The Mullet
(aka, the ultimate work from home outfit formula)
Now that the initial excitement of wearing sweatpants 24/7 has worn off, may I introduce to you the ultimate WFH outfit formula, the solution to feeling comfy AND like you’ve got your act together...
The Mullet
“‘The Mullet,’ you say?! As in, the hairstyle worn by Joe Exotic?” Yes, exactly: business in the front, party in the back. Now, I’m not talking about a *literal* interpretation. I’m talking about “inspired by.” Stick with me.
Essentially, one part of your outfit is “business,” and the other part is more “party” (which translates to athleisure, in this day and age, because, Covid). Maybe you top it off with some textured earrings, and a fabulous pair of socks, and voila! Instant outfit.
This formula breaks down into two options:
Option 1: “Business” top + “party” bottom + textured jewelry = instant outfit
**I prefer this for Zoom meetings because the business top makes you look more professional. It’s like a more refined version of the “Zoom shirt” concept.
Option 2: “Party” top + “business” bottom + textured jewelry = instant outfit
**If I don’t have a video meeting, I’m option 2 all the way because it’s personally more comfortable for me.
Okay, so let’s break down this formula some more:
Business
I like my “business” item to be more structured because the literal erectness of the garment makes me feel more alert. You get this structure from fabric and tailoring.
A perfect example is this Combine De Filles blouse because the lightweight tropical wool and the cap sleeves come together to create a pleasant stiffness in the shoulder. Or these Na Nin trousers that I’m legit obsessed with because they’re so darn comfortable and flattering—the cotton twill and pleats reference menswear, creating a more professional vibe.
Party
Now for the “party” piece. In tops, I aim for thinner, more delicate fabrics like lightweight cotton or silk and a more draped shoulder and/or relaxed neckline, like this For Days t-shirt.
In bottoms, I go for something that’s comfortable, but hugs the body, because the closer fit makes me sit up a little straighter. Think biker shorts or joggers. I’m a fan of Girlfriend Collective’s biker shorts and into Live the Process’ joggers.
Textured Jewelry
By textured jewelry, I’m envisioning something like these Lelia+Mae Nubian hoops. Or a bauble like the vintage necklace I’m wearing in the photo. The textured rope of the hoop catches the light just so and adds a bit more dimension to your look than the average earring. Same with the necklace’s spears. Neither is super in-your-face (which is perf for everyday), but you’ll still have a little something-something to catch the eye.
Instant Outfit
That’s it. You’re dressed! And you feel comfy as hell! And still put together enough that you could easily jump on a Zoom meeting or run out into the real world without a major outfit change. Oh, and you probably own all (or most) of the pieces for this formula ;)
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Xx,
Robyn