As the world navigates the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work arrangements have become the new norm. With many offices closed or operating remotely, professionals are adapting to virtual meetings and online collaborations through platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams. While the need to dress formally has diminished in quarantine-friendly settings, it’s still important for men to present themselves professionally for digital interactions with colleagues and superiors.
A work-from-home outfit that balances comfort and style can help employees feel more confident and prepared for these virtual meetings.
How to Dress When Working From Home?
While we often dress up to impress others, even when working from home, there’s a subtle difference. Since only the top portion of our body is visible on screen, we can opt for more relaxed attire like button-down shirts and shorts. However, dressing professionally still has its benefits – it boosts confidence and helps us stay focused. For men working from home, setting up an ergonomic workstation is crucial. Invest in a bendable office chair with adjustable armrests to maintain good posture.
It’s also essential to establish a routine, treating your home workspace as if you were in an office between 9 am and 5 pm. Business casual or smart casual outfits are perfect for video meetings, as they can positively impact our attitude and productivity. When it comes to wardrobe essentials, button-down shirts and blazers are must-haves. Keep a hat and scarf handy, too, as sitting for extended periods can make us feel chilly.
A hot beverage like coffee, tea, or chocolate can also help keep you warm and focused. To maintain work-life balance, consider using the Pomodoro time management technique. Take short breaks every 25 minutes to recharge and avoid burnout. Don’t forget to step away from your desk when feeling overwhelmed – take a walk outside, water some plants, or indulge in a hobby.
If you don’t have any meetings scheduled for the day, listen to uplifting music or lo-fi beats on YouTube or Spotify to stimulate and relax your mind. On the other hand, there are things not to do while working from home. Avoid distractions like playing games or having meals at your workstation. Never wear pajamas or tank tops to work, unless your supervisor allows it.
Always be prepared by showering, brushing your teeth, applying perfume, and enjoying a healthy breakfast before starting your day.
↓ 36. Sweatpants
There’s nothing wrong with embracing comfort while working from home. If sweatpants are your go-to attire, why not try incorporating them into your daily routine? Pair them with a crisp, well-ironed t-shirt that can be easily layered under a button-down shirt in case an unexpected video conference pops up.
↓ 35. Work From Home Suit
When it comes to dressing for a Monday, aim for a stylish yet understated look. A suit is still a great choice, but don’t feel pressured to overdress. Instead, opt for a more relaxed style that’s perfect for the start of the week. This means you can skip the tie altogether and leave your blazer unbuttoned. If you’re feeling bold and have a green suit, consider pairing it with a simple white undershirt to add some visual interest.
↓ 34. Outdoor Meetings
While awaiting a call from your boss despite not having a shift scheduled for the day, consider adjusting your plans to accommodate some downtime. Bring along your device and dress in a manner that’s suitable for the occasion – a polo shirt should suffice, unless instructed otherwise by your supervisor.
↓ 33. Comfy Roll-neck
While it may seem unconventional to wear a roll-neck sweater to a virtual meeting, it’s actually an excellent choice. Not only will it provide the necessary warmth and comfort, but it’s also suitable for those chilly winter evenings or cold nights when you’re stuck indoors. The practical benefits of this simple yet effective attire make it an ideal selection for your digital gathering.
↓ 32. Smart Loungewear
Transforming from high street fashion to a stylish smart casual look is just the beginning. A well-chosen loungewear set can also be your go-to for work-from-home attire, providing comfort and versatility. For instance, pair a statement-making red roll-neck sweater with a sleek black peacoat or opt for a chic combination of a black bomber jacket and a grey turtleneck. The possibilities are endless when you’ve got the right pieces in your wardrobe.
↓ 31. Borg Jacket
A staple in many winter wardrobes, the borg jacket is versatile and practical for layering purposes. Its ability to keep you warm makes it an ideal choice for a home office setting. When styling your outfit, consider pairing the cream-colored borg with a blue flannel shirt and beige turtleneck for a cozy and put-together look. If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to wear turtlenecks, here are some additional ideas:
↓ 30. Ultimate Grey Lounge Set
For those who prefer simplicity, going monochromatic is an excellent option. A grey pullover paired with matching grey sweatpants creates a harmonious and effortless look that’s as practical as it is chic. This understated ensemble makes for a great choice when you’re facing a marathon-like stretch of workload, as the uniform tone helps to streamline your morning routine and gets you ready to tackle the day without distractions.
↓ 29. Denim
Seize the opportunity to incorporate streetwear elements into your work attire, even if you’re not working in the fashion industry. Pair a distressed denim jacket with a crisp white T-shirt for a stylish and laid-back ensemble. Complete the look by adding grey chinos that blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetic.
↓ 28. Timeless And Classic Style
Pair a crisp grey wool button-down shirt with matching grey chinos for a timeless combination. Add some visual interest by leaving the top three buttons undone. This outfit is versatile enough to take you from casual gatherings at home to more formal meetings at the office, and even works well with an iPad or tablet if you need to make a presentation.
