As we enter yet another month of coronavirus-induced telecommuting, it’s certainly no secret that working from home (in the midst of a pandemic, no less) calls for a very different dress code than working from the ole office swivel chair. After all, signing online for a virtual Zoom meeting doesn’t exactly require the same sartorial standards as walking into a boardroom meeting, especially when you take into consideration the fact that staying healthy is (and should be) priority #1 right now.
Now that our business-as-usual attire has been relegated to the backs of our closets, we reached out to founders of successful companies to find out what they’re wearing to work from home during COVID-19. Ahead, Babba C. Rivera, the founder of the brand marketing agency ByBabba, Anine Bing, the founder and chief creative officer of Anine Bing, Blair Armstrong, the founder of the lauded beauty brand Gilded, and more divulge their WFH style staples they’re turning to day in and day out.
Co-Founder, Athena Club
What's your personal style?
Very laid back, clean, and classic. I typically reach for jeans and a T-shirt or sweater depending on the weather. I know it’s an unpopular opinion, but I find jeans comfortable! I’ve collected my favorite pairs and could wear them every day in any situation.
What are you currently wearing?
Even though I’m working remotely, I like to get dressed in the mornings to keep a routine. Right now I’m wearing Levi's 501 jeans with a J.Crew popover shirt.
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
It truly depends. In a formal meeting, I would wear a suit (I’ve kept a few of my most comfortable suits from my consulting days), however a lot of my important meetings are business casual, so a dark pair of jeans and a simple blouse are my go-to’s.
Founder, ByBabba
What's your personal style?
“Fashion meets business with a lot of colors and a playful Scandi vibe.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Right now, I am alternating between leggings-and-blazer looks or very colorful, more fun Scandi outfits to boost my energy. Peak Performance leggings, paired with a Ba&Sh blazer and a tee from Jeanerica. Or Stine Goya pants and top.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“Suits are my go-to, but during quarantine times I've tweaked it slightly by pairing blazers with leggings, so that I still look and feel polished for video conferences, but can simultaneously be ready for a midday workout through Instagram LIVE.”
Ariyana Hernandez
Co-Founder & CEO, NORA the agency
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is very fluid, typically predicated on how I'm feeling in the moment. Generally, I gravitate towards unique stand-out pieces that make a statement and have a strong penchant for airy neutrals. If I had to wear one style for the rest of my life it would be minimalistic resort wear—lots of linens and crushed silks.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Currently wearing a silk cami, a lounge set from Shaina Mote, and Objet Pendant from J. Hannah Jewelry. I love that Shaina Mote's pieces are timeless staples, super comfortable, and sustainably produced in Los Angeles.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“I can't bear to be uncomfortable while working from home but I still want to look professional (at least from the waist up)! I opt for a statement blouse or a loose jacket, simple gold jewelry, and lounge pants.”
Founder & Chief Creative Officer, ANINE BING
What's your personal style?
“Timeless style with a rock n' roll edge.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Florence Jeans. I've been wearing these jeans so much lately—they're so comfortable. It almost feels like I'm wearing sweatpants but the fact that they're denim, they make me feel so much more put together. Milo Tee. Everyone knows I love a crisp white tee, this one pairs perfectly with my Florence Jeans. Fishbone Blazer. Our Fishbone blazer is always my go-to. Getting up and getting dressed in the morning like I normally would to go into the office has helped me be more productive while I'm working from home.”
Founder & Designer, Printfresh
What's your personal style?
"Eclectic would probably put it best. It’s very dependent on how my morning starts off and what I’m up to. I’m also an aspiring (and failing) minimalist. Working in design, I’ve found that a bold outfit can really influence the color choices, pattern sensibilities, and other design preferences of the people around you. So when working with others, I tend to dress more simply, choosing neutral solids over bright prints. However, working from home has really changed that."
What are you currently wearing?
