As many of us have adjusted to a new (and hopefully temporary) lifestyle due to the coronavirus pandemic, we are finding ourselves regularly working from home, practicing social distancing, and for some, even being self-quarantined. For me, getting dressed in the morning is a daily routine that I’ve found has given me a semblance of normalcy as we navigate these uncertain times. While I may have cut out my usual morning makeup routine, putting on real clothes (not athleisure or pajamas) pushes me to be in the productive work-ready mindset I know I need during this new reality we find ourselves in.
Over the years, my go-to wardrobe staple has always been a classic knit dress. My blue-and-white-striped Proenza Schouler version has been a longtime favorite when tackling an important meeting in the office or when I have a special interview to conduct. A quick scroll through my Instagram feed and you’ll see me sporting yet another one of my go-tos: a red wool number by New Zealand label Kowtow—a dress I remember Aimee Song so kindly complimented me on during a past interview.
But do not underestimate the power of a great sweater dress. Their comfort level is obvious, but these knit dresses also double as workwear for when you need to sign into a quick Zoom meeting at home and don’t want to be wearing tight, uncomfortable trousers or jeans. The knit dress’s charm lies in its easy one-step uniform. Although I’ve previously styled mine in the past with classic loafers, knee-high boots, and kitten-heel booties, I’m now pairing my favorite styles with comfier footwear that “will be ready, willing, and able to go outside” when the time comes, as Lynn Yaeger writes.
For now, I’m turning to my trusty knit dresses to give me the sartorial comfort I’m seeking during these new times, but ones I know I can still turn to for the brighter days ahead.
