Pants: Zara (similar here and here); Top: Urban Outfitters; Shoes: Zara (similar here and here)
I remember my first day as a full-time blogger so clearly. After rolling out of bed at 9:30 (almost 3 hours later than I would for my old job), I watched an episode of Friends while answering emails. The next two days followed a similar pattern. Being my own boss had been my dream for as long as I could remember, but instead of basking in they glory of my newfound freedom I felt a little lost. My life had no routine, and I was writing about fashion while sitting on my couch wearing sweatpants. For three consecutive days.
Eventually, I snapped out of it. Over time, I developed a routine, and a year into it, my schedule feels just as structured as it was when I had an office job. However, the main lesson I took away from my experience is the importance of getting dressed. Though it may sound shallow, it is far from it.
As a freelancer, it’s so easy to fall into the sweatpants rut. Sure, it’s a treat to stay at home in sweatpants once in a while. But after a prolonged period, it becomes sloppy and ill-disciplined. Getting dressed – even if you’re working from home – automatically creates a sense of purpose. This tiny change indicates to our minds that we’re ready for business.
Not getting dressed made me feel like I’d lost a part of myself. Unsurprising since my main focus has always been fashion. My experience taught me, once again, that my mother is never wrong: that it is important to dress up for oneself. It’s not about trying to impress someone, it’s about self-care.
So freelancers, if you ever feel like you’re a little dazed and confused, change into your favourite power-outfit. You’d be surprised at the miracles it can do for your mood.
Photography by Erin Leydon
I’ve loved your blog for years now but as of late I can’t get of enough your new content! As always the pictures are stunning but lately I’ve been really engrossed by your words. It’s so beautifully written and somehow manages to always strike a chord with my 24 yr old self <3
Author
I can’t tell you how happy that makes me! I put a lot of thought into writing about meaningful topics, so I’m glad you enjoy my words 🙂
Just in love with those pants. They’re so cool!
xx
http://www.mybeautrip.com
J’adore! The outfit and the post, you are such an inspiration in terms of where I want to take my little virtual corner. I am glad you found the perfect routine, I totally see myself wearing sweatpants for a week while eating the first thing I grab from the fridge without regrets >.< wishing you a great Sunday, Siffat!
Saida | She talks Glam
So gorgeous. What a power outfit is right! And I totally agree about getting changed. It sets your intention for the day.
xx Gabriella
pastelsandpastries.com
I love this outfit so much; classic and chic. I also love structure and leaving my home for a job because it pushes me to get up out of bed and be productive, including get dress. I also want to have my own business, so this word of advice is especially helpful.
Natalie | http://nataliesalchemy.wordpress.com
Your outfit is incredible! Loved reading this post too! I always feel 10x better when I get dressed in the mornings! x
TOUCHOFGS //Â BLOGLOVINÂ
So funny, this is pretty much the topic of my blog post this week too! It’s kinda crazy thinking that we’ve both been doing it for a year now eh? (I still watch TV while answering emails btw)
-Didier
http://www.didieryhc.com
Totally agree! I do have my power lucky outfit that I enjoy wearing! Great advice!
This outfit is PERFECT. Love those pants. And getting dressed is so important for your mindset. Even in a traditional full time job, looking professional will make you feel and act professional.
Kendall
http://www.weekendall.com
Being your own boss is definitely an amazing accomplishment. And getting dressed everyday is also very important in my eyes. Humans are definitely creature of habits but I think if we stopped dressing up, we kinda loose ourselves a bit. Anyways I love the way you styled this pants! Love the scallop detailing on the crop top.
Nathalie
http://www.nathalie-alexandra.blogspot.com
Oh you look so beautiful babe and I really love those striped pants on you hun…!! Kisses, Neha
http://www.theinstylejournal.com
Falling for this look Siffat. Top to toe, STUNNING!! JUST VOW
Nistha
https://www.fashionistha.com/embossed-fit-and-flare-dress/
I have to start off by saying that that is one amazing power outfit! Those pants are so fun and cute! And I totally believe in the importance of getting dressed. I’ve been working from home part time for the past two years and I’m always so much more productive when I get dressed in something that makes me feel good in the morning.
