Over the past couple of years, millions jobs have permanently moved from in-office to work from home (WFH). If this major shift affected your job, you likely hit a rut of wearing sweatpants and a t-shirt all day at some point. If this still sums up what you still wear most of the time, then the simple WFH style upgrades in this article will help you to look better, feel more professional and put together, and raise your personal standards – all hallmarks of the modern gentleman.
The best part? These clothing items won’t sacrifice your personal comfort.
Pants
Pants are the biggest key between feeling sloppy and gross, or professional and respectable. It’s likely no one will see your pants but you. Paying attention to a detail on you will notice is the hallmark of self respect.
Instead of sweatpants, try a sleek pair of stretchy, elastic-waisted pants that are cut like a chino. This change will instantly improve your look while maintaining comfort. The options below at a couple different price points offer an upgrade from your old, stained, baggy sweatpants.
- Bonobos All Week Flex Pant – $99-$119
- J. Crew Factory Tech Pants – $29.50
Shirts
Ah yes, one of the details that everyone on the Zoom calls will see. The level of dressiness definitely depends on your workplace. Most are probably ok with a t-shirt, while others may prefer a button down. Either way, you’ll want to maintain the comfort and cleaned up aesthetic from the pants section above.
The simplest upgrade is from a t-shirt to a polo shirt. This article goes in-depth on the best current polo shirt options. The Banana Republic option below is perfect upgrade from a t-shirt. Not too stuffy, and still very comfortable thanks to its silky and flexible luxury-touch fabric.
Another simple upgrade is a knit or tech-fabric button down shirt. These are super comfortable for everyday wear if your workplace requires dressier attire. This type of shirt is also great for remote interviews or just looking nicer if you have a Zoom call with a higher level manager or C-level executive in your company.
- Banana Republic Luxury Touch Polo – $60 (but usually on sale)
- Bonobos Knit Oxford Shirt – $59-$89
- Gap COOLMAX Ecomade Performance Poplin Shirt – $29.95 (as of 6/30/22)
Over Layers
When it’s a bit chilly, it’s easy to reach for your old reliable hoody you’ve had since college. While these items may have their place, if you plan to take your work seriously for the day, it’s best to upgrade from your worn out favorites.
Our recommendation is either a cotton shawl-collared sweater (very comfy and easy to take on and off to adjust for the temperature) or a soft shirt jacket. These will keep you warm and looking sharp. Favorites are listed below.
- Spier and Mackay Chunky Cardigan – $198
- Everlane No-Sweat Jacket – $64 (final sale)
- Goodthreads Heavyweight Flannel Shirt Jacket – $22-$45
Sometimes a hoodie can work, depending on your occupation and personal style. You should still ditch the ratty old hoodies and opt for something clean or more upscale. Check out this all black option for a modern spin on a classic velour look.
These simple WFH style upgrades will help you look better at home. When you look better, you feel better, and when you feel better, you work better. You should also try to get out of the house for a walk every now and then.
