As a fashion and beauty writer, I have cracked the work-from-home code. For instance, I know the importance of taking regular, short breaks away from my computer to keep me alert and productive all day long.
I know that keeping coffee at hand is a basic cardinal rule. I also know that I must change out of my pajamas as soon as I’m out of bed each morning, even if I wake up early with time to spare or I’m having a meeting-less day. If I stay in my pajamas, I won’t feel as energetic or as mentally sharp as I need to be in order to tackle the first influx of emails.
I also know that the clothes I change into need to strike a very specific balance. My outfits can’t be too comfortable. Wearing sweatpants day in and day out would get a little, er, dispiriting (not to mention boring). They can’t be too stiff and corporate-feeling, either, because comfort is key. Keep scrolling to see the five things I never wear when I work from home (and what I wear instead).
I Never Wear: Uncomfortable Heels
Instead, I Wear: Block Heels, Mules, and Flats
When working from home, I forgo uncomfortable heels in favor of more forgiving types, such as block heels, mules, and sleek flats. They complement the rest of my outfit and keep it looking elevated and professional without causing any dreaded chafing or blisters. My motto is never to wear uncomfortable shoes if you don’t have to, and you definitely don’t have to if you work from home.
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Slides are my go-to shoes for walking since they’re so comfortable. I wear them all the time—when I’m walking to a meeting (in this instance, I might pack another dressier pair of shoes in my bag) or just to grab a coffee in the middle of the day.
I’ve always been a big fan of Loeffler Randall’s mule shoes and have become a big fan of the brand’s other offerings, like these knotted slides. The mid-heel gives me a little height without that feeling of teetering and instability that can come from a tall, corporate-looking stiletto.
If you haven’t noticed yet, I have a thing for mules. This minimalist white-and-wood design gives me heart eyes.
For some reason, I feel like pointed flats feel sleeker and more elevated than their round-toe counterparts. This pair is chic, summery, and budget-friendly—the trifecta.
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Chic, comfy slippers are a must when you work from home. These are a fan favorite and happen to be on sale on Nordstrom.
I Never Wear: Trousers or Suit Pants
Instead, I Wear: Jeans and Sweatpants
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Aside from the occasional meeting or expert interview, I’m almost always in a casual environment (either the aforementioned neighborhood coffee shop, coworking space, or my apartment). Suit pants and trousers feel too formal and, well, corporate in these environments. That’s why I almost never wear them. Instead, I invest in a few pairs of foolproof and versatile jeans that can be dressed up or down depending on the situation. And, of course, there’s always a need for sweatpants from time to time when working from home.
Stretchy, stylish skinny jeans look great with an oversize top or sweatshirt. Everlane’s are great for their affordability and comfort.
For my more casual days spent working from the comfort of my own home, I opt for a distressed and high-waisted pair of jeans, which feel edgy and cool.
One of the most versatile items of clothing you could possibly own is a pair of slim-fit jeans in a medium blue wash.
Reformation’s sweatpants are so simple and effortless.
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Never Wear: Stiff, Corporate Blouses
Instead, I Wear: T-Shirts
Like I said before, comfort is key when I’m working from home. I don’t want to be distracted from my work by the clothes I’m wearing. As such, I choose to wear what might be the most comfortable piece of clothing ever created: the humble T-shirt.
Because there are endless T-shirt–and-jean combinations, I never get bored. I also never feel frumpy thanks to cool designs and a multitude of sleek styles that I’ve accumulated over the past two years (boxy tees, cropped tees, figure-hugging crew-neck tees, and more).
Mixing up the design, color, and print of my T-shirt collection makes my daily work-from-home uniform feel fresh.
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T-shirts don’t have to be the basic white kind. (Although, I love those too.) This apricot color is flattering on everyone and looks great with jeans and mid-heel slides.
For something a little vintage-looking, opt for this tee from Madewell. I love the retro stripes.
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I Never Wear: Fussy, Layered Jewelry
Instead, I Wear: Simple Statement Rings
While I love delicate, layered jewelry as much as the next person, I’ve found that this type gets tangled easily, turning into something that’s fussy and frustrating to put on and then subsequently remove. Instead, I swear by statement rings. They’re easy to mix and match, and they’re just as eye-catching as other types of jewelry without the extra hassle. I slip on one, two, or three statement rings each day, and I feel put-together and well-accessorized in no time at all. Plus, I get to look at them and enjoy them, catching flashes of gold and silver while my fingers fly across my computer’s keyboard.
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Judith Iyoh writes fashion, lifestyle and real estate investment.
