A Change of Clothes

So how exactly are unemployed people supposed to dress?

I know the common perception among the employed and HR circles are that we laze around all day in our pajamas. In my case, I can say that is definitely not so.

Each jobless person has to settle on his or her own daily wardrobe. I bought several pairs of stretchy yoga pants. They were cheap, are comfortable to wear and can be worn outside the house when going to the store or running an errand. Imagine going to the post office in pajamas pants? I don’t think so. Having those yoga pants also came in handy when I went to physical therapy. Leg lengths vary from full (for fall/winter) to capri (for spring/summer). Pair ’em with a t-shirt or hoodie and you’re good to go.

Another good choice is a velour tracksuit. I have two. So much more polished than a ratty old sweatsuit, don’t ya think?

I also believe that the nicer you dress—even casually while unemployed—the better you feel about yourself.

When I do go out, I sometimes see women dressed in work clothes and high heels. I feel a little jealous. Again, a reminder of my jobless status.

Of course, I do dress up for interviews. It’s sometimes nice to wear a professional outfit. Although I must admit, the high heels kill my feet. Guess I’ve gotten accustomed to wearing comfortable shoes.

I’m not one for fancy party clothes, but I did manage to put together a respectable work wardrobe that is now gathering dust in my closet.

Someday I hope to wear those clothes again.