The Key to Comfortable Work Clothes

How do you dress professionally and still feel comfortable in what you’re wearing? One of our mantras is “when you look good, you feel good” and the best way to feel good is to feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. Here are the keys to wearing clothes that are comfortable and professional.

When I talk to people about the importance of having a strong work wardrobe, one response I get a lot is “but work clothes aren’t comfortable”. The idea people have in their minds of work clothes are stuffy, structured, harsh pieces that scream discomfort. I’m here to tell you that’s no longer the case. I’m going to tell you exactly what to look for when shopping for comfortable work clothes. After you read this post, you’ll be the most comfortable professional in the office–no yoga pants necessary.

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Soft, Breathable Fabrics

Soft fabrics are the number one indicator that you’re buying something comfortable. With it being winter time, look for sweaters that are softer vs. harsh, scratchy knits. Sweaters that feature cashmere blends are some of the best! These boast the softness and warmth we seek in sweaters and guaranteed comfort. This same principle applies to blouses with the addition of breathable fabrics. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen hold their shape well without being too stuffy.

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Pants with Stretch

With the takeover of yoga pants in the 2000’s, we all seem to be chasing after yoga pant levels of comfort. I’m here to tell you the comfort you seek can be found in work pants too. The pants pictured in this post are pull on pants that have lots of stretch, no uncomfortable zippers or hooks and still look very professional. Women’s brands have begun to incorporate styles like this into their collections knowing that comfortable work clothes are non-negotiable.

A-Line Skirts

I love a good pencil skirt as much as the next girl but I know they can be uncomfortable. The shape of pencil skirts typically doesn’t allow for much leg movement when walking or sitting. A-line skirts are a great, more comfortable alternative. They accentuate your shape while still being modest and allow for more mobility. With an array of styles, you can easily find A-line skirts that suit your personal style.

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Modest Heel Height

Oh high heels! The demise of so many professional women who find themselves kicking their shoes off midday or coming home to soak their aching feet. Wearing heels that are too high will cause you to be extremely uncomfortable. The shoes you wear to work should have a heel of three inches or less. You can also opt for a chunky heel instead of a thinner one. Either of these styles will be easier to walk in throughout the day and your feet will thank you.

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Know your body

This concept is a little more abstract but probably the most important one. If you want comfortable work clothes, you have to know what works best for your body. It’s important to try things on to get a sense of what styles and shapes make you feel good. Pay close attention to what you know makes you feel uncomfortable and steer clear. This may take some time but it’ll be time well spent when you’re feeling confident and comfortable.