Every year, as summer comes to an end, most of us excitedly anticipate swapping out our brightly colored clothing for more neutral earth tones in preparation of the fall/winter season. Instead, noticeably different from years past, color has become therapy for gloomy winter days to come. Whether shopping for clothes online, in-stores or taking inspiration from scrolling through your Instagram feed, there are tons of colorful hues along with subtle yet daring combinations that continue to dominate ready to wear fashion.
Personal style is based on one's likes, creativity and aesthetic which is ultimately a form of expressing who we are and how we want to be seen in the world. Whether an introvert, extrovert or somewhere in between, finding the right mix and match of this year’s color trends that suit your individual style is key to comfort and confidence. Keep scrolling to see how I'm experimenting with three contrasting color combos inspired by different personality types.
Dressing for Your Personality Type: Extrovert
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
For the outgoing, expressive personality who loves social interactions, this combination is perfect for those who live to stand out from the crowd. Having fun in the Cali sun, I went with a mix of three colors: orange, green, and yellow, along with a pop of zebra print for an even more dramatic effect. Adding a white calf boot for good measure, this electric medley is one for the books.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Dressing for Your Personality Type: Introvert
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
A fashion lover who prefers spending time alone in quiet environments with limited social engagement will typically gravitate towards a subtle flex. Experimenting with seasonal color trends, but this time using earth tones, these dark wash denim jeans paired with a soft yellow blazer is casual chic from head to toe. With a deep brownish green bag to match, this is an OOTD that speaks for itself.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Dressing for Your Personality Type: Ambivert
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Somewhere in between an extrovert and an introvert, this look is ideal for those that can balance the best of both worlds. Mixing both orange and red to create a subtle yet fiery contrast, achieving this color scheme allows one to blend in while standing out. Wear neutral shoes and accessories to balance this look.
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
To get your fashion fix and to stay up to date with the latest trends, check out the xoNecole Style section here.
Featured image by Shahirah Ahmed/xoNecole
Psychologist Debbie Sorensen explained to CNBC why women and millennials are experiencing burnout in higher numbers. “We haven’t had time to recover from the trauma of what we’ve been through the last few years,” she said. “Women and young people, in particular, are putting an immense amount of pressure on themselves to keep going, keep working, no matter the cost.”
As women, particularly Black women, we tend to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. Other people's problems become our problems, and then we are expected to show up to work and show up for our family and friends with a smile on our faces. Whew, chile! What if we are having a bad day? How are we supposed to cope if we have to be everything to everyone? Well, here’s your sign to make time for yourself, especially on the days when you are feeling down.
Below is a list of self-care ideas for when you are having a bad day.
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Spend time in nature
Sometimes something as simple as surrounding yourself with trees, grass, and/ or water can improve your mood exponentially. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) research shows that spending time in nature can improve attention, lower stress, and reduce the risk of psychiatric disorders.
Got to a Spa
There’s nothing like going to a spa. You can relax in a sauna, get a massage, and just be. According to research, massages help release serotonin and dopamine, which are often referred to as “feel good” hormones, that will instantly perk you up and have you going about your day with a smile on your face.
Get Artsy
When was the last time you did arts and crafts? Drawing a picture, painting, or even coloring can help you discover your inner child, thus boosting your mood. Purchase an adult coloring book, or go to a paint-and-sip class by yourself, or you can make it a group activity and bring your besties.
Look your best
The old saying, “When you look good, you feel good,” didn’t just come out of thin air. There’s some truth to it. The Kentucky Counseling Center shared a link between self-care and feeling good. “Self-care regimens are extremely important not just to stabilize your day but to make you feel great. Simple things like getting a facial, taking care of your hair done, or exercising can make you confident because when you look good, you also feel good,” according to its website.
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Breathwork
There’s a reason why it is suggested that you breathe when you begin feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Breathing brings oxygen back into your body, and WebMD reports that it can decrease the fight or flight response that happens when you are stressed.
Spend time with babies
I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me smile quicker than a baby, especially a smiling baby. If you’re the same way, then spending time with a baby or babies may help put you in a better mood, too.
Do nothing
Last but certainly not least, do nothing. There’s nothing like laying in your bed and not being forced to do anything. Stay in this moment and use this time to relax and replenish your energy.
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