If ever there’s time when we need help to feel good then it’s January. We have teamed up with Bluewater, colour psychologist Karen Haller and retailer John Lewis to reveal top tips on bringing mood-boosting colour to your wardrobe.

An expert in the psychological impact of colour, Karen said: “Every time you select a colour to wear you are making a statement about how you are feeling and how you want others to interact with you.”

Here are Karen’s tip tips alongside some outfit suggestions from John Lewis…

  1. Your tone

We all want to look our best no matter what the situation. One of the most effective ways to do this is by wearing colours that suit your own personality and flatter your skin tone. Wearing the wrong colour tone may leave you looking tired and drained.

When shopping for a new outfit don’t forget to hold the colour just under your face, if you see a natural glow then this tone is for you.

Listen out for people complimenting certain colours on you. If shopping alone, don’t forget to ask a shop assistant how you look, as having an honest second opinion is always beneficial.

  1. Splash of colour

Sometimes just a splash of colour is all you need and the ideal way to brighten an outfit is by accessorising, why not add a pocket-handkerchief or a silk scarf? If you really want to wear a colour that you feel isn’t appropriate for the situation, you can always boost your mood by opting for some bright underwear or socks.

News Shopper:

Left:  John Lewis Dip-Dye Scarf in pink, £22.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Right:  John Lewis Palm Print Scarf, £35.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater

3. Energy boosting

Add a splash of red to your outfit to help boost energy levels and give you the extra get up and go to hit the gym. To focus your mind, opt for darker blue tones, which help restore, calm and concentration.

News Shopper:

Left: Adidas Go to Gear Techfit 3/4 Length Heathered Capris, Dark Pink, £25.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Right: Under Armour UA Tech Space Dye Long Sleeve Top, Fresh Water, £35.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater

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4. Work wear

Wear colours that support how you want to feel and how you want to be portrayed in the work place. Colours such as orange or yellow are ideal for fun roles. On the flip side, darker colours communicate authority, so choose black, navy, dark teal or midnight blue if you want to be taken more seriously.

News Shopper:

Left: Kin By John Lewis Oversized dress, Navy, £69.00 available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Centre: John Lewis Weekend Striped Fringe Top, £49.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Right: Bruce by Bruce Oldfield Black dress, £99.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater

5.  Colour confidence

The Little Black Dress is a timeless classic and can make a women feel glamorous, sophisticated and confident. However, for some women, black can actually create a barrier to hide behind. Adding a touch of colour to your LBD can allow your wonderful personality to shine through.

With Valentine’s Day approaching we can’t forget this seasons most romantic colours - red and pink. Red embodies the passionate, lustful side of love and is the colour of strength and energy. A light pink, on the other hand, expresses a warmer, softer side, whereas magenta pink is great for outgoing romantics who aren’t afraid to show their bolder personality.

News Shopper:

Left: Bruce by Bruce Oldfield Camel Dress, £99.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Centre: Bruce by Bruce Oldfield Little Bruce Dress in Red, £160.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater. Right: Somerset by Alice Temperley Lace Dress, Black £130.00, available at John Lewis, Bluewater