Clothing for a week at the office
Short answer: A week at the office calls for clothes that look tidy, feel good all day and cope with the trip to and from work. Choose basics you can combine, and change socks and underwear so you stay fresh for the afternoon.
Comfort from morning to afternoon
At the office you typically sit still for many hours, but you also move to meetings, the canteen and transport. Your clothes therefore need to be comfortable to sit in and look tidy when you stand up. Think of clothing as a system: a layer close to the skin, a tidy outer and a few things that can be adjusted to the temperature in the room. Many offices are either too cold or too warm, so layers are an advantage.
What lies under the trousers
If you sit for a long time, moisture and rubbing can cause discomfort on the inner thighs. A pair of inner shorts under your trousers gives a smooth surface between the thighs and can feel comfortable on long days. See bamboo inner shorts. Choose a fit that does not ride up and that does not show through the trousers. Change them every day, and bring a spare pair if you cycle to work and can get sweaty.
Socks that last a whole day
Many people rarely think about socks, yet they are among the most worn items at the office, where you often have shoes on for eight hours. Choose socks that do not squeeze around the calf and do not slip down into the shoe. See all bamboo socks for men. Take a spare pair in your bag so you can change at midday if your feet get warm or damp. It is a small thing that makes a big difference to how you feel.
Friday and weekend clothes that can take over
Many offices have a more relaxed Friday, and after work you want to change into something soft. Sweatpants are a good choice to put on as soon as you get home from work, or to carry in your bag if you are going straight on. See bamboo sweatpants for men. They are soft and do not squeeze at the waist, so you can relax in them after a long day at the desk.
Staying cool and clean at the office
Many offices are heated, and warm, dry air can cause sweating even without physical activity. Choose loose shirts in breathable fabrics, and avoid many layers in the warmest rooms. Keep a cardigan or a light jumper ready for when the air conditioning is running. Change your undershirt or T-shirt after lunch if you need to, and hang the shirt up to air when you get home.
Caring for work clothes through the week
Plan the week so that you have enough clean clothes from Monday to Friday, and wash before you run out. Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and skip fabric softener. Hang the clothes up to dry and iron trousers and shirts if they need it. Let the clothes hang to air for an evening before you wear them again. If you have spilled coffee on your clothes, rinse it with cold water as soon as possible and wash it according to the instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Why wear inner shorts under trousers
They give a smooth surface between the thighs, which can reduce rubbing, especially on days with a lot of sitting or heat. It is about comfort, not about treating anything.
How many pairs of socks do I need for the office
One pair on your feet and one spare in your bag are normally enough. Change if your feet get damp.
How do I dress for an office that is alternately cold and warm
Use layers that you can take off and put on. A thin jumper or cardigan over a shirt lets you adjust.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
