This week, a reader DM’d me a simple request: My new boss insists we’re cameras-on for all Zoom calls. What do I wear? Casual office and I have a 3yr old.
A further conversation revealed that the reader didn’t need or want blouses, blazers, or “fancy” sweaters. She was just looking for a few options that would look more like pulled together work attire, but were also casual and could be washed. So let’s start with a simple inspiration photo, and I’ll discuss some other options below.
This outfit is from Fashion Jackson. It takes casual pieces that we many of us own and restyles them in a pulled-together way. I like that the outfit takes these basics and makes them feel fresh and fashionable by tying the front of the t-shirt, pushing up the sleeves on the jacket, and choosing a fun sneaker.
I’m not going to talk to much about the individual pieces because I want to discuss a few others that will be useful to work from home folks now and later.
Sanctuary T-Shirt // I chose a tee that already had a tied front. But you could easily tie up any t-shirt using this video tutorial.
Leggings // Colorfulkoala leggings with pockets are my go to — today, tomorrow, likely forever.
Jacket // The beloved LL Bean jacket is back, this time with flannel. It’s cold out. But you can also choose the unlined version, also in petite and plus.
Shoes // I wanted a fun sneaker, but blush wasn’t on order. I like this cheetah-print pair from Gola. If a light colored sneaker doesn’t work for you, this Rampage sneaker is worth a look.
Bag // I normally don’t advertise for designers with my clothing choices, but I thought this Marc Jacobs tote was cheeky. I also like that it’s canvas, so I can wash it if need be. If you just want a straight up tote bag, this grey slouchy bag is one of the most beautiful bags I’ve ever seen.
Earrings // I post these Missoma earrings constantly. There’s a reason for that. They’re a modern, chic hoop at a good price. I cannot recommend them highly enough.
As for other items that work for the at-home worker, I really like pieces that look professional on Zoom but are very comfortable. Collared shirts in soft, forgiving fabrics. Sweater blazers. Funnel neck sweaters. Here are a few more.
Daily Ritual Funnel Neck Sweater
Good Threads Brushed Twill Shirt
Soft Touch Side Stripe Sweater
J.Crew Factory Button Neck Sweatshirt
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We are on camera all day – it’s nice in some ways, but exhausting in others. I’m wearing my cowl neck sweaters on repeat. They look good, pretty professional when on client/external calls, they’re warm, and require very little styling. Loft usually has some good inexpensive options. Otherwise, a simple top and cardigan is a good option too – similar to the sweater blazer idea you had the other day – looks pulled together but comfy to sit all day. Always paired with leggings and slippers, of course.
Cowl neck sweaters are my go-to as well!!! And I’m obsessed with one I got at LOFT this year – it’s so soft.
ok ok I finally ordered the Colorfulkoala leggings. 😀 love this whole look!
I wear Jcrew tissue turtlenecks almost every day on my office calls. They look clean and professional IMO and are perfect for my constantly temperature changing apartment.
Love the JCrew Factory Button Neck Sweatshirt! I have it in two colors. It’s comfortable, super warm and looks great on zoom calls. I’ll wear a colored shirt underneath if I really need to dress it up.
I bought the LLBean jacket this fall after you’d mentioned it several times and it’s wonderful! I got the flannel lined one and it’s perfect. Loved how it’s both comfortable but structured enough to look presentable. (Also washes great, life with toddlers) Thank you for the recommendation!
I really like this jacket — it’s a sweatshirt, but really reads like a blazer on a zoom camera. I have black and green — you can do over a t-shirt or over a blouse if you want to look more grown up.
https://www.nordstrom.com/s/caslon-drape-collar-knit-blazer-regular-petite/5855238?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&color=001
I’ve been wearing my Chaps blouses and Old Navy blazers constantly for this reason – washable but work-appropriate.