Many of us are now spending large amounts of time at home. And if you’re like us, you want to be cozy and comfortable.
That doesn’t mean that you should ignore how you dress. You’ll want to make sure you feel comfortable and good about your appearance. It’s never been so easy to dress well indoors with many comfortable clothes and loungewear now available.
The best loungewear is super comfortable and also suitable to wear outside. Below, we show you how to dress comfortably AND stylishly at home and where to find the best women’s loungewear for days spent at home.
What is loungewear and how you can wear it
Tracksuits, sweatshirts, leggings, pajamas, lounge pants, tees – loungewear is a catch-all term for anything comfortable to lounge around.
While in the days of Hollywood sirens, “slipping into something more comfortable” typically meant some sort of seductive slip of silk or satin, now the trend is to change into comfy lounge pants and sweaters when you come home.
Finally, comfort has become fashionable. Even Victoria Beckham, who was once so loath to wear flats that she wore heeled sneakers to play baseball, has recently embraced the loungewear trend and has been wearing cozy knits and sneakers rather than her usual heels and dresses.
Jamie @moreturquoise above (read her style interview here) looks comfy, warm as stylish.
Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater, joggers and ruana.
How do you look classy in loungewear?
Think about your loungewear as you would any other outfit. Ensure the fit is good, choose styles to suit your body type, and opt for beautiful fabrics like silk and cashmere.
Are lounge sets still in style?
Very much so. We all have busy lifestyles, so you must have comfortable, versatile, and stylish loungewear that you can wear at home, traveling, or on casual days.
What is the best material for loungewear?
The most important thing about loungewear is that it’s comfortable, so the best materials feel great against your skin, have some stretch, and keep your temperature regulated. Look for natural fabrics like cashmere, cotton, jersey, bamboo, and modal. More on fabrics later.
How do I choose loungewear?
You want the right mix of fit, fabric, and style. The kind of clothes where you wonder if it’s jogging pants or one of those hip new stretchy pants you see the stars wearing. Read on to find out more about creating a loungewear capsule.
Can you wear loungewear to the airport?
Loungewear is also a great option on the plane if you are travelling. Choose a neutral shade and dress up a bit with a comfortable jacket.
Is it lounge clothing or PJs?
In short, loungewear sits somewhere between pajamas and going-out attire.
If you wouldn’t be happy to answer the doorbell, you’re probably in pajamas. If you’re happy to go to the door, or pop to the shop for milk and bread, it’s loungewear!
Prefer to relax in pajamas? Take a look at the best pajamas for women, which is updated with some good pajamas for winter.
The best women’s loungewear for your needs
The best loungewear for your needs depends on what your activities are.
For example, you may want to be comfortable at home and look professional enough to take a video conference call.
Plus, you may want to get some fresh air or walk your dog (if you have one).
We do find that what we’re wearing has an impact on our mood. Do you agree? So, upgrading those not-going-anywhere-special-today clothes could make a real difference.
Dawn Lucy @fashionshouldbefun above (read her style interview here) wears tie-waist pants with her fluffy slipper-style sandals.
Steal her look with this similar tee, hoodie, blazer, joggers, fur slippers, necklace and earrings.
the best loungewear in stores now
Let’s look at some of the best loungewear you can choose now.
Luxury loungewear
Although loungewear is all about comfort, baggy tees and washed-out leggings won’t cut it anymore! Loungewear is also about luxury – that feeling that you’re treating yourself well at home.
As our lives get busier, many spend more time at home during our downtime. But you will still want to feel as if you take care of yourself and are both comfortable AND stylish.
Plus, investing in your loungewear makes sense, given that it doesn’t follow fashion fads so much as other clothing so that it won’t date.
Quince SuperSoft Fleece Pullover Hoodie – Quince SuperSoft Fleece Joggers
Cashmere loungewear
If you want to inject some luxury into your loungewear wardrobe, we can’t think of a better way to do so than with a luxurious fabric like cashmere.
Zella Wool & Cashmere Knit Joggers
warmest loungewear
If it’s chilly outside, you’ll want to ensure your loungewear keeps you nice and cozy. The lounge set (below) is made from soft, thermal material and comes in a good choice of colors. One reviewer said she loved it so much that she bought another set in a different color.
softest loungewear
As well as being warm, you’ll want your loungewear to be soft against your skin. Choose fleece if you want to be cozy. The fleece set (below) comes in a good choice of colors and has fantastic reviewers from wearers who say it is almost too warm. So, if you tend to get cold, then that’s perfect.
