Who says you can’t wear sweats to work? Our favorite designers are sending these comfy knits down the runway and if your office dress code allows, we say go for it.
The new sweatpant has a slightly more structured fit and serves as a comfortable alternative to denim or leggings. If styled correctly, sweatpants are totally work appropriate and a great way to mix things up in your fall/winter wardrobe.
Disclaimer: If your favorite pair of drawstring waist, elastic-ankle sweatpants from high school come to mind, we’re not on the same page. There’s a thin line between office casual and couch potato so let’s not get carried away. Rule of thumb: if your boyfriend would wear them or can fit into them, they are not work appropriate. See below:
SUNDRY Oui Oui Oui! loose crew neck tee – shopbop.com / Sanctuary Shimmered Epaulette pullover – anthropologie.com / Aldo Azola ankle bootie – piperlime.gap.com / J.Crew Cashmere infinity scarves – jcrew.com / Superga 2750 Cotu Classic White tennis shoes – superga.co.uk / Rag & Bone classic long sleeve tee – shopbop.com / SUNDRY Slouchy sweatpants – shopbop.com / Dario platform boot – nastygal.com / Alexander Wang Antonia leather sandals – net-a-porter.com / Gaelle ankle boot – nastygal.com
Consider the following characteristics when shopping for work-appropriate sweatpants:
1. Fabric – Go for a lightweight knit that isn’t too thick or too thin. Too thick can be uncomfortable indoors when the heat is on and too thin isn’t flattering and may lose shape during the course of the day.
2. Embellishments – Zippers, pockets, and panels are acceptable. Embroidery, sewn-on letters, rhinestones or contrasting stitching can easily take a pair of office-appropriate sweatpants into slouchy, Victoria’s Secret PINK, for-lounging-only territory.
3. Color – It’s best to stick to black or varying shades of grey in order to maintain the polished look.
4. Fit – The sweatpants’ most endearing feature is comfort and if they are too tight, or too loose, comfort goes out of the window. The best fit is slightly slouchy towards the top and near the crotch and tapered towards the ankle.
3.1 Phillip Lim Stitched Panel Track Pants – $375
T by Alexander Wang French Terry Track Pants – $215
LA’t by L’AGENCE Zip Leg Sweatpants – $175.00
Once you’ve found the right sweats, your choice of shoes can make or break your good intentions. A skinny, cuffed ankle works well with low-top sneakers of ankle-length booties or sandals. Your top should also be easy-fitting, but somewhat structured. Style tip: If your top can be tucked into the front of your waistband, you’ll look more pulled together versus frumpy.
The best part about wearing sweats to work? It’s super easy and fun to transition from day to night with the addition of a leather jacket or fitted blazer and strappy sandals.