"Luckily we design and make pajamas, so wearing sleepwear during our weekly Zoom call with the team is totally appropriate. I alternate between wearing a full set and then sometimes mixing PJ bottoms with a sweater or a comfy solid or Grateful Dead tee (the only graphic tees I own). Our Blush Bagheera and embroidered Daughters of Triton styles are my personal favorites from our pajama collection.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
"Since our team is super small and we’re currently working remotely, these days I almost always choose to wear pajamas to our meetings. But if I’m feeling fancy I’ll do my hair and put on some of our little stud earrings that are easy for wearing at home and small enough that you can sleep in them (which is always a bonus!).”
Founder & Designer, Soluna Collective
What's your personal style?
"I love a good contrast, so I am always pushing the boundaries with how I style my clothing. Tight-fitting pants call for an extra loose top in my book and vice versa—bonus if texture and patterns are included in the mix. I like to build my wardrobe with simple silhouettes that can be paired with almost anything, the fun part is layering the different pieces! Layers are also essential living in Portland, where an afternoon sprinkle is to be expected, so I almost always carry an oversized jacket with me that can be thrown on at the slightest sight of rain. One of my favorite pieces to layer is a Woolrich jacket that used to belong to my grandma, and her brother before that. It's a rich royal blue color with a boxy fit, it adds the perfect pop of color and texture to any outfit. Finish the outfit off with wide-leg pants and a pair of boots and I call it good!”
What are you currently wearing?
“I am currently wearing our natural waffle pants (seriously the coziest work from home pants!) paired with a crop tank and an oversized vintage Pendleton shirt for an extra layer. During this period, where I have been home more than ever, I have found comfort in soft and cozy layers.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“For big meetings, I like to keep it simple. My favorite top to wear is actually from our new collection; the Wrap Jacket in Spruce Green Waffle. It has a belt that can be tied around the waist for definition and the textured waffle pattern provides an element of interest without being too distracting. I like to pair it with a wide-legged pair of pants, heeled boots, and statement earrings to finish the look.“
Founder, GILDED
What's your personal style?
"My personal style is feminine, elegant, and classic. I prefer well-crafted, timeless, and transitional pieces. My wardrobe is 99% dresses and skirts that I pair with complementary jewelry."
What are you currently wearing?
"I am currently wearing BCBG tanks. They are so lightweight and comfortable and I’ve been pairing them with my Alexander McQueen trousers."
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“My go-to for big meetings are power skirt suits and dresses.”
Founder & Designer, Indigo Swimwear
What's your personal style?
"I would say my personal style is pretty laid back beach vibes."
What are you currently wearing?
"I am currently wearing a white summer dress from Cleobella along with some of my favorite espadrille slides from Soludos."
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
"For big meetings, I really just go with the flow of how I am feeling that day but a dress like today or midi skirt with a cute top is usually my go-to!”
Founder & Designer, Port de Bras
What’s your personal style?
"I’m laid back, so a tailored casual outfit that looks effortless but still makes a statement is a style that works for almost everything.”
What are you currently wearing?
"I’m so into these Chanel sandals I purchased from Farfetch through my personal shopper @paulaco_style, paired with our soon to be released summer capsule items—the Carla Top & Shorts. They are dressy and fresh, perfect for a sunset drink with friends."
What’s your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
"Anything with the Port de Bras Shay Jacket. I designed it especially for meetings and now to WFH. They look amazing paired with our Jazmin Pants but can also work over a summer dress or even a bikini!"
Founder & Chief Exercise Officer, Pretty Girls Sweat
What's your personal style?
"Sporty chic.”
What are you currently wearing?
“PGS tees, Zara high-waisted pants, Kenzo sweatshirts, Nike sweatpants, UGG slippers.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“Black Gucci blazer, simple tank from naked wardrobe, sweat pants (since no one can see them on a zoom call), and statement earrings.”
Founder & CEO, Parachute
What's your personal style?
