How Dressing Up Can Make You Happy In 2021

There’s no mistaking the fact that getting all dressed up can put you in a better mood – and really, anything that gets us out of our sweatpants, hoodies, and leggings right now seems like a great idea. In fact, BBC recently covered this phenomenon, including how dressing up and getting all dolled up while in lockdown is definitely a trend for spring.

And we quote…

“When other activities that help us to feel ‘like us’ – such as hobbies, seeing friends and going to work – are unavailable, getting dressed up may help people to reinforce their sense of self,” says Rose Turner, fashion psychologist at the London College of Fashion. “Clothing impacts how people think and behave. Putting on a ‘work’ outfit might help with motivation and concentration, and wearing something special might help to break the monotony of lockdown, and lift people’s mood.”

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It’s science! Here are some of the mood-living pieces that we want to wear as soon as possible or that we wish we had in our closets right now!

Dressing Up To Make You Happy

dressing up casual dressy 2021 fountainof30

Dramatic Draping

We’d love to wear this icy blue asymmetric draped shoulder sweater from J.W. Anderson to our next video call or to the grocery store. Look at how that cape-like detail would flutter when you walk! Prefer to be pretty in pink? This blush-colored Vince Camuto cape back shift dress available at Nordstrom looks super fun to wear and will make you feel like you’re at a (virtual) garden party this spring.

All The Sequins

Just because you’re wearing a cozy top doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t sparkle. Get a casual dressy look with this Marc New York sequined sweatshirt. It is ideal for glamming up your lockdown look. Throw it on with leggings or joggers and add some bling to your life.

In The Midi

We love a good midi skirt in general, and something like this colorful pleated lace style from Anthropologie is just as comfy as sweat pants and about 100 times more elegant. Wear it with a soft turtleneck or crew neck sweater now and a fitted tee or tank in warmer weather.

Colorful Faux Fur

What could be more fun than a plush (faux) furry coat? Maybe if it came in a neon fuchsia like this one from DKNY via Macy’s. And if you are not a fan of hot pink, it also comes in a range of other hues including a luxe forest green or a deep plum.

Just Add Glitter

While you might not wear glitter makeup most of the time, there is something uplifting about adding some sparkle to your routine. We’re fans of the Too Faced “Pretty Rich” palette that’s currently on sale at Sephora, which is ideal for doing an allover spangly look or something more subtle like a little bit of shimmery shadow along your lashline.

Not a fan of flashy eye makeup? Try wearing the glitter on your ears instead with these remarkably versatile square Kate Spade studs.

Go Thigh High

Want to get in on the thigh-high or over-the-knee boot trend but don’t want to spend a lot? Try these wedge boots from DREAM PAIR on Amazon. The wedge will make them simple to walk in and add some flattering height, the lace-up back ensures they’ll fit well, and the price is definitely right. Even if you are only walking around your neighborhood, why not feel a little bit glamorously badass?

Shop Dressing Up in 2021

(Pictured Above)

JW Anderson Asymmetric Cape-effect Cotton-jersey Top, $215

Vince Camuto Cape Back Shift Dress, now $74

Marc New York Performance Sequined Sweatshirt, $59

Anthropologie Delphine Pleated Lace Midi Skirt, now $99.95

DKNY Faux-Fur Coat, Created for Macy’s, now $250

Too Faced Pretty Rich Diamond Light Eyeshadow Palette, $49

Kate Spade New York Mini Square Stud Earring, now $22.40

DREAM PAIRS Women’s Faux Suede Over The Knee Thigh High Boots, $44.99

Are you planning on getting glammed up any time soon? Do you have any special pieces or rituals like always putting on lipstick even under your mask, or wearing statement jewelry even if you’re only on Zoom or Facetime? Let us know in the comments or on our Growing Younger Facebook Group.

–Jacqueline Zenn

You may like to read more of Jacqueline’s styling posts like How To Get The “French Girl Look” When You Are Over 40 and The Best New Year’s Fashion Resolutions for 2021.

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4 thoughts on “How Dressing Up Can Make You Happy In 2021”

  1. I’m not one to dress up, simply because I seldom leave the house. Sunday was my birthday and I decided to get dressed up and you’re right I felt really good. I had forgotten that clothes do more than just cover our bodies. They can improve your mental health.

    Reply

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