The Emergence of Workleisure: Work in Comfort and Style
Office culture has dramatically transformed since the first pandemic lockdown in 2020. However, it still exists as many employees engaged in hybrid agreements this year, committing to work a specific number of days each week The "great resignation" has lowered the ranking of offences that might result in dismissal for dress code infractions.
In many respects, fashion can be used as a lens to examine how societal trends change through time We have been dressed from the waist up for zoom meetings for more than two years, swapping sharp suiting for plush sweatpants. For some people, these days are over, and according to Microsoft, 50% of CEOs say their organisation now requires full-time in-person work or plans to in the coming year The question of what to dress to work is on many people's minds as the world gradually returns to in-person meetings and office presences.Although it doesn't look exactly the same, workwear is returning.
Retailers have created a new clothing category that combines professional attire with the comfort we have all come to expect while working remotely in an effort to appeal to this developing lifestyle that has allowed employees greater freedom over what they wear to work This method of dressing has even been given names by the fashion industry, namely "business comfort" and "workleisure "

So, what exactly is “workleisure”?
Many of us are prepared to say goodbye to wearing loungewear nonstop with hopeful hearts.As more and more business executives commute to work, whether daily or on a hybrid basis, a brand-new fashion sector called workleisure has evolved Power casual, another name for workleisure, combines formality with casual comfort Although they may seem like complete opposites, the two are working together to create the ideal canvas for both some personal expression and for easing the transition to the job
Even while this idea isn't really new, the pandemic gave it a chance to flourish Since everyone was looking for cosy clothing to wear at home last year, there was a more than 100% surge in internet searches for loungewear and activewear Given these facts, it seems to reason that workleisure would be the next logical step as we return to reality and go back to our actual workplaces. It strikes the ideal balance between maintaining our comfort at home while also seeming respectable, professional, and put together
If you're wondering what exactly a workleisure wardrobe consists of, worry no more since we have the answers. Here are a few items you should seek for to complete this ideal work-leisure style
Tops
Look for larger, more loosened silhouettes when purchasing tops Choose comfy clothes that nevertheless appear put together, such as blouses, big straight-fit shirts, well-fitting quality work polo shirts, or knit tops with fascinating features.
If the fabric or fit is more loose, look for clothing with unique necklines, such as square ones, and striking sleeves If you specifically need plus size work wear, start your search there to guarantee and put comfort above everything else. When worn with the right items, smart sweaters may keep you feeling quite comfortable while making you look as professional as ever
Trousers
Keep in mind that you can still choose comfy solutions for your workleisure bottoms. Look for clothing with a broader leg and an elasticized waist.Awide-leg silhouette generally gives you a smart appearance and the added comfort of not wearing tight pants Choose this in more structured materials like cotton for a look that is more appropriate for the workplace, or truly embrace the more casual vibe by choosing silk or linen.The key to wearing these kinds of trousers is to balance out the rest of your ensemble with classier yet comfy pieces
Paper bag waist pants are another wonderful style you should have in your work-and-play wardrobe.These are a fantastic starting point for an outfit and look excellent with a basic compact tucked in pilbara work shirts
If you're not quite ready to give up your sweat pants, choose a high-quality cream or black pair for a more elegant appearance. Stack on a big shirt and a knit vest. With a pair of loafers to complete the look, we're confident that nobody will notice that you're still as cosy as you were at home
Skirts
Choose flowy midi skirts with a comfy elastic waist in smooth materials if you're not even prepared for trousers in general and prefer skirts instead.These always provide you with an office-ready style while making you feel as if you're wearing nothing Knit skirts, either midi or knee-length, provide an additional choice These will help you stay warm and presentably dressed Stretchy in nature, it fits like a blanket and is comfy around the waist, but with much more of a stylish edge.
Dresses
Workleisure dresses are all about comfort and stretch It's the perfect piece to achieve this style because it's essentially a giant, oversized t-shirt that is made to look decent through fit and cut It will provide you with countless styling alternatives when styled with the appropriate accessories.
The knit dress is another fantastic piece of work-lounge attire These are fantastic additions to your work attire for when you return to the job because they are stretchy and comfortable Since they are complete outfits in themselves, these are simple things to have and can be worn with little to no effort on your side, making them ideal for throwing on and leaving the house
Layering
After tackling your primary pieces, let's discuss what to layer on top to either stay warm or simply give more appeal to your ensemble. Substitute more big and slouchy styles for your overly structured blazers, jackets, and coats These will still give your ensemble the polished, traditional workwear vibe you want, but in a much more cosy way
If you're just not that into the coats anymore, consider switching them out for some classy knit cardigans, vests, hoodies and jackets that can work just as well These add a traditional touch to the clothing, making it appear polished and put together without compromising your comfort.
Shoes
Although shoes may appear to be the item where you have the least amount of flexibility, there are ways to upgrade your wardrobe with more comfortable options
If you must still wear heels, choose a lower kitten-type heel like a mule or a slide. If you still want to add a little height with your shoes, pick a heel that is thicker because it will provide you with more support and be more comfortable for you to walk in
Just wear flats instead of heels if you're ready to give up heels.You have a wide range of choices Look for slides, sandals, loafers, and ballet flats All of these will offer your outfit a distinctive feel, especially if you choose a chunkier or more traditional sole For the winter months, you can also choose flat work boots You can choose from over-the-knee styles to ankle boots, depending on your preferences.
In terms of whether you can wear sneakers to work, it depends depend on the setting If you operate in the industrial sector, take into account comfortable and safety shoes. It is still a casual shoe, despite the fact that some varieties trend more towards a traditional appearance If you believe that sneakers are acceptable at work, choose neutrals and more sleek, simple pairs Aleather option is always a stylish way to look more put together When you use these ideas, a stylish pair of slip-on sneakers can also function. Make sure you understand how to maintain their appearance, nevertheless
Essentially
It appears that workleisure is here to stay And for that, we are grateful We are aware that this is the path that workwear is moving in Nothing beats being comfortable while working, even while items with a more traditional workday feel and more structure to them may be fun to wear It enables you to concentrate on your work rather than attempting to adjust your clothing or find a comfortable position
Leaning towards a workleisure look doesn't exclude you from combining some of your new workleisure pieces with items from your pre-Covid wardrobe You decide whether to embrace the workleisure trend wholeheartedly or perhaps briefly while fusing it with other looks.