Written by Holly Patterson.
Due to technological advances, fashion consumer behaviours have become more significant in today’s industry. Practicality was once the soul purpose of clothing for the everyday consumer, bought as a source of survival which has now long been overlooked. Due to the rise of social media giants Instagram, Twitter and Facebook as well as the boom of the digital age, clothing has now seemingly evolved into a social statement, rather than merely a sole state of survival.
The clothing we choose to wear today tends to contribute towards how we perceive ourselves and how we want others to see us. Dr Baumgartner, a clinical psychologist, believes “shopping and buying behaviours often come from internal motivations such as emotions, experiences and culture”.
The clothing you decide to wear when you begin your day tend to be a direct reflection of the mood you are in.
Do any of these relate to you?:
Do you tend to hold on to items of clothing, even if that top is two sizes too small?
This would suggest you could be clinging onto the past and keeping theses items as sentimental value.
Tip: the golden wardrobe rule. Remove 2 out of 3 pieces of clothing that could either be too small or simply worn out. A great series on Netflix that could help with this relationship you have with your old clothes is Tidying up with Mary Kondo, she helps you rediscover which items you really love and let go of those that are no longer bringing you joy. This helps create more room in your wardrobe and will also give you more inspiration for outfits. Tidy space, tidy mind.
“I only wear black”…
You could potentially be trapped in a psychological rut and are too afraid to mix it up, in fear of drawing attention to yourself. Dressing in sizes too large for your body in order to hide your figure. This could suggest that you are seeing yourself differently from how others may see you. Unfortunately, this means you may be dressing in a way that actually lowers your self-confidence.
Tip: on your next shopping trip, bring a friend who will give her opinion on what really suits you. Try not focus on size, focus on what looks and makes you feel good. take yourself out of your comfort zone by adding some accessories to your outfit which will make it more exciting.
It may also be a good idea to consult a private shopper, Topshop offer this service in their stores. Private shoppers are experienced in styling and can find items that flatter and compliment your figure in a way that suits you. Perks of this service is that you gain advice (and sometimes they offer you a glass of fizz! Win, win!).
Not dressing appropriately for your age.
With fashion there is no ‘right’ and ‘wrong’, however trying to dress to how old you are feeling on the inside, but not really dressing appropriately on the outside can sometimes come across as unfashionable and unprofessional.
Tip: rather than gearing your style towards your age, consider gearing it towards your goals. If you are travelling or looking for a promotion then dress according to that.
You only wear designer
You may find yourself buying expensive items relentlessly without much thought or passion for the items. In order to gain respect you broadcast your wealth through your clothing. Not only is this costly but it also may not allow you to express your style accordingly and therefore you become bored with your style easily and so the cycle continues.
Tip: consider what styles you appreciate and use online blogs or magazines to broaden your brand awareness. You may discover a new brand that really resonates with you, this way you will rediscover your passion for fashion, confidence and you can be valued more than just for your logos and money.
If you enjoy shopping from designer brands it may also be a good idea to become a more conscious consumer. Consider investing in items that are worth the price tag for their quality and timelessness! This was you are not just buying into the latest fashion trends that inevitably will die out, meaning your items are not as disposable (which is even better for the environment too!).
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