Matching outfits have become a popular fashion trend that attracts eyes whenever followed by fashion enthusiasts. Whether it is family, friends, cousins, or colleagues, they can celebrate the bond of togetherness and passion for fashion by matching their outfits. There are various ways one can match outfits, like through similar patterns, prints, colors, dressing styles, and more.
But have you ever thought that matching outfits is not just a fashion style, but more than that? There are certain things that it uncovers when followed by people out there in the world. There’s psychology behind matching fashion that tells something about the personality and reveals a certain expression of the wearer.
A Glimpse at the History of Matching Outfits
Matching outfits are not something that was born today, but they have a very ancient existence and rich historical roots that evolved and took out a new way. In earlier centuries, the first form of matching outfits came in the form of a uniform, or to be more specific, in military uniforms, which symbolized unity, discipline, and brotherhood among the men. Gradually, the style was seen adopted among priests and the royal families.
With the evolution, today we find this fashion through the school uniforms of school-going children, jerseys or sports outfits of sports teams representing the country or any entity, corporate uniforms of employees working with a company, and many other ways. Even families, friends, and couples are also cherishing this style, showcasing their love and compassion through casually coordinated attire. Now let’s learn about the psychology behind the matching fashion style.
Psychology Behind Matching Fashion Style
Have you ever thought about why our eyes get attracted to couples, groups of friends, or anyone in matching outwear? This is where the psychology comes into the scene.
1. Mirror Effect
In fashion content, the mirror effect can be considered as the subconscious psychological phenomenon where we humans try to mirror the action, body language, and especially style, which makes the bond between the wearer more visible than ever.
2. Confidence Booster
Matching outfits can work as a confidence booster by enhancing the feeling of togetherness and providing a coordinated look. The feeling that you are not alone but a part of a group boosts confidence, making you feel connected. For instance, you are in a team. It makes one feel part of the team and reflects the unity and identity of the group.
3. Attachment Theory
Matching outfits enhance an emotional bond among families, friends, and couples, reflecting it through non-verbal communication but in a visible way. For instance, a mother and daughter matching outfits symbolizes unconditional love and emotional closeness in a charming way.
4. Social Acceptance
Matching outfits are a way of saying to the world that you admire or accept your match. The match could be your romantic partner, friends, or family members who are part of this fashion trend. All humans have some flaws, but accepting them and cherishing the bond through matching outfits is what aligns us all.
5. Emotional Synchrony
Emotional synchrony is the alignment of emotions, feelings, and experiences between individuals. Matching clothes not only align fashion style but also emotions. When we dress the same as our partner, team, friends, or family, we feel a sense of attachment and pride to stand together for shared goals.
Practical Tips for Synchronized Fashion Style
Want to try matching outfits but don’t know where to start? Here are some practical tips to not only make you follow the trend but also stand out and make your fashion statement.
1. Color Combinations
It is not necessary to wear the exact same clothes for a synchronized look. You can try matching colors like pastels, vibrant colors, or neutrals as per your preference. This fashion trick is mostly followed by groups and couples.
2. Matching Patterns and Prints
You can match patterns and prints of the outfit. This is most commonly seen in the outfits specifically designed for mother and daughter.
3. Accessory Coordination
Coordinating accessories is also a nice way to get a coordinated look. Match shoes, bags, hats, scarves, wristbands, etc., to show off your group cohesion.
4. Match Exact
This is what is mostly perceived by matching outfits – exact matching. From prints and patterns to colors, the entire outfit is the same for all. For example, a friend’s group donned denim jeans, plain white shirts, and classic shoes to create a similar look.
5. Theme-based Matching
Wear the outfit that matches the commonly decided theme, like Halloween, retro, neon, cowboy, etc. This works well for matching outfits for a party, vacation, or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Matching outfits are not only a fashion trend, but they also have psychological and social significance. It has rich historical roots that have evolved and taken a new shape in this era of social media influence. From the celebrity to the common man, this trend is for every fashion enthusiast. It is not confined to being a fashion style but also reflects the emotional connections, unconditional love, and strong cohesion without uttering a word. Matching outfits tell who we are, who we belong to, and what we stand for by aligning us with a coordinated look.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does matching outfits mean?
Matching outfits means two or more people wearing similar outfits, whether of the same color, pattern, and print, the same, or themed accessories for a coordinated look. It also symbolizes emotional connection, shared identity, and cohesion among friends, family, couples, or mutual groups.
2. How do I choose a matching outfit?
To choose a matching outfit, first you need to decide the level of coordination you want and the occasion you want to wear it for. Also, consider the preference of your matching partner or group.
3. Is it necessary to match exactly for a coordinated look?
It is not necessary to get the exact same outfit for a coordinated look; you can opt for similar colors, patterns, prints, and theme-based outfits. The aim is to create the complementary look to showcase the shared emotions.