Somehow we find ourselves in the middle of summer, and yet we can’t figure out where the first half of the year went.  We’ve been busy stoking the economy by refreshing our wardrobes and makeup supplies, since going outside is somewhat fashionable again.  Social events have re-emerged and we remain cautiously optimistic that they will continue to do so.  Alas, many of us still feel a certain heaviness approaching the closet.  If you find yourself looking for a way to address the weightiness, I have a suggestion: color therapy.

Stimulating the eye through use of color has been proven to lift the mood of not only yourself, but those around you as well.  If you forget to brew your tulsi tea , a little color therapy can help you fake-it-til-you-make-it.  Similar to the act of smiling, putting on bright colors can trick you into feeling better.  It’s like the opposite of looking at yourself in a Nordstrom dressing room mirror.  Instead of seeing a horror show, you might witness unicorns prancing across a field of optimism, or something like that (depending on what was in the tea).

But what if you don’t own a colorful wardrobe?  What if you walk to your closet and all you have is a cast of neutral characters? First of all, can’t relate, but I can help. Accessorize.  A hit of color looks great against a monochromatic neutral look.  Even if your clothes are fifty shades of grey, a vibrant print goes a long way.  Scarves are a great way to revive an otherwise all too serious outfit.  Jewelry does the trick as well.  Lucite chains, bangles, or statement earrings—anything with enough weight to jump out and scare the sadness demons away.  The power of chartreuse compels you!  Or fuchsia, tangerine, scarlet, take your pick.  They say warmer tones are best for inducing the endorphins, but any color combo that speaks loudly enough ought to wake you from sartorial slumber.  

At the end of the day, you don’t have to go full technicolor, but it couldn’t hurt your mood, and I highly suggest it.