One of the perks to working from home is the ability to dress for comfort. After all, unless you are on a video call, no one will ever know that you live in yoga pants now. As more and more businesses are transitioning back to the office, wardrobe choices matter again. That doesn’t mean you need to give up the comfort you’ve grown accustomed to. With some creativity and a little bit of strategy, you can blend your activewear and business wear into an office appropriate wardrobe that everyone can live with.
Quality Counts
Everyone is familiar with the adage “You get what you pay for,” and in this case it’s true. When you purchase low quality active wear, the color fades, the garment loses its shape, the seams can fray or pucker, and thinner material will show wear. All of these things will make your activewear stand out, and not in a good way. Making sure your activewear is wrinkle free and in good repair is also easier with high quality items. Look for items with top stitching or double top stitching that looks like office wear but will stretch, like this Poppy Chevron Short Sleeve T. Choose items that can be mixed and matched to increase the number of office-ready looks you can achieve. The only limit is your creativity.
Shoes are Critical
Often all you need to dress up your activewear is the right pair of shoes. A strappy heel or cute boot will transform leggings and take them from the stair climber to the staff meeting with no one being the wiser. Choose a matte black legging and pair it with a sleeveless blouse, cuffed jacket, and boots for the perfect outfit that feels like pajamas. Change into sneakers once you get home, and you’re ready for a run.
Layer, Layer, Layer
Don’t stop at the shoes. Pair leggings and tanks with a cardigan or sweater to instantly dress them up. Not a fan of sweaters? Choose a complimentary blazer to dress up your look.
Skirt the Office Dress Code
Sometimes, the occasion calls for a skirt, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your comfort. Pair a soft and stretchy pencil skirt with a low pump and blousy top or sweater. You’ll be boardroom-ready, but also perfectly prepared to get your steps in during lunch.
Accessorize for the Win
Statement necklaces and chunky bracelets can elevate your outfit with hint of glamour. Add a colorful scarf for a little bit of panache. Pin up your hair with a glitzy hair clip for an air of sophistication. Add a sliver chain for your glasses for a classic look. The possibilities are endless.
Buttondowns with Secret Stretch
Not all oxford shirts include a side of starch and dash of discomfort. Look for the new generation of stretchy collared buttondown shirts. They’re perfect for a comfortable fit under a blazer or sweater. Pair one with slacks or four-way stretch Chinos, and your put together look will be the envy of the office.
Ladies, men’s collared shirts can also be paired with a wide belt and matte or metallic leggings for a cute office-casual look.
Not Your Father’s Slack
Who said stylish slacks had to be stiff or carry a dry cleaning bill? These dress Chinos will be the star of any work wardrobe and blend seamlessly with your button-down or quarter-zip top. Add a smart, high-quality pair of leather office shoes and your day will fly by in breathable, sweat-wicking comfort.