With climate change, global unrest, and a volatile economy, the world seems to be getting more and more uncomfortable by the day. One may not be able to control external stress factors, but the least you can do is make yourself feel comfortable. Loosening muscles can calm nerves. Comfortable environments can soothe the mind. And with comfortable clothing, you can prioritize comfort wherever you go.
Remind yourself how it feels when you unbuckle a tight belt or unbutton a heavy jacket. The relief is incomparable. Designer stilettos may look gorgeous, but if they’re uncomfortable, you may spend your evening watching others enjoy the dance floor. While some may be willing to sacrifice comfort for style, the good news is that you don’t have to. There are plenty of clothing options that can be functional and fashionable.
Style is not just about clothes, but the overall look. The choice is yours. Fill up your closet with items that look good on mannequins or find stuff that suits your style and body. Follow the tips below to start, and then let your body decide what works for you and what doesn’t.
Table of Contents
Start With Your Base Layers
The first thing you put on when getting dressed is your underwear, and it sets the stage for the rest of your outfit. Your inner wear should be breathable and flexible. Avoid elastic and wires that dig into the skin. Women who opt for wireless bras are usually less prone to skin irritation as the relaxed fit allows better blood circulation. Similarly, men can benefit from choosing breathable fabrics and well-fitted underwear that offers support without constriction. Opting for styles like boxer briefs can provide a balance of comfort and flexibility while reducing the risk of chafing or skin irritation.
Feeling sweaty can make you itchy and uncomfortable, so don’t underestimate the importance of the right undergarments. Moisture-wicking materials can pull sweat away from the skin. This can be a game-changer when it comes to athletes or people living in warm climates. Choosing the right fabric can leave you feeling cool, dry, and safe from unpleasant body odor.
Feel the Fabric
No fabric is right or wrong, it just depends on where you are and what you’re doing. Cotton, bamboo, and linen are soft, light and perfect for loungewear or casual clothing. On the other hand, if you’re dressing up for a formal dinner, nothing beats the luxury of satin or silk or the flow of chiffon.
At times, the prices of fast fashion brands can be very tempting. However, like fast food, fast fashion can feel great for a moment, but not good for the long run. The items may cost less, but they can pill, shrink, or lose their shape. A comfortable wardrobe does not have to cost a fortune, but it should also not be dirt cheap, possibly made in sweatshops. You get what you pay for may sound cliché, but it rings true for clothing as well.
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Take some time to invest in a capsule wardrobe. Having fewer, high-quality items that look good on you are more important than having a closet overflowing with clothes. When possible, try to schedule an appointment with a stylist. Many high-end stores offer complimentary styling appointments with a purchase. The trained professional can go over the rule of thirds and other styling basics that can help you pick the right pieces.
Mixing and matching staple, comfortable pieces can be a great way to maximize the utility of your wardrobe. Finding new ways to wear the same black sweater can be a fun exercise. To make it less stressful, make sure you pick out your work clothes the night before. This will give you time to play around with different options when you’re not racing against time.
Try Varying Sizes
Try on your clothes even if you shop online. Most websites allow easy returns, so feel free to buy two different sizes if you’re not sure. Just because you usually wear a size 6, it is not the end of the world if a size 8 fits better. Different brands and cuts can have different measurements, so don’t limit yourself to a number on a tag. Comfort is more important than a number.
If you live in a climate where you need to layer, consider going up one size in your outer layers. This can make it more comfortable to add or remove layers as needed without having to go to the restrooms for a complete wardrobe change.
Add a Personal Touch
Top off the look with a statement piece to give your clothes some extra pizzazz. Nearly anyone can wear gold hoop earrings as a safe, classic choice. However, try to gradually curate a unique collection with items from your travels or handmade small businesses. This not only sets you apart from mass-produced, generic items, but can also be a great conversation starter.
The same rule can be applied to articles of clothing. A unique scarf, belt, or handbag can elevate a look without having to purchase more clothes. Choose functional and multipurpose pieces when possible. A warm, knitted scarf can not only add a pop of color to your winter coat, but it can also keep your neck warm.
Comfort = Confidence
Looking good and feeling good can go hand in hand if you’re willing to try new options. Explore new fabrics and cuts to discover what suits your body the best. This might mean you accept reality and let go of the delusion of returning to your pre-mom size again. Gather some courage and donate items that you want to fit in but can’t. Now that you’ve got the space, replace them with clothes that are comfy, yet classy.
The stress of juggling work and home is bad enough. Don’t make it worse by putting on clothes that make you feel stiff and suffocated. Choose your clothes wisely and prioritize comfort over fashion. Feeling comfortable exudes a confidence that can do wonders for your style. So, be kind to yourself and your body is going to thank you by looking its best.
