Mood-Lifting Buys to Banish the Blahs

I don’t know about you, but at this time of year I often get the “blahs.” After the adrenaline rush of the holidays — and the relief that they are over! — I need something to look forward to or to cheer me up.

A vacation somewhere warm (or somewhere else) always beckons, but if you can’t afford to go away for one reason or another (family commitments, your work schedule, your finances) a little shopping therapy might help. I’m not suggesting that you be reckless with your money — but sometimes a single purchase can give you a little lift. It could be a silly T-shirt, a nail polish in a fun color, a pretty piece of jewelry. Another sure way to elevate your mood is to do something kind for someone else. Surprise a friend or family member with a little gift for no reason — just to let them know you love them or are thinking about them.

So whether you are trying to boost your own mood or someone else’s, here are a few ideas:

Add a dash of color

MZ Wallace Metro Micro Quilted Crossbody Tote Bag in Red

Courtesy: Neiman Marcus

Don’t underestimate how much color can lift your mood! Slip on a bright sweater like the UV Protection Crewneck Cardigan in Blue $40, uniqlo.com), a pair of bold waterproof boots like the Bolinas Off Shore Boot in Calendula ($115, seavees.com) or a zippy accessory like the MZ Wallace Metro Micro Quilted Crossbody Tote Bag in Red ($195, neimanmarcus.com). Just one pop of a bright hue can enliven your outfit and your outlook.

Go for a laugh

Old Salt T-shirt

Courtesy: Keil James Patrick

A touch of humor goes a long way too. A statement tee like the I Don’t Want To I’m Retired T-shirt in Pink ($9, etsy.com) and the spicy Old Salt T-shirt ($40, kieljamespatrick.com) or a playful carryall like the David Shrigley Went Shopping Tote Bag ($22, etsy.com) can signal that you don’t take yourself too seriously — and can open the door for conversation.

Opt for novelty

(Left to right) Eva Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater in Multi, Rainbow; Women’s Plus Size Cotton Drifter Crew Neck Sweater in Ivory Coastal Sailboat

Courtesy: Boden USA; Lands' End

Maybe a lively patterned or graphic sweater will help float your boat? Grab the nautical-inspired Women’s Plus Size Cotton Drifter Crew Neck Sweater in Ivory Coastal Sailboat ($80, landsend.com), the ultra-sweet V-Neck Cardigan - Tipped Heart in Navy ($109, talbots.com) or the goes-with-everything Eva Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater in Multi, Rainbow ($158, bodenusa.com) to stave off any nip in the air. Wear one with jeans and cute kicks and you will instantly feel more lighthearted.