Holidays are just around the corner, and if you are anything like me, you’ve stocked your wardrobe with shiny, colorful outfits for the festivities already. Last week, as I flipped through my old photo album, I noticed something intriguing: my Christmas outfits have always either been brightly colored or sparkled. Growing up, every festive season meant glittering dresses, or shiny shoes and it seems like my mom’s unwritten rule was: if it doesn’t shine, it’s not festive enough.
That love for sparkly clothes has stuck with me, and honestly, it feels like a holiday tradition. But it is not just nostalgia, there is a reason we are all drawn to shimmering outfits during the holidays, and it has everything to do with psychology, culture, and a little bit of science. I never realized back then that these festive clothes were doing more than making me look good; they were boosting my mood and confidence and making me feel like the main character in my own movie.
So, what is it about sparkly dresses during the holidays that captures our attention year after year? Let’s dive in.
Our Attraction to Light and Shiny Objects
It turns out, we are hardwired to love sparkle. Research has revealed that humans are instinctively drawn to shiny objects, likely because they evoke a sense of abundance and survival. For our ancestors, glittering water sources symbolized life. Today, sequins and metallic jumpsuits may not quench our thirst, but they do spark excitement. So whenever you slip on a sparkly outfit, you are tapping into this deep-seated biological response in your brain.
Dopamine Dressing
Ever noticed how wearing glitter makes you feel like you are the life of the party? Well, that is no coincidence. Author and Fashion psychologist Dawnn Karen coined the term dopamine dressing to describe how clothes can boost our mood. Sparkly outfits are a prime example. The excitement they evoke triggers dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure and reward.
Take for example Mariah Carey, the undisputed queen of Christmas. She has practically turned sparkle into a Christmas staple with her glittering gowns in holiday performances and her bedazzled outfits in festive music videos.
The Power of Social Proof
As long as we talk about the psychology behind fashion trends and dresses, social proof will always be a regular term. Let’s be honest: we all love a little validation, and sparkly dresses often come with compliments. This is where social proof comes in, a concept identified by psychologist Robert Cialdini. When celebrities, or even friends rock shimmering outfits, we immediately want to sparkle like them.
Rihanna’s iconic Swarovski crystal dress at the 2014 CFDA Awards became a cultural phenomenon, sparking an increase in Pinterest searches for “glitter outfits.” Today, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok amplify this trend, making shiny ensembles a must-have for holiday celebrations.
A History of Glamour and Community
Sparkles symbolize celebration and unity. From the gold-studded garments of Ancient Egypt to the glitzy flapper dresses of the 1920s, sequins have long represented festivity and glamour. For me, matching sparkly outfits with family members during Christmas gatherings always created a sense of togetherness.
The Environmental Cost of Glitter
There’s just one problem: As fabulous as sequins are, they have an environmental impact. Many are made from non-biodegradable plastics that contribute to pollution. Thankfully, the fashion industry is catching on to the need for sustainable sparkle. Stella McCartney’s biodegradable sequins are a game-changer, and rental platforms like By Rotation and HURR make it easy to dazzle responsibly, proving that sustainable choices can be both affordable and stylish.
In conclusion, sparkly dresses are more than a wardrobe choice; they are a way to celebrate, connect, and radiate joy. So, whatever you are rocking this holiday season, remember this: your sparkle is a reflection of your inner light.
Let it shine unapologetically this holiday season. Happy holidays.
