Outfit Formulas for When You’re Crashing Out

The world might be a mess, but your outfit doesn’t have to be.

When things are falling apart—emotionally, mentally, globally—getting dressed can feel like such a huge chore. The idea of picking an outfit becomes completely overwhelming.

I know the easy fix is to throw on a pair of joggers and an oversized sweatshirt and be done with it. But I hate that. It never makes me feel better. If anything, it makes everything me feel worse.

Wearing something that looks like I’ve given up only confirms what I’m trying not to admit: I’m struggling.

On the days when I don’t have the energy to think, let alone get dressed, I rely on my ‘just-get-through-the-day’ outfit formulas. They’re comfortable, quick, and easy to wear. They don’t require me to think too hard or try too hard, yet they still make me feel like myself—or at least a version that’s doing okay.

I’ve realised that when I’m feeling low, I tend to reach for the boldest items in my wardrobe—loud prints, bright colours, anything with a bit of personality.

Maybe it’s a distraction tactic. Maybe it’s my version of self-care. All I know is that wearing something fun gives me a little mood boost, even if it’s just enough to get me out the door.

If you’ve ever stared blankly at your wardrobe and thought, “I cannot do this today,” this is for you. These are the outfit formulas I rely on when I’m just trying to make it through the day. I hope they help.

Adding jewellery to an outfit always makes it look more intentional. It’s a tiny detail, but it makes a big difference. Jewellery gives the impression that you got dressed on purpose, not just because you had to.