Moody dressing

I was thinking this week about how your mood affects how you dress, and did a bit of a straw poll of friends and family to get their thoughts. Not surprisingly, most agreed that on a bit of a down day, they sling 
on the comfiest clothes they own, for a simple sartorial hug. Cosy clothes, after all, can make you feel cosseted and protected from the big, bad world.

Interestingly, one said that she chose a particular Juicy Couture tracksuit as it reminded her of the lovely day when she bought it - memory-inducing clothes! So while her tracksuit is comfortable, it's more the mood-enhancing properties of it that prompt her to reach for it on her less-than-top-form days. Another said she puts on her most oversized, snuggly hoody (no, not the asbo-boasting young'un hanging round the bus stop - so unsnuggly) and joggers, but wouldn't dare leave the house in them for fear of scaring off delicate fashion types. And we've all been there - don't go telling me you haven't got a secret stash of Not To Be Seen In Publics that have you running around in panic when the doorbell rings.

It's usually hangover days or illness that lead me to the brushed cotton and elasticated waists (shoot the stylist), but I've also been known to long for a sweater dress and Uggs, then stop myself short and force myself into something bright, colourful and far more figure-flattering, therefore hoping to fool myself into a better mood. And lo, it often works. As clothing can be empowering and statement-forming, it makes sense that it would. Clothing is often a visual representation of the mood you're in, or the perception you're trying to put out there. Dress like you don't care and you won't. And neither will anyone else.

Mind you, there's also the option of Comfy Chic. One need not walk around like a world-hating sack of spuds on an off-day if one chooses carefully. This season's hareems and leggings are a Godsend if you can't face anything structured, then there are longline cashmere cardies (the ultimate in feelgood) and flat, slouchy ankle boots. Go all-out Utility and you'll be rocking rolled-up khakis, a jersey T-shirt and a slouchy (global print) scarf without a whiff of discomfort, cheering yourself up with the admiring glances you'll be collecting all day.

And then there's denim. Not that I'm suggesting that Off Day is the ideal time to leap into Double Denim and then try desperately to carry off an Uber Trend all day while getting over your grumps (because that, my friends, will most certainly be the day when you go wrong and look like the secret third member of Status Quo - and then, most probably, bump into your ex). However, those comfy weekend jeans you throw on to get the papers will look so much nicer than the bagging-at-the-knee joggers when teamed with a silk-knit T-shirt and a casually thrown on blazer (of the stretchy, jersey variety if you're still too delicate for tailoring - see Oasis, Warehouse, New Look).

Come to think of it, there are also days when I've been Dressed For Success (nude A-line skirt, crisp white shirt, gold jewellery and platform heels) and been so uncomfortable that Success has eluded me. Swapping the platforms for tan loafers made me, literally, feel more grounded and able to get on. Likewise, if you're rocking a look so much that you can't cross the office without being looked at (not always a bad thing), this can also hamper your performance, as you end up feeling self-conscious. If the look is wearing you rather than you wearing the look, forget it, basically. And sometimes blending into the background can have its benefits (particularly if you're a super-spy).

But there's no doubt about it. How you feel changes how you dress - and how you dress changes how you feel, just the same. Thought I'd throw that out there for you. Any thoughts?