Sweatpants are the New Jeans

Move over jeans, sweatpants are here and sticking around – for awhile. Look, I’m not actually giving up on my denim love (see my guide here), but I’m fully giving into my new lust for sweatpants. I’ve got no where to go, so frankly I’m going to be cozy and comfy. But alas, how does one attempt cozy and chic? I attempted, and it’s not all bad.

What to Look For when buying sweatpants:

1. Dress for your body: If you are petite, then a pair of sweatpants that are a slimmer cut would probably be a better option. I like these ones from Roots. If you are taller, look for a pair that has a longer cuff on the bottom so your ankles don’t get cold. I like these from Zara. If you are self conscious about your hips or tummy, look for a pair that is high waisted, without a drawstring or pockets so you don’t add more bulk.
2. Colours: So you’ll be living in these for at least the next couple of months which means you do need to maximize how often you wear them. I would recommend looking for neutrals that work as a mix and match for other tops. Yes – boring black it is. But it also hides the stains!
3. Fabrics: Sweatpants or joggers, are not just in your usual sweatpants material anymore. If you live someplace warmer or just want to continue the trend into the spring, look for fabrics such as lightweight cottons or linens. If it’s still too darn cold for you, you can find cozy pairs made from fleece. If you are looking for something luxe you can get pairs that are knit or even if you want to spoil yourself, a pair of cashmere ones. But whatever you pick, my suggestion is something that holds up well in the wash.
4. Price: Don’t be fooled into thinking you have to pay yoga-pant prices for sweats (you know what I’m talking about!). My current go to pair has been from Zara and they’ve washed and worn really well.

Styling Tips for Sweats

Gone are the days when your stained sweatpants were for bumming around the house on the weekend. Now it’s the never ending weekend (except with none of the fun weekend stuff). But just because you are home all the time, it doesn’t mean you don’t have to feel (or look) put together.

1. Match: Yep, it’s cool and stylish to do now. A lot of retailers take the guesswork out for you and you can buy coordinating sets that match.
2. Layer: Ok, so you have the sweatpants and the matching hoodie. You feel comfy and happy in your own home but need to run to the grocery store. Throw on a oversized coat, add a cute beanie and some boots, and a cross body bag .

3. Have a zoom call?: Ok, so you maybe your hoodie doesn’t quite say ‘professional’. You could opt for a plain crewneck style sweatshirt and accessorize it with some delicate jewelry. But if you need to notch it up a bit, here’s my tip. Wear a body suit or a fitted fine knit top (like a turtleneck), and then layer a cardigan over top. If you’ve got a bigger meeting, throw on a blazer. It’s business on the top and cozy on the bottom!

Here are some other tips for styling your sweatpants:

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