Choosing a capsule loungewear wardrobe
While it may seem a bit strange to put together a loungewear capsule, it will help you feel more stylish even on your most casual days.
Many brands have upped their game regarding loungewear because of the athleisure trend.
Lounge pants
One of the most essential parts of your loungewear capsule will be the pants you choose, so let’s start there.
You will likely want a style that you can pull on so you don’t have to fiddle about with restrictive zippers and buttons while relaxing, which still looks very stylish.
Look for yoga pants styles, track pants, elasticated pull-on, and drawstring styles.
GOBI Mongolian Cashmere Cuffed Cashmere Jogger – FRAME Wide Leg Track Sweatpants – Barefoot Dreams® Malibu Collection® Brushed Fleece Track Pants – Eberjey Wide Leg Lounge Sweater Pants
Beth @styleatacertainage above (read her style interview here) matches the stripes in her sweater to her pants.
Get her look with this similar sweater (another option here), jogger pants and sneakers.
Women’s lounge LEGGINGS
Another good option is leggings like this pair from Zella. You could wear these indoors or pop to do a couple of errands in them. They could also make a good pair of yoga pants.
Zella Live In High Waist 7/8 Leggings – SKIMS Stretch Cotton Rib Leggings – WeWoreWhat High Rise Legging – Beyond Yoga Space Dye Wide Leg Pants
J.Crew Oversized Cashmere Wrap – J.Crew Ribbed Featherweight Cashmere T-shirt – Zella Live In High Waist 7/8 Leggings – Söfft Frayda Sneakers
Don’t forget to take a look at how to wear leggings over 40.
Lounge shorts
If you live in warmer climates or are heading off on vacation you may prefer a pair of lounge shorts for sleeping and relaxing in rather than full-length pants. We love the neutral shades of the lounge shorts set (below).
Lounge TOPS
Of course, your loungewear closet cannot consist of pants and shorts alone! You will want to add some tops which you can mix and match.
Opt for various styles in short and long sleeves to cover all weather conditions.
Choose a soft fabric you will be comfortable in. For additional style, you can also opt for a drape, knot, or twist detail.
As well as a long-sleeved top for cooler days and nights, you will want a tank top or t-shirt. A plain T-shirt is always a versatile option; you can wear it indoors as a pajama top or outdoors as a tee. Add a hoodie for layering.
Veronica Beard Waldorf Ruched Cotton T-Shirt – J.Crew Ribbed Featherweight Cashmere T-shirt – SKIMS Stretch Cotton Jersey Tank – COS Buttoned Lightweight Hoodie
You might also want to add a camisole to your relaxing wardrobe. Check out this article on the best camisoles to buy.
Women’s loungewear sets
Of course, you could always opt for a matching set of loungewear pants and bottoms. That way, you can wear them as a set or choose to mix and match.
The set below is Mongolian cashmere. It looks and feels luxurious and would be perfect for day-to-day or plane travel.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie – Quince Mongolian Cashmere Straight Leg Pant
The Barefoot Dreams set (below) would be ideal for lounging or for traveling.
Barefoot Dreams® CozyChic® Ultra Lite® Knit Pajamas
The LAKE shorts set (below) is another great choice as it’s made from modal with a touch of spandex, so it’s super soft, but it keeps its shape. It comes in a choice of colors and has fantastic five-star reviews.
LAKE Relax Shorts Set in Conifer
Or you could opt for a lounge set that looks like it could be worn during the day or evening. Just wear slippers or sneakers for casual days, or add heels and a clutch to the ribbed set (below). It comes in neutrals or bright shades. One reviewer said she wore it for a late evening flight and got many compliments.
Tankaneo Ribbed Knit Lounge Set
Another matchy-matchy option for you, this time with a sweater top. This knit set (below) looks like it could be worn for days at home or casual days outdoors. There’s a huge choice of colors, and reviewers say it is warm and comfortable and goes perfectly with white sneakers.
If you want to ensure everything matches, you could choose a set that includes a camisole or tank top. Reviewers say they love changing into the three-piece set (below) after a day at work.
Adaline @sdmomstyles above opts for a shorts set that would be ideal on warmer days.
Recreate her outfit with this similar 2-pc lounge set, sneakers, and necklace.
Loungewear jumpsuit
You might also want to consider a loungewear jumpsuit.
