Dopamine Dressing + Layers of Alpine Style
Issue No. 09
Does wintertime get you down sometimes? It can be particularly challenging on those shorter grey days, especially when the sun seems to go dormant like hibernating bears. A little extra sleepy, energy level is lower, and maybe procrastination starts firing off. I can get into this funk if I let myself.
Want to do something about that? Easy, your clothing can be used as an instant pick-me-up. Don’t deny the power of a good outfit to help you set the tone in your day. I’m not saying it’s the all-around antidote to feeling as gloomy as the snowy sky, but it can help shift your perspective.
Dopamine dressing or conscious dressing essentially means wearing joyful colors that we’re each uniquely drawn to, to rev up the feel goods and step out with a little grin. I would go so far to say it’s not just about blazing colors, but yet, the colors you love wearing the most (yes, that includes black). Or even a texture that is soft or interesting (think cashmere, corduroy, silk, merino — whatever floats your wintery boat).
Clothing can’t cure it all, but it sure can move you in the direction of a positive self-image, leading to positive thoughts and a snowball effect (think of it as sunshine snowballs) of conviviality. I have a client that has a “February sweater” that she pulls out in the midst of the season with the hopes that the cold is soon to end (makes sense), delivering a dose of dopamine.
But why wait until February? Why not try something new or throw on your favorite sweater to bring cheer to your day. A smile is your best accessory, anyway.
The Intersection of Art + Fashion
Isn’t it fun when you get to combine some of your favorite things and talk about them? Well, that’s what I did recently and it was a blast.
In this brief video series entitled, “What would you buy?,” created and produced by projects+gallery and Barrett Barrera Projects, I discuss one of my favorite photographs from their collection… an iconic Alexander McQueen fashion moment photographed by longtime friend and collaborator Ann Ray— Insensé, 1998.
Why do I love the intersection of fashion and art? For short, there’s so much beauty in them. They evoke emotions and allow us to explore and express ourselves in new ways. More on that in my clip. I also chose to dopamine dress to the nines on this recording date, wearing AUDRA. Watch this three-and-a-half-minute video below, and let me know what you think about art + fashion.
Disclosure: I’m a client of projects+gallery. I’ve chosen to happily endorse this artwork at my sole discretion— at their request— this is not a sponsored post or ad. I love their collection of artwork and enjoy working with their team of experts. This photograph is available for purchase through projects+gallery.
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Level Up Your Downhill Style
Earlier today Design STL Magazine interviewed me about ski style for this winter season. I share my love of the sport, necessary recommendations, and the importance of zippers. Check out the short read here.
The ski gear chat was timely, given the recent return from the mountains out west. So what better time than now to style a few different men’s and women’s looks to level up your mountain style and maybe even your skills level.
For When You’re Stepping Out
Asked & Answered
Last month's blog featured a high-low selection of quality Chelsea boots. You may have invested in a new, reliable pair this season, but the question that keeps coming up from female clientele is: How do I style my Chelsea boots? Here are 4 ways to wear this reliable winter lug sole without having to think about it again.
The Latest
Still doing “Dry-January”? Or maybe you drink mocktails. Either way, try these tasty non-alcoholic spirits — mix with seltzer, add your favorite citrus or herb, and serve!
In case you scrolled through: Design STL interviewed me about ski style in their newsletter today. To be fair, I have the credentials to talk style as well as talking ski style (I was a competitive downhill skier growing up). Hope you enjoy the prep recs for this winter season. Hint: Layer, layer, layer, and wear fun socks. And remember, tips up!
Have you been deep cleaning? Further encouragement that cleaning your home (and your closet) can impact you. Here are last week’s cleaning tips & tools, which are still as relevant as ever.
Something to add to the stacks: The Stylish Life: Skiing is a chic coffee table addition and worthy page-turner spanning from the history of alpine sport and leisure in the 1960s into modern-day adventurists and après enthusiasts.
And be sure to get your alpine style on this season, even if you don’t hit the slopes…
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