Gone Hybrid? How to Create A Work Wardrobe for the Office and Zoom
So, your job's gone hybrid.
Now you'll be showing up polished for the office and trying not to look too cozy on Zoom (even though we all know you’ve got sweatpants below the camera).
Finding the sweet spot between professional and comfy is easy with a few smart wardrobe moves.
Look chic from head to toe with a hybrid work wardrobe that works —whether you’re IRL or popping up in a Zoom!
Here are six easy, no-stress tips to manage your wardrobe for the hybrid life.
1. Create a Simple Wardrobe for Seamless Executive-Level Outfits
If you haven’t already heard me shouting about a cohesive wardrobe (aka capsule wardrobes btw), let me just say: It’s a game-changer.
You’ll know that everything works together.
Imagine getting dressed every morning with zero fuss, knowing everything works together. For hybrid professionals, it’s essential! A few versatile pieces—that fit together, fit you, and fit into your work culture—will work for both your office and Zoom outfits.
No more standing in front of your closet like, “Ugh, I have been putting an outfit together for 20 mins and still have nothing to wear.”
Step 1: edit your wardrobe down to the essentials. Essentials that fit well, make you feel confident, and fit into your professional dress code.
Step 2: invest in quality pieces that hold up both in person and on camera.
2. Zoom-Ready Tops: WFH Style That Supports Your Career Goals
The Zoom WFH wardrobe reality: it’s all about the top half.
Rather than wear whatever, choose shirts in colors that complement, styles that fit well, and vibes that reflect your personal brand.
How do you want your colleagues to remember you? Dress the part, even when only being seen from the neck up.
A few outfit tips for tops that work:
Choose necklines that don’t swallow your neck or face
Choose small patterns that don’t overwhelm the screen.
Keep it simple, but make it interesting: a little ruffle, or nice buttons, or a pretty color.
Solid, jewel-tone colors like emerald green, royal blue, or soft blush pink often translate well on camera, giving you that extra pop without feeling overwhelmed.
Pay attention to the fit—well-fitting clothes will help you look profesh, even after hours of sitting.
Pro-tip: avoid wearing a structured blazer unless you’re standing on the Zoom. It often rides up on camera and looks pretty dumb.
Other Zoom essentials?
Don’t show up wrinkled or covered in pills. Get a steamer and a sweater comb.
Choose fabrics like cotton blends, silk, or fine knit thats stay looking luxe and are a worthy investment.
And yes, you can keep your comfy pants on below the frame—but don’t get too comfortable, else you’ll stand up in the shot and ruin the ruse.
3. Let’s Redefine Business Casual for Hybrid Work
Gone are the days of stiff pencil skirts and stuffy suits.
Hybrid work often means finding the perfect middle ground between comfort and professionalism.
As a stylist who has dressed hundreds of serious NYC professionals, our best advice is to get dressed when you WFH, but take the dress code down a knotch.
Look for tailored pants with stretch or loose fits in polished cuts with a professional fits—these will give you the polished look you need for in-person meetings but still feel comfy enough for working from home.
4. Transitional Footwear: The Unsung Hero
Shoes are one of the most overlooked aspects of hybrid fashion, but they can completely transform how you feel (and how you walk into that office).
Enter transitional footwear that works well in all dress codes:
Low-block heels
Chic loafers
Dressy flats
Polished sneakers
Sleek boots
These styles are polished for in-person meetings, but they’re comfortable enough your real life without sacrificing comfort or style.
And, if you’re working from home and need to run out quickly for an unexpected meeting, having polished, slip-on loafers or chic ballet flats that complement your WFH look saves you from having to worry about changing.
5. Accessorizing WFH Looks For Zoom or The Office
Don’t sleep on accessories, even for Zoom calls.
A great pair of earrings or layered necklaces can take it from “I rolled out of bed” to “I’m running this meeting.” Plus, it’s a super easy way to add personality to your outfit.
And yes, accessories can be your secret weapon when feeling less-than-motivated to put real clothes on.
Look, hybrid work dress codes don’t have to be a soul-sucking chore. With a few smart wardrobe choices, you can easily transition between office days and Zoom meetings without having two entirely different sets of clothes.
