With so many businesses having adopted work-from-home models, gone are the days of rolling out of bed and into the office. There is a new, albeit, unwritten, dress code for the home office. And, whilst most employees have already nixed the pajama couture lifestyle, there are still plenty who have not. For those people, it’s time to take accountability, and dress for success, again.

Valerie Klimek notes; “Always be mindful of what you wear when working from home, as it can help you set the tone for your day. It is important to dress well even when working from home because what you wear really does have an impact on your overall motivation”.

Balancing Comfort with Business Attire

When planning your work from home wardrobe, it is essential to take your own comfort into account. Truly, who can be productive when they’re tethered to their home office for 8 hours a day, in a scratchy wool suit? If that’s your thing, more power to you! For the rest of us, work from home attire relies on a delicate balance of blending comfort with business attire.

When we think “comfort” we think of soft textiles and drawstrings. Whereas business attire typically denotes clean lines and professionalism. You wouldn’t think the two could coexist, but it’s much more attainable than you think! For example, trade in your sweats and fuzzy slippers for a relaxed pair of khakis or a cotton maxi skirt and some comfortable loafers or ballet flats. Then, add a cotton polo, button down, or blouse, and you have the perfect work from home outfit!

A few basic tips for work from home fashion:

  • Always opt for breathable fabrics. If they have a bit of stretch to them – even better!
  • Layer for comfort. If you get too warm, remove as needed.
  • Stick to simple accessories.
  • Always choose comfort over style when it comes to footwear.

Virtual Meeting Tips

To make a positive impression and ensure effective communication in virtual meetings, focus on your visual presence, lighting, background, and posture. Turning on your camera, ensuring good lighting, keeping your background tidy, and maintaining good posture will significantly enhance your engagement and professionalism.

  1. Camera Presence Matters: Always turn on your camera for meetings. Your presence matters, and it’s important to engage visually.
  2. Lighting is Key: Good lighting can improve your on-camera appearance. Natural lighting is preferred, but artificial lighting that has been positioned properly works too.
  3. Select Your Background: Your backdrop should be clean and distraction free. When in doubt, use a virtual background that’s understated and professional.
  4. Posture and Poise: Remember, your posture speaks volumes. Sit up straight and present yourself confidently.

Brands & Trends to Consider When Shopping

Remember, dressing well often has a psychological impact as well, that tends to play a key role in work productivity. According to Sumissura, “ There is a psychological aspect to dressing for work, often termed as “enclothed cognition,” which suggests that the clothes you wear can influence your psychological processes and improve performance.”

In an article on Busted Cubicle, Jessica Craig, Manager of a National Athleisure Brand Store in Eugene, Oregon, is noted as recommending the brands below. “These brands offer comfortable, stylish options if you’re looking for a well-rounded look while working from home”:

  • Athleta: Known for its high-quality fitness and loungewear, Athleta offers functional and comfortable options that can easily transition from a workday to a workout.
  • lululemon: Another popular athleisure brand, lululemon offers stylish and versatile pieces that are perfect for those who want to prioritize comfort while looking put together.
  • Everlane: This sustainable clothing brand offers a range of modern basics, including soft and cozy loungewear that is perfect for working from home.
  • Pact: Pact offers organic and sustainable loungewear options that are perfect for those who value comfort and sustainability.
  • Marcella NY: This brand offers stylish and comfortable workwear options specifically designed for remote work. Their pieces are chic, versatile, and perfect for video calls. They also have a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability.
  • Odd Bird Co: Showcasing beautiful textiles, Odd Bird Co fights against fast fashion with chic housedresses, robes, and tunics that can seamlessly go from WFH to errands around town.
  • Beta Brand: Known for their stylish yet comfortable dress pant yoga pants, Beta Brand offers a variety of work-appropriate options that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.

To conclude, when curating your work from home wardrobe, select items that are both comfortable and professional. Dressing for the home office is about feeling empowered and ready to tackle any workday challenge. This is the perfect opportunity to define your style as one that reflects your professional aspirations as well as your personality!