Although it seems like a lifetime ago, there was a time when we all woke up early to get dressed and ready for a full day at work. We picked outfits each day bearing in mind professional dress codes and norms. Now, with social distancing requirements and continued work from home mandates, most of us have had to adjust to a new normal - one where we have to motivate ourselves to look presentable even though we’re working from our homes. Chinos, dresses, pressed woven shirts - all these work wardrobe staples definitely seem out of place when you’re working from your couch.
The challenge? Striking a balance between laidback and polished. If you’re like most people - you probably quickly realized at the start of all this that your casual-yet-professional wardrobe was lacking. You want to be comfortable, but you also need to look decent for your video calls. Luckily, retail clothing stores have been really generous with sales. Online shopping is not canceled! Need some help figuring out what to buy? Here’s the latest when it comes to WFH fashion trends:
Comfy Does Not Mean Frumpy
Who doesn’t love PJ’s? PJ’s and sweats are undeniably comfortable - but you need to make sure you strike the balance between comfort and professionalism. When you look professional, youfeel professional, and it shows in your productivity. Try opting for a graphic sweater or a top with rich hues so you look put together on your video calls. Leggings on the bottom are totally acceptable!
Don’t Totally Tune Out of Fashion
Yes - it’s true we are all stuck at home - but the world is continuing to spin and fashion trends are continuing to involve. Even though you are dressing more casually you’ll still want to try and look fresh. Incorporate a touch of the latest trends with a plunging neckline or a new accessory. You don’t want to look like you’re stuck in a time capsule from Spring, 2020.
Add Some Color
Working from home can be an isolating and lonely experience - it’s easy to fall into a rut. Try brightening yourself up with some fun colors and hues. It can help lift your spirits and boost your overall confidence. Adding color to your wardrobe could also help you to feel more creative and productive - which is obviously a huge win when it comes to knocking out those assignments.
Keep a Jacket Handy
Have calls throughout the day but not feeling up to getting fully dressed? Throwing a jacket on over a basic topic is a quick and easy way to punch up your style in a hurry. A casual blazer or a relaxed jacket can do wonders for your appearance during meetings without looking under or overdressed.
Make Time for Hair and Makeup
“When you look good, you feel good” - an old saying that rings true even during a pandemic. Feeling confident and bright can help improve how well you interact with other people, even virtually. There’s nothing wrong with throwing your hair into a ponytail, but switching it up every so often can help keep your look interesting. Try and set aside some time to do your hair and apply some makeup in the morning (if makeup is your thing). All it takes is just a little blush, lipstick, and mascara to help you feel fabulous and ready to conquer the day.
