As we get older, the quest for dopamine becomes more and more challenging. As little kids, pixie sticks and a Disney movie would give us the rush we needed, but adulthood presents us with overwhelming obstacles. Some expected, like bills and relationship struggles, and some unprecedented, like worldwide pandemics and politicians so divisive I had to mute half of my family on Facebook. The want and need to feel joy, excitement, and contentment is a part of the human experience. We want to feel good. We want to be happy. But sometimes life throws us curveballs that leads us to unhealthy decisions.
Many of us turn to alcohol to numb some of our hurdles. Let me be a nerd here for just a minute, when we consume alcohol, our taste receptors are activated, and we experience a release of that oh so desired dopamine. However, unlike other healthier coping mechanisms, alcohol can also modify the function of dopaminergic neurons by entering your brain. Over time, our brain requires more and more alcohol to maintain the same level of dopamine release. While some moderate in a way that allows just a little bit of that joyous feeling hitting them each time, some of us are chasing a better, more intense feeling, only achievable by consuming more alcohol. Soon it becomes a cycle, right? We drink, we feel good, it leaves our system, we feel bad (hello hangxiety), and then we drink more. These choices jeopardize long-term dopamine balance (not to mention the laundry list of physical medical consequences).
Boost Your Mood with Style
It’s time that we explore some alternative sources of dopamine. This varies for every person. Some sober folks turn to exercise, or reading, or cooking and eating beautiful meals. Me? I turned to fashion. Not just any fashion, but a particular form of fashion literally called “dopamine dressing.” There are a lot of definitions of dopamine dressing, but for me, it’s any outfit that tangibly gives me a dopamine spike. On my Instagram (@styledandstressed) I post a lot of very wearable outfits. But my favorite style includes bright colors, bold patterns, large accessories, and vibrant pieces that turn heads as I enter the room. This dressing is a form of art.
Admittedly, sometimes it’s not the most beautiful outfit in the room, but it will always be the most interesting. The process of forming the outfit gives me dopamine in itself. Pulling pieces from my closet and fulfilling my vision is better than cracking that beer. Feeling the uniqueness of each textured item is more meaningful than that glass of wine. And walking down the street wearing a creative, imaginative outfit is an artfulness that drinking could never compete with. We have been trained to wear what is in style. To conform to the norm and to go with the trends. But I am here to encourage you to play just a little bit more. Choose a style that helps you get to your desired mood.
For Dopamine Dressing Newbs, I Have a Few Tips:
- Start noticing and taking mental inventory of how different items make you feel. Sure, sweats are cozy and comfy and if they make you feel good, you have my approval. But what makes you feel special? Different? An elevated version of yourself? Just think on it.
- Don’t shy away from things that you’ve traditionally been told “clash.” Growing up I was instructed to take one pattern at a time. I have since completely thrown that rule out of the window. Multiple patterns, various textures, more than one statement piece CAN complement each other. And dopamine dressing doesn’t follow any stinkin’ rules.
- Express YOU. Of course, if you need a place to start Google some images or take a peek at my IG (shameless promotion). But dopamine dressing is not a one size fits all. What makes me happy might not be for you, and that’s totally okay. Find your vibe and expand upon it. This is for you and no one else.
- Play! If you try it on and it doesn’t work out, so be it. If I had a pile of all the outfits I styled and then decided were a no, I don’t think I could live in my house. But it’s experimenting and dressing up that contributes to your joy. It’s trial and error that will help you find what dopamine dressing means to you.
- Lastly, don’t let anyone define dopamine dressing for you. Can neutrals be dopamine dressing? Well do they bring you joy? Yes? Yes. You define your style. You define your happiness.
By being sober and finding your new avenue to dopamine, you are already ahead of most. Let your style enhance your sober and powerful beautiful self. As always, sending love and gentle hugs to all my sober pals. I’m glad you’re here!
WALK YOUR TALK: This must-read section is a haven for sober fashionistas, delivering original content from our fabulous Sober Curators – Kate Vitela, Harley Skorpenske, and Alexandra Nyman. Living a sober life doesn’t need to be dull, and we’re here to smash the stigma surrounding addiction by showcasing that life can indeed be lived to the fullest without alcohol and in great outfits. If you were anything like us in your drinking years, getting dressed to party and the pre-funk that went with that, was usually part of the plan. After putting down the bottle(s), we’re even more excited about getting ready for life and you should be too!
Our lifestyle section is a comprehensive hub for all things related to sober living. Our #ADDTOCART section also highlights unique sobriety gifts, swag, products, and miscellaneous merchandise that we adore. We take pride in discovering and promoting small businesses established by individuals in recovery, contributing to a supportive community. So, let’s walk our talk together in style and sobriety. #becausedrunkneverlooksgood
The Sober Curator & Walk Your Talk are proud supporters of the Break Free Foundation, producing Break Free New York Fashion Week runway shows & annual gala. Click HERE to learn more about getting involved with this amazing fashion community that is rocking the runway for a good cause!
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Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
