Working from home is a reality for more and more people. For most people who work from home, staying comfortable is a top priority, especially since they are often stationed in an office chair for most of the day. However, one should never sacrifice professionalism for the sake of comfort. After all, you don’t want to pop up on a conference call with co-workers clad in a faded workout tank top and lounge shorts. When it comes to work-from-home clothing, striking the right balance between comfort and professionalism is essential.
This guide will help you craft comfortable yet stylish work-from-home clothing. With a little bit of planning and some coordination, you’ll be able to present a professional image at work all while remaining cozy, warm, and relaxed.
Consider upgrading your loungewear
Loungewear is the chosen uniform of many work-from-home employees. It’s easy to grab a favorite pair of sweatpants or joggers after your morning coffee and before you sit down for a busy day of work at your desk. However, your old loungewear might not look professional on video calls. To stay comfortable while looking put-together, consider upgrading your loungewear.
There are many options for clothing that feel like loungewear but look stylish. Consider performance fabric basics in place of old sweatpants, for a look that feels distinguished yet laid-back. Try non-standard colors for a polished look and more mix-and-match options in your wardrobe.
Keep a stylish hoodie or cardigan on hand
There’s nothing wrong with wearing a cozy T-shirt while working from home. However, when you get pulled into a quick conference call, you might wish you were wearing something more professional. Keeping a classic cardigan or pullover sweater next to your desk for such situations can be a lifesaver. Stylish outwear pieces like these can make you look well-groomed, prepared, and polished, and are easy to keep on hand all week long.
To really make an impression on your coworkers, try keeping several options near your desk. A cashmere shacket provides the ultimate comfort, while a ribbed full-zip is slightly more casual but still professional.
Distinguish between work-from-home-clothing and off-duty attire
Any work-from-home veteran will tell you that it’s vital to distinguish between your off-duty look and your work look. These should be totally different wardrobes. There are psychological reasons behind this. When you slip into your weekend wear, you’re signaling to your brain that it’s time to relax and unwind, while putting your work clothes on can trigger your mind into “work mode,” where you’ll be more productive and ready to take on your daily tasks.
For this reason, keep a separate space in your closet or dresser for workwear. Shop for new pieces on occasion, even if you rarely see any of your co-workers in person. Just the act of putting on a new piece of clothing can make you feel better about yourself, which can positively affect your performance at work. Also, don’t allow yourself to fall into the habit of wearing pieces that don’t fit or have tatters or rips. Take care of your workwear and invest in good-quality pieces that will go the distance with you.
Work-from-home clothing suggestions
If you feel overwhelmed by the options, pare down your work wardrobe to a few capsule pieces. Here are some outfit suggestions that will keep you looking ultra-presentable on all your regular conference calls:
- A sleek cotton pressed polo in a warm color and dark grey joggers
- A comfortable sweater paired with business casual jeans with stretch
- Slacks and a pullover (sans logo or graphic)
- Trousers or slacks and a sports shirt
Be sure to choose some items in neutral colors and others in bright, flattering shades that look good on you. Above all, choose what makes you feel confident. Any of these outfit options can be mixed and matched with each other, so you can create countless new looks without dedicating additional time or resources.
Get styling assistance from Family Britches
Working from home doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice either style or comfort. Be at ease in your home office and present the professional image you want by investing in a business comfort wardrobe that stands the test of time. If you need some inspiration or guidance on what sort of clothes you want to include in your wardrobe, check out the selection of classic, expertly tailored pieces from Family Britches.
Contact us to learn more about our clothing or to get personalized styling advice. Whether you’re just starting your journey as a work-from-home employee or want some new items to refresh your existing wardrobe, we have plenty to suit.