“Comfort has always been my top priority when I’m getting dressed. I live by the beach and my style is definitely inspired by the outdoors. You’ll find me in an unfussy t-shirt, sweater, and Levis, or one of my go-to dresses. Much like Parachute’s aesthetic, I tend to gravitate to a neutral color palette and look for quality fabrics.”
What are you currently wearing?
“I am currently in my Cloud Cotton Robe in Rose.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“We are pretty informal at Parachute. We make home essentials that are designed to be enjoyed and lived in, and our dress code is an extension of that laidback and welcoming brand ethos. For big meetings, I’ll throw on a pair of slacks and a leather jacket. I recommend having a big meeting uniform–one less thing to think about.“
Founder, Clare V.
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is always evolving, but I have an affinity for cropped trousers, a great blouse, and the perfect brogues or loafers—but right now, it's about staying comfortable throughout the day while working from home. While I typically always have a CV bag by my side, right now, it's the Emma in Yellow, a bright spot that I wear crossbody—it's the perfect size to keep my phone with me at all times, which has never been more important.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Currently, it's Richer Poorer sweatpants and our Blue Long Sleeve Hoodie with Poppy Jaguar Print.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“Right now, since all of our meetings are on Zoom, it's typically business on top and cozies on the bottom. I have a soft spot (literally) for Richer Poorer sweats and my soft knits from The Great, and when I want to feel a bit fancier, I'll throw on a dress from Ulla Johnson or Doen. And always socks with Birks for walking around the house.”
Co-Founder, Creative Label
What's your personal style?
“Elevated streetwear/creative professional.”
What are you currently wearing?
“An Asos blazer, Urban Outfitters hoodie, and Amazon Fashion biker shorts.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“Throw on a blazer over loungewear and it's instantly business casual. Some of my favorite loungewear items: Mayfair Group hoodies, Vida Moulin tie-dye loungewear sets (option 1 + option 2), and Asos blazers (option 1 + option 2.)”
Founder & CEO, Crown Affair
What's your personal style?
“My style is fairly simple and leans towards the casual side (even before we were all WFH!). I live in sweaters, denim, leather pants, silky wide-leg pants, and favorite vintage t-shirts and tanks. I'll usually pair that with a blazer or jacket to pull it all together. I like having my uniform, but then having variations on it that are a more playful, like tie-dye cashmere sweater instead of a neutral.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Right now at home, I'm here for something that feels like you're wearing PJs, but doesn't look like it. I've been living in these black Serena Pants from Billie the Label. They're so comfortable and I like wearing an actual pant when working during the day. I paired it with this neutral but playful cardigan from Jacquemus. Comfy enough to wear all day at home, but still feel like you got dressed for work. Taking a few moments to change from loungewear to a more pulled-together look has been helpful in creating new structures and separate my home and workspaces. I usually only wear Birkenstocks in the house, but I just ordered these Chuck 70s, so I've been wearing them inside to break them in a bit.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“As all meetings have been officially relocated to a Zoom link, it feels more natural to not get too dressed up even if you would wear a blazer for that same meeting IRL. Right now I've been wearing cashmere sweaters and I'll add an earring or necklace to make it feel more polished.”
Founder and CEO, Malai
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is comfortable but professional. I have a shop, and I'm often moving boxes around, and have to make sure that I stay comfortable. But my day also always involves speaking to vendors and investors, so I need to look professional. My style combines both of these things.”
What are you currently wearing?
