Clothing and Accessories for Remote Work

Let’s make something crystal clear.

For all the talk of dressing from the waist up during virtual coworking, you should absolutely be dressed from the waist down as well. Reasons for this extend far beyond the practicality of needing to get up, move and/or reach for something during a call. Recently, Good Morning America reporter Will Reeve learned this lesson the hard way appearing live on television wearing a power suit jacket and “shorts” which did not account for the camera’s wider lens and angle.

While Reeve called the viral fallout “hilariously mortifying”, not many employers or colleagues would be as amused by such an avoidable faux pas. On Zoom, you’re still at work! Please, dress accordingly from the waist down, too.

That said, Focus on a strong visual presence. Be deliberate about your façade and silhouette on screen.

Is Casual the New Formal?

While rules may have been slightly relaxed to account for multiple homework tasks throughout the day, the office rulebook has not been flung out the window entirely. There are no sidelines on Zoom. The camera you are on is no longer candid. Whether talking or listening, you are literally in front of colleagues. Professional demeanor matters. Stick to shirts, blouses, jackets, whatever was expected or acceptable at the brick-n-mortar office.

Neckline

Neck, head, shoulder size, and hairstyle may influence the choice of neckline. Ideally, it should sit 1-1.5 inches (2.5 – 4 cm) below the collarbone. You may need to lengthen or shorten your neckline with collars, ties, or simple accessories to adjust for any video distortion. Counter-intuitively, turtlenecks are not well-suited for Zoom screens as they tend to blur or erase the neckline.

Décolleté Line

Since the 15th century, the Décolleté line, the area between the neck and the bust has emerged as a major power zone. In the zoom era, this zone represents nearly a third of the visible upper body on video calls and its dimensions heavily influence the best dressing choices.

Your bust size determines styling options. Less is more. A great focal point is the area between your collarbone and the top of your bust line. Remember to adjust the camera angle to vertical.

Solid Colors

Color layering and coordination are difficult in 3D physical space on a good day. Visual clashes are magnified on camera. For the screen, it is best to opt for solid colors without complex patterns. Be mindful of your environment so you do not “disappear” by matching your background. Brighter colors would liven up coworkers’ screens but do stop short of neon so as not to be distracting.

Accessories

Avoid larger jewelry pieces and reflective embellishments. Disco ball filter is for after hours.

Footwear

Yes, barefoot won’t do. Footwear has a positive effect on your Zoom presence and performance by improving your posture and keeping you more alert. Account for comfort but do wear shoes.