This may sound a little strange, but even when humans are stuck indoors? We still find a way to stay fashionable.
First, let's talk about masks. The most important feature of a mask is to help you and the people around you stay safe. The most effective type of mask is the N95. However, those should be reserved for medical workers and others on the front lines. If you've been staying at home, a cloth mask is your best bet. They're also a great way to signal to your neighbors that you're taking this seriously.
To make the act of mask-wearing a little more fun for civilians, they've managed to dress theirs up. It may seem a bit alarming at first. By looking at a "designer mask," you may wonder whether or not the person who's wearing it is trying to downplay what's happening in the world. But from an optimistic viewpoint, they're just trying to make a tough situation somewhat fun. These days, all of us are looking for ways to improve our general outlook. If it means putting gemstones on a cloth mask, so be it.
But fashionable masks aren't the only big wardrobe changes these days. People are also dressing more comfortably. That means that gone are the days of restrictive dresses. Casual loungewear is making a comeback. Here are nine of the best (and craziest) stay-at-home fashion items we've seen thus far.
1. Designer Face Masks
Brands like Alice and Olivia have jumped on board the mask train, creating masks that you might be able to include with your overall daily look. Just keep in mind that all masks will require washing after use, which means that you may want to buy a few if you're the person running out for essentials. (And if a mask happens to have very specific care instructions? That's something you probably don't have time for right now. You can buy cute masks that are CDC-approved and still be smart about it.)
2. Masks That Are All Fashion, Zero Protection
For people who are completely staying indoors and just want to wear a face mask? You're in luck. If you're looking to start an indoor runway show, there are masks that exist for that. Just remember to be smart and not wear these out in public as a form of protection. The last thing you want to do is accidentally make germs spread even more.
That said, it's still kind of funny that items like these are being produced. After the threat dies down, it'd be interesting to see if masks like these are still sold out.
3. Sweatpants
If you haven't worn sweatpants since the '90s, let me tell you — they're more fashion forward these days. And nearly every clothing company out there is selling them right now. One of the good things about wearing sweats while you work indoors? You're subliminally telling yourself that "it's going to be an indoor day." As it should be.
4. Oversized Tees
This has been a fashionable choice for about a year, but it's being embraced by more and more people as they continue to stay at home. Loose clothes just feel better, especially if you're both working and parenting at home. Oversized clothes were actually a predicted trend back in 2018, but now it's their true time to shine.
5. Crazy Hair Dye
There is no age limit on hair color. You could be in your 40s but still rock pink locks if you want to. The problem? Usually, it's not office appropriate. Even if you're still using video conferencing, there's a lot more freedom for you to finally have some fun with your hair. If it's not your favorite look, look for a brand that'll wash out.
6. Scrunchies
Women with long hair have long depended on scrunchies to help with hair maintenance in a way that doesn't cause damage to their follicles. The problem? After the '90s, it was no longer "cool." Now that scrunchies are making a comeback due to the VSCO Girl trend, more and more people feel even better wearing them around the house while staying inside. And yes, they're still big and billowy.
7. Lack of Makeup
Now's the perfect time to see what you really look like without makeup. And here's a hint — you're more gorgeous than you realize. While makeup is a lot of fun, it's not the healthiest choice you can make for your skin. And now that people aren't interacting as much face-to-face, being makeup-free is starting to trend.
8. Dark Colors
According to 18-year-old YouTuber and fashionista Emma Chamberlain, it's all about the dark colors. During her self-isolation, she revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that she has been rotating "seven different shades of gray sweatpants with a vintage T-shirt." And for when she's feeling more adventurous? "Maybe a tank top."
9. Athleisure
Again, athleisure has been trendy for some time. It's not a rarity to see someone outside wearing black basketball shorts. However, now it's become almost essential. Twitter user @TheFunkIsReal went viral after showcasing some of his ultimate stay-at-home looks, and most of them? Athleisure. The video is also proof that it's your confidence that really makes you sparkle.
Always check with your health care provider concerning any symptoms you may be experiencing, and seek the most accurate information from the CDC and your state’s health department.
