Fashion isn’t just about looking good – it’s about feeling comfortable and being prepared for whatever your day may bring. Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, we seem to have lost that. Much of today’s fashion looks good, but is impractical and uncomfortable. If you want to be stylish, you need to prioritize your comfort, too.
What is Practical Fashion?
Practical fashion involves being stylish while still being comfortable and able to do the things you want to do on a daily basis.
“One of the main benefits of practical fashion is that it still looks great without interfering with how you go about your daily life,” Kit and Kaboodal explains. “Unlike some fashion choices, such as high heeled shoes or tight, short skirts which hinder your ability to move around and reduce the range of movement that you have, practical fashion will allow you to do whatever you want without creating an issue.”
It’s important to note that practical fashion isn’t necessarily synonymous with casual fashion. You can embrace practical fashion on a formal or casual level (or anywhere in between). It’s not necessarily about dressing down – it’s about being mindful of how your style impacts your ability to live, work, or play.
Tips for Embracing Practical Fashion
If you want to embrace practical fashion in your own daily life, here are several tips that you should find particularly helpful:
- Choose Versatile Pieces
One of the best ways to create a practical wardrobe is by choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This not only saves you time when getting dressed but also makes your wardrobe more efficient and functional.
For example, a classic blazer is a must-have item. You can wear it to the office over a blouse for a polished look, then throw it on over a t-shirt and jeans for a more casual, yet still stylish, weekend outfit. Another versatile piece is a pair of well-fitting, dark-wash jeans. They can be dressed up with a nice top and heels for a night out, or paired with sneakers and a comfy sweater for running errands.
When shopping for versatile pieces, think about how many different ways you can wear each item. The more combinations you can create, the more practical and valuable the piece becomes in your wardrobe.
- Opt for Durable and Easy-to-Maintain Fabrics
Fabrics play a significant role in practical fashion. While certain fabrics might look luxurious, they can be a nightmare to maintain. Anything that requires special care, frequent dry cleaning, or constant ironing is a no-go. To build a practical wardrobe, select fabrics that are durable, easy to care for, and wrinkle resistant.
Cotton, denim, and blends like polyester-cotton are excellent choices. They’re comfortable but while easy to wash and maintain. For example, a cotton shirt is breathable, versatile, and can be machine washed without much fuss. Denim, which is known for its durability, can last for years and pairs well with just about anything in your closet.
When you’re shopping, check the care labels to see what’s involved in maintaining the garment. If something needs dry cleaning after every wear or is prone to wrinkling easily, it might not be the most practical choice for everyday use.
- Prioritize Functionality
Always prioritize functionality when building your wardrobe. This means thinking about your lifestyle, daily activities, and the environments you find yourself in most often. Your clothes should not only look good but also work for you in practical ways.
For example, if you’re someone who’s always on the go, consider clothing with pockets that allow you to carry essentials like your phone or keys without needing a bag. Or if you’re going somewhere that requires you to carry a lot of items, try a leather bucket bag over a smaller bag that requires you to stuff everything inside. Having lots of space for personal items can keep things accessible.
- Incorporate Layering Pieces
Weather is unpredictable, and that’s where layering comes in. Cardigans, lightweight jackets, and scarves are all great layering pieces.
- A cardigan can be thrown over a dress on a chilly morning, then easily removed when the temperature rises.
- A lightweight jacket, like a denim or utility jacket, can add a touch of style to any outfit while keeping you warm when needed.
- Scarves are not only practical for warmth but can also add a pop of color or texture to your outfit. Plus, they’re easy to carry around in your bag, ready to be pulled out whenever you need an extra layer.
- Invest in Quality Footwear
Footwear is another crucial element of practical fashion. You might have the most stylish outfit, but if your shoes are uncomfortable or not suited to your day’s activities, your whole look can fall apart. That’s why you need to invest in quality footwear that provides comfort for all-day wear.
Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning. For example, a pair of well-made leather loafers can be incredibly versatile. They can be worn with both professional and casual outfits and offer the comfort you need for a long day on your feet. If you’re into heels, consider styles with a lower heel or a block heel, which provides more stability and comfort than a stiletto.
Don’t forget to think about the weather and terrain you’ll be navigating. A pair of waterproof boots might be a better choice for rainy days than cute suede flats.
Enhance Your Wardrobe
Your wardrobe shouldn’t restrict you – it should free you to embrace any situation, event, or circumstance that comes your way. And by adopting principles of practical fashion, you can give yourself the ability to do just that!