Why Getting Dressed Matters

We've all heard the phrase "You are what you eat," but how about "You are what you wear"? Just like food, fashion holds the power to influence our moods, perceptions, and overall mental well-being. The way we dress can shape not only how others perceive us but how we perceive ourselves, creating a complex relationship between our clothing choices and psychology. Here’s why getting dressed is about more than just looking good—it's about feeling good too.

Fashion as Self-Expression

The clothes you wear are an extension of your personality. Whether it’s a chic blazer that makes you feel ready to conquer a business meeting or a pair of cozy sweatpants that help you unwind, fashion enables self-expression in a way that words often can't. According to research from Fashion is Psychology, our clothing choices are deeply tied to our sense of identity and how we wish to project ourselves to the world. 

It's not only a matter of how we see ourselves, but how others see us as well. Did you know that 90% of all communication is non-verbal? We communicate more through our body language, clothing, gestures, posture and expressions than we do with language. If we feel confident in what we put on our bodies, that confidence is what we communicate to the world. And as a direct byproduct, people may treat us differently because of it.

Dressing with Purpose

Ever notice how slipping into an actual outfit makes you stand a little taller or how vibrant colors can instantly lift your mood? This isn't a coincidence—fashion psychology explains that clothes have a profound impact on our emotions and confidence levels. In fact, there's a term for this: enclothed cognition, the idea that what you wear can influence your mental state. When you dress with purpose, whether for a formal event or just to boost your own spirits, you're investing in your mental and emotional well-being.

This is why I started this clothing label! Here at Devan Gregori, we strive to offer a range of clothing that encourages women to dress in ways that inspire confidence and self-expression. Our pieces are designed to help women feel empowered in their everyday lives​.

The Mood-Fashion Connection

Just like food, what we wear is often tied to our emotions. Some people reach for comfort food during stressful times, while others may opt for their favorite "feel-good" outfit. Whether it's the fabric, color, or fit, the right attire can evoke positive feelings. There’s a direct link between mood and fashion. Wearing something as simple as a structured blazer can make you feel empowered and in control, while soft, flowy materials can bring about feelings of relaxation and calm.

Sustainable Fashion and Ethical Choices

What we choose to put on our bodies can also speak volumes to our values. Sustainable fashion choices—those that are environmentally friendly and ethically produced—offer a sense of fulfillment and responsibility. Brands like ours, which emphasize sustainability and fair production practices, align with this shift in consumer consciousness​. We believe that understanding who makes your clothes and the impact they have on the environment adds a new layer of meaning to your wardrobe choices.

Fashion and Versatility

In a fast-paced world, versatility is key. Outfits that can transition seamlessly from day to night, from casual to formal, not only save time but also provide comfort and confidence in any setting. I love creating versatile designs that empower women to express their personal style while staying comfortable​. 

Here at Devan Gregori, we believe that getting dressed is more than just a daily chore—it's an essential form of self-care. Whether you’re dressing to lift your mood, express your identity, or make a statement about sustainability, fashion plays a powerful role in shaping how we feel and interact with the world. So, next time you’re debating whether to pick out an outfit or just throw on the leggings and a t-shirt you wore yesterday (which, let's be honest, is something we all do...no shame!), just remember this: you are what you wear.

By embracing the psychology behind our fashion choices, we can use clothing as a tool to enhance our confidence, mood, and even our values. We get to tell the world who we are and how we want to be treated, and that's power.