The pandemic has had several effects on fashion, from a demand for more accountability and sustainability, to a weird moment where we all thought loungewear could be elegant. One of my favorite trends to bloom in this post-lockdown world is Joyful Dressing or Dopamine Dressing. In essence, this trend celebrates happiness, vibrancy, loud patterns, and lots and lots of color. It’s a movement embracing maximalism at its best and is the perfect antidote to Coco Chanel’s insistence that you should remove one accessory before leaving the house. So grab every one of your favorite pieces from your wardrobe, try one of the free sewing patterns below, and you’ve likely put together the perfect Joyful look to help you dance into summer!

Purchase Materials Used Below:

• 1 yard Italian Hi-Vis Pink Double Face Stretch Super 150 Virgin Wool Twill Suiting
• 1.5 yards Stratton White Solid Organic Cotton Twill
• 2 pkgs Dritz Brass Grommets Size 3/8″ – 8ct
• 2-3 yards Double Faced Satin Ribbon
• 4 pcs Bright Gold Rounded Square Metal Ring – 35mm
• MDF310 – The Spearmint Corset Sewing Pattern (free download below!)

Alternative Recommended Fabrics:

• Suiting
• Brocade
• Jacquard

Accessories & Layers

Joyful Dressing is all about more, more, more, so layers and accessories are a must! Bucket hats are one of this summer’s must-have items so create one in each color and print you love for an easy addition to any outfit! When it comes to layers, you have options. Suiting is popular year-round, especially if you choose a lightweight linen or print for a more casual summer vibe, and the new Taro Jumper can be made as shorts or a skirt for optimal layering choices!

Tops

A basic shirt is a wardrobe need, no matter what. Create the Wren Blouse with a basic sleeve in an anything-but-basic print, or go all out with the statement sleeve version! Button-ups not your thing? A silk print lends itself well to the Luna pattern hack, which is super easy to sew!

Bottoms

Bottoms can be a staple or a statement depending on the fabric you choose. The Liv Pants in a colorful suiting or print would steal the show whether you wear them long or cropped and the same can be said for a basic bias-cut skirt!

Dresses

Dresses are perfect for the Joyful trend because there are simply endless options. Get loud with some puff sleeves or layer a colorful sheath dress under multiple vibrant layers to achieve a decadent look!