No time like the present to get back into this thing. I have been working from home for several months now, and probably will be for several more months. Aside from all of the real struggles of the situation, something that has thrown me for a loop- what does one wear while working from home?
My wardrobe prior to this situation was probably:
50% work clothes
25% workout clothes
20% weekend/casual clothes
5% dress up clothes
While a portion of the clothing in each of these categories has crossover potential, I felt like I needed to beef up weekend wear and make it a little more polished. Hello video calls. Speaking of which, there’s also a lot of business on top and party on the bottom.
So what does this translate to? I’ve developed somewhat of a uniform with items I’ll swap in depending on my meeting schedule. Here goes:
Linen Tees
I might have this tee from JCrew in 4 colors… Some of the many reasons include: 1. it’s always on sale, 2. I like the way it drapes, 3. it’s so easy to layer in the AC with a blazer or cardigan (because my apt is the arctic circle), and works by itself when I need to run a quick errand outside in the 90 degree weather. I also picked it because it will be versatile for the long run way beyond the pandemic. You know I also have a Gap, Banana, and Lou & Grey version. You can never have enough plain tees.
Comfy Jeans
Brace yourself- this is a hot take. I prefer jeans while I’m working from home. I know, it’s blasphemy. In my defense, in my resting summer state I wear jean shorts all day long. Shorts are not comfortable when I’m sitting at my makeshift desk. And while I wear leggings to the gym, I’ve never been a casual legging wearer. I prefer a more structured pant, and the ultimate solution has been these straight leg Gap jeans– sized up for some of that quarantine room, if you know what I mean.
Blazer
Another red hot take- blazers for working from home. Here’s why. I already own them, and it’s something that will keep me warm, and, unlike a sweatshirt, gives me some structure and I never have to wash. I cannot stress this enough- my apartment is cold. My thermostat is set at 71 and I freeze everyday of the year, yet I’m not interested in changing the temp. I don’t think it will fix the problem.
Slippers
This is an obvious must have. I don’t have these in brown, I have them in gold, but JCrew doesn’t have the gold anymore. I wear these inside the apartment and my Rainbows outside my apartment.
Blue Light Glasses
My new favorite accessory. I am not willing to tell you how many pairs I have. They offer two benefits: 1. the project you from blue light, 2. they’re a great conversation starter on the WebEx calls. I’ve bought them from Anthro, Jcrew Factory, DIFF, and ShopBop.
So there you go- that’s the basic Sadie model. Sometimes I throw on a blouse or faux wrap shirt instead of the tee. I’m curious to see how this look evolves if the weather ever changes. Pray for Virginia, humidity is a killer.
What are you wearing to work from home these days?
Am I alone in not being thrilled with the current trends? 90’s fashion is strong right now, and I’m not very interested in it. I find the 90’s trends rather dull and difficult to pull off. The skimpy straps, high waist trousers, and flimsy fabrics can be rather unforgiving. Let’s figure out what trends are worth the investment this season.
Big Buttons
I’m seeing this look everywhere and I don’t love it. It looks really juvenile and kind of boring to me. This one above from the Loft is ubiquitous this season. Sometimes it’s a sun dress look, and other times it’s more of a canvas, safari vibe. Either way, a woven dress with buttons does not sound comfortable for anyone with any curves. Maybe I’m better off trying a skirt version.
Rainbow Stripes
I’ve seen rainbows on swimsuits, jumpsuits, dresses, and shorts, just to name a few. I do find it a little bit clownish, but if you get the right palette, it can also be really fun and pretty. There are some really fresh takes on the rainbow look. It’s an easy way to make a fun statement.
Muted Warm Colors
One of the primary color schemes this season is a burnt orange, marigold yellow, orange-red vibe with a side of olive green. I don’t wear many warm colors because my skin is too fair, so I will probably pass on this trend, but I’m here for olive all day long.
Big Florals
Last year was all about the micro florals, but this year we’re going big! I love a statement print, and the floral prints out there are the perfect statement for any outfit. I think a floral print is so timeless but fresh at the same time. I haven’t gotten any yet, but I will hopefully be riding this wave.
That’s my summer trend round up! What new looks are you trying this season?