Wardrobe Therapy: How to Use Fashion to Boost Your Mental Health

Jul 11

After my bilateral mastectomy last year, I found myself struggling to pick out clothes to wear. The shape of my body changed and I felt uncertain about how to dress myself. Then I had brunch with my friend Maria Pinto, a Chicago fashion designer who has dressed Michelle Obama and many other celebrities. She inspired me to look at my hesitation through a broader lens. I realized that I felt shy and self-conscious about stepping back into my life after treatment because I didn’t know what to wear other than pajamas, sweatpants and loose shirts that would hide my chest…and my scars.

After that conversation and hearing Maria speak on the TEDx Chicago stage, I began thinking about how “what we wear” impacts our mental and emotional health and knew that Maria would have a unique perspective to share on the Healing Catalyst podcast. We had a phenomenal conversation. Fashion is a form of self-expression. And I think it’s a subject that causes a lot of judgment, whether that’s judgment for caring too much or too little about fashion.

The Connection Between Fashion & Mental Health

Some people dismiss fashion as frivolous, but psychological studies suggest otherwise. In 2012, Adam Hajo and Adam D. Galinsky coined the term “enclothed cognition” to describe the psychological influence clothes have on us. As Maria described this to me, when we dress in a way that aligns with our self-image and aspirations, we feel more confident, empowered, and ready to take on the world.

Comfortable, well-fitting clothes allow us to be more present in our daily activities, leading to improved mood and reduced anxiety. Conversely, clothes that cause discomfort can negatively impact our mood and increase stress levels. Colors can evoke various emotions and energy levels. For instance, bright colors like yellow can uplift our spirits, while cool colors like blue can be calming.

Choosing clothes that reflect our personality and preferences can be a form of self-care, honoring our unique identities. By selecting outfits that make us feel good, we practice self-love and self-respect, which translates into better mental health.

Tips for Choosing Clothing That Boosts Mood and Confidence

Prioritize Comfort: Ensure that your clothes fit well and you feel good wearing them. Avoid anything that causes physical discomfort or distress.
Consider Color: Choose colors that make you feel happy and energized. Experiment with different shades to see how they affect your mood.
Reflect Your Style: Wear clothes that reflect your personality and make you feel good about yourself. Don’t be afraid to express your unique style.
Quality Over Quantity: Invest in well-made pieces that make you feel special. It’s better to have a few high-quality items than a closet full of clothes that don’t make you feel great.

If you struggle with self-kindness when it comes to getting dressed, I encourage you to try 3 tips for practicing self-compassion as you build your wardrobe and your confidence.

Integrating Ayurveda into Your Fashion Choices

Ayurveda teaches us that harmony between mind, body, and spirit is essential for overall well-being. So much of Ayurveda is about being aware and mindful of the choices we make, from what we eat to what we wear.

Natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and wool are preferred in Ayurveda because they allow the skin to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation. Wearing clothes made from natural fibers can help maintain a healthy flow of energy throughout your body, promoting comfort and reducing stress. Select clothing that feels good against your skin and moves well with your body.

But the most important tool is your awareness. Give yourself permission to notice how you feel in each piece of clothing. You don’t have to go through your whole closet tomorrow, but build in opportunities to assess your clothing.

And remember, you don’t have to do this alone. When I was struggling, Maria Pinto encouraged me to ask trusted friends and family for help. A friend with a good sense of fashion can be a great mirror to help you see yourself more clearly.

Practical Steps to Transform Your Wardrobe

Here are some practical steps to help you create a closet that enhances your well-being and brings joy to your everyday life.

Declutter and Organize with Mindfulness

Remove items that no longer serve you or make you feel good. Ask yourself if each piece brings you joy or comfort. Letting go of items that no longer align with your current self can be liberating and make space for new, positive energy. Once you have decluttered, organize your clothes so it is easy to pick outfits that make you feel confident and happy.

Invest in Pieces That Make You Feel Good

Invest in well-made, versatile pieces that make you feel good every time you put them on. Choose clothes that fit well, are comfortable, and reflect your style. It’s better to have a few high-quality items you love and wear often than a closet full of things that don’t feel good.

Encourage Self-Expression and Confidence Through Personal Style

Experiment with different styles, colors, and accessories to find what resonates with you. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, and when you dress in a way that feels authentic to you, it can boost your mood and overall mental health.

Remember, the clothes you wear should be for you…for you to feel your best. I encourage you to take a playful and kind approach as you experiment with what’s right for you.

Be well,