One of the most interesting books I’ve read recently is The Art of Intentional Dressing by stylist Erin Walsh. While it’s definitely not a traditional style guide, one idea from the book has stayed with me: instead of getting dressed based solely on what’s trending or our usual outfit formulas, we can get dressed based on how we want to feel. That simple shift changed the way I think about getting dressed in the morning. Rather than asking, What should I wear today?, I’ve started asking, How do I want to show up today?
Do I want to feel confident? Calm? Creative? Romantic? Energized? While your outfit’s silhouette, fabrics, and accessories certainly play a role, one of the easiest and surprisingly powerful ways to influence your mood is through color. Researchers have found that colors can affect everything from our heart rate and energy levels to how trustworthy, approachable, or authoritative we appear to others. Of course, color psychology isn’t an exact science. Culture, personal experiences, and individual preferences all shape how we respond to color. A shade that feels energizing to one person may feel overwhelming to another. But overall, decades of research suggest that colors consistently influence mood in subtle yet meaningful ways.
While no color can magically transform your mood overnight, dressing with intention often changes how you carry yourself—and sometimes that’s all it takes. If you’ve ever noticed yourself reaching for crisp white when you want a fresh start or black when you need a confidence boost, you’ve already experienced color psychology in action. Here are the colors I reach for depending on how I want to feel (featuring items from Sézane, click the photos to shop).
When You Want to Feel Confident: Red
If there were one color most associated with confidence, it would undoubtedly be red. Red naturally draws attention and projects strength, courage, passion, and leadership. Studies have even found that athletes wearing red uniforms sometimes perform better, and people often perceive those wearing red as more powerful and assertive. You don’t have to wear head-to-toe scarlet. A red lip, handbag, ballet flats, blazer, or even a pop of burgundy can instantly make you stand a little taller.
Perfect for:
- Presentations
- Important meetings
- Date nights
- Days when you need an extra boost of courage
When You Want to Feel Calm: Blue
Blue has long been associated with tranquility, trust, and stability. It’s no coincidence that we describe peaceful places as having “blue skies” or “calm waters.” Soft blues feel soothing, while navy brings an added sense of reliability and quiet confidence. Whenever life feels especially busy, I find myself naturally gravitating toward blue.
Perfect for:
- Busy workdays
- Travel
- Family gatherings
- Stressful weeks
- Relaxing weekends
When You Want to Feel Happy: Yellow
Yellow is sunshine in clothing form. It’s associated with optimism, warmth, joy, and positivity. Even a small touch of buttery yellow can brighten an otherwise neutral outfit. If bright yellow feels intimidating, softer shades like butter yellow often feel more elegant while still giving you that cheerful lift.
Perfect for:
- Brunch
- Vacations
- Spring outings
- Creative afternoons
- Days when you need a little optimism
When You Want to Feel Grounded: Green
Green reminds us of nature, growth, balance, and renewal. It’s one of the most restful colors for our eyes because we’re surrounded by it outdoors. Olive, sage, forest, and soft moss greens all create a feeling of stability without feeling heavy.
Perfect for:
- Walks outside
- Weekend errands
- Family days
- Reset days
- Anytime life feels overwhelming
When You Want to Feel Elegant: Black
Black has remained timeless for a reason. It’s sophisticated, polished, mysterious, and quietly powerful. Whether it’s a black cashmere sweater, tailored trousers, or a simple dress, black often removes distractions and lets your presence speak for itself.
Perfect for:
- Evening events
- Business dinners
- Gallery visits
- Important occasions
- Anytime you want effortless polish
When You Want a Fresh Start: White
White symbolizes clarity, simplicity and new beginnings. There’s something refreshing about putting on a white linen shirt or a crisp white tee that instantly makes the day feel more intentional.
Perfect for:
- Monday mornings
- Summer days
- Vacation
- Decluttering weekends
- Fresh starts
When You Want to Feel Creative: Purple
Purple has long been connected with imagination, artistry, and originality. Historically associated with royalty and luxury, today it still feels slightly unexpected—which may be exactly why it sparks creativity. Whether it’s lavender, plum, or deep aubergine, purple adds personality without overwhelming an outfit.
Perfect for:
- Writing
- Brainstorming
- Museum visits
- Creative projects
- Artistic hobbies
When You Want to Feel Approachable: Pink
Pink softens an outfit in the best possible way. It’s often associated with kindness, warmth, compassion, and friendliness. From barely-there blush to vibrant raspberry, pink communicates openness while still feeling polished.
Perfect for:
- Coffee dates
- Networking
- Baby showers
- Lunch with friends
- Meeting new people
When You Want to Feel Cozy: Brown
Brown has quietly become one of fashion’s chicest neutrals. Rich chocolate, camel, espresso, and chestnut feel warm, dependable, and comforting. Brown creates an immediate sense of coziness while still looking incredibly sophisticated.
Perfect for:
- Autumn
- Coffee shop afternoons
- Reading days
- Weekend outings
- Everyday wear
When You Want to Feel Peaceful: Soft Neutrals
Cream, oatmeal, taupe, stone, and warm beige create an immediate sense of quiet luxury. These colors don’t compete for attention—they create space to breathe. It’s no surprise they’re so common in serene homes and minimalist wardrobes.
Perfect for:
- Slow mornings
- Spa days
- Travel
- Sundays
- Anytime you want to simplify
One of my favorite takeaways from The Art of Intentional Dressing is that our wardrobes can become tools rather than just collections of clothes. Instead of letting your closet dictate your mood, try letting your desired mood dictate your outfit. Tomorrow morning, before opening your closet, pause for a moment and ask yourself:
How do I want to feel today?
Then choose a color that supports that version of yourself. It may seem like a small change, but sometimes the smallest rituals have the biggest impact.
What color are you feeling drawn to most days? Let us know in the comments.
Xo, Courtney
The Real Chic Life 
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