Did you know wearing bright colours can improve your mentality? In a world full of constant pings from notifications, pre-pandemic adjustments, and non-stop news of war, it’s definitely important to focus on the little things we have control over.
The way you dress is something that can hugely change your attitude and bright colours can add that little bit of confidence and positivity into your day-to-day life. Even mundane activities can become fun when you feel good in what you’re wearing. I always try to infuse bright colours into my wardrobe but there’s no right or wrong way to do this. However, for those starting to move away from dull colour palettes and fear looking like Krusty the Clown, here are some tips for beginners to inject some happiness into their wardrobes.
Colourful statement pieces
Anyone who knows me, knows I love a midi skirt. This is a piece that can so easily add a pop of colour or a bolder print without being too much or too difficult to style. Add a crop top or logo tee in warmer weather, or a simple jumper in the colder days to elevate your look without being too convoluted or editorial.
Jackets and outerwear
A colourful coat or jacket can go a long way when trying to begin incorporating colour into your day-to-day. A jacket that's immediately eye-catching can pair with almost any neutral look and can easily be removed if you’re feeling uncomfortable with the newfound attention. One of my favourite pieces to grab when I need a pick-me-up is my bright green Daisy Street PU coat that covers a lazy outfit, but also gives me a boost to know I’ll look good in any photo.
Matching sets
Colourful outfits can often be looked down on for their lack of professionalism or potential childishness. While this is not the case, if you want to maintain an office look or have a strict code of conduct to follow, a classic suit in a less classic colour is a great way to do that. My green suit is one of my favourite outfits – less styling thought is needed and gives that colourfulness without the hyper-femininity. Also, the pieces can obviously be worn separately to dress up or down a look, and can be styled into multiple different looks. Pants and a classic tee, or a dress and blazer look are always go-tos.
Pair with denim
On the other hand, if you’re more of a casual dresser then you can’t go wrong with a simple jeans and tee combination. Stick on your favourite pair of jeans to immediately give you confidence and elevate this look with a bold-coloured top – like with the skirt, you can wear different styles on your top half to suit the occasion.
Trade out black monochrome
Monochromatic looks can be very easy and timeless, but by trading your black pants and shirt for pink, red or even brown versions, you can create something unique and improve your mood at the same time. Head-to-toe looks will never go out of style. They are worn time and time again at award ceremonies and red carpets.
Mix and match
The best part of dressing in colour is that everything goes together. Even with completely black outfits, you run the risk of getting different shades of black depending on the brand. If you're layering colour there’s an eliminated fear of shades not matching – a yellow skirt and blue top with a red jacket can’t clash.
Add an accessory
Adding pops of colour through accessories, such as a handbag or pair of shoes, can take the scariness away from colourful outfits. A pair of green sandals or orange heels can take a more simple look from basic to brilliant but without the intensity. In fact, pairing one colourful piece can make sure to give it the attention it deserves by drawing in the eye. Maybe pair your favourite handbag with a more monochromatic look next time to see if it suddenly gets more compliments than usual.
Pace yourself
Switch up your style at a pace that feels natural to you. If adding colour is something you want to save for summer then that’s completely fine. If wearing colourful underwear is the only step you want to take, go for it. However you dress is up to you, just remember even little things can have a huge impact on your mental health.
Edited by Maddy Burgess