Since the global pandemic began, Arlington-based stylist and image consultant Lindsey Evans of Lindsey Evans Studio has done her best to make the most of this uncertain time. From adding a puppy to her family to adopting a weekly ritual of dressing up for new episodes of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, she’s continued to find ways to look and feel her very best in the midst of this global crisis. Plus, she’s done the same for clients old and new via virtual consultations and online meetings.
Here, she shares her thoughts on essential purchases, realistic expectations of work-from-home attire and a weekly routine that gives her solace. Highlights from our conversation below.
On the new normal:
My day-to-day routine has changed drastically since the pandemic, as I’m now home with my new puppy and not in my studio or with clients. My typical routine, prior to the pandemic, was to see my clients in person (usually at least three clients a week), as I offer in-home premiere concierge styling services, so without being able to take in-person meetings and have fittings, everything has changed. I have always offered virtual styling and my clients have a virtual closet when they work with me, however there is something extra special about being in person with my clients that creates a trust in our relationship. Styling is a visual art that I believe is best done when texture and weights of fabrics can be understood; that is simply more challenging to comprehend and communicate virtually. My studio does offer closet cleanses and style collective appointments virtually to meet client needs during this time.
On what shopping looks like today:
I think I’m shopping very practically and trying to think ahead since delivery dates have all shifted backward, it seems to be taking longer and longer to receive things. When I buy things now it’s either an essential item toward running our household or some sort of activity to take up time or give us a new experience rather than a new top I can put on Instagram.
I adopted a new puppy, bought a treadmill, a poker table for my husband—you name it! I have actually avoided buying clothes for myself. That would be like opening a can of worms I could never ever close again if I break the seal of wardrobe shopping for myself during the pandemic with all the sales going on. I’ve especially steered clear of all the sweatpants sets because it seems silly to me to buy a bunch of sets I won’t need in a few months. I see it as a way to manifest that we won’t be living at home forever! I recommend updating your essentials right now, like undergarments, athleisure items and classic pieces like a button-down shirt, classic T-shirts, ribbed tank tops, etc. Think about what you may use now and in six months, then go from there.
On WFH attire:
I have been loving jogger pants from Urban Outfitters, crisp T-shirts from Club Monaco, rompers from Target even! Jumpsuits, boiler suits, overalls—anything one piece has been really nice. Also, I really have done best through this pandemic when I consistently workout so I’ve been in athleisurewear often. I try to wear a matching athleisurewear set so it feels like a bit more of an intentional outfit.
I believe in being practical when it comes to dressing, so I don’t expect my clients to be sitting at home in jeans and heels; let’s not pretend we all don’t want to be comfortable when we’re at home. I think it’s fine for the time being to give ourselves permission to take a little break from our typical wardrobe but I also don’t want my clients living in sweatpants during this time because I think it can make you feel crummy. So, if you’re out there buying every pajama and sweatsuit set under the sun, try a jumpsuit or a romper with a T-shirt under instead!
On self-care:
I’ve been concentrating a lot on skin care and just mixing a bunch of serums, also moisturizing and exfoliating. I’m a big fan of Sio Beauty patches, a long bath and it’s important to get a little sunshine too!
On the latest must-shop sales and styles:
The Nordstrom sale is great and has so much cute home stuff. I got tons of cute stuff for my new puppy. Asos has great sales and really cute dresses for summer. I’ve been keeping an eye on Shopbop and Saks too—there’s so much cute stuff available right now. Also keep an eye out for the consignment shops—a lot of designer merchandise is super marked down. Text your stylist and ask them if you should buy a piece if you aren’t sure. It never hurts to have a second opinion.
On outfits she plans to show off post pandemic:
Well to be honest, I’m dressing up every Wednesday night for the The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episodes. They are my religion, so I thought I should dress up for church! I’m joking, but it has been fun to have something silly and creative to look forward to, and everyone seems to get a kick out of them when I post on social media. I guess to answer your question, I’m not missing out on having any fun with my outfits!
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