What to Wear While Working From Home
Over the past few years, remote and hybrid work have become the new normal for millions of people around the world. With commutes replaced by short walks to the kitchen and meetings happening over Zoom, it’s easy to fall into the habit of staying in pajamas all day. But what you wear—even at home—can have a real impact on how you feel and perform. Dressing with intention helps create mental boundaries between “home” and “work,” boosting both focus and motivation.
In this article, we’ll share outfit ideas that strike the perfect balance between comfort and confidence, so you can feel relaxed and ready to take on your day, even from your home office.
The Psychology of Getting Dressed for Work from Home
While working from home offers the freedom to wear whatever you like, research suggests that what you choose to wear still matters. Multiple studies have found that dressing in “work-appropriate” clothing—even in a remote setting—can positively impact your mindset, productivity, and overall sense of well-being.
One key reason is that clothes act as a signal to your brain. When you change out of pajamas and into something more structured—even if it’s just a comfortable knit top or clean pair of jeans—you’re telling yourself it’s time to shift into “work mode.” This mental boundary helps separate home life from work life, even if you’re operating out of the same space.
This effect is known in psychology as enclothed cognition, a concept introduced by researchers Hajo Adam and Adam Galinsky to describe how clothing can influence our thoughts and behaviors based on the meaning we associate with it. In a 2012 study, the researchers found that the meanings we associate with certain types of clothing can have a direct impact on how we think, feel, and perform. For example, participants who wore a lab coat they believed belonged to a doctor performed better on attention-related tasks than those who didn’t, simply because of what the coat represented.
In the context of remote work, this means that wearing clothes you associate with professionalism—whether it’s a casual blazer, a crisp shirt, or even a pair of structured joggers—can boost focus, self-confidence, and performance. It’s not about dressing up for others; it’s about dressing for yourself and the mindset you want to bring to the day.
What to Look For in Work From Home Outfits
Choosing what to wear while working from home isn’t just about appearances—it’s about how you feel throughout the day. The right outfit can help you stay comfortable, confident, and ready to engage, whether you’re deep in focused work or jumping on a surprise video call. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Comfort First
When you’re at home for hours on end, comfort is non-negotiable. Look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, modal, bamboo, or jersey blends—materials that feel good against your skin and allow for easy movement. Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or structured if it’s going to distract you from your work. Think cozy but put-together: joggers with stretch, oversized knits, or a relaxed button-up shirt.
Presentable for Video Calls
Even if you’re wearing slippers off-camera, your top half still matters. Choose clean, simple tops that look polished on screen—like solid-color T-shirts, sweaters, or casual blouses. Avoid overly bold graphics, wrinkled fabrics, or anything that could come across as messy or distracting on camera. A little grooming and a tidy neckline can go a long way in making you feel more “on.”
Mood-Boosting Colors
Color plays a subtle but powerful role in how we feel. Neutral tones like beige, navy, or soft gray create a calming vibe, while brighter colors—like coral, teal, or mustard—can help boost energy and mood. You don’t have to go bold; even wearing your favorite color in a small way, like a T-shirt or accessory, can make your day feel a little more upbeat.
5 Motivating Work From Home Outfit Ideas
The Elevated Loungewear Set
A matching knit set or cotton lounge suit instantly makes you look more put-together—even if it feels as cozy as your pajamas. Coordinated pieces give off an intentional vibe without requiring much effort. Look for soft materials like ribbed cotton or bamboo blends that drape well and feel breathable. Bonus: You’re video-call ready without changing a thing.
Tunic or Sweater + Leggings Combo
Pairing a long tunic or oversized sweater with a pair of quality leggings is the perfect blend of comfort and style. Leggings provide stretch and ease for all-day wear, while the longer top keeps things modest and flattering on camera. Add a pair of earrings, a simple necklace, or a classic watch to elevate the look just enough for a virtual meeting or a quick coffee run.
Soft Button-Down + Joggers
Pairing a loose, comfortable button-down—like one made from linen or soft cotton—with slim-fit joggers strikes a great balance: it keeps your look structured on top while staying relaxed and cozy from the waist down. It’s an ideal mix when you want to look a little more polished but aren’t in the mood for stiff pants. This look also transitions easily if you need to step out or hop on a professional call.
T-Shirt + Cardigan + Stretch Jeans
This combo is a reliable go-to for those who want to feel “dressed” without going overboard. A soft tee layered with a cardigan adds warmth and versatility, while stretch denim offers a bit more form than leggings. It’s a casual look that feels like real clothes—but still allows you to move comfortably through your day. Add cozy socks or house shoes to complete the vibe.
WFH Friday Athleisure Look
For the end of the week or slower days, go for a sporty, movement-friendly outfit: think high-waisted leggings or bike shorts paired with an oversized hoodie or performance top. This look is perfect if you plan to squeeze in a midday walk or quick home workout. It’s functional, laid-back, and still presentable enough for most casual check-ins.
Feel-Good Outfits for Focused Workdays
Working from home doesn’t mean you have to stay in sweats all day—or feel like you’re dressing up just for your laptop. The sweet spot lies in outfits that feel just right: comfortable enough for long hours at your desk, but polished enough to help you feel awake, confident, and capable. The clothes you wear at home can quietly influence your mindset, productivity, and even how you carry yourself on Zoom calls.
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different textures, layers, or colors that suit your personal vibe. Whether it’s a matching loungewear set or your favorite T-shirt with a blazer, choose pieces that make you feel like the best version of yourself—even if no one else sees them. After all, getting dressed with intention is one small shift that can make a big difference in your remote workday.
