Quarantine has done quite a number on my daily dressing. We’ve been “in it” for four months (give or take) and if we’re we’re being honest, my emotions change hourly.
Sometimes I have revelations where I say “I could do this forever!!” and others where I’m literally the first one on a Zoom call in hopes to have some human interaction besides my dog and husband. 😂
Another way quarantine has changed me (besides the rollercoaster of emotions) is the way I dress. I’m usually a pretty big fan of getting ready in the morning – opting for dresses and jewelry rather than athleisure.
Alas, the last few months have been trying when it comes to maintaining any sense of normalcy in regards to clothing and getting ready.
There’s a psychology in getting dressed up – or rather, getting dressed for your day. And while I love the volume of articles and emails from marketers around “comfy WFH clothes you can SLEEP and WORK in!” I think I’ve hit my limit.
So the TL;DR here is: I miss dressing up. I’m going to continue to make it a point to get “ready” to some extent. Whether that’s putting on a dress (and maybe shoes!?) to just putting enough effort into my hair it doesn’t look like a helmet.
Now enter Rent the Runway:
And, in the spirit of getting dressed up…I was talking to a friend earlier this week on our love for Rent the Runway. I was introduced to this rental service awhile back, but never tried it – until my wedding day in 2019 (ah, the good ol’ days).
Over time, I’ve started to really enjoy myself because the clothes are ever evolving for the not-so-evolving budget I have (which isn’t much). You can opt to be formal or laidback and hell, you can even rent accessories.
SoOoOo, I’m going to share four of my favorite things I’ve rented just for the hell of it. And before you ask…NO, this is not sponsored. Or gifted. I legit PAY MY OWN MONIES EVERY MONTH. 😂
ENJOY!
Tie-Dye Tunic Dress
I’ve never found a dress that I was more drawn to. I don’t know what it is about this Tie Dye Tunic Dress from Sea New York, but DAMN. There’s a high neckline that’s perfect for work (or WFH) and there’s a rouching at the shoulder that adds a bit of quirk to the piece. I’ve rented this for the last seven months (no joke) and I haven’t purchased it…yet. Very close. :)
Chiffon Maxi Dress
So, Prabal Gurung (who this dress is by) is one of my favorite designers. I’ve always loved his silhouettes and this chiffon frock is no different. I loved the combination of bohemian flair with the flowers and color palette mixed with the romantic length and detail on the bodice.
And okay, I get it. Where the hell would you wear this to? Well, certainly not to work (actually…I like a challenge), but I wore this to a friend’s wedding, the opera, and I even wore it to a few “nice” dinners. Honestly, I felt like a STRAIGHT UP QUEEN in this dress and that’s why I fell in love with clothing in the first place. It helps me sit a bit straighter, puts an even bigger smile on my face…I won’t go on..but you get it.
Multi-Colored Viscose Dress
I go to a lot of client meetings so often times I have to “look the part.” I don’t really know what that means, but it means I have to look semi-put together and not in jeans.
Luckily, I’ve found a ton of “work appropriate” dresses – including this baby from Stine Goya. I’ve never heard of this brand, but I love the way stripes, playfulness and high collar (are you seeing a theme here from me?).
Also, if you've noticed – I opt for loose silhouettes because online ordering is TRICKAAAAY. I read a ton of RTR reviews, but everyone’s body is different, especially when it comes to jeans or dresses.
These silhouettes are usually a lot more forgiving so if it doesn’t fit “perfectly” no sweat.
Red Floral Boho Dress
This is my most recent rental and one I’ll probably be wearing for quite awhile. I love a good red tent and this one from Sweet Baby Jamie fit the bill. It’s (aaaggggaaain) a bit bohemian and kind of reminds me of something my grandma would have worn (in a good way). I also love the square neckline!