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Hybrid work schedules create space for more of our lives but also beg the question: what should I wear every day of the week? Stacey London hosted a show in the early 2000s called What Not to Wear, showcasing fashion missteps and emphasizing that arriving overdressed or underdressed can impact your professional brand.
Dress codes might seem outdated, but it’s important to consider the culture, environment and audience you’re working with daily. When I started my internship at GE Capital, my orientation packet even included a poem on how to dress, which was helpful for a nervous newcomer.
In social settings, like birthday parties or weddings, we often text peers to ensure we’ll be dressed appropriately. Professionally, texting your boss or HR might feel like a stretch when starting a new role or joining a new company. As we navigate hybrid work environments, showing up appropriately can be confusing, especially when attending a board meeting or committee fundraiser, while others may be juggling their kid’s basketball game. That’s real life for many of us.
Dress Codes Are Out, Flexibility Is In
My old wardrobe was filled with pantsuits, jackets for speeches and silk blouses. Chunky plastic necklaces overflowed from my jewelry box, ready to brighten up black suits. But as summer ends and school begins, structure returns, while vacations quiet down until the holidays. As the world has shifted to hybrid work, so has my approach to dressing for both work and personal events. Suits are no longer practical as I navigate a blend of in-person meetings, kids’ schedules and constantly moving between the car, office and home.
Be Practical, Not Trendy
Fashion bloggers may have the inside scoop on trends from the runway, but for me and my clients, the focus is on practicality. Last Thursday, I went from the bus stop to a client meeting, then a Zoom call, followed by a fundraiser, and back to the bus stop. Along the way, I encountered community leaders, business teams and school parents. Add in walking the dog and a walking-talking coaching session, and you have the full picture of a working mom’s day. Moving in and out of my car and home office, and squeezing in self-care activities, requires not only a laptop and planner but also go-to professional outfits that flex with my schedule.
The Workforce Shift: Hybrid Work and New Routines
The shift to hybrid work has brought flexibility but also uncertainty. Some offices require specific in-person days, while others are more fluid, allowing any three days in the office. This often means a full set of cubicles one day and a half-empty office the next. Client events and fundraisers are ramping up, adding more complexity.
In my coaching program, interviewing season is picking up. It’s an exciting time when ideas turn into action, meetings and job offers. But with that comes the stress of deciding what to wear, especially in a hybrid work setting where no two weeks are the same. Here are my top outfit tips for navigating hybrid work and all the hats we wear.
What to Wear for Hybrid Work
Plan Your Week and Season
Look ahead five to ten days to plan for in-person or Zoom meetings. Pay attention to the weather and note it in your planner. Count the number of client lunches or events, any travel days and how often you'll be moving between different office buildings. Fall, in most parts of the country, means layers and options. We transition from Zoom calls to in-person coffee meetings to personal errands, like dentist appointments or picking up kids from school early for orthodontist visits, before heading to a lacrosse game.
From On-Camera to the Sports Field
Comfort is key when moving between the office, car and various settings throughout the day. A sweat-wicking button-down, like Athleta's Midday Shirt, paired with a camel sweater, makes temperature and location changes seamless. Wrinkles aren’t an issue with these fabrics. This week, I layered a ribbed tank underneath the button-down since it’s still in the high ’70s in September. I’m also excited to wear these cargo pants with practical pockets to an upcoming out-of-state meeting—they’re versatile enough for any setting.
Beyond Basics
Dress for the job you want, not the summer internship. A few signature colors can boost your confidence. While black, navy and white are staples, adding seasonal pops of color can help you stand out as the executive you are. I recently ordered Athleta’s Pinnacle pants in tan to expand my wardrobe options. I couldn’t resist trying this blue long-sleeve, which makes me stand out on video calls but still allows for a midday walk or meditation break.
Your "Just-in-Case" Bag
During my work trips, I used to carry an extra blouse in case of spills during turbulence. Now, with days filled with errands, work, dinner prep, sports and more, accidents still happen—shoes break, stains appear. I’m updating my "extras bag" from summer to fall. My summer kit included flip-flops, sunscreen and athleisure for myself and my daughters. Consider a similar approach for your work wardrobe. Keeping a pair of flats or sneakers in the car makes navigating the day’s unexpected events easier.
Skip Accessories
Many bloggers recommend chunky necklaces or statement earrings to elevate basic outfits. While that’s tempting, it can add unnecessary mental clutter to your morning routine. Instead, stick with simple staples like stud earrings that won’t interfere with your headset. I rotate the same jewelry every day and focus on efficiency. A practical layer, like this bomber jacket, adds interest to an outfit and easily transitions from meetings to dinner.
Fit in Your Self-Care
A walking meeting, a solo coffee date or a lunchtime Pilates class can keep your mind and body calm and energized. Plan your week to include moments that recharge you. Athleta’s Venice pants transition seamlessly from work to work out with a chic, New York Fashion Week vibe.
This article is not sponsored by Athleta.
