Now that we're officially a year into the new normal, our wardrobes are beginning to toe the line between exuding comfort and needing a serious zhuzh. Personally, I can't say I'm necessarily looking forward to wearing jeans again [1], but I'm definitely ready to move on from sweatsuits. Thankfully, more elevated loungewear options [2] are popping up in the market — including covetable matching sets — and they've quickly become the hero items in my closet.
If it were up to me, we'd live in this moment of hybrid fashion forever, with outfits roomy and versatile enough [3] for working from home (or, more specifically, from bed) yet polished enough to wear outside for an outdoor meal. Small tweaks to your cosy capsule make all the difference: opt for luxe satin sets that you can dress down with flats, add texture to your shorts and leggings, or wear dresses in lieu of pants. And if you absolutely must do sweats, seek out a pair with unique cuffs or zipper details.
As a plethora of brands begin to explore this very necessary avenue of apparel, you may feel like you're scrolling for hours searching for your next best find. Fortunately, we've rounded up some of the best elevated loungewear you can shop right now, from dresses to pieces that you can wear together — or apart.
Simon Miller Rib Aukai Tunic
Chic and versatile, this Simon Miller Rib Aukai Tunic [5] ($150) doubles as a mini dress. Just add a pair of block-heel sandals or ankle boots.
Simon Miller Rib Cyrene Pant
If you choose to forgo the matching top, we'd recommend pairing Simon Miller's Rib Cyrene Pant [6] ($170) with a tight-fitting bodysuit.
Sundarbay Satin Relaxed Shirt
Since "root beer" brown is a top colour for fall, we're jumping on the bandwagon with this Sundarbay Satin Relaxed Shirt [7] ($109).
Sundarbay Satin High Waist Trousers
The forgiving waistband on these Sundarbay Satin High Waist Trousers [8] ($123) just makes them that much comfier.
Jonathan Simkhai Standard Rikki Rib Knit Bralette
You'll find us wearing this Jonathan Simkhai Standard Rikki Rib Knit Bralette [9] ($75) layered under a blazer all spring long.
Jonathan Simkhai Standard Morgan Rib Bike Shorts
The perfect biker short doesn't exi- . . . oh yes, it definitely does thanks to Jonathan Simkhai's Standard Morgan Rib Bike Shorts [10] ($125).
ASOS Tiered Shirt Dress
Let's face it: maxi dresses are basically wearable nightgowns, and this ASOS Tiered Shirt Dress [11] ($44) is just as comfortable as it is stylish.
The Frankie Shop Cinch Hem Shoulder Pad Sweatshirt
The signature padded shoulder on The Frankie Shop's Cinch Hem Shoulder Pad Sweatshirt [12] ($115) will instantly elevate any look.
The Frankie Shop Tab Cuff Sweatpants
The Frankie Tab Cuff Sweatpants [13] ($134) are an ideal outfit component for a Hailey Bieber-inspired sweats and trench coat combo.
The Range Rib Henley Bodysuit
A forever staple, The Range's Rib Henley Bodysuit [14] ($175) is sleek, flattering, and goes with literally everything.
Kai Collective Irun Trousers
Lounge around the house in flats, or dress these Kai Collective Irun Trousers [15] ($138) up with heels when you're ready to (safely) hit the streets.
Kai Collective Irun Shirt
Kick your satin sets up a notch with printed variations, starting with this Kai Collective Irun Shirt [16] ($104).
LACAUSA Roma Dress
We're eyeing this LACAUSA Roma Dress [17] ($198) for when we feel like a punchy print, which is basically always.
ANDREEVA Poppy Knit Top
The subtle pearl details on this ANDREEVA Poppy Knit Top [18] ($205) add interest to any ensemble with minimal effort.
ANDREEVA Poppy Knit Pants
Talk about sparking joy. You may never tire of wearing these ANDREEVA Poppy Knit Pants [19] ($320), and that's totally okay.
White Fox Stay in Touch Shirt
It's worth noting that this White Fox Stay in Touch Shirt [20] ($50) would look amazing with jeans – whenever you're ready to go back to them.
White Fox Hard to Handle Shorts
We'll be wearing these White Fox Hard to Handle Shorts [21] ($40) in and out of the house, 24/7.
Summersalt The Softest Ribbed Racerback Tank
The name says it all – we can't get over how cosy Summersalt's The Softest Ribbed Racerback Tank [22] ($55) looks and feels.
Summersalt The Softest Ribbed Lounge Pant
The best thing about Summersalt's The Softest Ribbed Lounge Pants [23] ($80)? Mixing and matching them with just about any top. We love options!
H&M Calf-Length Dress
TBH, we can't stop staring at the beautiful blue hue of this H&M Calf-length Dress [24] ($35).
ECLECTICIST Carrisa Top
A belted shirt like this ECLECTICIST Carrisa Top [25] ($138) is the best way to transition back into "real" clothes.
ECLECTICIST Cary Pant
ECLECTICIST's Cary Pants [26] ($158) may just be the new bottoms you'll want to pair with every bodysuit in your closet.
Missguided Knit T-Shirt
While this Missguided Knit T-Shirt [27] ($17, originally $39) is made for a matching set, it would work just as well with a pair of linen pants, too.
Missguided Knit Wide-Leg Pants
These Missguided Knit Wide-Leg Pants [28] ($24, originally $55) will take you straight from relaxing on the couch to running errands.
Mango Flared Midi Dress
Pair this Mango Flared Midi Dress [29] ($60, originally $100) with boots or slides when the weather turns.
COS Knitted Wool Dress
If lockdown has ignited your love for easy knit dresses, this COS Knitted Wool Dress [30] ($125) should be next on your shopping list.
Free People Picnic Sweater Set
Put together an effortlessly cool look in seconds with this Free People Picnic Sweater Set [31] ($128).