Why Carrie Bradshaw Is the Original Work From Home Muse

Carrie Bradshaw may be best remembered for the myriad of playful runway looks she wore on the streets of Manhattan, but Sex and the City’s resident risk-taker also sported influential looks within the comfort of her own home. As a freelance writer working out of her Upper East Side apartment, Carrie spent the bulk of her time crafting her advice columns in front of her MacBook. While she always made time for brunch with the girls or a quick shoe shopping trip at Manolo Blahnik, Carrie wouldn’t have been able to pay the bills without putting in hours indoors. Sure, the Manhattan of the ’90s and early 2000s was a very different place—phrases like self-quarantine and social distancing had yet to be coined, and Carrie’s biggest worry was whether or not Mr. Big would reciprocate her feelings—but there’s still plenty of inspiration to be found in the character’s endless wardrobe.

When Carrie worked from home, she never compromised on her personal style, nor did she dress down to tackle everyday tasks like dog walking or picking up a few items from the grocery store. Patricia Field’s eclectic vision for the series’ leading lady didn’t allow for many casual moments, but that’s precisely what made Carrie so appealing. Apt to sit down to type up a column in a marabou feather jacket or hang out on her stoop wearing python boots and faux fur, she was a muse who reveled in fashion’s fantasy—no matter how impractical it was.

Carrie—and her off-screen alter ego Sarah Jessica Parker, who turns 55 today—always embraced the joy that comes from dressing up. After all, a great outfit is a mood booster for the wearer and everyone around them. While it’s tempting to complete every work from home moment in pajamas and slippers, Carrie’s vibrant, cheerful home office attire is proof that great style elevates any situation. Whether you throw on a strand of pearls with those sweats or put on your favorite dress just for giggles, a little fashion can brighten the mood when we need it most.

Below, the Carrie guide to getting dressed for working from home.

Athleisure

Even ’80s-era Carrie understood that basics could be spiced up with a flash of shoulder and a strand of classic pearls.

Closet Organizing

Time to call in the Schmatta Shrink, or send a few boxes over to Goodwill? Why not sort through your wardrobe in heels and a body harness? It certainly can’t hurt!

Dog Walking

On the rare occasion when you have to venture outside, leave the black puffer at home. Floral brocade—and puppies—will bring a smile to your face, even when you’re completing the most mundane of tasks.

Grocery Shopping

There’s nothing fun about stocking up on toilet paper, disinfectant, and pizza rolls, but mixed prints can add a touch of levity to the experience.

Social Distancing

If you must head outdoors, make sure to maintain your distance. No one is going to bother you when you’re decked out in a cocoon of Prada.

Chilling on the Stoop

Outdoor space—stoops, terraces, and backyards—is hard to come by in most cities, but when you find a safe spot to get a little fresh air, enjoy the moment by wearing something exceptional.

Laptop Chic

Emails, conference calls, and even Zoom meetings are always better when you’re wearing marabou.