During our time in quarantine, the COVID-19 pandemic took many things from us. 

We were stripped of the ability to go to restaurants, bars, friends’ and families’ houses, to go outside simply and time. But there was one thing that couldn’t be taken from us, the power of preserving our own personal style. 

We made some adjustments, but there’s nothing entirely like putting on your favorite, comfy outfit to, as Marie Kondo says, spark joy! 

I’m typically not a Vogue reader, but I somehow came across an article that completely resonated with me. 

“If there’s been one fashion lesson learned during lockdown, it’s that personal style doesn’t disappear in difficult times,” Vogue writer Steff Yotka said. “Exactly the opposite happens. Fashion lovers the world over are staying home, but they’re still getting dressed and celebrating the joys of clothing.”

It occurred to me that I had been doing this all the long. Initially, when we first went into lockdown, I was still living in Sacramento, working for Sacramento Public Library as a Communications Associate. 

I went from commuting to downtown Sacramento every day, wearing my business casual outfits consisting of blouses and pencil skirts to permanently stay home where getting dressed wasn’t necessary. 

I took pride in my work wardrobe. My mother instilled in me the importance of dress to impress. 

It took a few weeks for me to get into a productive and healthy routine, but once I found what worked for me, I was satisfied. And it all started with style. 

Here are tips to ignite delight in your quarantine days:

• Create a statement in colorful, comfy sweats

Ditch the dreary dark greys and unflattering sweats for a fun fit and flare comfy pants to brighten your day. Sometimes it’s the simple things that get you out of bed, like putting on an outfit that makes you smile and get motivated. These bright yellow floral sweats, complementary burnt orange crop top, and brown cardigan do the trick!

• Feel sexy in stretchy body-hugging maxi dresses and clothing

Effortlessly cute and comfy, what is better than that? During lockdown, I became a thredUp addict. ThredUp is an online thrift store where you can buy and sell high-quality clothing brands previously loved. I purchased several exceptionally adorable apparel that I’m utterly obsessed with, including this long maxi dress. Stunning and snug, I love the high neck. It’s backless and light. I feel like I’m wearing air. I could dress this up for a night out or relaxing day or night in. It’s perfection.

• Add a little sparkle to light up your mood and day

Another thredUp must-have. I love this simple tank top with a subtle sequins detail around the chest. I’m usually not a fan of sequin, but this is just the right amount for me. I also bought this light blue cardigan from thredUp. I don’t normally wear this color so it’s been a refreshing change. When I wear this, it makes me feel effortlessly stunning and stylish at home. 

Praise your body. It’s been through a lot. It’s imperative to find pleasure where you can. So, in tough times, come what may be in style. 

SSxx