Three Ways to Wear Loungewear Beyond Your Home
It wasn’t that long ago that if you wore your loungewear — let alone your pyjamas — out in public, you’d receive more than a few side-eyes.
But a certain event that occurred in early 2020 really changed that game, to say the least. Everyone’s outfits got a *little* more casual, and that change is still being felt today.
It’s not surprising, especially as the loungewear and sleepwear market is expected to grow by USD $13.36 billion by 2025. Pinterest predicted that 2022 was the year of “lounge-erie” — lounge-lingerie. Think silky loungewear, elevated comfort, and extra-luxe sleepwear.
One of the best things about loungewear — and how to wear loungewear — is the fact that it’s considered “two-mile wear”. Or, converted for us, "three-point-two-kilometre wear". As in, yes, it’s loungewear that can be worn while, well, lounging, but it’s also loungewear you can wear to work, loungewear that can be worn outside.
It’s one of the reasons that it’s a trend with true staying power with everyone from Who What Wear, Fashionista and Grazia forecasting its continued rise.
Another place that forecasted this trend? Well, us of course. At Sheridan, we’ve always had a soft spot for luxury loungewear, and this season we’ve renewed, refreshed and refined classic loungewear trends — with a hint of prep, to top it all off (yet another trend).
If you’re still asking yourself the question of can you wear loungewear in public or not, our tips for doing so will guide you through exactly how to style them — you’ll want to wear them out of the house, for everyone to see.
Meet Cypress
But before we get into how to wear loungewear out, let’s introduce you to the loungewear sets to wear out — or if we’re being honest, three separate items from the one range. And that range is Cypress.
A striped sportif moment, our designers have taken classic stripes and given them a contemporary-collegiate touch. Trend forecasting company WGSN calls “bold rugby stripes” a “key update” — think borrowed from the boys, prep school cool.
Crafted from organic cotton, you’ve got nonchalance with a side of tailoring — the ideal loungewear that can be worn outside.
How to Wear: Cypress Shorts
A-line, with a distinct boxer short silhouette — it may be one of the biggest sleepwear trends of 2023, but even Vogue is encouraging you to wear them as a “party” piece. Now you don’t have to go full-on pyjama party; in fact, the practical pockets and comfortable elasticated waist (with adjustable waist tie) merge casual with working wardrobe.
The easiest way for this loungewear to be worn outside? Pair your shorts with a white cotton tee or ribbed singlet. Right now, it might still look like pyjama separates, but if you add a white button-up (like our Abbotson Linen one) — worn undone, around the waist, or in a French tuck — this proves you can wear loungewear in public.
For a look that leans a bit more elevated, pair with neutral mules or block-heeled sandals, some pearl or silver hoops, and a swipe of barely there pink lippy. More casual? Your fave white sneakers will finish the look off.
How to Wear: Cypress Shirt
This is one instance where the rugby stripe inspiration makes itself clear — especially with the buttoned placket and a popped collar.
But don’t worry, it’s not time to get out the shorter-than-short rugby shorts, or the perpetually muddy and worn boots either. The oversized fit, curved hem, front placket and contrast cuffs give it a smart, ‘farshun’ finish.
For a laidback look, wear it like you would any other shirt — tucked into denim jeans, shorts or a skirt, paired with some scuffed trainers. Or make like Princess Diana and pair it with a pair of loafers that match the colour of the stripe. If it’s cold, you can even chuck a turtleneck underneath (or a knitted jumper on top).
Go more tailored with a leather skirt (pencil or mini, it’s up to you), or some high-waisted leather pants. The contrast of the crisp cotton against the buttery fabric alone makes a statement. Your fave pointed-toe boots, or even some stilettos, and you’re good to go. How’s that for loungewear you can wear to work?
How to Wear: Cypress Pants
So you might be thinking that it’s a *bit* harder to get away with these pants as loungewear that can be worn outside, but just look at them as a pair of trousers — funky, striped, green and white trousers.
It’s safe to say they’ll be the hero piece of your outfit. The fact they’re wide-legged and relaxed fit actually makes it a bit easier to style; you just need more structure up top.
A crisp, white, cotton button-up — and buttoned up, this time — with a statement cuff, will elevate the look. Leave the ends purposefully untucked for a nonchalant look; for an extra bit of prep style with a knitted vest or cashmere jumper on top. Some open-toed loafers for when it’s colder, or slides for warmer days.
Play with silhouette by wearing a plain white tee, and finish with an oversized blazer in a neutral shade — white, cream, camel or black. Choose a different fabric for contrast or even a subtle pinstripe.
If you’re feeling up to a real statement, go for a bright, look-at-me pink. According to personal style website The Zoe Report, it’s a popular style combo. They do recommend paring back the look with simple shoes, however.
Feeling a bit more risqué? Wear your pants with a figure-hugging, buttoned-up blazer — with a lacy camisole or bralette peeking through.