Dress happy in summer-ready styles

Female model wearing bright red and pink maxi dress
Olivia Adams,-Senior Editor

The new season is here and it’s time to turn up the brightness

After months of hibernating under warming winter layers, it’s time to inject new-season energy into your wardrobe. How? With our edit of happy-hued suits, dresses, bags and more. 

We also decided to put together a colourful edit for men and kids. Read on and explore the just-landed pieces and see how to wear them for the (hopefully) warmer months ahead.

What is dopamine dressing?

Put simply, it’s wearing clothes that boost the happy hormone, dopamine, to make you feel good. Are you ready to give both your wardrobe and mood a boost?

What are dopamine colours?

We’re glad you asked. Bright shades of red, yellow and orange come to mind, as well as cheery blues and greens.

Models wearing bright red and bright yellow dresses
Model wearing green co-ord and black sandals, holding a handbag on the beach

How to wear bright colours

Not sure where to start? Sunglasses, bags and shoes in vibrant colours are an easy way to accentuate a classic, pared-back look. When it comes to clothing, coordinated pieces from the likes of Mint Velvet, Nobody's Child and Whistles  do the hard work for you. Whether you're getting ready for a big event or everyday schedule, show your personality by styling different shades of the same colour together, or colour clashing for maximum impact.  

Two male models wearing colourful yellow, green and orange outfits

The best colourful styles for men

To add a splash of colour to his summer wardrobe, look to brands such as Barbour, Paul Smith, John Smedley, Ralph Lauren, New Balance and more. 

Kids wearing cool bright coloured clothing on the beach
Boy wearing green top and shorts

Children’s looks for sunny days

Explore our selection of playful designs in pop colours to keep little ones stylish this summer.

Olivia Rubin holding her new designed striped tote bag
Close up of Olivia Rubin striped tote bag

Coming soon: Olivia Rubin tote bag

We’ve had a bright idea – partnering with London-based fashion designer Olivia Rubin on a rainbow tote bag. It’s where function meets fun, and it’s launching online exclusively for My John Lewis members on 1 May. 

Related Articles

Mother-of-the-bride-or-groom outfit ideas
Mother-of-the-bride-or-groom outfit ideas
Read more
6 summer accessories to transform your holiday wardrobe
6 summer accessories to transform your holiday wardrobe
Read more
John Lewis linen
How to wear linen: a guide to a cool fabric
Read more
More stories