When some days start at a sluggish pace, there is an array of little things we find solace in – like a cup of good coffee, comfort food, and cat videos. If there’s still a void, it’s time to try out dopamine dressing and boost your mood.
What Is Dopamine Dressing?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s responsible for feelings like pleasure, self-contentment, motivation, learning, and arousal. In other simpler terms, dopamine is also known as ‘feel-good’ hormones or ‘happy chemicals’. The dopamine dressing trend draws inspiration from this biological function. It makes use of patterns, textures, and lots of colours to stimulate the mind, uplift mood, and give you momentary happiness.
The concept isn’t only about turning up as your best-dressed self, it’s a source of happiness and inspiration that’s fully in your control. However, we’re here to give you a friendly nudge with some dopamine dressing ideas that you can give a whirl.
1. Contrast Patterns
We appreciate the satisfying synchronicity of patterns but when we’re cheering our minds to go on, we’re going to opt for fun pattern play. This is when you pair two pieces of clothing with vastly different patterns. The above ensemble showcases two different patterns, perfect for casual work days or brunch. Recreate the above look with a black satin floral dress like the one from Marks & Spencer. The machine-washable garb has simple button detailing on the sleeves and fastens at the back with a zipper. It gives a subtle shape around the waist, too. All very telling of the brand’s savviness in creating everyday wardrobe staples that blend comfortable silhouettes with contemporary style. Layer it with a casual checker jacket in similar hues of purple and lilac.
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2. Solid-Print Medley
It’s absolutely legal to steal a little chunk of rainbow and sunshine when your day’s being a downer. For this good old ‘dad-style’ ensemble, play with punchy, bright colours. To balance out the colour palette, stick to minimal prints. For the top, opt for a loose-fitted yellow pattern shirt. You can even raid the men’s section like this button-down number from British menswear brand, Simon Carter. It’s made with high-end cotton material which would be perfect for all year-around, especially summer. Wear it tucked-in with a pair of straight-fit or wide-legged pink pants for comfort.
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3. Blair Waldorf-Inspired
Spotted! Circa 2012 on the streets of New York, Blair Waldorf morphs into a living, breathing inspiration for dopamine dressing before dopamine dressing was a thing. Want a side of nostalgia hit, too? We recommend the Uptownie Lite Women’s Stretchable Printed Fit & Flare Skater Dress Yellow. The fit and flare style suits all body types and makes for the perfect summertime cocktail party dress. It’s also made with a quick-drying, stretchable to help you breeze through hot & humid days. Sling on an orange handbag, and you’re all set for your day out. XOXO!
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4. Dopamine, But Make It Desi
Leave it to desi affairs to bring out a rack of vibrant hues, patterns, and more! If you want to ride on the cusp of western and desi, Scakhi’s neon Candy Print 3-piece indo-western co-ord set is the way to go. Accompanying a burst of colours, this outfit also boasts two different prints – the crop top-sharara pant duo in a geometric pattern and a long, flowy cape that comes in a sprawling floral pattern. To accelerate the dopamine rush, adorn your neck with this supremely gorgeous beaded necklace set from Ruby Raang.
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5. Minimalistically Graphic
Graphic T-shirts and pattern socks are easy ways to spruce up daily casual wear when you don’t feel like dressing up or overwhelm your senses. India’s leading youthful and contemporary brand ONLY serves up a flash of dopamine with their boxy-style, cotton Graphic Print Black T-shirt. Slip this on with a trustee pair of denims. For occasional peek-a-boos through the day, pair your sneakers with fun patterned socks.
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6. Keep It Lowkey With Accessories
If you’re one for dressing up simple, basic outfits with accessories, use them as an outlet to add channel happy vibes. For this outfit idea, the colour-play comes from strappy, comfy sandals and a simple yet stylish sling bag. Vouched by B-town’s newcomer Gen-Z star, Shanaya Kapoor, Miraggio gives you the perfect pick with their pink, faux leather water-resistant sling bag that comes with a chain handle. To complete this look, slip into the Peach Flores Pink Leather Sandals that also come in six different sizes.
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7. Tulles n Stripes
While a pair of pants or a simple skirt keeps you snug in your comfort zone, consider adding a twist to styling simple tops. This look features a fun way of dressing up casual wear with a tier-style tulle skirt. The Style Quotient Pink Tulle layered skirt is an exact match to the skirt shown above. It fits around the waist comfortably with its elastic band closure. Pair this with a colourful striped top and a pair of casual sneakers to complete this look.
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8. Playful Sequins
If you want to go dopamine ultra pro max, sequins are the ultimate solution. they shine, shimmer, and are for everyone! Recreate this chic and elegant look with the red sequin pencil skirt by LIONESS, an Australian label sported by supermodel and former Victoria’s Secret Angel, Elsa Hosk. It enhances your lower body’s shape and perfectly cinches around the waist with a hidden zipper closure. Pair this with a black see-through shirt blouse and box-style clutch and you’re ready to take on the city streets.
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We hope our rendition of dopamine dressing ideas will offset a sluggish day and balance out your love for beige-core. Go on, enjoy a rush of feel-good vibes!