One of the more rewarding aspects of working in fashion is that it encapsulates so much of life. It’s not just about what sweaters to pair with which skirts or the latest model muse to come down the runway; it’s so much more. That’s because even if you don’t work in the industry, you’re still involved in fashion as a consumer because you get dressed every day. Furthermore, the psychological implications of putting clothes on your body are significant. Even if you’re not trying to make an impression or look a certain way, you are still sending out a message.
Keeping that in mind, we perused the web for research and studies that had findings about how we perceive ourselves as well as how others see us. From a mood-lifting color that makes you seem more radiant to the silhouette that gives you a tinier waist, scroll down to see these scientific insights!
Don't Match Too Much
Psychologist Kurt Gray, alongside a team of researchers, found that individuals respond more positively to clothing combinations when they strike a good balance between "clashing and matchy-matchy,” or "simplicity and complexity.” AKA, don’t let different tones, textures, and prints scare you away—live a little!
Wear Yellow
Though wearing yellow won't necessarily make your legs look more shapely or your waist slimmer, the cheerful hue is scientifically proven to not only "raise blood pressure and pulse," but also has side effects that include positivity, energy, and happiness. Sounds good to us!
Embrace a Broad Shoulder
According to Karen Pine, a professor of developmental psychology, studies show that "a wide shoulder line creates a visual illusion that offsets wide hips.” This isn’t to say we think there’s anything wrong with hips (we’re big fans), however, this so-called illusion also makes your waistline look slimmer, which we’re not opposed to.
Go Monochrome
If your aim is to look slimmer, try wearing pieces all in the same color—it apparently "blurs the dividing lines."
Look for Diagonal Lines
Everyone pretty much agrees that vertical stripes are slimming and horizontal stripes are widening, but what about diagonal stripes? This academic text concludes that diagonal lines "attract attention to a specific feature." In other words, if you're wearing a coat with slanted lines emphasizing your waist—like Taylor Tomasi Hill above—you can easily be in control of what body parts to show off and conceal.
Want more? Click to see three universally attractive outfits, according to science.