February, the month of love, ushers us closer to spring and renewal. If you have been suffering from the January “blues,” enter dopamine dressing – the wearing of joyful attire. Dopamine is a chemical released in the brain that makes you feel good. Color is one of the most obvious and easiest ways to achieve this. Sometimes that is bright, colorful clothing, or really any garment that makes you feel better. Wearing all black (which I love) is very chic and slimming, but color can scratch that itch for something new.
It is also important to seek new styles you have always wanted to try, while avoiding outfits that have never felt “like you.” Psychologist Karen Pine, author of, “Mind What You Wear: The Psychology of Fashion,” states, “What we wear affects how we feel so much that it can distort and determine our thoughts and judgements.”
Spring fashions for 2026 feature a bold, happy mix of colors. Choose from canary yellow, candy pink, vibrant violet, and rich teal. Too bold? Reach for sky blue and cloud dancer white to calm down.
Prints abound, but in unexpected combinations – polka dots and stripes, cheetah and florals. It is limitless, and you don’t have to wear just one. Look for fun details – feathers and fringe, ruffles and bows delight. Oversized floral appliqués are added to sleeves and hems. Bubble hems and balloon sleeves take us to new dimensions. Feel free to experiment.
Spring 2026 is all about finding the joy in everyday things – starting with what we wear. This year you can be wild and adventurous or basic as can be. It’s not about what’s in or out – it is about what makes you feel good on any given day. Stop by Pappagallo soon and get your hit of dopamine.
-by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for over 40 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico’s).
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