Return to the office doesn’t mean giving up the comfy WFH wardrobe
The workplace style pervasive during the pandemic can likely be summed up in one word: “comfy.” While work-from-home attire typically meant loungewear or dressy top paired with sweatpants for visually appropriate Zoom meetings, many women are returning to the office and will need to spiff up their outfits accordingly. But you don’t have to sacrifice the comfort to which you’ve grown accustomed. Steph Sheard, a Cincinnati-based stylist and fashion and lifestyle blogger, shares her tips for how she shopped her closet to pull together looks that marry the work-from-home wardrobe basics with business staples that appear sharp, classy and put-together.
BLACK LEGGINGS
“I know we all have several pairs of black leggings in our closet. Let’s be honest—that’s probably what most of us have lived in for the last 18 months, right? A very simple way to make leggings office-ready is to add a long tunic, button-down blouse with a wide belt. I tossed on a pair of heels, but could easily be swapped for booties or chic flats.”
JUMPSUIT
“Jumpsuits have been my recent BFF, but the super-casual and comfy version most likely won’t pass for HR-appropriate attire. Blazers are my go-to for quick elevation to any base—yes, including a jumpsuit! A quick swap in footwear and now I’m workplace-ready.”
JOGGERS
“Who has more joggers on hand than dress pants right now? Finding a way to pull together a stylish, jogger-chic vibe can be a little tricky, I get it. But adding a fitted tank and oversized cardigan with some chunky heels will solve your workplace dress-code drama. Not only is the finished look cozy, but on point!”
Don’t have these add-ons in your wardrobe currently? Sheard also shares some of her tips for picking up these classic clothing staples from thrifty locations. “I am sure many readers have these items in their closets, just possibly not worn in some time,” Sheard says. “Recreating these inspo-looks should be very simple and budget friendly! But, if you are looking to add any of the items I have shown to your wardrobe collection, a few of my favorite, budget-friendly stores include Clothes Mentor, Discount Fashion Warehouse, Goodwill and Snooty Fox.” For more fashion inspiration, find Sheard on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest under the handle @StephStyle101.