↓ 27. Staple Wardrobe
When looking to substitute a traditional blazer, a blue jacket shirt can be an excellent alternative. To create a stylish outfit, combine the shirt with well-fitting blue slacks that are either regular or tailored in style. For added visual appeal, pair this combination with a grey roll-neck sweater.
↓ 26. Working On A Holiday
When it comes to dressing for the holidays or heading back to work after the break, incorporating earthy tones into your winter wardrobe can be a great idea. Consider wearing an old-looking overcoat that doubles as a blazer and pair it with a turtleneck of the same color to create a cohesive look.
↓ 25. Minimal Suit
In essence, simplicity is the hallmark of sophistication. When it comes to dressing for a WFH setup, restraint is key. Aiming to appear professional and presentable without appearing arrogant, one should avoid over-accessorizing. In this context, ties and pocket squares are best left out.
↓ 24. Brown Suit
When dressing down for a less formal occasion, it’s all about striking the right balance between style and comfort. To achieve this, consider swapping out your usual button-down undershirt for something simpler, like a plain white T-shirt. This subtle change can help tone down the overall formality of your brown suit. Additionally, try leaving the blazer open to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
When it comes to lapels, opt for either a peak or notch design – these are great options for everyday wear and won’t overwhelm the overall look. Save the shawl lapel for those special, more formal events where you want to make a bigger impression.
↓ 23. Typical Office Wear
Pairing a timeless blue blazer with a crisp white T-shirt creates a solid foundation for this versatile outfit. The notch lapel adds a touch of sophistication, while the combination of blue on top and bottom creates a harmonious color scheme. To complete the look, add some light brown or khaki chino pants that will blend seamlessly with the rest of the ensemble. This classic combo is perfect for a variety of occasions, making it an excellent addition to your wardrobe staples.
For more inspiration, check out our collection of khaki pants outfits.
↓ 22. Sky Blue Button-down
For a stylish yet effortless look, try pairing a sky blue button-down shirt with blue chinos. To add some visual interest, leave the top buttons of the shirt undone – two or three levels down from the collar – so that your plain white T-shirt peeking out underneath adds a touch of contrast. Finally, tuck the shirt in and roll up the sleeves to create a relaxed yet polished overall appearance.
↓ 21. Sleek And Elegant
To maintain a professional demeanor, consider tucking your shirt in, which can help you feel more like you’re at work rather than at home. When it comes to your pants, you may choose to wear a belt if they fit loosely around your waist. Additionally, keep your watch securely on your wrist to ensure you stay on schedule.
↓ 20. Woolen Sweater
When it comes to battling the chill, a sweater is an excellent choice. This versatile piece of clothing can be just as effective at keeping you cozy in air-conditioned spaces as it would be in freezing temperatures. Even if you reside in a region with no harsh winters, an air-conditioned home office or car can still get quite cool. A blue roll-neck sweater, paired with matching blue plaid pants, is a stylish and practical combination that will keep you warm and comfortable all day.
↓ 19. Working In Winter
When the temperature drops in your room, a long grey overcoat can be your trusted companion, keeping you warm and focused on your tasks. But why stop there? Why not add a pop of color with a pink T-shirt? The combination is surprisingly effective, allowing you to stay cozy and motivated as you tackle whatever project lies ahead. This unlikely duo may just become your new favorite work-from-home uniform.
↓ 18. Athleisure Work From Home Outfits
When given the freedom to dress casually or athleisure-styled for work, take advantage of it. A blue shirt can be a great combination with blue denim jeans, and adding a striped tee elevates the overall look. To complete the outfit, make sure your collar is fixed, roll up your sleeves, and tuck in your T-shirt. With these simple details, you’ll exude confidence and be prepared to tackle any challenge that comes your way, whether it’s at the office or beyond.
↓ 17. Black Suede Jacket And Pink Beanie
When it comes to creating a stylish ensemble, consider pairing a leather jacket with a subtle finish. A black suede jacket with a turtleneck, for instance, can provide a chic foundation. To add some visual interest, opt for a bold headpiece that contrasts with the rest of your outfit. Since the majority of the pieces will be black, a pop of color like a pink beanie can create a striking combination.
↓ 16. Casual Look
While streetwear has its edgy vibe, a bomber jacket can also exude professionalism when styled thoughtfully. Consider pairing it with a crisp light blue collared shirt for a stylish yet put-together look perfect for a Wednesday workday. If the temperature dips, a grey beanie will not only add a pop of color but also keep you warm and toasty.
↓ 15. Sharp And Nice
For a timeless and effortlessly stylish outfit, consider pairing a crisp white button-down shirt with grey trousers. To add a touch of elegance, leave the sleeves unrolled and keep the shirt neatly tucked in at the waist. A silver wristwatch is a great finishing touch to complete the look.
↓ 14. Cute & Comfy Work From Home Outfit
When aiming for a smart casual ensemble, consider pairing an earthy crewneck jumper with a light blue collared shirt. This combination allows you to showcase the collar and create a stylish yet approachable look. To elevate the outfit further, select a knitted sweater that complements your hair color, adding a touch of personal flair.
