Need to zoom in on your video conference call look during work from home? 9 ways to elevate your on-camera business game

Before Covid-19, the occasional “work from home” day was something of an infrequent luxury. Nowadays, it's the norm. According to the latest Gallup Panel, 62 per cent of Americans say they have worked from home during the crisis, a number that has doubled since March. It was an adjustment for many, especially those who were so used to “face time” in its original meaning.

As we navigate what seems to be the winding down of self-isolation, the same Gallup Panel says that three out of five workers would prefer to continue to work remotely. So what does this mean for the future of business? Virtual conferences and meetings, to start, will certainly be rolled up into this ‘new normal.’

When it comes to in-person meetings, success is something you are accustomed to. You've mastered the art of the handshake, eye contact, and have your perfect power outfit ready to go. So how can you elevate your on-camera business game? We spoke with several professional stylists who offered their tips on how to elevate your conference call look to inspire confidence and success.

Treat every day like casual Friday

While you may still be crunching numbers and closing deals at your high-powered job, it's important to remember that you are still in your home. It's OK to loosen it up just a little bit. Unbutton that top button and leave that tie in the wardrobe. It's OK – trust the experts!

“If you work in a more corporate-structured environment, think of your wardrobe from your office and take it down a notch. Give it the casual Friday look,” said Joan Reidy, a fashion stylist and brand consultant. Her experience includes styling runway collections during New York Fashion Week for international designers. She's also the lead stylist for a number of seasons for Lagos Fashion Week, and works on costumes for celebrities from Gwen Stefani to Beyoncé.

That said, there are a few parameters to keep in mind, now that you're adding “get camera ready” to your list of morning tasks.

Raven Roberts recommends layers to add texture. For example, leggings on the bottom and T-shirt on the top is great, but perhaps throw a cardigan or a blazer over the T-shirt. These are easily removed in between meetings, but can take your on-screen appearance to a new high.

Roberts is a celebrity fashion stylist, who has served as the key wardrobe stylist for campaigns, web series, music videos, films, and photography exhibits. She has been featured on Macy's Next Style Star and Bare Minerals Beauty Uncovered, both on YouTube.

Polo necks are another great option for on-screen calls. They add a touch of elegance to any look by elongating the neck and framing the face.