While a jumpsuit can be a stylish option for lunch or an evening out, you will want a less structured jumpsuit for lounging in.
Choose something you can quickly get on and off, which doesn’t have a restrictive button or hook-and-eye fastenings, and which has stretch fabric.
Reistor Relaxed Drawstring Jumpsuit – SER.O.YA Wren Jumpsuit – Loveappella Wrap Top Jumpsuit – OQQ Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Nordstrom Rib Long Cardigan – Reistor Relaxed Drawstring Jumpsuit – Laura Ashley Memory Foam Scuff Slippers
Knitted loungewear for women
For chilly evenings, you will likely want a loungewear cardigan or poncho to throw on over your outfit.
We like to choose a nice, long style that can also double up as a dressing gown in case we’re on vacation where we don’t have one with us or they don’t provide a nice, fluffy one in the hotel.
The cardigans and ponchos (below) are perfect to add a little warmth to your relaxed outfit.
Nordstrom Rib Long Cardigan – Caslon® Cocoon Open Front Longline Fleece Sweatshirt – J.Crew Oversized Cashmere Wrap – J.Crew Cashmere-wool Blend Poncho
Lounge dress
While most loungewear tends to be t-shirts and drawstring pants, you may feel more comfortable in a dress. Choose a soft fabric with some stretch, such as a jersey. If you want extra warmth, add a pair of leggings underneath.
SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress – Nordstrom V-Neck Long Sleeve Wool & Cashmere Sweater Dress – Loveappella V-Neck Jersey Midi Dress – The Drop Claudia Cuddle Hoodie Midi Dress
J.Crew Cashmere-wool Blend Poncho – SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress – UGG Scuffette II Slippers
Women’s loungewear tracksuits
If you want pieces you can wear indoors or outdoors, you can opt for a loungewear tracksuit.
While tracksuits are thought to be just for sports or can be unflattering, there are some stylish loungewear options available. You can wear them together as a set or opt to wear them as separates.
They can be one of the most tricky things to wear while still looking stylish, so we prefer to wear tracksuits as separates. Pairing tracksuit pants with a cashmere sweater gives a luxe look.
If you’re heading out, you can add outerwear like leather jackets, trench coats, and sneakers. Then again, if you’re staying in, wear the set together for a comfy, cozy look.
Petite loungewear
Finding loungewear that fits properly if you are petite can be tricky. You’ll find that Lands’ End has a good petite range. Another option is to choose cropped pants which you can wear as regular-length.
We also love the Loveappella jumpsuit (below), which comes in a petite fit.
Loveappella Short Sleeve Wrap Top Jumpsuit
There is more advice in this article on how to dress if you are petite.
Plus size loungewear
Nordstrom is a good go-to if you are looking for plus-size options as you can filter your search by size. Or, you could try the lounge set (below) which comes in a huge choice of colors and sizes.
We also love the three-piece set (below).
L I V D Luna 3-Piece Rib Lounge Set
Accessories to go with your ladies loungewear set
As with your regular closet, you will want to ensure you have the right accessories to go with your loungewear.
Think about sports bras or comfy bralettes to go under your loungewear, as you probably won’t want to feel the constriction of the underwire. Plus, cozy socks and slippers for your feet.
You may also want to choose a pair of sneakers or slip-on shoes that you can wear out and about if you want to run errands. And, of course, you will want a great style book to read while you lounge.
UGG Scuffette II Slippers – Laura Ashley Memory Foam Scuff Slippers – Söfft Frayda Sneakers – Barefoot Dreams® CozyChic™ Assorted 3-Pack Crew Socks – Italic Cleo Cashmere Scarf – SWEET WATER DECOR 11oz White Jar Candle – The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo: A Novel
Susan @susan_unefemme above (read her style interview here) stays cozy while enjoying her coffee by layering her knitwear and wearing fluffy slippers.
Get her look with this similar cashmere sweater, pants , slippers and scarf.
Where is the best place to buy loungewear?
Here are some of our favorite loungewear brands. How about yours? You can let us know in the comments at the bottom of the article.
Is loungewear your ‘third wardrobe’?
Many store buyers now refer to loungewear as your “third wardrobe”.
It’s not for going to bed in, and it’s not for going out in. It’s for those evenings when you want to relax with a glass of wine or a cup of hot chocolate while reading a book or watching a movie.
So, what should you have in your loungewear capsule?
