It was my birthday last week and whilst chatting away with some friends, we were talking about how colourful everything we see in the stores is at the moment. Everywhere we look there’s citrus, sequins and shine. Isn’t it great to see and wear colour? This got me thinking...
Colour can evoke all sorts of feelings, from femininity and masculinity to emotions and cravings. We are all exposed to it as soon as we’re born. When it’s business as usual and things are ticking along just fine, we see a lot of black, white, navy and grey in women’s wear. Yet when economic forecasts aren’t so rosy, women tend to go for brighter colours.
When life becomes more challenging, many women look for ways to self-pamper and want experiences that make them feel good. So, do the colours we choose to wear really affect our mood? Research says yes!
Shades of positivity
Adding colour to your wardrobe is one simple thing you can do to lift your spirits. People who crave energy and emotional stimulation, something that the lockdowns have certainly evoked, tend to choose yellow, orange, turquoise and red, both in clothing and decor.
Trend forecasting and colour consultancy Pantone, which is largely responsible for setting the global colour trends, chose a pairing of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating (a vibrant yellow) as Colour of the Year for 2021. They called it two shades of hope, strength and positivity.
Pantone’s Trend Report for Spring/Summer 2022 was released in September, and it features no less than ten gorgeous colours including airy pastels and cheerful brights. It’s all designed to inject some fun, excitement, and playfulness into the new year.
“Our use of colour is connected to the cultural mood. As we explore a new future, we are looking for opportunities to do something completely different,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of Pantone, in a press release.
“Colours that celebrate our desire to break the boundaries satisfy our fervent need for the playful creativity and unconstrained visual expression we are seeking as we enter into this time.”
5 Reasons why wearing colour is good for you
Now those who know me would attest that I have a shopping addiction, but I buy the same type of outfit for ease of choice, and to match my wardrobe . Neutrals are essential and would take 99% of my wardrobe space but adding colour to my wardrobe is so much fun.
Colour really has the power to lift you up. Even if a totally bright outfit isn’t for you, you could try adding an accent colour. You can also pair new colours with your basics first so you can get used to seeing yourself in them.
Another way to introduce colour without going ‘all in’ is to explore patterns and prints that have elements of the colours you love. It’s a great idea to add a focal point to your look with a pop of colour. You can use it in your makeup, accessories, and your shoes. Here’s why:
- It’s good for the soul
Colour has a strong connection with wellbeing. Colour Therapy, also known as chromotherapy, has been around for ages. In ancient Egypt, Greece and China, it played an important role in healing. Each colour has different properties that can help you to control or alter different moods. Red can energise or invigorate you if you’re feeling tired or down. Green is the colour of nature, and according to chromatherapists, it can help relieve stress and relax a person. It’s quite fascinating.
- Colour brightens your day
Bright shades really do make you feel better. It’s sunshine colours like yellow and orange that bring a happy, fun, and positive mood that will boost you and everyone around you instantly. They say green and blue can help to achieve a sense of calm, and really who doesn't agree that it's hard to be miserable when you're wearing pink. Especially the pink that is about to arrive at Millwoods!
- It makes you more approachable
Colour is a powerful tool for communication, and it’s one of the ways we self-identify. Wearing something bright says to others that you’re energetic and bubbly. You'll be surprised by how many people will smile, simply because you’re wearing something bright or shoes with a popping colour.
- It’s a great conversation starter
Coco Chanel once said, “the best colour in the whole wide world is the one that looks good on you.” Adding colour to your wardrobe is inspiring and a lot of fun. If someone compliments you on your outfit, it’s because the colour and style suit you and you wear it well. Couple this with point three and you have a conversation in a group where you may not know everyone. I know that after the lockdowns, getting out and talking to people has been great but it hasn't come without nervous moments.
- Brightness boosts confidence
Wearing a power colour can challenge your brain and make you have a more productive day, especially if you’re working from home. With that in mind, I found someone who agrees with me. Award-winning Irish image consultant Maria Macklin explains in this article on LinkedIn how the colours you wear can impact on your confidence level.
Why colour when working from home
When our commute consists of opening our laptops, it can be tempting to opt for sweatpants, PJs, and slippers. While there’s something to say for keeping it cosy and casual when working from home, it also makes sense to get dressed the way you usually do to maintain a sense of normality.
Since you don't have to worry too much about office dress codes now, stylists say that this is the perfect time to experiment with your look. While it might sound trivial, using colour to give yourself a boost can make a world of difference in how you feel, and that can positively affect your productivity levels.
Shoes of course are optional when working from home, but a must-have is a pair of quality Snoafers. They are easy to put on, comfortable and super fashionable. You can wear them with anything from jeans or a T-shirt dress to a tailored suit. They are a fantastic staple piece to add to your shoe wardrobe, no matter the place or season.
I was lucky enough to attend a Black-Tie event recently, and I bought a stunning Navy dress for the occasion. Last week, I wore it again with my White Snoafers. Versatile much?
Our new styles for summer
Millwoods’ is all about comfort, quality, and style, and for this new season we’re adding a burst of colour. We’re so excited to present to you our first expanded range for women. All three styles - the slide, mule and pointed flats - are our take on Spring and Summer must-haves. We’ve set out to create pieces that are timeless yet striking.
The shoes are classic in design with a touch of edgy, and we just know you will love them for seasons to come. Just imagine how good you’ll feel stepping out in our beautiful hot pink sequoia slides, or when you match your bright summer dress with our stunning leopard hair mules or pointed flats.
It’s time to choose your own statement pieces for the new season. There are plenty of options available to freshen up your summer wardrobe, in sizes EU36 to 44. Let’s find a little happiness with new shoes just for you.
And as always, you can contact me at support@millwoods.com.au
J xx