-Helen
http://www.sweethelengrace.com
I always enjoy one day of wearing casual clothes and being a bit lazy but I get tired of it very quickly and dressing up is a way to start working for me. You look stunning in this outfit!
Camila,
My Vogue Style | http://www.myvoguestyle.com
You’re so right! Love this post. Too many people think that women dress up for other people, but truthfully lots of us babes dress up for ourselves and our own confidence. Thanks so much for sharing!
I’d love for you to check out the latest on my blog if you get a chance!
http://gypsysundayblog.com/
Yes!! SO true Siffat. When I first started blogging full time I was in my sweatpants on my sofa and that made me so unproductive. Now I make sure to work from my desk (or in a coffee shop) and even if I’m not leaving the house I wear a pair of jeans and tee just to feel a little more put together. It’s definitely a mind game but it works.
XoXo,
Tamara – LoveofMode.com
You look so beautiful, I love these photos! I agree with you, as I also work from home I sometimes don’t feel like dressing but I force myself to get dressed because that’s better for motivation!
http://violettedaily.com
Great post. I agree, getting dressed in the morning is important. I can work from home several days a week, and I also do loads of freelance the past ten years so one rule that I have for myself is to act like I am going to the office. I get dressed and it helps motivate me to be more productive. xx/Madison
FASHION TALES
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One of my favorite looks of yours! I definitely understand this as I am now part-time at my job and part-time at home with my daughter. I feel better on the days I get dressed!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Love what you wrote here babe!! Very honest! I also have days where I have to force myself to get out and get dressed because so much of my time is spent working from home on my computer! Definitely very important to think about this and remember why we started blogging in the first place <3
XO, Jessi
http://www.mywhitet.com/nordstrom-anniversary-sale-picks/
Oh, wow! You look beyond gorgeous, seriously!
I love everything about your outfit. Those pants look so perfect on you. Stunning pictures babe! Great post.
Xx, Raysa
super chic look! loving those pants!
kelseybang.com
Your outfit is on point. I try to pick myself out of the couch and get dressed up, so I decided that I am going to do insta stories every day and I have to be fully ready for it. I would see if it will get the job done or not.
Would you like to follow each other on bloglovin’? Follow me and I’ll follow you back.
http://www.easys-tyle.com/
I totally know what you mean! Getting dressed for no occasion is the best because there is way less pressure too! You look amazing here babe, I love those striped trousers!
http://www.prettyinleather.net
These pants and the top look gorgeous on you, Siffat. I can imagine that if I went freelance I would spend the first three days in a similar way. :-))
X
Miri
http://currentlywearing.com
Im so obsessed with stripes right now babe!! you look beautiful!! the pattern is always flattering on!!
xxx
Ash
http://www.missgunner.com
I struggled with the same problem, and I totally agree that getting dressed gives you a sence of dicipline and importance.
xo Corina
http://www.unbouquetdamour.com/best-online-shopping-sites
Perfect outfit!
xx Elisa
http://www.francinesplacediy.blogspot.com
DIY & LIFESTYLE BLOG
Looking So fine and beautiful 🙂
Please see Zulily Coupon
Love this outfit and reality check of being a FT blogger even I’m not one of them but just very interesting to know how it’s like
I couldn’t agree with you more. There is a reason the phrase “dress for the part” is so popular. If you want to convey yourself as someone who is powerful and strong, you need to look the part! And this outfit on you definitely portrays that!
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Love this! It’s such a dream of mine to be able to work from home, drinking 4 cups of coffee a day and feeling motivated and empowered by doing what you love for yourself.
Lovely post x
Imogen, http://www.faux-silk.com