The fashion of “Sex in the City” is legendary, as we all know. But a less-considered part of it is how fun and carefree Carrie Bradshaw made working at home look.
Before the era of the freelance gig economy and widespread remote working, the protagonist from the hit HBO show opened the door to the idea that you could wear pretty much anything while working at home. On the show, Patricia Field, the costume designer of SATC, dressed Sarah Jessica Parker in camisoles, headscarves and the occasional pair of full-coverage undies. These outfits showed new possibilities not only for fashion but the very idea of what a workday could look like.
Now, as we all spend our days indoors, it’s worth taking another look at the iconic character’s style as fresh inspiration. Here are five outfit ideas based on Carrie Bradshaw’s best at-home style moments.
1. A bedside kimono
Carrie usually sat at her desk looking out the window while writing, but occasionally she worked in bed. This lounge look spotted in Season 1 Episode 5 of SATC is a major inspiration for an “off but on-duty” outfit. The best part about this laid-back outfit is that after your morning cup of coffee hits, you can easily throw it over a tank and leggings to make it work appropriate. Add a pair of flat or heeled mules and you’re ready to take on the day, SATC style.
To Buy: Floral Satin Kimono Robe, $17.
To Buy: Pointed-Toe Ruched Flat Mules, $20.
To Buy: Manolo Blahnik Crystal Embellished Mules, $1,245.
2. The no-pants look
Before Ariana Grande and Hailey Bieber, Carrie was the queen of the no-pants look, especially while hanging out at her apartment and pondering what to write for her column. The somewhat controversial trend was seen throughout the seasons and now seems more relevant than ever. The “dressed from the waist up” struggle is real, so why not take note from the fictional sex columnist who kicked off the trend?
To Buy: Men’s Slim Fit Long-Sleeve Poplin Shirt, $18.
To Buy: Mango Chain pendant earrings, $15 was $20.
To Buy: Pilar Original Gucci Sandals, $490.
3. Maribou flourishes
If SJP’s character taught us one thing, it’s that you can take some of your greatest fashion risks in the comfort of your own home. Maribou is just one of the fun trims Carrie wore during one of her “I couldn’t help but wonder” writing sessions. Reminiscent of Hollywood glamour, maribou-adorned heels and loungewear are fun elements that can put a little pep in your wardrobe during the doldrums of this season’s schedule.
To Buy: Boohoo Feathered Knit Cardigan, $17 was $32.
To Buy: Crush On You Slide Sandal, $101 was $135.
To Buy: Paris Texas feather-embellished mules, $282 was $376.
4. The classic Carrie cami
The basic spaghetti-strap top was the ultimate work-from-home uniform for the relationship columnist, like this look from the finale of Season 2. As warmer months roll in, we’re betting the cami will prevail. The basic tank pairs well with an animal-print skirt and some utilitarian sandals — two spring ’19 staples that will no doubt make another comeback.
To Buy: Topshop Lettuce Crop Tank, $8.
To Buy: Boohoo Tiger Full Woven Midi Skirt, $16 was $40.
To Buy: Prada Logo Sandal, $590.
5. Heels at home
Carrie had a vast shoe collection, but the classic high-heeled pump was undoubtedly her favorite. Work-from-home style may be focused on slippers for now, but wearing heels indoors can be a big confidence booster — just ask a few of FN’s editors. Plus, wearing heels at home can help you break in a new pair or help you learn how to walk in them. Pair them with loungewear for your very own dress-up session.
To Buy: Eberjey Finely Knotted Jumpsuit, $148.
To Buy: SJP By Sarah Jessica Parker Fawn 100mm pump, $350.
To Buy: SJP Collection Hello Lover pumps, $395.
6. The styled-up scarf
Field was known to style Carrie with plenty of fun accessories, including the versatile silk scarf. There was headscarf Carrie, bandana Carrie and even armband Carrie (remember when Aidan’s dog, Pete, was caught chewing on one of her strappy turquoise Manolo Blahnik sandals from 1996?). No matter the occasion, a graceful scarf is a simple style hack that can easily elevate any work-from-home outfit.
To Buy: Mango floral printed scarf, $20.
To Buy: Mango knit halter top, $46.
To Buy: Sam Edelman Elva Woven Mule, $78 was $130.
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