We all know that feeling. The feeling when you put on just the right outfit and suddenly all feels right. Your day suddenly seems brighter, your mood has skyrocketed, and you feel like there is nothing that you can’t do- all because of an outfit. But why is that? Why does the culmination of simple pieces make us feel like we’re invincible? Let’s break down the science behind it, shall we?
via Laia Magazine
When we choose our clothes, we choose them because we see ourselves reflected in them. We view them as an extension of ourselves, much like Carrie Bradshaw and her Manolos or Fran Fine and her mini skirts. People participate in a phenomenon called the “Self Verification Theory,” a theory that, in a nutshell, is when people want others to perceive them the way they believe themselves to be on the inside. When we purchase our clothes, we do so with self-perception in mind. After we present ourselves in our outfits and get that desired verification from our peers, it gives us an intense feeling of joy. Those intense feelings of joy are the triggering of a neurotransmitter in our brains called dopamine.
Fake it (or Don't)
Dopamine, also known as the “feel good” neurotransmitter, is the reason we get giddy when that sundress falls just right or when we feel so authentically us when that pair of jeans hit at all the right places. When we are feeling confident, that energy exudes itself to those around us. I know we all know the saying “Fake it till you make it”, but there is truth behind that.
via @jamielynkane on Instagram
When we are placed in a positive mindset due to our clothes, we radiate those feelings. As we interact with others, it is scientifically proven that people absorb and recognize the energy that we put out. Body language is a crucial factor in perception, so when we are standing tall, shoulders back, and standing firm in ourselves because we know we look good, people’s minds process this as being a confident and self-assured person. So how can we use all of this science to our advantage?
As we progress in our lives there are going to be opportunities that we want that we know we are not necessarily the #1 candidate for, but that does not mean we shouldn’t pursue them. Let’s put our newfound science facts to use.
The Formula
When entering into a field or an interview where you do not feel the most confident, start at level 1. Wake up and put on the outfit that makes you feel the most self-assured. The big message we want to convey is that we are poised and put together. Upon entering the opportunity, carry those good feelings your brain has released with you through every step. Interviewing for a position? Easy. You have your Prada pumps on and you are going to walk the halls of that office like it’s your runway. Giving a presentation to a board of directors? Throw on your most tailored blazer and speak as if you would put your job on the line for this presentation. Clothes are not just something to keep you covered, in fact, they allow you to unleash the inner you. As you work your way through the latter we call the workforce, you are going to find you receive more opportunities the more confidently you present yourself. People want the face of their company or the leader of the division to be someone they know is strong.
All of this boils down to the fact that clothing is the key to unlocking your dream life. No one is going to be perfect at everything they do. No one is going to have the right answer all the time. But, you can have a wardrobe that makes you feel your best at all times. The better you look, the better you feel, the better you perform. Clothes are not just fabric, but our ticket to creating our dream lives.
By Abigail Moynihan
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