Who would have believed that getting dressed was a skill you could lose? That even the sharpest dressers among us could find themselves staring in confusion in front of their closets, incapable of putting an outfit together? More than a year spent in lockdown within the cocoon-like confines of hoodies and elastic waistbands has rendered even the most style-savvy among us at a loss for how to put on clothes.
But the time has come to get dressed again. Find inspiration (instead of trepidation) by investing in a new work blouse that may never see the cold glow of a Zoom screen. Store your sweats in favor of trousers that still feel like cozy pants but look ready for an important meeting or dinner party, buy some shoes for outside that are as comfortable as slippers, and spring for chic dresses that offer the comfort of a nightgown. If you're feeling truly bold, ease back into (small! block!) heels and jeans, apply a captivating shade of lipstick that won't be obscured by a mask, and stock up on accessories that make leaving the house a truly exciting endeavor. And please, don't forget your sunblock and hats.
Back-to-Work Blouses
You've read (and shopped) more than one story that champions the aesthetic (and mood-lifting) power of a blouse that will look great from the waist up for virtual meetings. Abandon that notion and shop tops for back to work that are meant to be paired with (gasp!) pants and skirts.
Chloé Printed Silk-Georgette Shirt
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Bottoms That Are as
Comfy as Sweatpants
The notion of putting real pants on again is daunting. Ease in slowly, without giving up an ounce of comfort, with trousers that give all the fashion clout and none of the discomfort.
Mother of Pearl Cropped Stretch-Cotton Pants
Khaite Teyana Wide-Leg Trousers
The Row Bonnie Trousers
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Mask-Off Lipsticks
Though masks will likely be a part of our future, the opportunities for naked faces are growing by the day. Take full advantage with bold lip shades that will never face the dreaded smear of mask mouth.
Armani Beauty Lip Power Long Lasting Satin Lipstick
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Jeans for Right
This Second
Sliding on a pair of jeans may be the lowest priority on your "Return to Real Life" list. So embrace the denim looks you know and love in pairs that won't cut off your circulation—and are too chic to ignore anymore.
B Sides Marcel Upcycled Jeans
Mother The Insider Crop Step Fray Jeans
Tu Es Mon Tresor The Emerald Straight-Leg Jeans
Prada Five-Pocket Denim Jeans
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Outfit-Saving Accessories
Not quite ready to reinvest in separates, but want to elevate your looks? Stick with accessories that stand out—and wear them with your favorite go-to pieces for an instant feel-good mirror moment.
Fallon Ruth Curb Chain Bracelet
Bottega Veneta The Medium Jodie Leather Bag
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Re-entry Heels
The first time you wear heels again may feel a bit, well, wobbly. But the day, the event, or the dress will arise that calls for a great pair. Be prepared something sturdier and lower to the ground but no less chic.
By Far Tanya Suede Mules
Bottega Veneta Almond Leather Slingback Pumps
The Row Constance Leather Sandals
Gucci Mid-Heel Slingback
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Gentle Dresses
Much like trousers that feel like cashmere joggers, a gentle dress is not unlike your favorite nightgown, just elevated. Whether you're in the market for a slip style or something with a statement sleeve, keep it comfy without sacrificing on silhouette, materials, and design.
Altuzarra Donrine Ruched Stretch-Cotton Poplin Midi Dress
Bassike Open-Back Tiered Cotton-Poplin Dress
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Shoes That Are a Step
Above Slippers
Some of us have become very attached to our slippers. So much so that we are barely able to walk indoors without a pair strapped to our feet. Go get your pedi and venture outside in slides that mimic your go-to house shoes.
Fabrizio Viti Berkley Daisy Slides
The Row Hook and Loop Leather Sport Sandals
Anine Bing Lizzie Slides
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Sunblock and Hats
Perhaps after so much time spent indoors all winter, you need a reminder that protecting your skin is a must. Get some precious vitamin D; just add sunblock and a hat. Because safety first, but keep it chic.
Polo Ralph Lauren Ralph Lauren Dodgers Cap
Kerry Pieri is Harper's Bazaar's Digital Fashion/Features Director. Kerry oversees the fashion vertical for BAZAAR.com, including launching digital covers, styling celebrity features, and managing recurring features including Brand Watch and My Life in Three Looks. In addition, Kerry edits the “best of” each season, from shoes to bags, denim and coats, and is consistently looking for shifts in the fashion realm to lend a voice. Kerry formerly served as the Editorial Director of StyleCaster.com and as a producer at Full Frontal Fashion. She lives in New York with her husband Steve, and baby girl Lila Sky.
