It’s raining outside as I type this. It’s stay-at-home-and-get-super-mega-cozy, kind of weather. And so here I am, it’s Sunday night, and I’ve gone into rain-induced reflection mode.
But that’s enough ramblings.
A few months ago, I came across an article on Repeller, about “therapy clothes.” The author, Haley Nahman, describes therapy clothes as outfits that feel like physical and emotional hugs, and make you feel comfortable and at ease on both a physical and an emotional level.
For me, the term, “therapy clothes” brings to mind the clothing equivalent of a weighted blanket. It makes me think of words like: reassuring, comforting, stabilising.
I’ve unofficially adopted some of my wardrobe as therapy clothes, and I find myself reaching for them in those times I need it the most.
Feeling vulnerable is like walking around with a layer of skin removed, and dressing for your mood, is like physically adhering a band aid of protection. It provides another layer, a metaphoric suit of armour, something to face the world with.
And the truth is, when you get your outfit choices right— and you will know when this happens, they do feel like hugs. After all, the physical clothing wrapping itself around you is something tactile, not just something imagined.
But you don’t need to be struggling to reap the benefits of therapy clothes. They can literally be anything at all that makes you feel comfy, cozy, happy, energised, or more yourself.
Over the years, some of my therapy clothes have included: ugg boots, cotton cable knit sweaters, fruit print socks, a colourful puffy jacket, hot pink velour trackies, that one T-shirt I can’t get enough of, and of course, drawers packed full of pyjamas!
The way I see it, dressing in therapy clothes is an extension of self care. It’s knowing what you need, and how to give it to yourself. It’s about looking after yourself and putting your own needs first — because they matter.
And if all it takes is choosing the right outfit for the right day, surely it can only be a positive thing?
