New Style Idea

Social distancing may be the new world order amidst the coronavirus pandemic and the change is affecting both the fashion industry and actual fashion in endless ways. But remote working is still keeping people together via virtual tools like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Google Hangout and the like.

Here are five styling tips for working from home that strike the right balance between cozy and professional.

1.Wear some real pants

This might be one of the most contentious tips, but it could also be one of the most effective. Studies have shown that wearing clothes with symbolic meaning can help remote workers perform better on tasks. Since most of today’s remote workers are former office dwellers, that can range from jeans to suit trousers. From a realistic standpoint, a pair of jeans or casual pants are all that’s needed to flip the switch to work mode.

To buy: Jesse Kamm sailor pants, $297 (was $395). 

To buy: Agolde 90’s Mid-Rise Loose-Fit jeans, $198. 

To buy: Everlane wide leg crop pants, $72. 

2. Let knitwear be your sartorial security blanket

One of the most obvious WFH pieces, the right sweater is like wearable hygge. Find your biggest, chunkiest knit and swaddle yourself in it, especially on days when the news seems the most grim. A robed style feels like you’re still wearing pajamas even when you’re not. This might also be the right time to bring back the poncho.

To buy: Cuyana recycled cashmere soft wrap sweater, $285. 

To buy: Tory Burch Madeline cardigan, $248. 

To buy: La DoubleJ knit top, $300. 

3. Redefine the slipper look

Slippers will be the footwear you wear most these days, at least until the weather turns warmer. To break up the monotony of the look, style it with fun, textured socks. There are also a few of spring’s sandals and flats that can easily be repurposed as indoor shoes, but they must comfortable and have a lightness in their step. No one wants to hear a click-clack or clomp of a heel at home right now.

To buy: Minne Rose cashmere pom pom slipper, $154.

To buy: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle sandal, $160. 

To buy: Minnetonka Alpine shearling moccasin, $60.

4. Wear a turtleneck

Already a versatile sartorial savior, the turtleneck will continue to do the heavy lifting during this work-from home era. Turtlenecks have an inherently professional neckline, appropriate for Zoom meetings and the like, and lately they’ve become more interesting with the trend of accessorizing with chunky chain link necklaces. Plus, with a turtleneck, no one will even begin to think that you’re wearing sweatpants on the bottom.

To buy: & Other Stories turtleneck, $69 (was $99). 

To buy: J.Crew turtleneck sweater, $56 (was $95).

To buy: Khaite cashmere cropped turtleneck, $1,580.

5. Add a necklace or pair of earrings

Jewelry seems like the last thing you would think about when getting dressed for a day at home. But a pair of earrings or statement necklace are a great way to break the ice when you and your coworkers are waiting to start a group video call. And a family heirloom or favorite piece can be a tiny light during dark times. (A more practical tip: In a time when hand washing is an around-the-clock job, it feels like a good time to keep bracelets and rings in their boxes.)

To buy: Mizuki 14K gold beaded earrings, $245 (was $325). 

To buy: Jennifer Fisher Large Essential brass necklace, $350. 

To buy: & Other Stories organic pearl hoop earrings, $29. 

6. Dress up

It might seem like the whole world is wearing pajamas right now, but there is already a quickly growing trend of fashion insiders who are finding palpable joy in wearing their fanciest looks around the house and documenting it on social media. If a pair of heels or an embellished dress makes you feel better about yourself right now, go for it. Add a fun color to get in the mood for spring.

To buy: Staud Carolina dress, $245. 

To buy: Laurence Dacade Analou slingbacks, $590.

To by: Cecilie Bahnsen Effie dress, $1,510.

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