When you’re at home for weeks and have limited social contact, it feels reasonable to live in pajamas.
During the first few weeks of quarantine, my go-to look consisted of sweatshirts, yoga pants, mismatched socks, and messy buns. Shapeless sweatshirts became viable substitutes for my favorite spring clothing.
I gave up on investing time in getting ready since my schedule was now devoid of any potential for social outings. If it weren’t for quarantine, I wouldn’t spend entire days looking this unkempt. The modification of my wardrobe choices compelled me to ask myself: What am I dressing for? Am I dressing to please myself or an audience?
Although some people may view fashion as frivolous, I can’t deny its significance in my life. The garments I put on each morning have the potential to influence the energy I project for the rest of the day.
If I start the day by putting on the first pair of pants that I find in my pajama drawer, I am prone to feeling lethargic and unmotivated. When I dress sloppily, I feel sloppy. On the other hand, when I set aside time in the morning to style myself with clothing I love, I feel vibrant and put together. This morning ritual sets me up for a productive day.
Just like it’s important for me to feel confident in my clothing when I walk out the door, it should also be important for me to feel great in my clothing behind closed doors. If I’m truly dressing for myself, then why should my outfit selections change when I’m not in public? By putting less care into my outfits because there’s no one to dress up for, my love of fashion becomes attached to the gaze of an audience.
I’m not suggesting that the only way to boost your mood during quarantine is by getting dolled up every morning. Although wearing loungewear hampers my productivity, if sweatpants and sweatshirts make you feel your best, then, by all means, wear them. Whether you choose to wear basketball shorts or slip skirts, what matters is that you feel satisfied and productive in your clothing even within the confines of your home.
Dressing to feel your best is a form of self-care, and the beauty of styling yourself does not have to be reserved for the gaze of others. While you are self-isolating, embrace the freedom to dress for your enjoyment.
