfit and adapt to different temperatures.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle:
Professional Attire: If your work environment is formal, include more tailored pieces like smart trousers, blazers, and sheath dresses.
Casual Chic: For a more relaxed vibe, focus on comfortable basics like t-shirts, sweaters, and relaxed-fit jeans.
Activewear: If you’re active, include workout clothes and comfortable athleisure pieces you can integrate into your everyday looks.
4. Don’t Forget the Shoes:
Neutral Pumps or Flats: A pair of classic ballet pumps in a neutral color like black, nude, or beige offer versatility and can be dressed up or down.
Booties or Boots: Ankle boots or knee-high boots add a touch of edge and can be worn with skirts, jeans, and dresses.
Sneakers (Optional): If your lifestyle is casual, include a pair of comfortable trainers for running errands or everyday wear.
4. Be kind to yourself and put the effort in that you deserve!
Ultimately, no matter which occasion you are dressing for, or which colours and pieces you opt for, being kind to yourself and putting effort into your look goes a long way in growing fashion confidence. Choose pieces that boost your self-esteem, fit your mood, and are comfortable. Take the time to appreciate your outfit choice, no matter how you may be feeling that day, and allow yourself to put the time and effort into your look that you deserve.
Dressing For Confidence
When you’re looking to boost your fashion confidence and elevate your outfit, this doesn’t need to become a chore searching for new pieces in bold shades. Sometimes, it is as simple as selecting your favourite pieces and styles, and adding colour through accessories.
Fashion confidence is sometimes easier to achieve with versatile, timeless pieces. For example, a jumpsuit that you can dress up or down, or a jacket you wear time and time again. Adding in colourful accessories, I find is always effective in exhibiting moods of confidence, energy, and sophistication.
Whatever your agenda for the day, no matter the occasion, these tips can help you to find the pieces that work for you, whilst incorporating colour where you see fit, to generate a luxurious, confident look and boost your mood.
-Anu Hinduja, Creative Director of AN-Y1
Methodology:
- AN-Y1 sought to provide top tips on dopamine dressing, and how to utilise this to boost your fashion confidence.
- To do this, they scoured multiple reputable websites such as Harper’s Bazaar, and Living360.
- Expert comment was then provided by Creative Director Anu Hinduja, on behalf of AN-Y1.
- Research was conducted April 2024 and is accurate as of then.
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