↓ 13. For Business Presentations
For a straightforward and effective approach, consider sticking to a tried-and-true combination. Opt for an ocean-blue suit for your video call with colleagues, ensuring the undershirt is also blue, though with a slightly different hue to avoid visual monotony.
↓ 12. For Project Proposals
Make a lasting impression on your boss and the board of directors by incorporating a timeless and versatile combination into your outfit: a black blazer paired with a rich maroon turtleneck. This stylish ensemble is suitable for even the most formal occasions, including proposal presentations or regular Tuesday workdays. The key to pulling off this look lies in its ability to exude confidence and sophistication while also being easy to mix-and-match with other pieces in your wardrobe.
↓ 11. Autumn Vibe
As the fall season approaches, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop significantly, much like the winter months. To ensure you’re prepared for any chilly day at work, consider investing in a reliable peacoat. This timeless piece of outerwear is designed to provide warmth and comfort, making it an ideal choice for those long nights spent working overtime. When styled correctly, a peacoat can be incredibly versatile.
Here are some of our favorite ways to incorporate this wardrobe staple into your daily routine.
↓ 10. Pinstripe Suit
As you embark on the first day of the week, Mondays often demand a certain level of professionalism to set the tone for the rest of the days. A well-chosen pinstripe suit can be an effective tool in projecting stability and responsibility, even if it’s not your favorite outfit. By wearing one, you’re sending a message to yourself and others that you’re committed to tackling the week ahead with confidence and authority.
↓ 9. Black Leather Jacket
When it comes to dressing down for casual Fridays or a night out with friends, a leather jacket can be a versatile alternative to traditional office overcoats. Typically reserved for streetwear and evening wear, this stylish piece of clothing is perfect for days when the dress code relaxes. On a day like today, where your boss has given you the green light to express yourself through fashion, why not seize the opportunity to add some edge to your outfit?
A plain white tee pairs perfectly with a leather jacket, creating a chic and effortless look that’s sure to turn heads.
↓ 8. Shacket
A versatile and practical addition to any wardrobe, the humble shacket offers the best of both worlds – the comfort and warmth of a shirt, and the structure and coverage of a jacket. This multi-faceted layering piece is perfect for creating a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere, whether you’re working from home or just lounging around.
The beige hue is particularly well-suited to this setup, providing a neutral backdrop that pairs effortlessly with a variety of outfits while also offering a touch of warmth and texture.
↓ 7. For Older Men
For discerning gentlemen, consider incorporating eco-friendly textiles into their wardrobe by donning a recycled wool coat or a statement-making feather anorak. A staple in any mature man’s closet is a quality piece that exudes sophistication, making solid colors like grey particularly flattering for those with distinguished faces and distinguished hair.
↓ 6. Earth Tones
When it comes to styling a brown zip-up knitted sweater, one of the most effortless and versatile combinations is pairing it with blue jeans. The earthy tone of the sweater creates a harmonious contrast with the casual, rugged look of the denim, making for a stylish ensemble that suits men with golden locks particularly well. For an added layer of sophistication, consider layering the sweater under a classic denim jacket, which adds texture and depth to the overall outfit.
↓ 5. Standard Office Attire
Ditch the formal attire and opt for something more relaxed. Since you’re not bound by corporate dress codes, take advantage of the opportunity to express your personal style. Trade in suits and ties for casual tops like T-shirts or tunics that exude a laid-back vibe.
↓ 4. For Young Professionals
For a timeless and versatile wardrobe choice, consider pairing a crisp white button-down shirt with a pair of sleek black slacks for a polished look that’s perfect for a Thursday workday or any professional occasion. The classic combination is both understated and effective, making it an excellent addition to your everyday attire.
↓ 3. Make-up Shift
A black polo shirt is an incredibly versatile and reliable staple in any wardrobe. When you find yourself in the midst of a fashion emergency, struggling to come up with yet another outfit combination for the week, this simple yet effective piece can be your savior.
It’s understandable that some might initially think it lacks professionalism, but the reality is that many professionals across various industries – including white-collar workers – wear black polo shirts to work, often as a practical choice when laundry day falls on the next day.
↓ 2. For Unannounced Meetings
When an unexpected meeting with your boss arises, being prepared is key. You’ve got this! As it happens, you’re already dressed to impress in your trusty beige crewneck jumper, which pairs perfectly with the brown flannel that’s a staple in your wardrobe. This effortless combination exudes a professional yet stylish vibe, making you feel confident and put-together.
↓ 1. Work From Home Shorts
When it comes to dressing for a video appearance, the key takeaway is that your upper body is the focal point. Since the camera will capture your torso, the focus should be on ensuring your top half looks great. A well-fitting blue collared shirt is a great example of how you can effortlessly create a professional impression without worrying about what’s beneath. By keeping the attention on your upper body, you can confidently present yourself to your audience.
