At the beginning of 2021, countless fashion media outlets were reporting on the power of pastel. But why? Well, whether consciously or unconsciously, the pandemic has drastically altered our shopping habits. We switched our little dresses for baskets full of cushions, throws, beauty bits and bobs and comfy clothes. With the world outside our windows looking pretty daunting, us consumers turned to other things that could soothe our soul at home. And along with our penchant for calming body butters and candles, came a desire for relaxing colours as well. You see where we're going with this, right? Introducing: pastels.
But what exactly makes those subdued shades of lilac, green and pink so soothing, exactly? According to Caroline Mair, author of The Psychology of Fashion, it's pretty simple. It's based on our psychological assumptions. Generally we perceive pastels as psychologically lighter than, say, black or navy blue. Pastels also take us back to the comfort of our childhood; we are unconsciously drawn towards the colours of our old toys and clothes that remind us of that naive bliss.
But that's enough Freudian analysis for now. Psychology aside, how do you actually wear pastels? Well, it's easier than you think and luckily for you it doesn't involve heading up to the attic to find your baby-grow before a big night out. Presenting, the Endless Wardrobe pastel edit.