“When I am not in my Brooklyn ice cream scoop shop, I am comfortably working from home in a Malai T-shirt with Lou & Grey linen pants. Our Malai tees are made with the finest California grown Supima cotton, and so incredibly comfy. The best part is that the T-shirts are created by my parents, who have owned their own textile company for the past 20 years. Their entrepreneurial journey and support has always inspired mine, so it brings me great joy that our businesses are united with our Malai T-shirts. Lou & Grey is my go-to brand for comfortable yet chic clothes. Their sunny-hue reminds me of saffron (one of my favorite spices that you find in our ice cream), and the airy texture keeps me calm during long days of our busy summer months. Most of all, they still make me feel super put-together (which is great when I have to jump on a video call or run down to the shop). While working from home, I basically have a rotation of both of these things: Lou & Grey pants and Malai tees!”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“When I actually need to get dressed up, I wear a Tory Burch dress from their pre-fall 2018 collection. It's light, airy, comfortable, and most importantly, makes me feel happy and confident (key for any business meetings). I was a 2018 Tory Burch Foundation Fellow, a fellowship that supports women entrepreneurs and provides them with a resource and network. I honestly think of my fellowship experience every time I put on that dress, which made me feel ready to take on the world.”
Founder & CEO, Love Wellness
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is a mix of high and low, and feminine and masculine. I love wearing baggy, high-waisted jeans with a spaghetti strap top, or a delicate dress with a men's cut corduroy jacket. I tend to stick to black, brown, white, and navy as my primary colors I wear.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Right now I'm mostly wearing sweatpants, just like the rest of the world. I love this Target brand I found on a recent trip to their headquarters in Minneapolis called Joy Lab. Everything is so soft and really affordable.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“I like to wear a nice sweater and pull my hair back from my face in a nice bun. Definitely looks presentable and polished!”
Co-Founder, Creative Label
What's your personal style?
“Chic, but I also love a good sporty and comfortable outfit.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Forever 21, Forever 21, and Forever 21.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“Typically a really cute top with a very casual bottom (no one would ever know!). I also love The Mayfair Group and Vida Moulin they both have great options for work from home attire. ”
CEO & Creative Director, Same Los Angeles
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is always changing! Right now, I’d say it’s very classic and chic but with an effortless twist. My style is always confident, that’s one thing that never changes.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Loungewear, but not pajamas! If I stay in the same clothes that I sleep in, I end up being less productive when working from home. But I’m also realistic and why would I dress up if I have nowhere to go and no one to see? So I’ve been wearing mainly cute loungewear sets! If I have to do a video conference call I’ll change my top to look professional, but leave my cozy pants on bottom!”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“A chic pantsuit. There’s something powerful and confident about a woman in a suit! I usually add a fun twist to make it modern and cool- whether that be a pop of color purse, a loose tee, or white sneakers.”
Founder of Sol Studio & Host of The Shine Online Podcast
What's your personal style?
“Comfortable, minimal, boho, relaxed, with a pop of color.”
What are you currently wearing?
My go-to outfit is a comfy bralette and sweatpants from Aerie with a headband or hair wrap.
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“I love to wear my favorite Everlane tee with a statement pair of earrings from Arlo Jean, probably with the same sweat pants.”
Co-Founder & Chief Digital Brand Officer, Summersalt
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is casual, modern, comfortable and polished. I love being incredibly comfortable in jeans, a great pair of sneakers but with a structured sweater or shirt.”
What are you currently wearing?
“I'm wearing my Summersalt Joggers and a white T-shirt from AYR. The perfect at-home look but still somewhat pulled together!”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“My go-to outfit for big meetings is usually a pair of jeans or pants that I feel incredibly confident in, a white button-down, gold bangles, and a pair of heels or sneakers. I have quickly learned that being confident and comfortable is the most important in big meetings, as opposed to trying to fit a predetermined norm. I'm not one for formal business attire.”
Co-Founder & CEO, Summersalt
What's your personal style?
“My personal style is modern classic but with a twist.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Today, I'm wearing jeans and a black T-shirt with Summersalt's Throw-and-Go Duster—my go to for my work from home routine.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“For big meetings, I love wearing the perfect blouse and Summersalt's Perfect Wide Leg Pant (sometimes a blazer) with my favorite Sarah Flint heels.”
What's your personal style?
