What to Wear When You Don't Want to Leave the House
I got this quote in my in-box today:
“I think that when you get dressed in the morning, sometimes you’re really making a decision about your behavior for the day. Like if you put on flipflops, you’re saying: ‘Hope I don’t get chased today.’ —Demetri Martin
It couldn’t be more perfect, especially as I sit here in my PJ top (granted it is a Gap long sleeve t-shirt, easily mistaken for one of my Alexander Wang ones that would qualify as real clothes) and my sweatpants.
Getting dressed and choosing what to wear has always been a form of self-expression and even a self-fulfilling prophesy as in “dress for the position you want.” It’s definitely a way for me to express myself. As I’ve mentioned before, I find my wardrobe is a way to highlight different parts of who I am and who I want to be that day.
I have my “stylist” clothing, my “political” clothing, my “take the dog for a walk clothes” and my “carpool” clothes. Some days, when I’m spending more time at home, I still find myself wondering what my “uniform” should be. It’s easy to fall into the comfort zone of sweats and tees, but I’ve realized that getting dressed, really dressed, even just a few times a week, keeps me feeling more like myself.
So, here’s my personal list of How to Live (and Dress) When You’re Staying In:
Every morning is a reset. Even if yesterday was a blur of to-dos and takeout, there’s something powerful about waking up, putting on something that makes you feel good, and choosing how you want to show up. Whether for yourself, your family, or that early Zoom meeting.
Athleisure counts. If I don’t reach for a fabulous outfit, I’ll usually pull on my favorite workout set or leggings. It’s comfortable, practical, and gets me in the mindset for movement, whether it’s walking the dog, a quick yoga session, or an online pilates class. My mat pilates with Oxygen has been a saving grace.
Dress up for yourself. Friday nights are my cue to make things feel special. My family has always loved the tradition of a dressed-up dinner to celebrate the end of the week. It’s a small tradition that brings us joy and gives me a reason to swap sweatpants for something with a little more structure.
Closet check-ins are self-care. I try at least once a week to actually get dressed. It’s a good reminder of who I am, what I look like in “real” clothes, and a check-in just to make sure everything still fits!
If you’re inspired, this is the perfect time to tackle a few fashion or closet-related projects:
Go through all of your drawers and closets (not all at once) and make those piles of toss, give away, consign and keep. Did you know that The Epilepsy Foundation and BigBrother will pick up your donations curbside? You can also reference our list of 24 Things You Should Never Toss from Your Closet
Do the same thing with jewelry and accessories. Use jewelry cleaner on any jewelry that is tarnished.
Do the same thing with your shoes. Get some black polish and clean up any scuffs on your black shoes. Need inspiration? Check 5 Work Wardrobe Essentials for Summer for summer shoe options.
Clean up your underwear, bras and socks. Anything that is worn, get rid of. (Wow, now my socks all fit in the drawer now!) For more ideas on maintaining a tidy closet, see The 5-Minute Closet Edit You Can Do Today.
Reaching out to friends and family is always in style. I’ve loved using extra downtime to reconnect with people I haven’t talked to in a while. It’s a simple reminder of what really matters. This reminds me of 10 Ways Our Stylists Embrace the Hygee Lifestyle, taking time for comfort, connection, and small joys in life.
I’m thinking of finding myself some of those comfortable yet chic lounge outfits. (That sounds better than matching sweatshirts and sweatpants). I’ll keep you posted on what I find. And of course, if you’d like some company and/or assistance with anything closet-related, I’m here for you through Unfoldid.
All my love,
Amy