I commend you for at least getting to the store and trying. I can understand in my own way the feeling of looking in the mirror with nice things on, or makeup, and thinking, "This doesn't belong on me. I don't deserve to look this nice."

As others stated, I too adored black. Still do. Black naturally looks very good on me, as do other primary/muted colors. I HATED pink all of my teens/early 20s----one, I could never find a shade that looked good with my complexion, and two, it was simply "too girly." (It's taken years to feel comfortable in my female shape, only to gain 60+ pounds soon after.) Other day I was shopping for a top and so many of the season's clothes are really bright patterns, which normally I think don't look good on me or just don't like (I loathe yellow and orange, and brown). But for some reason I started taking chances on brighter colors, and they do give me a little pep, I've noticed.

Someone mentioned their husband buying them a pink wallet. I was thinking along the same lines---if the sweater you bought is not working right now, do you think you could try buying a cheap bracelet or some earrings that have color in them? A lot of times I dress all dark, then put on bright earrings, I like the contrast. Or you could baby step it more, and try having brighter colors simply next to you...like a teal colored candle or trinket? That way you don't have to wear it, but it's nearby without being intrusive? If it bothered you, you can get up and go somewhere else. Also as Anika brilliantly suggested--if you don't think you can wear the nail polish, put it on your nightstand instead?

I hope some of our suggestions have helped.