Dopamine dressing

Dopamine dressing is the idea that wearing clothes in bright, bold colours or fun patterns can boost your mood by triggering a release of dopamine, the ‘feel-good’ chemical in our brains. It’s fashion with a purpose: to help you feel happier.

After acquiring my disability, I discovered an unexpected source of confidence. What we wear can shift our mood, change how we see ourselves, and even how others see us. That’s the power of dopamine dressing, the intentional use of bright, bold colours to spark joy and boost self-esteem.

Whether it's a vibrant dress from creators like May Marigold or a bright walking stick from Neo Walk or sparkling sticks from Glamsticks, these aren’t just fashion choices, they’re emotional lifelines. There’s something powerful about putting on something that makes you smile. It reminds you that it’s ok to feel good.

Adaptive brands are leaning into this. Just look at the incredible wheelchair covers from Izzy Wheels, they turn wheelchairs into fashion statements. These brands understand that colour isn't just aesthetic, it can sometimes be empowering.

When we struggle with self-image or confidence, especially after a major life change, clothes can become a form of self-care. A splash of colour might not solve everything, but it can lift the fog just enough to let a little sunlight in every once in a while.

So don’t underestimate the impact of what you wear. Appreciating it may not work for everyone but if you're feeling low, try that bold top you’ve been saving, or accessorise with something cheerful. You might be surprised at how much brighter the world looks when you dress to feel happy.