What Colours to Wear to Boost Your Mood

Ever woken up and felt like you are ready to go back to bed? Some days may feel especially blue but you can still try to change your mood and get your day off to a good start. Instead of just telling yourself that it is a great day to have a good day, make it a point to dress in a colour or print that embodies that phrase.

Just like how you can express your personality and style through fashion, research also suggests that the colours we wear can evoke certain feelings and possibly influence our stress levels. So why not choose a colour that can positively impact your mood?

Red is a colour full of passion and enthusiasm, which can also help in increasing motivation. And since it can spur you on, incorporating red in your outfit can be a great way to start off your day. For a boost of confidence, try wearing a brighter shade of red, much like SOTP’s Chelsea Side Knot Tank - it comes in a relaxed fit that can be paired easily with a denim skirt or black pants.

If you are not up for wearing something that is too loud, try adding that pop of colour with a bag instead. For instance, Style Cat’s Bucket Sling Bag is perfect for weekends, while the pearl details in the Charmaine Sharp Clutch from Kanyeka is sure to elevate both your look and mood. 

On the other hand, shades of pink are associated with compassion and nurture. In other words, they help you feel encouraged or appreciated and can even project feelings of love and kindness. Made of striped cotton blend with a tiered skirt and adjustable straps, Akosee’s Mae Parachute Dress is the perfect shade of fuchsia pink to lift your mood.

Being surrounded by nature is known to reduce stress and anxiety. Instead of heading out for a hike or taking a walk in the park, why not wear these colours on you? With their earthy undertones, colours such as beige, brown or camel are associated with feelings of safety and being grounded, which helps to reduce overall stress levels.

Neutral tones are easy to match, so equip your wardrobe with essentials such as RYE’s Deep Scoop-Back Ribbed Top which can go with anything from a simple pair of dad jeans to wide-legged culottes. For lazy days, a lightweight linen dress might just fit the bill.

Likewise, a beige bag can also complement your outfit, especially when paired with a darker undertone. Take Lingwu’s classy Bubble Clutch as an example - it is a classic accessory to complete your look for a night out. Though simple, its chic and stylish design is enough to catch the attention of every eye that glances by.

Yellows are known to be uplifting and have energetic effects on the psyche while also evoking a sense of happiness and warmth. Wearing yellow in highly pigmented shades like sunflower, mustard or saffron can have a stimulating effect, making you more alert and refreshed.

When you’re having a mental block, wearing yellow might just do the trick as it is also associated with intelligence and inspiration. Designed with a funnel neck and made from comfortable, soft rayon material, Ginlee Studio’s Ella Dress is a perfect mood booster, be it for work and play - making it a great addition to your wardrobe.  

For something more muted, SOTP’s Freya Draped Mustard Top is a warmer iteration that provides the same cheerfulness without visual fatigue.

Blue and green are often linked to tranquillity. This could be one of the reasons why looking at a vast field or the ocean has a calming effect on one’s mind. These restful shades are soothing to both the eyes and soul - making it the ideal colour to wear when you in need of a little stillness. Like neutrals, they are associated with nature and outdoors, which can help to reduce stress.

If you’re on the fence about which colour to wear, Ginlee’s Dart Trousers comes in mint green with blue undertones. Featuring subtle pin tucked details in a relaxed fit, it is designed to bring you ultimate comfort, whether you are at home or out on-the-go.

The colour blue can also get your creative juices flowing. When you are stuck at problem, a powder blue Kimono Wrapped Top from Reckless Ericka might just help to unlock fresh perspectives and alternative solutions. Free-flowing with soft drapes, the top comes with a wrap sash that allows you to adjust the fit.

Find wearing solid colours too plain? Prints are a great way to incorporate mood-boosting colours without them being too overwhelming. Try pairing a more toned down abstract print with a neutral-coloured shirt or a lilac dress with yellow prints with a classic denim jacket - both are great ways to subtly combine prints and colours.

For those who are a little more adventurous, a bold print like Photo Phactory’s Peranakan Tiles Pleated Skirt might just be what you are looking for. Pair it with a white tank to get all the effects of the mood boosting colours without the outfit being over the top. Alternatively, spice up your look with a floral palm cashmere scarf that can bring a glow to your face.