Still have a job? Then dress for work
QUESTION: I am going to return to work in my downtown office after seven months away during the pandemic. What should I wear? A dress? Pant suit? Have fashion styles become more casual? How about shoes? Are really high heels still in style?
CALLIE'S ANSWER: If you're really worried about it, go with what you wore seven months ago. If you need to adjust, dress for the entire day, once you get back into your work routine.
LILLIE-BETH'S ANSWER:
The world feels much more casual after months away, doesn't it? It's hard to get back into dressing-up-forwork mode after making things work from home. My office isn't getting a lot of foot traffic right now either: Even though we're open, our customers can easily interact with us online or by driving through, so it feels weird wearing a suit and such. But I would just start with what you were wearing before you stayed home. There's still a dress code, according to where you work, and I'm sure your office will want you to look professional and presentable. Start by wearing your regular attire and if you notice everyone else has dressed down or if your boss allows it, you can adjust accordingly. I've dressed up and worn heels a couple of times because it feels good to make that kind of effort and just to remember I could. And I know many people are missing the dressier clothes in their closet, so they're wearing them. Eventually pandemics end; it will be interesting to see how fashion adjusts along the way. The Washington Post recently wrote about this very question. “The future of workwear is not pajamas,” the story said.
HELEN'S ANSWER: It will be great fun getting back to your office, so put together something that you enjoy wearing. Fall is always a good time to wear pretty colors. Your dress codes probably remain the same, and your supervisor will let you know if more casual attire is accepted.
Chunky heels are in style and are comfortable. Pumps are still easy to wear for work and are still in style. And I think high heels look great. Platform heels on shoes and boots seem to be trending.
GUEST'S ANSWER: Linda Miller, fashion writer and author of The Oklahoman's “Fashion Matters” blog: I do think many are reaching for cozy and comfortable clothes during these unpredictable times. Sometimes that translates to more casual even in the office, but only if it's permitted.
Initially, play it safe and dress the way you did BC, or Before Coronavirus, at least until you learn if any dress restrictions have been loosened or imposed. As for shoes, wear what you love and what's comfortable. If that's high heels, go for it.