Working Wear

This week's fashion post is a little different. Several of you readers have expressed interest in the past about what I actually wear for everyday, with its demands of comfort for working and range of motion.

While I do wear my house dresses for everyday (this one is still a favorite, and this one and this one were in constant rotation when they still fit me),  I often resort to skirts and blouses for everyday and save the more elaborate vintage outfits for Sundays and dressier occasions. I have a few favorite comfortable me-made cotton blouses that I wear, but especially for chilly weather, I prefer to layer thrifted knit pieces. 3/4 sleeves sweaters are a favorite.

 

Here's an example of a real life everyday outfit that is perfectly comfortable and practical. I didn't make a single thing I'm wearing and all of it is modern - but it still works well with my vintage aesthetic.

The sweater is sailor style and a classic shape that works well for 1940s, which is the overall look of the outfit. 

 

The just-past-the-knee pleated plaid skirt is another classic. Of course it's a poly knit so it's not costume accurate, but it fits well with my general style and can take a lot of wear and tear. For everyday I don't usually try to look picture-perfect from any particular decade, but I might have a general theme.

 

I picked up the nautical theme by accenting with blue and red vintage button jewelry from Timeless Trinkets. Scarves also work well with a sweater and sleeveless top like this and add a bit more warmth if needed.

 

I rarely wear shoes in the house, but if I do, my Remix 1940s repro wedges are perfect for everyday wear, being comfortable and yet display that fabulous vintage detail that makes my heart happy.

 

In this outfit I am perfectly comfortable to do my normal daily routine, plus it's easy to nurse in and I don't have to worry about especially being careful with it. Yet at the same time, it's nice enough to wear out of the house if necessary, and remains true to my style.

After all, one reason I love vintage fashion is because it's practical and feminine and versatile all at the same time. Busy moms can dress nicely in real life now as well as then. :-)

Comments

[Myra]

Thank you for sharing this post. This is what I struggle with the most. I have plenty of vintage inspired clothing to wear for church and dressier occasions, but for around the house, I don't know what to wear that would be comfortable, yet vintage. I adore house dresses, but I am not confident enough in my sewing skills to try and make one, and they are very hard to find in my size. You give me inspiration!

[Kristen Stoltzfus Clay]

I'm so glad it was helpful, Myra! Yes, there are plenty of modern made pieces that can work very well for vintage or vintage inspired - you just have to shop with an eye for them. Something as simple as a pullover sweater or cardigan set with a basic A line skirt can be great. Googling images of causal 1940s or 1950s wear might help give you ideas as well.

[Irene]

Hi Kristen-enjoyed your post. Your outfit is pretty much identical to what I wear for daily outings, shopping, chores.... but I must confess on these cold winter days when iam home with no need to go out, I hibernate my lazy cozy sweatpants. Kudos for you for wearing those pretty house dresses when your home all day. Don't you find it a bit chilly though when it's so cold to wear the dresses at home? Also sometimes when I need to go out on a quick run to the market, I don't bother changing because I think why does it matter, everyone just about dress like slobs anyway, so why should I make an effort just for half an hour? That's a mindset I think that I should make en effort just for a quick run out. That's great with you being a young mother and busy that you make an effort every day. Your shoes are lovely too! I always enjoy your outfit posts!
Blessings
Irene 🙂