A SIMPLE GUIDE TO LOUNGEWEAR
Loungewear has been around for a while now and it mushroomed to fill an often overlooked gap in fashion. Loungewear can simply be thought of as stylish but comfortable attire for staying or ‘lounging’ at home. Loungewear should however be acceptable or appropriate enough to wear in public hence the emphasis on ‘stylish’. Pyjamas therefore do not count as loungewear and neither do jeans; it is a delicate balance of comfort and formality.
Staying at home has recently become the new normal so picture a typical day at home. You wake up, change out of your pyjamas – as you should – and now you need something comfortable to wear. You think of that rugged old t-shirt filling up your closet space but you remember you have a Zoom meeting later on. God forbid your colleagues see you in a sun scorched campaign t-shirt. You therefore need something more stylish. Does this sound like a practical need for loungewear? Also remember the supermarket run you have to do later; no need for jeans, another reason you need loungewear. Loungewear has also become popular in airports where people would like to be really comfortable during long flights. These are just some reasons why you need to know about loungewear.
 |
 |
What Constitutes Loungewear?
We have already established that pyjamas do not count as loungewear and neither do jeans, so think of these two as the extremes and find something in between. You are now left with t-shirts, sweatpants, hoodies, sweaters and sneakers or slides for your feet. There could be bolder options like robes and jumpsuits; don’t be afraid to go crazy. Loungewear is after all a bold look especially if you’re going to wear it in public. Let’s break it down further.
... it is a delicate balance of comfort and formality.
T-Shirts
Most loungewear looks will constitute a t-shirt but you should not pick just any t-shirt. A simple t-shirt with good quality, comfortable fabric such as cotton or merino will do. The colours should be muted or neutral with minimal or no detail. Long and short-sleeved t-shirts are both acceptable.
 |
 |
 |
Sweatpants and Joggers
Your choice of bottoms could qualify your entire outfit as either loungewear or not. Sweatpants and joggers are therefore the safest bet. Go for comfortable materials like a cotton-polyester blend, cashmere or silk. For the extra style factor, go for a tapered leg to flatter your physique.
 |
 |
Hoodies
You tend to get cold when staying indoors for the better part of the day with little physical activity. A hoodie is therefore a natural warm choice for the top layer of your loungewear outfit. A hoodie is also a functional item because the kangaroo pockets are easily accessible. A zipped hoodie would be a wise choice to show off your t-shirt underneath. The best choice of materials for your hoodie is the same as with sweatpants or joggers.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Sweatshirts
A lighter alternative to a hoodie on your loungewear outfit is a sweatshirt. A simple logo or graphic will add the much needed style factor. For a premium chic look, go for a crewneck. Again, comfortable materials are key to your choice of sweatshirt.
 |
 |
Comfortable Sneakers
For your feet, comfortable and toned down sneakers are your go-to. Simplicity goes all the way. If you’re however staying indoors, you can never go wrong with a simple pair of slides.
 |
 |
 |
Caps and Beanies
Like with all looks, accessories crown the whole outfit. To achieve comfort, a cap or a beanie is the most practical choice. We are of course referring to sports or baseball caps here. With a cap or beanie, you also have little time to worry about your hair given that you are spending most of the day at home; more convenience achieved.
 |
 |
 |
 |
The 3 Rules of Thumb
If you forget everything else in this post, remember these 3 rules of thumb:
1.Simplicity
Stick to the basics when putting together a loungewear look. Apart from being stylish and comfortable, you may have observed that loungewear is also practical and simple. You’re staying home the whole day or only going out for a few quick errands so there is surely no need to pull out the Sunday-best. You should however still be presentable in public. This is exactly where loungewear fits in.
2. Avoid Bright Colours
Bright or neon colours should be limited to a small detail or piece on the outfit. The larger part of your outfit should make use of neutral or muted colour tones. This is essential to achieving a modern, clean and elegant look that defines loungewear.
3. Get the Right Fit
Comfort should not be an excuse to wear oversized clothes and pass them off as loungewear. Highlighting your physique is one of the greatest principles of style so that is exactly what you should aim to do. Make sure all pieces in your outfit are your size and fit right.
Remember you can get your loungewear pieces right here on GRP.
Till next time, stay safe!
COMMENTS (1)
👌🏻👌🏻