You are what you wear — we tend to hear this a lot, don’t we?

An individual personality or we could say it psychology has been greatly linked to our chosen fashion; whether on the colour, the style to even the accessories we add to the whole look. Furthermore, dress scholars Mary Ellen Roach and Joanne Eicher once mentioned that dress is one of the main ways we send social signals as identity is shown through what we wear. It sends nonverbal cues to other people, these include how much power we yield, how smart, and how much influence we have.

Fashion has been said to historically related to an individual’s personality, giving a general idea of what the person is thinking of. In a sense that clothes help in expressing the innermost thoughts, kindness, and feelings. Colours we choose give the mood of the person, selection of the clothes according to the occasion would also reflect the mood and taste of a person. Fashion does not necessarily means that one has to wear what is common to all but it relates to a person own thinking and perception.

In cinematography or film productions, writers, costume designers and directors use fashion to show clues about a certain character. Think about Cleopatra’s jewels, colourful Emma Stone’s dresses in La La Land, Violet Bridgerton’s jewels, or Harry Potter’s glasses.

Moreover, clothing is said to be one powerful communication tool. A person’s choice of clothing can heavily influence the impression they transmit. It also becomes an important role in creating positive first impressions.

If you want to be seen more formal, you should then opt for dark colours like black and grey. Simple accessories and clean lines are perfect for the look. Look into brands like Calvin Klein or Armani. On the other hand, if you want to be seen as more casual, you should opt for bright colours and loose clothes. Apparently, layers and loose fitting clothing tend to convey as more laid back and easy going. Look for brands like Gap or Uniqlo.

Sara Nicole Rossetto at MFW S/S2020

Using contrast, juxtaposing cut, colour and texture will make an outfit fun and interesting. This can also communicate the different sides of an individual’s personality. The contrast in fabric and weight creates complexity that can be intriguing both for the wearer and the observer. For example, if you wear a leather skirt that screams edginess, you might want to don a cashmere sweater to add a little sweetness. Further, prints and patterns are an excellent way to stand out and be more experimental with the total look.

By just looking at their way of dressing, we can know and realise what a person is thinking of and his feelings. Without regarding the emotions that also can be a big and important factor for distinguishing personalities. Whether you want to look romantic, trendy, or casual, fashion can help it all. With your chosen colours, your chosen prints and patterns, to your additional accessories.