The Edit: Colorful Looks to Wear Now That Will Boost Your Mood
From the popularity of millennial pink to flashes of neon, bold color has long been a trend in fashion and indeed the world at large. Whether it’s a solitary feature wall in the living room to a bouquet of red roses on a coffee table, a “pop of color” is widely regarded as one of the easiest ways to instantly uplift a look.
But it’s not just a physical space that can be improved with an injection of brightness; the power of color cannot be underestimated when it comes to making an impact on our temperament. Certain colors have the ability to subtly affect our emotions and alter our moods.
The colors that can affect mood are divided into two groups, generally known as warm or cold colors. Warm colors are reds, yellows, oranges and such while cold tones are blue, greens, purples and other similar hues. As the name suggests, warm colors create a welcoming environment and make people more sociable – little wonder we all want to be outside in the summer when the sun is shining.
So, while we’ve all had little to no reason to dress up over the last year, but now, especially during Mental Health Awareness month, it’s time to embrace an optimistic point of view with our clothes, and look to brighter days ahead. In the words of tidiness expert Marie Kondo, these boldly hued pieces below are guaranteed to spark joy in your wardrobe and beyond this summer.
The dress
Shop the Butterfly Back Flared Bottoms Dress by Mazelle Studio
Lagos-based womenswear brand Mazelle Studio is known for its unique use of traditional Nigerian fabric adire to create bold and colorful pieces adorned with delicate embellishments. The Butterfly dress from the label’s “Irapada” collection has been crafted from hand-dyed chiffon, featuring a ruched detail at the bust and a bias-cut skirt that allows for movement. The dress has a dramatic drape at the back, ensuring a chic look from every angle.
The pants
Shop the Shine Shine Trousers by Orange Culture
The aptly named Shine Shine Trousers from Nigerian brand Orange Culture is evidence that classics don’t have to be boring. Made from satin fabric to give it a metallic sheen, the statement-making pants don’t need much in terms of styling. Team it with a simple white T-shirt and sneakers for a smart-casual look.
The bag
Shop the Thandi Macrame Mini Tote by Shekudo
Add a splash of color to any look with the yellow Thandi Macrame Mini tote bag by Shekudo, a Nigerian accessories brand that specializes in sustainably designed made-to-order pieces. The tote is woven from cotton poly rope by local artisans and it’s an easy piece that can accompany you on daily outings.
The top
Shop the Basket & Frills Sporty Top by Gozel Green
Nigerian brand Gozel Green designs clothes for women who are not afraid to stand out and the design of the Basket & Frills Sporty top is definitely a conversation-starter, thanks to its directional construction. The weave pattern and fringed hem of the cropped top give it a multidimensional effect while the explosion of red, black, white and purple colors make for a truly memorable look. Keep the rest of your outfit simple with black slim-fit pants and mule sandals.
The jumpsuit
Shop the Nkululeko short-sleeve boiler suit by ALC
Inspired by traditional workwear, the Nkululeko short-sleeved jumpsuit by South African brand ALC strikes a perfect balance between bold and practical. Rendered in a bold burnt orange shade, the utilitarian design represents basics with a twist. It has been updated with details such as multiple pockets, an elasticated waist with a belt loop and easy silver snaps.
The shoes
Shop the Simone Rope Mule by Shekudo