Okay ladies, how many of you are guilty of wearing the least comfortable outfit just to look good for an office job? I think we all can raise our hands. However, by the time the clock strikes noon, we’re probably daydreaming of the moment we can peel off our stilettos and stuffy blazer in favor of something a wee bit cozier. Below are some tips to help you balance comfort with style so you can look and feel your best day after day.
Heels, flats, and boots, oh my!
When selecting fashionable yet practical shoes, it’s a good idea to locate a store that specializes in footwear. In quality shoe stores, employees are trained to pick the correct sizes and suggest the ideal options that would fit the shape of your foot. Shoe inserts, especially those made for heel wearers are fantastic for making your feet even happier.
When selecting your shoes, consider the following:
- Choose a heel that is thick and shorter than ones that are tall and balancing on stilts. There are plenty of stylish pumps that won’t sacrifice your wellbeing.
- Avoid styles that have dramatic angles that put unnecessary weight on the ball of your foot. Platforms are an alternative that grant you the desired height without the unnatural positioning
- Steer clear of pointy shoes and, instead, choose ones with wider fronts to evade common condition like bunions, hammer toes and more. Dansko (which you can find here) is well known for providing polished clogs that have healthily rounded and ample toe boxes, making them especially suitable for women who are combatting some of the previously mentioned foot conditions
- Proper arch support is key, especially if you suffer from flat feet or over pronation
Footwear that is cozy yet fashionable is worth the investment, and your feet will thank you!
Blouses.
Blouses touch your skin for all eight (or more) hours at the office, so finding ones that feel good is a necessity. When selecting a fabric, try to avoid blended materials. Cotton mixed with polyester can create skin irritation, especially in warmer months. Pure cotton is the best way to go for ultimate softness and comfort. When searching for textiles that feel good, look for names such as twill, oxford, poplin, herringbone, broadcloth, and 2-ply.
These options require a bit more attention than synthetic blends, but a little ironing and air-drying will go a long way. You may have to spend a little more money for the artificial fabrics but in the end, they will have a much greater lifespan. Your skin will thank you later!
Dresses, skirts, and slacks.
In the summer months, women often like to wear dresses and skirts to the office. Comfortable dresses and skirts feature light and airy materials such as chiffon, voile, and eyelet lace. When deciding how tight your outfit should be, loose is always the way to go.
Try to avoid dresses and skirts that cling to your body or are rough against the skin. Shift dresses are very fashionable, and inexpensive. These garments come in plenty of colors and patterns that can go from office attire to evening dinner in a snap.
A-line skirts are a popular choice because they accentuate the waist while adding a feminine flair at the base. These types of skirts, much like others, can be found with elastic waistbands that make them super snug. If you’re looking for a pair slacks, pick some that are loose fitting. Slouchy, loose-fitting slacks are making a comeback. They look great at work, and you can also sit on your couch with them in style.
Remember to choose soft, quality fabrics and materials for your best day. Quality is important to help you look and feel good. If you’re thinking that you don’t want to spend a lot for new outfits, visit the sales racks and look for online deals! You can find plenty of fashionable, quality clothing and shoes at a discount that won’t break the bank.
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