Eggshell. Geometric shapes. Fuschia. Florals. Royal blue. Earth tones.
How do you choose the colours and patterns that you’re going to wear? Do you reach for a rack full of bright colours, or are you always on the lookout for appropriate office attire?
In this blog, I’m going to share some reasons why women choose the clothing they do, a bit on the psychology of fashion, and how you can find clothes that are 100% you.
First, here are some of the reasons why people choose certain clothing:
- Status: Since ancient times, clothes have been an indicator of social and economic factors. Some people want to buy designer labels, or spend a small fortune on high-end fabrics.
- Budget: The cost of clothing determines what we all wear. You may frown at a price tag that seems too high, or walk away from a rock-bottom price at a discount store because you’re not sure about quality.
- Lifestyle. A busy woman chasing kids or grandkids around the yard probably saves more formal clothing for special occasions. Women who work in an office that requires business casual clothing will have a different daily wardrobe.
- Body image: Many women who wear clothing that’s too big. This often comes from seeing their body differently than others see it. Other women may opt for skin-hugging outfits, happy to showcase their body—no matter the size.
- They like the style! We love it when women buy clothes because they make them feel good. Being comfortable and confident in your own skin is the real key, like we talk about in our blog How to Have Ageless Style: Fashion for Mature Women.
Of course, there are a number of other factors that influence our choices, from comfort to convenience—too many to list here!
Patterned pops of colour from our Dolcezza spring collection.
Understanding The Psychology of Clothing
Dr. Jennifer Baumgartner is a clinical psychologist who wrote a book called “You Are What You Wear: What Your Clothes Reveal About You.” In it, she talks about the “psychology of dress,” and how it affects our everyday lives.
According to Baumgartner, by understanding your appearance as a representation of your inner unresolved conflicts, you can create a wardrobe to match the way you want to be perceived.
Other research shows that wearing certain shades can also affect your mood and emotion, and how other people respond to you. As researchers discovered in the 1970s, looking at certain hues can even change our heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
Stop for a moment and think: How is your psychology influencing your fashion? Can you see a link between your life experiences and how you dress?
Neutrals with an edge from EverSassy Collection.
How to Choose the Perfect Wardrobe for You
There are no hard and fast rules about choosing your clothing. I’m a firm believer in picking the colours and patterns that you love, without worrying about age, size or society!
But if you’re looking for some tips on ways to find the perfect wardrobe, here’s a checklist that might help:
- Describe your current style. Are you happy with your edgy new outfits, or are you stuck in a rut of always choosing basic black? Determining your satisfaction with your existing wardrobe is a great starting point.
- Write down how you want your wardrobe to make you feel. For example, is it free, sexy, professional, bold or all of the above!Then, consult your checklist before you go on your next shopping trip (whether it’s in-store or from the comfort of your couch).
- Don’t be afraid to let go. While we all have our go-to sweater or well-loved pair of boots, are you hanging on to every piece you’ve ever owned?The same clothes you wore 10 years ago may not be a true reflection of who you are now. Consider a spring cleaning to donate or sell what you don’t wear.
I find the reasons why women wear what they do so interesting! By tapping into our thoughts and emotions around our clothing, we can choose items that perfectly reflect our personality.
We can help you find the most flattering clothing for your body type, personality, lifestyle, and mood. Stop by Malary’s Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
We are also open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for private shopping appointments. Please call Yvonne at 604-838-6402 to book your appointment.
