In an era in which we are still told how we should talk, act and above all, look, I find it hard to choose clothes on a day-to-day basis. I work in quite a posh childcare setting so I need to look smart but feel comfortable enough. In more formal settings, such as going into the office to write articles, I must dress classy yet not too revealing. In social gatherings, I can finally be myself but still feel overlooked.
When the world seems a bit darker than usual and life does not go our way, I believe that we should owe ourselves a break and dress as we feel. It is time to change the narrative and turn over every constraint that society imposes. Here’s how to dress on these occasions
Off to the office, we go
Having an important meeting and being chained to the desk should not require huge levels of sophistication. We can be ourselves at work, especially on hard days. I am not telling you to wear crocks, joggers and a hoodie but I would encourage you to be comfortable. You don’t have to wear stilettos, dresses or even a suit - there are plenty of trousers out there that are dressy enough with a stretchy waistband. Opt for low block heels or cute little flats. Wear that comfort top or jumper if you want. Just make it as stylish as possible and it will do. On a low day, I love to wear T-shirts that I can tuck into a nice pencil or flared skirt that say something like ‘Love Yourself’ or ‘Daydream’ or something else enchanting or motivational. It usually boosts my colleagues’ mood as well. If all else fails, opt for simplicity. Life is complicated enough. If you don’t want to wear any make-up, don’t wear it.
Going for a stroll to clear your mind
Here is another activity that doesn’t require make-up. However, I do have a tip if you really can’t go without it - kohl pencils are your best friend. They take two minutes to apply and will enhance any weary pair of eyes. Choose waterproof especially with this heat we’re currently having as you don’t want to end up with panda eyes.
Style them with those joggers that you never got round to wearing to the gym. Or maybe some leggings and a T-shirt. Wear loose clothes, because when the world feels heavy, thick clothes can make us feel like we can’t breathe. As much as your mind needs fresh air, your skin does too. Be free with your clothing and let nature hold you by the hand and heal whatever it is you are going through.
Going on a date when you feel so-so
You’ve had a succession of bad days and the last thing you feel like doing is dressing up in tight bodycon dress to show off your curves to your new date. The same rules apply here too: there are plenty of loose, comfy dresses out there that look incredibly sexy. Know that sexy is a game of the eyes, teasing, touching and the right number of flirtatious words. If the guy likes you, he will stick around. Don’t put on a show and stay true to yourself.
Staying at home with boo
Your partner wants to spend the weekend with you and you’re feeling adrift. No worries, we’ve got this. Open up to him and wear your pyjamas all weekend if you like. There are so many cute ones out there. They don’t have to be lace or silk, just keep it simple. If you want to wear one’s with puppies, kittens, rainbows, or heart prints, then wear them.
Nonetheless, don’t neglect your hygiene, although I understand that when you are down, you don’t have the energy to do much. Dry shampoo though, is your friend.
Attending social gatherings
You are with your tribe, and you’re not feeling your best. If you want to wear a long T-shirt with a slogan like ‘It’s okay not to be okay’ written on it and a ponytail, just wear that. Your friends know you best and they probably know you’ve been struggling and so they don’t care what you wear. You shouldn’t care either what the couple on the other side of your table think too. And you know what? If they do think anything, they are probably in the wrong place because you only hang out in cool places with the coolest of people. Dress as you want and fill up on good energy. Good vibes only!
How do you like to dress when you're coping with hard times? Let us know in the comments below.
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