The ‘Work From Home’ Wardrobe That Doesn’t Scream ‘I Just Rolled Out of Bed’ (Even If You Did)

Alright, let’s be honest. The shift to working from home for many of us in the UK has been… interesting. The commute might have shrunk to the distance between your bed and the kitchen table, and “business casual” for a while there probably meant a shirt on top (for Zoom calls) and pyjama bottoms below. But as WFH becomes less of a novelty and more of a norm for many, it’s time to address the wardrobe. Living in your threadbare joggers and that favourite, slightly stained band t-shirt might be comfortable, but it doesn’t always do wonders for your mindset, productivity, or indeed, your unexpected video call readiness.

The goal here isn’t to suggest you suit up like you’re heading to Canary Wharf. Far from it. It’s about finding that sweet spot: comfortable menswear that’s presentable enough for any virtual meeting, helps you mentally switch into “work mode,” and doesn’t make you dive behind the sofa if the postman rings the doorbell. Think smart loungewear, UK style – practical, presentable, and comfy as owt.

Why Bother Getting “Dressed” for WFH Anyway?

Before we dive into the “what,” let’s quickly touch on the “why”:

Mental Shift: The act of changing out of your pyjamas can create a psychological boundary between “rest time” and “work time,” boosting focus.
Video Call Confidence: No more last-minute panic trying to find a clean, uncreased top. You’re always (at least from the waist up) good to go.
Productivity Boost: Some studies (and plenty of anecdotal evidence) suggest that dressing a bit more professionally, even at home, can make you feel more competent and productive.
Maintaining Routine: In uncertain times, routine is good. Getting dressed is a simple part of that.

Key Pieces for Your WFH Wardrobe: Comfort Meets Credibility

The aim is to build a small rotation of items that look considered but feel relaxed. Think layers, soft fabrics, and smart-but-casual silhouettes.

1. The Top Half: Your Video Call Hero

Quality Plain T-Shirts: The foundation. Invest in a few well-fitting tees in neutral colours (navy, grey, white, black, olive) or subtle patterns like a Breton stripe. Make sure they’re clean, not bobbly, and fit well (not too tight, not too baggy).
Smart Polo Shirts: A step up from a t-shirt. A classic cotton pique polo is great. For a slightly smarter look, consider knitted polos – they have a bit more structure and look great on camera.
Casual Shirts (Oxfords, Chambray, Overshirts): An Oxford shirt, worn slightly unbuttoned, is a WFH classic. Chambray or brushed cotton shirts also offer comfort and a presentable look. Overshirts (or “shackets”) are brilliant for layering over a tee for extra warmth and a touch of smartness.
Presentable Knitwear: Essential for the UK climate!
- Crew Neck Jumpers: Merino wool, lambswool, or even good quality cotton. Again, neutral colours are your friend.
- Half-Zip/Quarter-Zip Sweaters: These look surprisingly smart on video calls and are easy to throw on.
- Cardigans: Don’t underestimate the cardigan! A smart, button-up cardigan can act like a relaxed WFH blazer. Shawl collars add a touch of cosy sophistication.

2. The Bottom Half: Comfort Without the Scruff

Yes, you can be comfortable from the waist down without resorting to your oldest trackies.

Smart Joggers/Lounge Trousers: This is where “smart loungewear” really comes into its own. Look for joggers in better quality fabrics (e.g., a good cotton jersey, sometimes with a bit of wool or modal blend), a tapered fit (not baggy around the ankles), and minimal branding. Colours like navy, charcoal, or black look less like gym wear.
Comfortable Chinos/Trousers: Many brands now do chinos or casual trousers with added stretch or even elasticated/drawstring waists that look smart but feel much more relaxed than traditional tailored trousers.
Dark Wash Jeans (If You Must): If you feel more “dressed” in jeans, opt for a comfortable pair in a dark wash. But honestly, smart joggers or stretch chinos often win on the WFH comfort front.

3. Footwear (Yes, It Still Matters… Sort Of)

Okay, no one’s seeing your feet on a video call, but what you wear on your feet can impact how you feel, and prevent chilly toes on those lovely British laminate floors.

Smart Slippers/House Shoes: Invest in a decent pair of slippers that aren’t falling apart. Suede moccasins, felt slip-ons, or shearling-lined options offer comfort and a bit of home-bound style.
Clean Trainers: If you’re popping in and out, having a pair of clean, minimalist trainers to hand is useful.
Good Socks: Don’t underestimate the power of warm, comfortable socks!

The “Ready for a Surprise Video Call” Checklist

Keep these in mind for instant professionalism:

Decent Top: Your chosen smart tee, polo, shirt, or knit.
Quick Hair Check: A quick ruffle or comb-through.
Good Lighting: Face a window if possible; avoid being backlit.
Tidy(ish) Background: Or know where that virtual background button is!

What to Definitely Avoid for WFH (Most of the Time)

Actual Pyjamas: Keep them for bedtime.
Old, Stained, or Holey Clothes: If you wouldn’t wear it to pop to Tesco, don’t wear it for your “workday.”
Full Gym Kit: Unless you’re actually about to (or have just finished) a workout.
Anything that makes you feel sloppy: If your clothes make you feel unproductive, they’re not the right choice.

Finding Your WFH Style Groove

Ultimately, your WFH wardrobe should make you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to tackle the workday – even if that “office” is now your spare room. It’s about creating a clear distinction between work and leisure, boosting your mood, and ensuring you look presentable without sacrificing the comfort that’s one of the undeniable perks of working from home.

So, ditch the dressing gown (at least until 5 pm), invest in a few key pieces of comfortable menswear, and embrace the era of smart UK loungewear. Your productivity (and your colleagues on Zoom) might just thank you for it.