I’d suggest leggings, lounge pants, long sleeve tees and tank tops, a cozy cardigan and socks or slippers. I’d also add some bralettes to your loungewear drawer if you still need support, but feel more comfortable in something other than an underwired bra!
By keeping to a color scheme like any other capsule in your wardrobe, you can ensure you always look put together, even if you do have to answer the door!
A camisole can be a great asset for your lounge wardrobe. Check some of the best camisoles here.
9 loungewear outfits using the pieces above
The beauty of loungewear is that you can mix and match in so many different ways, whether you are staying in all day or heading out to run a few errands or for some exercise.
Just as you would put together a capsule collection in your regular wardrobe, it’s worth investing in key loungewear pieces. When you’re looking for loungewear, choose pieces that are easy to pull on and which allow you to relax while still feeling stylish.
shop the best loungewear outfits below:
Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.
Do you change into your womens loungewear clothes as soon as you get home? What is your favorite loungewear trend?
Continue reading:
- Pajamas For Women: The Best Types Of Women’s Pajamas For Women Over 40
- How To Wear Leggings Over 40 – A Complete Guide
- The Best Pants And Skirts To Fit And Hide Your Belly
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Feature image by Jamie @moreturquoise
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I get a bit twitchy about loungewear. Never understood the need to change work clothes to comfy ones when used to go into the office all the time. Having said that I always wear comfy clothes but in interesting texture/colours, even my smarter clothes are soft not structured. I’m wearing the clothes not the other way round. Plus as you get older it’s important to be comfortable (without sacrificing style) otherwise you don’t feel right and that show in many ways. Personally I like soft fabrics, jersey, wool mix, velour and am a great fan of coloured cords.
Sylvia, this is very well put: loungewear sits between PJ’s and clothes for going out, and if you are not comfortable answering the door in what you’re wearing, then they’re PJ’s!
Thank you for this very useful article.
Good to read you found it useful Patricia!
Now working remotely, I have enjoyed working in lounge wear and can already see how it will influence my wardrobe once I return to the office. I’m getting the most use out of charcoal gray joggers, wide leg leopard print lounge pants, and cozy fleece-lined stretch jeggings – like ‘pajama jeans’. Slip-on knit sneakers are perfectly versatile, practical, and keep me out of bedroom slippers.
But the top is the most important, as I’m doing daily video meetings and still want to look and feel professional. When you’re only viewed from the the chest upward, you have to adjust your proportions and accessories accordingly. Cashmere turtleneck sweaters and cowl-neck tops look good on camera, especially in deeper jewel tones. If my top is black or charcoal, I add a little pop of color, usually by way of simple turquoise jewelry, or wearing colored eyeglass frames. If my top is colored, I stick with simple hoop earrings and go with metal or tortoise frames.
So true Karalane!
I love this article as I am living in the very relaxed San Diego, working as a Personal stylist and coming from Milan Italy, I get asked the question often. What is Loungewear v sloppy dressing? I will certainly keep this article to help my clients with this dilemma, so many thanks.
Great article.
It is so important to look good, feel good all of the time. Life is short, feel good. I think Victoria Beckham is starting to feel her age and the wear and tear of her feet.
Thank you for your continued efforts.
Thanks so much for your kind feedback Catherine!
Thanks for your collection. Wish they had petite sizes consistently.
If you spend most of your time at home like me it only make sense to invest the most in those items. I also think Pure Jill by J.Jill is a very good option .
What is the brand of the knit cuffed pants that the model is wearing in the picture? Love them!
Not sure. You may want to check her instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/p/BxZUzLMAtaU/ to check.
Lularoe is my current go-to for loungewear. It’s cute, comfy and can be worn for errands.
Looks very comfy.
It does Greetje – I’ve definitely inspired myself to invest in some new loungewear!
Good article. Since I travel alot I started wearing alot of loungewear. It’s more or less what is considered pajamas with a cami(or tank) top and I pair it with a short sleeve outer blouse. I do alot of driving and could never wear jeans or tight fitting pants. Sometimes I wear exercise type pants but not too often. I also discovered places like Target sell sleepwear pants that come in solid black and navy(black, blue, gray prints also). This is what I prefer. More black and dark colors and nothing baggy, must be breathable and nonrestrictive.. And no one would ever know it is sleepwear. The women that work in these places don’t even know their stores sell this stuff
Thanks for the tips Rachel!