We all want to look great. However, sometimes looking great can be inconvenient. For example, it can mean no pockets for holding your cards and phone, or it could mean that you can’t walk in certain areas for fear of getting them dirty. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can have a functional outfit while still looking great. All you need is a few ideas.
What is Functional Clothing
When you think of functionality, think of clothing that serves a purpose. Yes, that can mean workboots and safety vests, but when we’re talking fashion, it means something else. It means shoes you can chase a kid around in, pants that can withstand a little mud or a top that can be easily washed if it gets a stain. Too often, this means going around in a t-shirt and joggers with running shoes, for example. However, some outfits and pieces are functional as well as practical. You can be the mom on the go with your kid to tow and not have to sacrifice your looks. You can be comfortable while spending all day on your feet at work. Whatever you are looking for, here are five functional and beautiful outfits for 2023.
Athleisure Outfits
You want to be comfortable, but you also want to look put together, but on top of that, you want to be able to go for a run at any time. In the past, you’d have to be out in public in jogging pants, and not everyone likes that look. However, the fashion industry has come up with athleisure wear, which is comfortable and sporty while still being fashionable and even sexy.
Leggings and a hoodie didn’t used to be the most practical outfit. There were no pockets, and the outfit didn’t exactly go with a purse. However, the times have changed. Along with very cute crop hoodies, yoga pants are the new leggings. The bonus: they have pockets. Now you get the range of motion that yoga pants allow you, along with a breathable material in which you can work up a sweat addition, the pockets make it easy to carry around your cards. Plenty of designers are putting out yoga pants, so you are bound to find a pair that shows off your curves.
All Dark
When you’re sitting in a cafe, perusing the museum, or walking along the boardwalk, you want to look sophisticated, but you also want some practicality. Layers can help you do this with little effort. Start with a black top and black jeans. Then, layer a black jacket or sweater on top. Next, you can wear black shoes, but if you want a splash of contrast, go with white or cream sneakers. Finally, you can dress it up by trying some modest blouses or go with a black t-shirt. The sneakers will keep you comfortable on your feet through a long day, and the overall look is sophisticated and practical.
High-Waisted Jeans
For years, the high-waisted jeans got a bad rap. “Mom jeans,” they were called, and it was mom’s that wore them. It turns out they were onto something. High-waisted jeans are very flattering, especially with the styles and cuts designers come out with as they become more popular. You can dart around town with a t-shirt or tank top with a stroller if you’d like. They are very resistant to spills and stains. You can also pair them with a blouse or blazer to dress them up a bit if you drop the kids off at grandma’s house.
Shoes
Let’s talk shoes. While they aren’t an outfit, they are often what makes an outfit functional. Unfortunately, stiletto heels are not practical, even if they look great. The most functional shoes can be slipped on and off so you can quickly snuggle up on the sofa and easily head out for a late-night ice cream run.
If you’re going out on a night on the town, then some black or black-and-white Chuck Taylors will do the trick. They are comfortable enough to walk around in and versatile enough for changing circumstances. You can wear them at the pub, but they’ll also work walking around town looking for a food truck. Not only that, but they look cute with almost anything, from a midi skirt or dress to jeans.
Monochrome Layers
Sometimes you’re out and about, and the temperature changes. One minute it’s freezing cold, and then the next, you’re sweating in agony. There are parts of the country that are like this. When you’re heading out for a day in the spring or fall, then you will need layers. However, try monochrome layers instead of making it look like you threw on whatever you had in front of you.
Monochrome layers will make it look like you had it planned because you did. Start with a white or cream t-shirt covered by a turtleneck or sweater of the same shade. Then add a white puffer vest, and you’re good to go. Shed the turtleneck if it gets too hot since you’ll still be able to wear the vest. For bottoms, go with dark jeans for some contrast. To top it off, try matching a beanie with your jeans, or go with white. When planning out your layers, try to get very closely matched tones for a cohesive look.
When you go out, you want to look fashionable, but you don’t have to lose practicality. Luckily, designers are now producing clothes that are functional and fashionable. With a few of these ideas, you can put together outfits for any occasion without losing their functionality.
