“It is her first time wearing a cap,” they all chant in unison. We have probably all thought that when wearing something out of our comfort zone in public for the first time. I was forced to consider this thought this weekend when I met a friend, and she was wearing a chequered cadet cap. Naturally, my first action when getting home was searching the internet for nice cadet caps. Have I found one? Yes. Have I ordered it? No.
Why can I love an accessory on someone else, but when I wear a cadet cap, I imagine others turning around to see where my sheep went? Psychology calls this spotlight effect; the feeling that you, your looks, and actions are far more recognisable, memorable, and significant for other people. This phenomenon is a one-way ticket. I would never assume that my friend wore this cap for the first time. And if I did in fact know, I would have thought her to be extremely stylish and admirable for having made such a style choice.
The spotlight effect reflects how we as a society have been conditioned to fit in. Why do we prioritise comfort and mainstream over creativity and self-expression? There is not one correct answer. But I certainly assume that the reason we love fashion trends is that it gives us a chance to explore new things, while still having the comforting feeling that society supports our choice.
However, I believe that clothes should make us happy, and it is scientifically proven that the more we exit our comfort zone, the easier it gets and the bigger our comfort zone becomes. Obviously, this doesn’t mean that you have to go outside wearing a SpongeBob costume to channel your inner critic, unless you really like it. But if there is an accessory or a piece that you cannot get out of your head, I suggest you give it a go. Start wearing it at home, get used to it, and then show the world how stylish you are. So, if you walk past my flat and see me walking around my room wearing a cadet cap — please do not judge!
Illustration by Anna-Benson @alb.mp3_.jpg for The Student
