By Mys Tyler founder, Sarah Neill

We have all experienced that exhilarating moment when we wear an outfit that just clicks and transforms our mood instantly. But what if I told you that your clothing choices could actually enhance your emotional well-being in multiple ways? Introducing dopamine dressing – a revolutionary style approach that is igniting wardrobe joy among millions of women. This concept is proving that the garments we choose can indeed elevate our spirits and make us feel genuinely good.

Understanding the Concept of Dopamine Dressing

Dopamine dressing involves curating a wardrobe filled with garments that elicit feelings of happiness, confidence, and empowerment. It’s about donning outfits that ignite joy and stimulate that positive, uplifting energy we could all benefit from. This principle is rooted in the brain’s own “feel-good” neurotransmitter – dopamine. When you wear something that excites or inspires you, whether it’s a vibrant color, an eye-catching print, or a nostalgic piece, your brain releases dopamine, which is directly linked to sensations of pleasure, motivation, and joy. Who wouldn’t want to experience more of that invigorating feeling?

This phenomenon is not merely a passing trend. Dopamine dressing delves into the psychology of fashion, demonstrating that clothing is a potent tool for influencing our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us.

The Science Behind Why Dopamine Dressing Works

Consider this: how often have you slipped into an outfit that made you feel unstoppable? It’s not merely the confidence that radiates from your attire – there’s scientific reasoning at play too. Wearing something that emotionally resonates with you can significantly elevate your mood, provide an energy boost, and even enhance your mental outlook. 

But how can you master this uplifting style and seamlessly weave it into your everyday wardrobe? To assist you, we’ve consulted a professional stylist who has graciously shared three essential tips for perfecting the art of dopamine dressing.

Three Essential Tips to Enhance Your Dopamine Dressing Experience

Stylist & Content Creator, Amy Abrahams (@wearthedamndress), provides her top three tips for embracing dopamine dressing:

1. Choose One Statement Piece That Makes You Say “Hell Yes!”

Begin your dopamine dressing journey with that one item that brings an instant smile to your face. Is it a vibrant hot pink blazer? Or perhaps it’s a pair of sparkling boots? Maybe oversized floral sunglasses or strikingly bold printed pants? That particular piece is your source of dopamine joy! Wear it proudly. You can keep the rest of your outfit understated, allowing your statement item to take center stage, or you can mix and match with other bold items, layering clashing prints or complementary colors to truly amp up your look.

2. Leverage Texture to Elevate Your Outfits

Why not add some sequins for brunch? Or indulge in the luxurious feel of velvet on a Tuesday? Absolutely! Texture adds depth and excitement to your everyday outfits and can introduce an additional layer of interest to your overall appearance. Utilizing different textures is an excellent way to create a focal point in monochrome ensembles (outfits in a single color) without appearing over-the-top, especially if that’s not your style.

3. Start With Subtle Changes if You Prefer

If diving into neon from head to toe feels overwhelming, there’s no need to worry! You can ease into this vibrant trend. Consider starting with a pair of bold earrings, a colorful clutch, or a bright pair of shoes. Accessories serve as your secret weapon in this endeavor. Small adjustments can lead to significant joy.

Inspiring Experiences: Real-Life Dopamine Dressers Share Their Stories

Now, let’s meet two remarkable Mys Tyler Fashion Contributors and dopamine dressers who have embraced the uplifting effects of fashion! Sephra and Liz share their inspiring journeys:

Sephra Anthony, Mys Tyler Fashion Contributor (@savagesephra)

“Dopamine dressing allows me to embody the emotions I wish to feel that day, whether it’s joy, strength, or empowerment! I embrace this concept because I have spent far too long conforming to a darker palette and attempting to hide my body. While black will always have a place in my wardrobe, there’s nothing quite like a burst of color to bring joy and lift spirits on a dreary day!

It doesn’t just uplift my mood; it also brings happiness to those around me, based on what I’ve observed.”

Sephra’s advice for those interested in dopamine dressing: “Begin with softer colors, perhaps pastel shades, and stick to a similar color family or hue. Monochromatic outfits are perfect for beginners, and then gradually explore the color wheel to experiment with color blocking.

Liz Irwin, Mys Tyler Fashion Contributor (@songbirdlizzytish)

“Dopamine dressing is aptly named: it’s my go-to strategy for lifting my spirits and brightening the mood of those around me. I gravitate towards the boldest, brightest, and shiniest pieces when I aim to harmonize my internal feelings with my external appearance. Experiencing a moment of self-doubt? Sequins are my remedy. On a gloomy winter day that brings me down? I wear sunshine-inspired outfits until the sun returns. It’s my vibrant armor.”

Liz’s advice for those eager to experiment with dopamine dressing: “I often hear people say, ‘I could never pull that off, but it looks fantastic on you!’ There was a time when I too faced a wave of critical voices telling me I couldn’t ‘get away with’ certain styles. When it becomes about your own internal happiness, a plethora of personal style opportunities unfold. If the idea of wearing so much color or shine feels intimidating, start small! Consider a pair of outrageously printed shoes or a vibrant scarf, or even a bright glitter eyeliner paired with a neutral outfit as a fantastic starting point.”

Dopamine dressing transcends mere aesthetics; it embodies how you feel within. So, if you are ready to transform your wardrobe into a sanctuary of happiness, why not start today? Embrace those striking colors, playful patterns, and outfits that infuse you with joy and energy. Fashion should be a source of enjoyment. For inspiration related to body-positive fashion, and to follow the exciting fashion journeys of women like Sephra and Liz, check out the Mys Tyler app.