For those of us who are fortunate enough to work from home during the coronavirus crisis, the concept of “workwear” has been completely redefined. Since loungewear became our daily uniform, with comfort at the forefront, many women have renounced their everyday workwear attire – including bras and shapewear. It seems as if we’re amidst a sartorial revolution, the evolution of business casual to casual comfort, and while it may feel natural to spend all day in your pajamas, the team at Shapermint is making the case for dressing up and staying in.

There are actually quite a few reasons why you should really be getting dressed each day. Studies have shown that there is truth to the axiom, “dress for success.” What we choose to wear can shift our mental processes, influencing our mood and even our productivity throughout the day. The best dressed version of ourselves is confident, and self-assured. Ultimately, the most important part of any WFH outfit is not only what feels comfortable, but what gives you confidence – inside and out.  In this strange WFH world, the only person to get dressed for is yourself. 

Whether your WFH commute is to the kitchen or the couch, getting dressed can be a form of self-love. Here to help you feel your best and hit refresh on your wardrobe is Gabrielle Joffie Richards, Sr. Brand Manager of Shapermint. From virtual conference calls to happy hour – and everything in between – here’s to getting dressed again and feeling amazing in your own skin.

Shapermint is here to remind you to treat yourself to a little self-love, spice up your wardrobe and get dressed again. 

How has WFH influenced or evolved your personal style? Working from home has given me a new appreciation for comfy and cozy essentials. At the start of my WFH style journey, I was sitting in denim all day. So uncomfortable! Fast-forward to now, and I’ve 100% adapted to our new norm of comfort without sacrificing style.

What factors influence your styling choices on the day-to-day? It’s in my nature to plan my week in advance, and although I love an organized outlook on my fashion choices, my morning mood is the deciding factor. Growing up, I was the kid who would lay her school clothes out at night but get up in the morning and have a complete change of heart. Not much has changed in that department! If I wake up on the wrong side of the bed (we’ve all been there), I will force myself into happiness by wearing one of my favorite graphic tees, or I’ll spice up my mood with bold accessories and makeup. On the days where I feel on top of the world, you will see me in bolder colors or prints.


Do you dress for comfort or style or somewhere in between?  I live for comfort. I used to go by the motto “beauty is pain” until I realized that I don’t actually have to be uncomfortable to look fashionable. When that notion clicked, I left the days where I’m purchasing a size smaller to feel good, or sucking in to look a certain way, in the past. My relationship with fashion is very much related to how I’m feeling. If I feel comfortable, I feel positive, and happy people always look good. Plus, my go-to drawer full of Shapermint essentials (my favorites are the leggings and camis) allow me to look cinched-in without feeling uncomfortable. 

What is your foolproof outfit formula for boosting your productivity and staying comfortable and stylish while working from home? The outfit formula that keeps me productive and stylish has to be one of my favorite graphic t-shirts paired with leggings, topped off with a denim button-down for a little structure -- and to show that I’m ready for business. For a final touch, I jazz it up with a great headband, red lip, and a great set of lashes.  

How does getting dressed for the day affect your mood? Feeling put-together and wearing an outfit that makes you feel good, can turn a bad day into a happy and confident one. Getting dressed reshapes my mindset to positively impact my day. Especially on days that I’m wearing my Shapermint leggings, I’ll literally do a double-take when I walk past my full-length mirror. The moment you slip into them, you’ll want to check yourself out. And to me, that’s the ultimate confidence boost.

Style tips for Zoom meetings...Zoom has become the new norm, so I’m making the most of it. I love changing my background for my Zoom calls, and oftentimes, I try to coordinate my outfits with them. By adding jewelry and a headband, or a top knot and a great lip, you can elevate your Zoom call look instantly. Oh, and *diva light* is essential…. Don’t even get me started on the Zoom HD feature...

How do you transition your look from WFH to evening? I typically wear the same clothing all day, but if I’m stepping out for the evening, I pump up my look a bit. I tease my hair out, add eyeliner or a pop of shadow, and some highlight to my makeup. For clothing, I’m typically in my leggings all day and like to transform this foundation for the night. I add a light jacket, and finally put on some shoes! If I’m staying in, I’ll swap out my leggings for a bike short or bodysuit to lounge around the house in, and my button-up top will be traded for a cozy robe.

What’s your go-to power combo that makes you feel ready to take on your to-do list? A strong cup of coffee and a great planner.

Go-to WFH essentials...Stretchy, comfortable clothing, a great playlist, essential oils, and a great water bottle. 

Shapermint staple… High Waist Leggings for sure!

WFH Style mantra… If you feel good, you look good. 

Photographer: M By Michaela Photography