“Menswear-inspired, classic with a twist. I like to wear clothing that's well-tailored and made from substantial materials; I prioritize comfort and softness when I buy things. My typical outfit recipe is a monochromatic or neutral base with colorful and fun socks, shoes, jewelry, and accessories to spice things up.”
What are you currently wearing?
“Lately, the concept of getting dressed revolves around whether I have a video conference that day or not. On days that I do, like today, it's business up top, comfortable on bottom. I'm wearing a Thomas Mason men's button-down (I like to shop from the men's department for a perfectly oversized fit), a pearl necklace, Hanes boxers, and cashmere Comme Si socks (ultimate WFH luxury). It's very Tom Cruise in ‘Risky Business’ meets Grace Kelly in ‘To Catch a Thief.’”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“For big meetings, I don't really deviate from my everyday style because I want to feel like myself, comfortable. You can tell when someone has dressed outside their norm, and they exude discomfort; I try to avoid that feeling. My go-to is a navy cashmere sweater with tailored navy trousers and clean sneakers.”
Founder, Megababe and The 12ish Style
What's your personal style?
“Colorful and fun.”
What are you currently wearing?
“I am in Maine and currently am wearing Megababe x Day/Won Leggings and a J.Crew Tie Dye Sweater. On my face, I am masking with Megababe’s Le Tush mask, which is facial grade, so I can use it on my face!”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“My go-to look is a Veronica Beard blazer. For summer, I will pair it with a Katie Sturino x Stitch Fix dress and a Lele Sadoughi headband.”
Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Hilma
What’s your personal style?
"I have actually never been asked to describe my personal style before, but I guess I would articulate it as casual but kind of modern? Is that a thing?! I am often wearing jeans and T-shirts but in varying degrees of nice. I will dress myself up or down based on accessories like earrings, shoes, and a blazer or sweater."
What are you currently wearing?
"Currently wearing old Acne Studio Jeans that I got seven years ago, an oversized Isabel Marant sweater that I love, and no shoes. I usually never work from home, but given today’s circumstances, that is obviously the new norm. For me, it is important to be really comfortable but to also not just be sitting in PJs all day."
What’s your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
"I am big on jeans, a crew neck T-shirt, a blazer, and a great flat or stacked heel. I keep my blazers for years (I even have one from when I was 16 and interning at Theory) and wear them over and over."
Brett Heyman
Founder & Creative Director, Edie Parker and Flower by Edie Parker
What's your personal style?
"My personal style is comfortable. But before this pandemic, I did have a better relationship with a waistband. Not so much anymore."
What are you currently wearing?
"I’ve been wearing knit sweat pants for the past ten days—mostly from Alexandra Golvanoff. I feel like I haven’t given up completely. Today, I decided it would be smart to put my jeans on to make sure they still fit. It wasn’t great, so I settled on my trusty pair of oversized vintage 501s. It’s a compromise. My hemp Edie Parker flower tee is warm and cozy, and my Elder Statesman socks make me feel like all will be okay in the world."
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
"I don’t have a go-to outfit for meetings. I’m pretty much always in vintage jeans and a sweater or blouse. But if I have to look a little more presentable, I’ll throw on some earrings and a kitten heel."
Founding Partner, Sol de Janeiro
What's your personal style?
“Casual and chic. I like my outfits to seamlessly take me from work to dinner out with friends or a date with my husband. I always wear jeans with a fun top and cute flats. I love making my outfits super colorful.”
What are you currently wearing?
“I am wearing Lululemon leggings with a fun and colorful T-shirt. While working from home, I need to be comfortable because my ‘office’ moves from the dinner table to the couch, to my bed.”
What's your go-to outfit for big meetings from home?
“I basically wear what I usually wear and take it up several notches with high heels, a tailored jacket, and statement earrings and necklaces. Also, more eye makeup and more fragrance! I love working at Sol de Janeiro because we’re very colorful, which is exactly my personal style.”
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