5 Easy Fashion Upgrades to Instantly Feel More Pulled Together

Over the last few years, I (like most American women) have been stuck in a style rut, living in a rotation of jeans, sweats, pajama pants, T-shirts and hoodies. After all, we didn’t have anywhere to go for a long time! But now that we do have more occasions to socialize, I am trying to fight my lazy ways and remember the joy of being well dressed.

The casualization of American fashion began long before the pandemic. Silicon Valley is partly to blame. Seeing CEOs wearing jeans and T-shirts to conferences led to a general lack of decorum in the way people dressed. The so-called athleisure trend accelerated it. Suddenly comfort came before everything else.

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But there is something to be said for dressing like a grownup — and with intention.

I have been retired for a few years, so my wardrobe has become much more casual than when I went to an office every day. But even 10 to 15 years ago, I remember getting into the elevator at Time Inc. (my then-employer) and seeing young women wearing ripped jeans, strapless maxi dresses, crop tops, leggings, etc., and thinking it was inappropriate.

I’m sorry, but I’m old-school. If you are lucky enough to be employed, especially in a corporate culture, you should realize that you represent the company. Dressing well is a matter of respect — for your superiors, for your clients and, ultimately, for yourself. The recent controversy about the Senate dress code proved the point. Looking like you just rolled out of bed and are on your way to the gym sends the wrong message. Your clothes speak volumes, even on zoom calls!

There is also a psychological component to the issue of dressing well. I know that I feel better when I look well turned out, even if I am just going to the grocery story or a doctor’s appointment or to visit a girlfriend. You never know who you may run into.

So, here are a few easy upgrades for every day.

Instead of a hoodie, try a poncho:

This figure-friendly knit topper works with everything from jeans to joggers and looks best when worn with a long-sleeve top.

(Left to right) Ulla Popken Knit Fringe Hem Oversized Poncho in Red ($80, ullapopken.com); J.Crew Wool-Cashmere Blend Turtleneck Poncho in Hther Birch ($150, jcrew.com); Lauren Convertible Mockneck Poncho in Black ($99, ralphlauren.com)

Ulla Popken; J.Crew; Ralph Lauren

Instead of a T-shirt, try a blouse:

Washable options make the upgrade from tee to blouse even easier. Add a wool blazer for extra panache.

(Left to right) Chico’s No Iron Stretch Shirt in Cosmic Cobalt ($80, chicos.com); Halogen Button-Up Shirt in Chianti ($89, nordstrom.com); Quince Washable Stretch Silk Tie Neck Blouse in Navy ($80, quince.com)

Chico's; Nordstrom; Quince

Instead of sweatpants, try a pull-on pant in a finer fabric:

Fluid fabrics are just as comfortable and a bit more polished. Patterns can also take an easy pant shape to a chicer level. Pair narrow pants with a pointy-toed flat or mule. Wide-leg styles look best with a heeled boot or shoe.

(Left to right) Banana Republic Tencel Cargo Jogger in Transition Cream ($42, bananrepublicfactory.gapfactory.com); Talbots Chatham Ankle Pants in Toasty Check ($109, talbots.com); Zara Elastic Waist Wide Leg Pants in Black ($48, zara.com/us)

Banana Republic Factory; Talbots; Zara

Instead of sneakers, try a stylish flat:

Ballet flats, tuxedo slippers and loafers step up your style, big-time. Wear them with no-show socks for added warmth.

(Clockwise from top left) Alfani Women’s Gayle Loafers in Black ($48, macys.com); Vince Camuto Minndy Cap Toe Flat in Beige/Black ($99, vincecamuto.com); Birdies The Starling in Leopard Tipped Calf Hair ($150, birdies.com)

Macy's; Vince Camuto; Birdies

Instead of a fleece vest, try a faux fur one:

The luxe look of faux fur adds visual interest to an everyday outfit.  You can even layer one under a light-weight coat when the weather turns colder.

(Left to right) Surell Rex Rabbit Faux Fur Vest in Black Frost ($175, bloomingdales.com); DKNY Oversized Collar Faux-Fur Vest in Ivory ($149, dkny.com); Donna Salyers Fabulous Furs Signature Series Hook Faux Fur Vest ($185, nordstrom.com)

Bloomingdale's; DKNY; Nordstrom

When my 96-year-old mother goes out for lunch (with an aid and in a wheelchair), she still considers her outfit, has her hair and nails done, and is fully accessorized with pretty jewelry and cute shoes. She’s my inspiration! In my opinion, if you give up on looking good, you may as well give up on everything.