DULCIE EMERSON

Fashion editor

HOW TO WEAR YELLOW OUTFITS

Can wearing yellow really affect your mood? We quizzed a professor of psychology to find out

If you've ever experienced the instant pick-me-up of a vibrant outfit, you'll know that the colours we wear can have a big impact on the way we feel. Not just a popular shade for spring/summer, yellow clothes have a reputation for being the happiest colour in the palette. "Smiley face stickers are always yellow," says Karen Pine, professor of psychology at the University of Hertfordshire in the UK. "It's a colour that radiates hope and optimism." Tap into the sunshine state of mind with a not-so-mellow yellow dress. A loose silhouette complements the carefree feel, while open-toe sandals signal the start of summer. Weather not cooperating? Cosy up at home in a snuggly yellow hoodie outfit.