These days most of us are doing the majority of our retail shopping online. The experience of shopping online is unique to that of being in a store. You can’t feel the fabric or try it on. Colors sometime look different online than they do in person. Even if a style is shown on a model she may not have the same body type as you so it can be hard to tell what will flatter you.

In spite of these drawbacks, there are a few perks to shopping online. In addition to shopping at times that are convenient to you from the comfort of your home, you can easily price check items for the best deal. If you can’t find the size you need at the site you’re on, it’s fairly easy to search for that same item across the web for the size you need.

So what are you shopping for? Our wardrobe needs have changed during this pandemic. We’re spending more time “at home” which allows us to indulge in our leisure-wear. But many of us are back to some kind of routine… whether we’re back to work in a classroom/school, running our small businesses, going to work in new ways, participating in “socially distant” activities … our lives are taking us in all kinds of directions and we’re looking for a wardrobe that can keep up!

To support all these different activities and changing routines, we need versatility. We need to have a sweater that can be paired with a skirt, jeans and sweatpants! We need fashionable sneakers and jeans that are both functional and trendy! We need to have fun with our wardrobe in a time that is so dark and feels so monotonous.

When the pandemic began, I lived in my leisurewear for months. I was homebound and lost. The summer brought us out of the house and into a fantastic warm weather wardrobe which for me personally was transforming. I needed that light to shine on me. As we head into winter once again, I have a different perspective. I realize that my energy and attitude when I get dressed for the day is more positive than when I shuffle around in sweats all day. When I look and feel put together, it makes a difference in my overall attitude.

Once you figure out what items will work best in your wardrobe, find the best way to obtain them. Shop around: try different styles, colors and sizes until you know what works best for you. Find the style you love and the fit that flatters you best. Here are a few of my favorites so far.

Madewell Kickoff Trainer Sneakers in Leather & Spot Mix Calf Hair

Lou & Grey Signature Softblend Sweatshirt