Breathe life back into your closet and express yourself in new ways, without needing to hit the shops
Understandably, many of us have got ourselves into a bit of a fashion rut over the past year. And who can blame us? With not much to do and no place to go, a ‘whatever’s clean’ approach makes sense.
But fashion, and dressing in ways that ignite positivity and confidence in us, can play a big part in how we feel about ourselves – and now things are finally getting back to normal, it’s a tool we can begin to unearth once more. So, to help you feel your best as we take those first steps, we’re sharing seven outfit prompts to help you rediscover a sense of joy and self-expression with the clothes that are already in your wardrobe.
1. Something that reminds you of happy times
Is there a particular item that instantly transports you back to a happy memory? Perhaps an outfit you wore on a soul-warming holiday, or a day you received good news? Put it on, and channel those positive feelings all over again.
2. Something that makes you feel confident
What makes you feel like you could strut down the street with your head held high? It might be something bold – an eye-catching pattern – or something that just screams ‘you’, and reflects your personality. Tap into that, and wear your confidence-boosting outfit with pride.
3. Something in your favourite colour
Time and time again, colour psychology has found that colour can affect our mood, and you can blend that knowledge into your outfit choice to accentuate different feelings. Warm colours (like yellow, orange, and red) tend to be comforting, while blues and greens can be soothing. This is a good place to start, but the way we respond to colour is subjective – purple might put you in a good mood, while pink calms you – so pick a piece that speaks to you.
4. Something that reminds you of someone you love
Maybe it’s something that was given to you by someone else, or handed down through the family? It could be a style that someone you love always pulls off so effortlessly, or an item that you know would prompt a shower of compliments. Picking an outfit with these things in mind can help us to feel close to the people we love, even if we can’t be together.
5. Something that makes you feel sensual
Even underneath ordinary clothes, good underwear can boost your confidence, put a spring in your step, and is a guaranteed way to help you tap into your sensuality. Beyond that, you can pick out clothes that accentuate all your favourite features, and a spritz of scent ties the whole thing together. Whether it’s with the addition of a little bit of lace, or slipping into something sleek – embrace your sensual self, and watch your mood soar.
6. Something that makes you feel nostalgic
At the back of your wardrobe, is there an item that you’ve had forever, which you can never seem to get rid of? Perhaps you even have something from your youth that reminds you of carefree days, or from another era of your life when you had the whole world at your feet. Going back to our roots and reminiscing on our journeys can be a really soothing and insightful exercise. And, if you’re lucky, you may have even unearthed something ‘vintage’!
7. Something that makes you feel comfortable
There are times for pushing the boat out and trying something new, and there are others for slipping into something that makes you feel cosy and safe. After a year out from dressing for the wider world, it can be a relief to ease yourself back in gently – prioritising what makes you feel comfortable over keeping up with the latest trends, or standing out in a crowd. Oversized sweatshirts or a trusty pair of dungarees can do the trick, but ultimately you’ll be picking something that just seems to work effortlessly for you, and that makes you feel good from head to toe.
To speak with a with a life coach who can help you reconnect with yourself, visit lifecoach-directory.org.uk