Before you ask, “What is this?” How are mental health and fashion related? Just give me a chance. Also, welcome! Thank you for visiting my little spot in this big digital world! You’re awesome. Mental health and fashion can often go more hand in hand than you might think. How we dress and express ourselves directly impacts our mental health and vice versa as well. Our mental health directly impacts how we pursue fashion.
Now, don’t worry. This post isn’t going to be filled with unrealistic things. (Sometimes I click the links in influencer’s stories just to see the cost of their “look” and I’m like, Whoa. That’s more than my rent!) This post is for the girlies who like to look put together but not spend buckets of money. If that’s you, then keep reading! Before I jump too far ahead, though, don’t forget to read my other blog posts too!
My Relationship With Mental Health and Fashion
I don’t consider myself someone very trendy, so I won’t be sharing anything like that. For a long time after I gained weight, I really only wore sweatpants. I felt so uncomfortable with my body and always felt like I had to be hiding it. I was still really active, but the weight just didn’t come off. I had to, and continue to have to constantly be telling myself that my body is the least interesting thing about me. And the same goes for you. Your body is the least interesting thing about you.
When it comes to mental health and fashion, I tend to pick things that make me feel good. Whatever that looks like that day. I don’t necessarily have a “style”. (Unless wearing a lot of black is a style, because I definitely do that.) I like some color when I’m in a good mood, but black is comforting to me because it’s harder to see the sweat through it, and I sweat a lot. EW, I know. But I’m just being honest here, babes.
Why Shapermint?
If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I’m a big fan of Shapermint. (My code NATMCREW20 saves you at checkout, by the way!!) But I was a fan starting 6 years ago when my bras stopped fitting and I couldn’t find my size in mainstream stores anymore. (What a weird feeling that is.)
Shapermint was the first brand I stumbled upon that had pictures that resembled my body and made me feel like it was okay to be the size I was. I saw body diversity, and it made me feel beautiful. That was the first time I ordered. I ordered 4 bras and fell in love as soon as they arrived.
The wireless shaping bra was/is my favorite. I still wear all of the bras 6 years later, and they’ve been washed, dried, stuffed in drawers, you name it, and they’re still in perfectly great condition. The quality is fantastic. I also really like the size range. This particular bra goes from a size small to a 4XL.
My Relationship With Mental Health and Fashion
Sometimes I really enjoy looking very put together and polished, but most times I’m literally in black tights and a hoodie. So what’s underneath is really important to me. That’s what determines my comfort level throughout the day. I always wanted to have a bodysuit but couldn’t ever find one that fit my body. I’m five feet eight inches with big hips. 55 inches, to be exact. But I found a few from Shapermint that fit SO good and feel like butter on the skin. If you’ve been wanting a bodysuit, then you definitely want to snag one of these up too.
Things I Love About This BodySuit
- It’s super buttery smooth.
- It hugs in all the right places without making me feel like I can’t breathe.
- It has adjustable straps.
- The crotch area has 3 adjustable snaps, so you can choose what’s comfortable for you.
- It comes in a ton of colors.
A Simple Way To Approach Fashion
One simple way that I approach fashion is simplicity. I really like practical and simple basics. The long sleeve pictured above is one I have in 2 colors and wear on repeat in so many ways. It’s great for layering or pairing with a good pair of jeans. I often find that a well-fitted basic can elevate any outfit without overwhelming it. Accessories can easily add a personal touch, making the look feel fresh and unique each time I wear it.
Impact of Mental Health and Fashion
Mental health and fashion are deeply intertwined, as the clothes we wear can significantly impact how we feel, both physically and emotionally. For individuals with mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, fashion choices can serve as a form of self-expression, self-care, or even a tool for managing daily moods.
Simple, comfortable clothing can help reduce anxiety or stress, while brighter colors or well-chosen outfits might elevate one’s mood. On the other hand, feeling uncomfortable or overwhelmed by fashion choices can exacerbate feelings of stress or uncertainty.
The act of getting dressed each day can also provide a sense of structure and control, which is particularly important for those managing mental health challenges. Fashion, when approached mindfully, has the power to enhance well-being, boost confidence, and provide a sense of normalcy, making it a subtle but powerful element in mental health management.
Ways Mental Health and Fashion Are Related
Self-Expression
Fashion allows individuals to express their emotions, personality, and identity, which can help boost self-esteem and self-acceptance.
Mood Regulation
Wearing certain colors, styles, or fabrics can positively impact mood. For example, wearing bright colors may enhance feelings of happiness, while comfortable clothes can promote relaxation.
Comfort and Security
Clothing that feels physically comfortable can reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security, especially for those dealing with mental health challenges like bipolar disorder or anxiety.
Confidence Boost
Dressing in a way that aligns with personal style can enhance confidence, helping individuals feel more in control and empowered, especially during tough mental health periods.
Routine and Structure
Putting on clothes each day can provide a sense of structure, which can be helpful for those dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues by establishing a sense of normalcy.
Distraction from Negative Thoughts
Fashion and getting dressed can serve as a positive distraction, shifting focus from negative thoughts or intrusive emotions to something more tangible and creative.
Body Image and Mental Health
Clothing choices that align with one’s body image can improve self-esteem and promote positive mental health by fostering a healthier relationship with one’s body.
Reducing Social Anxiety
Wearing clothes that make one feel confident and comfortable can alleviate social anxiety, helping individuals navigate social situations with greater ease.
Therapeutic Creativity
The act of choosing and styling clothes can be therapeutic, offering a creative outlet that encourages mindfulness and positive thinking.
Cultural and Social Connection
Fashion can create a sense of belonging, helping individuals feel part of a community and reducing feelings of isolation that often accompany mental health struggles.
The Takeaway
So if you’re ready to snag some of these awesome basics from Shapermint, click the link below and don’t forget to use my code NATMCREW20 at checkout to give you some awesome savings!
If you want to read more about the relationship between mental health and fashion, I’ve linked some articles below for you!