Ladies,

I sat down to analyze the things that really make the difference in a homemaker’s outfit. After all, fashion is a tool, not just a frivolous interest. We all have to wear clothes, and you can either dress in a way that downgrades you or upgrades you. You can dress in a way that helps or hinders your job. Don’t want sleeves dipping into dish water? Don’t want to feel like a frump bag? Don’t want to question why all you do is clean and cook and then clean and cook? Reminder: every job out there has the same day in day out rigor. But what you wear is a visual reminder that your job matters. What we wear matters which is why jobs have dress codes. But homemaking is an autonomous job, so you set the dress code. Do you set a good standard for your home and for your family in your dress code? Is the way you dress blessing your husband? Is it blessing your children? Does your appearance communicate strength and dignity?

Here is an outfit that demonstrates a few of my most important tips for comfortable, chic daily style for homemaking work!

Sleeve styles for homemaking

When homemaking, we are bending down, stretching high and everything in between. Sleeves that fall off your shoulders, show bra straps, or are too long or flowy are not ideal. Wear something that stays put. Wear something that does not drape long into messes or get caught on things so that you can move freely.

My Favorite Sleeve is the 3/4 Sleeve

Blouse sleeves can be rolled up to mimic a 3/4 sleeve. A similar length option is the “elbow” sleeve which hits right above the elbow. You can wear a variety of poofy and fluttery sleeves as long as they are higher up on the arm around the elbow or shorter. Modern fashion has an epidemic of strappy “sleeves” (like spaghetti straps) which is not a good look unless worn with a strapless bra. Do you want to do housework in a strapless bra all day? For ultimate chicness, hide bra straps. To be comfortable, don’t subject yourself to a strapless bra all day just to wear strappy items. Clothing with sleeves or wide straps that hide bra straps are just, if not more attractive.

Beware of these sleeves

Bell sleeves, poofy or flowy sleeves longer than the elbow! I love a floaty and poofy sleeve if it is short enough to not be in the way. It’s the long, wide, drapey sleeves that don’t work. Or on the opposite spectrum, thin straps that show bra straps and just downgrade the whole look.

Neckline styles for homemaking

I prefer higher necklines so that when I am bending, my neckline stays flush with my skin. This prevents the peep show down a saggy neckline when tilted forward. Even a slightly dipped neckline can cause this if the top is too baggy. I make it a point to bend over when trying tops on to ensure that this cannot happen! Having said that, I wear a variety of necklines including v-necks, wrap style, oval cut, square neck, crew neck, all the necks. So, many styles are fine as long as it is cut high enough on the chest and if the sizing of the top fits properly to not bag off.

There are so many cute tops to choose from like this peplum style. The flare outward is incredibly forgiving for the mid-section while also defining the smallest part of the waist. Peplum style tops are one of my favorite go-to fashion staples no matter if they are “in” or not! They just look flattering.

Jean styles for homemaking

The most important thing to know about jeans for homemaking is to buy high waisted jeans that have stretch. These are the most important features because you will be able to bend comfortably, and they will not slide down or show the rear! Dark wash is most slimming no matter the trends, it looks the best. I avoid “whiskering” on the front pelvic area of jeans because it draws horizontal lines across the pant which give the illusion of being wider. Most jeans have some amount of whiskering so I aim to buy jeans that are subtle about it.

Shoe styles for homemaking

An ankle bootie is a versatile shoe that works for the home (and property) for most of the year depending on your weather. Tan leather booties are the nude pump of boots as they go well with skirts, dresses and jeans. The key is to buy a tan bootie in a low comfortable style! Booties never go out of style they are a classic. I like to have a pair in navy blue, dark brown, or black as well.

Your sleeve style, neckline, jean style, and footwear are all imperative components of how you will look polished and feel comfortable for the workday ahead of you.

You can take these tips and apply it to a skirt outfit, a dress outfit, or any other top with pants outfit. Check back for more outfit inspiration and ideas!

Your work at home is of the utmost importance and it will bless your family to see you at your finest. It will be a visual reminder that you are at work and that this is an important job.

WHATEVERLOVEY.COM

CHRISTIAN – COUNTRY LIVING – FASHION – HOME