We’re living in the golden age of comfort dressing, where “presentable” now stretches from cashmere loungewear to dressy sweats. But somewhere along the way, “effortless” turned into “I genuinely did not try,” and now we’re seeing full skincare routines, sleepwear, and house shoes paraded down the streets, at the market and even at shopping malls.
Yes, no one expects a full face beat and classy heels for a short visit to Shoprite. But there’s a fine line between dressing low-key and presenting as ‘I’ve given up on society’, and lately, too many girlies are crossing it.
This article will help us all refocus and set some ground rules. If you’re leaving the house, you’re still in public. This means that you try to and that means at least maintain a shred of decorum.
Below are a couple of what needs to be retired from outdoor wear, along with easy (and still comfortable) upgrades that won’t make you look like you’ve abandoned all hope.
What Not to Wear in Public
- Eye Masks in Daylight
Hydrogel patches and under-eye masks are great for when you’re having selfcare time at home or sleepover with your best girls. Wearing them out in public, however? Not so much. If your skincare can’t wait, at least throw on oversized sunglasses to disguise the fact that you’re mid-routine.
Opt instead for a tinted moisturizer and under-eye concealer if you’re in a rush and badly need to fix your under eye bags
- Hair Bonnets as Streetwear
Yes, we need to protect our edges at all costs. But unless you’re styling it like a luxe headwrap (aka like A$AP Rocky at the Met Gala), a bonnet should not be your go-to errand hat.
Rather, go for a silk scarf tied neatly or a sleek face cap to keeps your hair protected without looking razz.
- Full Sleep Sets as Daywear
Nobody loves a cute matching pajama set as much as I do, but it belongs in the house. The second you decide to step outside, those printed cotton pants should be swapped for actual trousers, leggings, or even joggers (the fashionable kind).
- Fuzzy Slippers
I’m my opinion, these type of slippers are only meant to be worn inside your house and not for full shopping excursions. If your shoes can’t survive a puddle, they shouldn’t leave your doorstep.
Instead of wearing these, try slides, clean sneakers, or even actual shoes.
- Crusty Socks with Slides
Hear me out: socks and sandals can work if the socks are fresh and the sandals aren’t collapsing. If your socks have seen better days, kindly do us all a favor and wear closed-toe shoes.
- Overloaded PopSockets & Charms
Your phone is not a charm bracelet. One PopSocket is enough. Having three plus dangling trinkets is just messy and childish if we’re keeping it a buck.
How to Look Put-Together Without Trying Too Hard
- a) Always have a pair of sunglasses handy to hide tired eyes, while still maintaining a level of chic.
- b) A structured tote or backpack instantly elevates your look.
- c) An oversized jacket or a blazer to elevate even the simplest outfit.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, no one honestly cares what you wear outside. But there’s something to be said for maintaining a little class in your dressing.
So next time you’re tempted to run out in your full nighttime regalia, ask yourself: “Would I wear this if I ran into my ex?” If the answer is no, then quickly reconsider
