As I live in New York City, it can be hard to relax. Whether it be the battle of bodies rushing in and out of the subway, the constant honking and sirens swarming the streets, or the nagging feeling that there's always something else to do, New Yorkers rarely can enjoy a minute of calm. While there are a plethora of options to aid in relaxation—Thai massages, waterfront walking paths, happy-hour steals—none of these are sustainable for everyday life.
And then, I discovered a solution. It came to me one day when I was working from home. I was lounging in sweats on my couch with my computer open, and I could not focus. So I went to my closet, pulled on a pair of black jeans and a blouse, and sat back down. Immediate focused, I spent the rest of the afternoon more productive than I'd ever been. "Dress for success" may not be a new concept, but "dress for relaxation" is. Now I'm not saying to forgo all structured items of clothing and move about in balloon pants, but wearing more relaxed clothing is a sure way to put your mind and body at ease. Pairing straight-leg leather pants with a simple tank or an easy cardigan with slouchy jeans is truly the definition of ultimate relaxation. And New York has never felt so peaceful. Keep scrolling for the easiest items to perfect your new relaxed style.
Who What Wear Collection
Eli Relaxed Vegan-Leather Trousers
These pants are everything I need to channel relaxed style.
Who What Wear Collection
Evelyne Seamed Midi Dress
I'll be wearing this to work for the next week straight.
Open Edit
Oversize Polo Sweater
Cozy and easy.
The Drop
Ellison Rib Flare Sweater Pant
So flattering and so easy to wear.
Open Edit
Blazer
This price can't be beat.
(Image credit: @lifeofboheme)
Levi's
Dad Bomber Jacket
The slouchy sleeves give off such a vibe.
Spiritual Gangster
Melody Sweater
I need the matching set.
Open Edit
Knit Cargo Joggers
These are so versatile you can wear them on the couch or to the office.
(Image credit: @aminamuaddi)
H&M
Slit-Detail Leggings
The best $11 you will spend.
Free People
Easy Street Tunic
I'm sold on this.
Urban Outfitters
Mimi Sweater Cami
So simple.
(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)
Line
Dot
Bailey Cable Sweater
Great quality at a great price.
The Line by K
Calli Dres
Wearing this to my next dinner party.
Open Edit
Jersey Tube Top
Wear it alone or layer it with your favorite pieces.
Open Edit
Ribbed Side-Tie Knit Pants
These will take your loungewear game to the next level.
The Drop
Hayley Half Zip Sweatshirt
Living for this collar.
Who What Wear Collection
Jaree Center-Seam Sweater
I need this in both colors.
Open Edit
Tapered Leg Faux Leather Pants
Reasonably priced and fabulous.
(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)
Free People
Hi Hon Turtleneck Top
The ultimate layering piece.
Open Edit
Open Back Sleeveless Sweater
This top is iconic.
Richer Poorer
Unwind Pullover
Come on. The name of this sweater is actually "unwind."
Nonchalant
Charli Crop Top
I have this top and wear it just about every day with everything I own.
H&M
Dress Pants
The definition of trying without really trying at all.