6 Sensible Fashion Tips for the New Normal

As we slowly start to ease out of lockdown, I thought I share some sensible fashion tips for the new ‘normal’ since we all know, nothing will ever be the same again. As someone who worked from home pre-pandemic, I found myself needing to adapt to the new norm and purchasing clothes that promoted comfort of style. Pre-pandemic even when I was working from home, I always dressed up in something other than my night wear or even lounge weather. Working in corporate I always needed to do video conference calls which meant I had to put in an effort with my outfits.

Thankfully, the pandemic changed that and now I want to always follow the sensible fashion tips for the new normal. Lounge wear that is comfortable and stylish is hard to come by because most lounge wear is created for utmost comfort and not style. Over the last 12 months I have purchased more loungewear outfits than normal clothing and I need I will need a period of adjustment before I can get back to normal. But since I know that won’t be happening anytime soon, I have decided to follow these 6 sensible fashion tips for the new normal and see how I could dress in comfort whilst staying safe and looking stylish.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post

6 Sensible Fashion Tips for the New Normal

After more than a year of living with COVID-19, you may be wondering if you’ll ever completely go back to your pre-pandemic wardrobe. It is not surprising that most of us have gotten accustomed to life in sweatpants, yet there are other ways to dress where you don’t have to compromise comfort for aesthetic. With varied options from running errands in tailored loungewear to wearing antimicrobial clothing, here are some suggestions to keep both fashion and function as you navigate the new normal. 

Add Some Flair Even If You’re Just Staying at Home

Work from home doesn’t mean you have to be stuck in sweatpants or pajamas the whole day. Try opting for relaxed but structured pieces that exude professionalism for when you have to turn on the camera during conference calls. This way, you’ll look the part, but you’ll still be comfortable enough that you can freely move around. Cardigans, shawls, and relaxed fit button downs will be your new best friends. 

That added piece to lift your mood doesn’t just have to be limited to your clothing. Accessorize with a statement necklace or a pair of dangling earrings for a touch of sparkle. This is an instant way to elevate a basic outfit. Use makeup to your advantage as well. You don’t have to do a full face, but apply your favorite lip or cheek tint for an instant mood booster that will show on screen.  You’ll leave your colleagues wondering how you manage to stay so polished despite everything that’s going on. 

Purchase Antimicrobial Clothing on Your Next Shopping Trip

This may be not as commonly available in the market, but antimicrobial fabric has the advantage of inhibiting growth of bacteria and viruses. This is definitely a feature that will come in handy given the current landscape. Most also have the added feature of odor control technology, so you stay fresh regardless of what your day has lined up for you. Hypoallergenic properties are also another common feature, making them  a suitable garment choice for even those with the most sensitive skin. You won’t have to worry about any rashes or redness even on hot and prickly days. They’re also washable and reusable, so you get the most bang for your buck when it comes to protective fashion. 

Don on a Dress for a Full Outfit with no Thinking Required

A dress is a quick fix to make you feel put together, feminine, and relaxed all at once with no added effort required. From eyelet and linen to cotton and chambray, you have a plethora of choices for fabrics as well as cuts depending on your mood and style. A-line is always a classic, but there are no hard and fast rules here. Simply put on whatever you’re feeling and get ready to face the day. Dresses give you an easy one article of clothing outfit for days when you just don’t have the headspace to take more on your plate. 

Distinguish Different Parts of Your Day with Your Outfit Choices

It’s easy for the day to just become one big blur if you don’t discipline yourself and block sections specifically for certain activities. To make this easier, use your outfit choices as markers as well. Have a set outfit for work even if it may just be from home, another for exercise, and leave the pajamas for bedtime. It might seem insignificant, but you’d be surprised by how just this small modification in your routine will get you out of whatever funk you’ve been in and instill a sense of responsibility. It will make you feel more accountable and could even help with time management in the process. 

Leverage Headwear to Distract from Hair Growth and Lack of Color

Haven’t been making your regular trips to the salon over the last year? Don’t worry, there are means to pull attention away from those spots of gray or longer than desirable lengths if you haven’t had the time nor energy to have your mane done. Go for headbands, headscarves or a classic updo to keep your tresses in place. You hit two birds with one stone and can unleash your creativity to discover new looks. This might just be the opportunity you’ve been looking for to rebrand yourself.

When in Doubt, Always Opt for Pockets

Choosing between outfits before stepping out? One practical recommendation would be to always go for an outfit that has pockets. You can store your trusty bottle of alcohol or hand sanitizer here for easy access to disinfecting your hands without having to rummage through a bag and risk touching multiple other items you may be carrying around. 

The new normal is definitely not the death of fashion. There are so many ways you can still express your sense of style and identity, while staying comfortable and taking added precautions.